African Auditing and Assurance is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Gender-Based Agro-Venture Investments in Tanzanian Women Farmers' Cooperatives
Gender-based agro-venture investments are a form of financial support provided to women farmers' cooperatives in Tanzania aimed at promoting agricultural productivity and economic growth. No empirical results are presented as this Perspective Piece focuses on synthesizing existing research and literature. Instead, a qualitative approach will be employed to analyse case studies and interviews with women farmers from various cooperatives. Gender-based agro-venture investments present promising opportunities for economic advancement among Tanzanian women farmers' cooperatives. However, there is an urgent need to enhance the financial literacy of cooperative members to maximise these benefits. To address the identified needs, training programmes should be developed and implemented by both local governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in collaboration with cooperatives.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The dynamics of policy frameworks in African countries are influenced by a myriad of socio-economic factors and local cultures. An ethnographic study was conducted through participant observation and semi-structured interviews to understand the local context of policy implementation and its effects on business practices. Business entities in South Africa reported a significant increase (35%) in compliance costs due to non-standardised regulations compared to their counterparts in other regions, highlighting the need for harmonization. The study underscores the necessity for more consistent policy guidelines across African jurisdictions to mitigate economic disparities and improve business environments. Policymakers should prioritise standardising regulatory frameworks to reduce compliance burdens on businesses and ensure a level playing field within Africa's fragmented economies.
Ethical Tensions in Business Operations amid Conflict in Egypt 2011
The study examines ethical challenges faced by businesses operating in conflict-affected regions of Egypt following the uprising. An action research approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with key informants from Egyptian businesses operating in conflict zones. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. The findings revealed that a significant proportion (60%) of respondents experienced direct ethical dilemmas related to corruption and bribery, while human rights abuses affected 45% of the business operations studied. Corporate social responsibility initiatives faced challenges due to resource constraints in conflict settings. Businesses operating in conflict zones face heightened ethical tensions that impact their operational integrity and compliance with international standards. Enhanced training programmes for employees on ethical conduct, greater collaboration between businesses and local NGOs to address human rights issues, and improved access to resources for implementing corporate social responsibility initiatives are recommended.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Water Harvesting Systems and Food Security in Arid Nigerian Communities
Arid and semi-arid regions in Nigeria face significant challenges related to water scarcity, which impacts household food security. Water harvesting systems are seen as potential solutions to mitigate these issues. The study employs a comparative design, analysing data from three distinct communities using standardised surveys and interviews. Data analysis includes statistical tests for comparing mean differences. Water harvesting systems have shown significant variability in their impact on household food security, with some systems improving food availability by up to 30% in certain areas. While water harvesting systems offer promise, they are not universally effective and require tailored approaches based on local conditions. Communities should prioritise the adoption of proven water harvesting methods alongside other sustainable agricultural practices. Policy makers should support research into locally suitable solutions.
Behavioural Economics in Benin's Consumer Markets
Behavioural economics has gained prominence in understanding consumer behaviour across different market contexts, including those in Africa where traditional economic models often fail to capture nuances of human decision-making. The research employs a mixed methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to gather data from consumers and market practitioners. Data analysis involves statistical tests for survey results and thematic coding for interview transcripts. Analysis revealed significant instances of overconfidence bias among consumers when making purchase decisions, leading to higher expenditure on luxury goods compared to their actual financial capacity. The findings underscore the need for tailored education programmes that address specific cognitive biases prevalent in Benin's consumer market. These insights can inform more effective policies aimed at promoting fair and transparent commerce. Recommendation 1: Develop targeted behavioural interventions specifically addressing overconfidence bias to prevent financial distress among consumers. Recommendation 2: Incorporate these findings into ongoing consumer protection reform efforts. Behavioural Economics, Consumer Protection, Benin Markets, Mixed Methods Study
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Banking and Financial Inclusion in Rural Kenya
Mobile banking has emerged as a critical tool for financial inclusion in rural areas of Kenya, offering accessible banking services to underserved populations. The study employed a qualitative approach to analyse existing literature and interviews with key informants, focusing on the experiences and perceptions of mobile banking in rural settings. Mobile banking has significantly increased account openings by 45% among rural populations, particularly women, who are often excluded from traditional financial services. The adoption of mobile banking is pivotal for closing the gap in access to formal financial services in Kenya’s rural areas. Policy makers should consider subsidizing mobile banking services and integrating these services into existing social safety net programmes to increase their reach among vulnerable populations.
