Business practices influencing ethical conduct of small and medium-sized enterprises in Uganda

Although small- and medium businesses (SMEs) significant economic contributions are globally acknowledged, many SMEs in Uganda have not fully adopted and integrated ethics into their business strategies. This study explores the business practices that influence SME’s ethical conduct in Uganda. Primary data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. A sample of 384 SME owner/managers was surveyed employing convenience sampling. The data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The empirical findings show that the business practices of SMEs significantly influence their ethical business conduct in Uganda. It was suggested that SME business owners/managers pay attention to their management practices and ensure that all employees are knowledgeable on what ethical business conduct entails or how to apply it in the workplace.