MUYABI, Mutinta2026-06-302026https://research.unilus.ac.zm/handle/123456789/674Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies - Research ReportThe study provides the general background information that sets its context on the effects of load shedding on income generation with a particular focus on SMEs in Chilanga Central Business District (CBD) of Lusaka province, Zambia. The main objectives were to examine the nature of load shedding experienced by butcheries and cold storage SMEs in Chilanga CBD; to assess how load-shedding affected employment (working hours, temporary layoffs) and customer behavior; and to identify coping strategies adopted by butcheries and cold-storage SMEs to manage the effects of load shedding in Chilanga CBD. The study employed a qualitative research method. The target population consisted of all registered and unregistered small and medium-sized butcheries operating within Chilanga CBD. A total sample of thirty (40) respondents were selected from Chilanga CBD. Research instruments were interview guides, a camera and a tape recorder. Findings showed that load shedding was experienced and affected business of butcheries in Chilanga CBD and effected employment and customer behaviour. In line with this objective, the findings showed that load shedding had bad effects on employee working hours. For SMEs facing load shedding, survival depends on adaptive responses such as adopting backup energy sources, adjusting operating hours or reconfiguring stock management practices. The implication of load shedding threatened the sustainability of butcheries, job insecurity particularly for casual workers and changing customer patterns and forced butcheries to adapt coping strategies like bulk sales or alternative storages solutions. In conclusion, for SMEs facing load shedding, survival depended on adaptive responses such as adopting backup energy sources, adjusting operating hours or reconfiguring stock management practices. From the findings recommendations were that government to assist butcheries and other SMEs with alternative energy sources so as to ensure that they have power throughout. Suggested future research was to establish effects of load shedding on Small Scale Entrepreneurs in selected Lusaka Central Business District. Key concepts: Load shedding, income generation, Butcheries, operational costs, spoilage losses and coping mechanisms, population, businesses, generator and grid.enThesis