Nontethelelo Tshivhase, Brian Ngwako Mahosi
Abstract
The transition to a circular economy presents a critical opportunity for fostering sustainable development, particularly within Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises in Southern Africa. Entrepreneurship in this region is a key driver of economic inclusion, innovation, and environmental resilience. However, despite the growing interest in Circular Economy models and eco-innovation, the role of Management Accounting in enabling entrepreneurial success in this context remains underexplored. This article examines how Management Accounting practices and tools, especially sustainability Accounting, can promote entrepreneurial decision-making, resource efficiency, and innovation in circular business models. Employing the Preferred Reporting Items for systematic reviews and Meta Analysis approach involving SMMEs in Southern Africa, this study identifies how sustainability-oriented accounting frameworks contribute to the development and operationalisation of sustainable business models. The findings indicate that Management Accounting supports eco-innovation through cost visibility, performance measurement, and strategic resource planning. However, systemic barriers such as limited institutional support, skill gaps, and financial constraints, continue to hinder its integration. The study contributes to the literature on sustainable entrepreneurship, Management Accounting and Circular Economy practices in Southern Africa. It offers practical and policy implications for improving support mechanisms for Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises to harness the full potential of Management Accounting in the transition to Circular Economies.