Within LEM, Kokou Douffan explored the impact of psychosocial capital on female entrepreneurship in Togo.
Kokou Douffan, chercheur·e au sein de LEM (Université d'Artois).
Thèse soutenue en 2025 à l'école doctorale École doctorale en Sciences humaines et sociales (Amiens).
Référencée dans le réseau ABES/STAR, cette thèse répond aux critères de rigueur de l'enseignement supérieur français.
Female entrepreneurship in Togo is experiencing significant growth, a phenomenon that deserves close examination, as it is often hindered by complex social and psychological dynamics. The thesis of Kokou Douffan, which falls within the framework of research on psychosocial capital, highlights how the latter influences the entrepreneurial potential and strategic capabilities of women. Indeed, while 32% of business creations in 2020 were made by women, it is crucial to understand the factors that support or hinder them in their entrepreneurial journey. This reality raises fundamental questions about the conditions for the emergence and success of female entrepreneurs in a context where gender inequalities persist.
The study adopts a mixed methodology, combining qualitative and quantitative analyses. The MACES model, adapted to the local context, allowed for data collection from 294 Togolese female entrepreneurs. This model, which takes into account the cultural and social specificities of Togo, offers a nuanced approach to analyzing psychosocial capital. The results show that psychosocial capital plays a decisive role in entrepreneurial success. Women who benefit from strong psychosocial support, whether through support networks, mentors, or tailored training, are more likely to develop strategic capabilities and overcome obstacles related to their gender status.
The differentiated dynamics of female entrepreneurship also reveal varied trajectories. Some women succeed in asserting themselves in sectors traditionally dominated by men, such as construction or technology, while others face stereotypes and limiting societal expectations. For example, a female entrepreneur launching a construction business may encounter biases regarding her ability to lead a male team, whereas another who ventures into selling cosmetic products may benefit from quicker acceptance. This diversity of paths underscores the importance of holistic support that takes into account the specificities of each entrepreneur and the realities of the local market.
The strategic recommendations arising from this research are clear: it is imperative to legitimize the different entrepreneurial trajectories and support women in their journey. This involves establishing tailored support programs that promote an inclusive and dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem. Decision-makers must also commit to deconstructing dominant imaginaries that limit opportunities for female entrepreneurs. For instance, initiatives aimed at promoting female role models in the media can help change perceptions and inspire new generations of entrepreneurs.
In summary, this thesis enriches the literature on female entrepreneurship in West Africa and offers practical perspectives for stakeholders in entrepreneurial support. The challenges are numerous, but solutions exist. It is time to act to transform these potentials into tangible realities. By integrating psychosocial capital into entrepreneurial development strategies, it is possible to create an environment where women can not only participate in the economy but also play a leadership role. This requires a collective commitment involving governments, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector to build a future where female entrepreneurship is not only recognized but celebrated. Female entrepreneurs in Togo and beyond have the potential to transform their communities, innovate, and contribute significantly to economic growth. It is time to empower them to achieve this.
Données clés
- 32 % : part des créations d'entreprises réalisées par des femmes au Togo en 2020
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Sources et accès
Kokou Douffan. Impact du capital psychosocial sur les potentialités entrepreneuriales et les capacités stratégiques de l'entrepreneure togolaise. Gestion et management. Université du Littoral Côte d'Opale, 2025. Français. ⟨NNT : 2025DUNK0769⟩. ⟨tel-05546786⟩