Noting the failure of large, centralized production systems in developing countries, this journal issue describes the functions, types, and strategies of micro-enterprises in the modernization process of developing countries, especially in Africa. The journal analyzes the characteristics and failures of micro-enterprises and informal industries, and suggests innovative methods for support of the informal sector by micro-enterprises. It describes specifically a variety of women-run food-related micro-enterprises, their functioning and adjustment to the local food-related industries context and to the crisis of current trends in Africa's economy. Next, the journal examines the instability and structural consolidation of this informal sector of the African economy, noting features in common with micro-enterprises in other regions of the world. Finally, the journal discusses recommendations for support of innovation in micro-enterprises, noting that in a supportive perspective, micro-enterprises need to set objectives and rationale, and provide great adaptability to new demands and inflation, spontaneous innovation in internal organization, and supportive programs and evaluation. Contains suggestions for further reading and six references. (AP)