The study by Khavul, Bruton, and Wood was an attempt to shed light on informal family businesses in East Africa, a group seldom studied. By applying the tenets of grounded theory the authors were able to successfully provide some insight into family business in this region. This commentary provides insight into the research by discussing the findings in light of the three–dimensional model of family business and attempts to limit agency costs based on cultural–based rights of the extended family. Also discussed here is a finding that may indicate a gender–related issue in opportunity identification and exploitation.
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