Abstract
Micro- and small-scale enterprises (MSEs) have emerged as one of the most important tools for addressing economic and social issues and achieving development goals. In both developed and developing economies, MSEs have been acknowledged as critical components of national development. This study aimed to assess the contributions of MSEs toward sustainable community livelihood in Emba Alaje, Wereda, Ethiopia. The results revealed that MSEs contributed to economic growth, employment formation, and income generation for the local community. In addition, the study indicated that the MSEs were significantly affected by different determinant factors such as infrastructures, raw material, working premises, and human capital. The study clearly showed that there was a gender gap over participation in different MSE sectors. In addition, many sectors which can employ more people are still managed by men. This shows that the bodies involved, such as the MSE Development Offices, Bureau of Cooperatives, and Bureau of Works and Social Affairs, should join their hands and allow women to enter traditionally male-dominated sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and urban farming. Above all, greater efforts should be made to consider both female- and male-owned businesses.