The effect of ICT infrastructure on growth of small and medium enterprises in Hargeisa, Somaliland

This research investigated the effect of ICT infrastructure on SMES growth in Hargeisa District, Somaliland. The primary objective was to assess how various components of ICT infrastructure –including access to ICT tools, technical support, staff ICT training, and policy implementation- impact the operational and financial growth. The Study uses a quantitative methodology approach using structured questionnaires administered a sample of 327 SME operators, of which 291 responded, yielding an 89% response rate. The findings shows that most SMEs have access to basic ICT tools and support with an average mean score of 3.81 on a 5-point Likert scale, indicating a moderately high level of ICT infrastructure. Management support in providing technical ICT resources scored the highest (mean = 4.10), while the effective utilization of ICT policy scored the lowest (mean = 3.59), suggesting areas for policy improvement. The study concludes that ICT infrastructure plays a significant role in enhancing SME growth by improving efficiency, communication, and access to markets. It recommends increased investment in ICT resources, regular staff training, and the effective implementation of ICT policies to foster sustainable growth among SMEs in Somalia.