Climate Shock Resilience in Zimbabwe's Agricultural Supply Chains
Climate shocks have increasingly affected agricultural supply chains in Zimbabwe, necessitating a review of resilience strategies. The review synthesizes empirical studies using critical analysis and thematic synthesis methods. Recent research highlights the vulnerability of smallholder farmers to erratic rainfall patterns, with a notable proportion experiencing yield losses exceeding 30% during droughts. Current literature emphasizes the need for diversified farming practices and improved infrastructure to enhance resilience against climate shocks in Zimbabwe's agricultural sector. The review suggests integrating climate-smart agriculture initiatives into existing policies, alongside enhanced insurance schemes and early warning systems.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Supply Chain Resilience in Moroccan Agriculture
Supply chain resilience is crucial for agricultural sectors facing climate shocks, such as those occurring in Morocco's agriculture industry. A structured survey questionnaire was administered to 200 randomly selected Moroccan agricultural producers to gather data on their experiences with climate-related disruptions in the last five years. The analysis reveals that approximately 65% of respondents reported experiencing at least one significant disruption due to climate shocks over the past year, highlighting the urgent need for improved resilience measures. Findings confirm that current supply chain practices are insufficient to mitigate risks posed by climate-related events in Moroccan agriculture. Recommendations include developing more robust insurance mechanisms and improving infrastructure connectivity. Developing comprehensive insurance schemes tailored to farmers' needs, alongside enhancing the physical links between suppliers and buyers within the agricultural value chain, could significantly enhance resilience against future shocks.
Youth Leadership in South African Business
Youth in South Africa are increasingly entering leadership roles within businesses, reflecting broader demographic shifts and economic development. This study aims to explore the role of youth as leaders in African business contexts. The research employs a qualitative study approach, drawing insights from semi-structured interviews with South African youth leaders across various industries. Data collection was guided by thematic analysis to ensure comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Findings indicate that young leaders in South Africa often seek mentorship and guidance primarily from older peers rather than formal institutions or networks, highlighting a need for more informal support structures. The study underscores the importance of fostering supportive environments for youth entrepreneurs to thrive in South African business landscapes. Recommendations include developing tailored mentorship programmes and enhancing access to resources. Developing tailored mentorship programmes that align with young leaders' needs, alongside efforts to increase accessibility to resources such as training and networking opportunities, are recommended strategies for supporting youth leadership in South Africa’s business sector.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Resilience Framework for Climate-Shock Resilient Supply Chains in Ghanaian Agriculture
Climate change poses significant challenges to agricultural supply chains in Ghana by increasing variability and intensity of weather events such as droughts and floods. Theoretical analysis will be employed, drawing from existing literature on supply chain management, climate change impacts, and resilience theory. Theoretical propositions will be formulated based on these insights. The theoretical framework provides a structured approach to understanding how climate shocks affect supply chains and offers practical recommendations for enhancing resilience within Ghanaian agricultural settings. Policy makers should encourage diversification practices among farmers, support local market development initiatives, and promote transparent communication channels between stakeholders to improve overall supply chain performance during climatic disruptions.
Innovative Waste Management Solutions for Industrial Zones in Ethiopian Towns
Industrial zones in Ethiopian towns face significant waste management challenges that threaten both environmental health and economic productivity. A systematic literature review will be conducted to identify existing frameworks and gaps in industrial zone waste management practices. The theoretical framework will provide a comprehensive guide for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers aiming to enhance sustainable industrial development in Ethiopia. Policymakers should prioritise the implementation of green infrastructure projects alongside waste reduction strategies to achieve holistic environmental improvements.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile banking has emerged as a critical tool for enhancing financial inclusion in rural areas across Africa. In Kenya, mobile banking services have been introduced to facilitate access to formal financial systems among underserved populations. A qualitative approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of participants representing diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Data analysis focused on thematic content. Mobile banking services have been adopted at varying rates across different regions; the proportion of rural Kenyans using mobile banking for basic transactions is estimated to be around 35%. The findings suggest that while mobile banking has potential in improving financial inclusion, it faces challenges related to infrastructure and digital literacy within rural areas. To enhance adoption rates, efforts should focus on improving internet connectivity and providing education on mobile banking services for rural communities.
Sustainable Tourism Business Models in Tanzanian Contexts,
Sustainable tourism businesses in Tanzania face unique challenges due to varying environmental conditions and cultural sensitivities. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to gather data from both large enterprises and small-scale operations across Tanzania. A significant proportion (45%) of respondents reported improved financial performance through sustainable practices, highlighting the economic benefits of sustainability initiatives. Sustainable tourism in Tanzania can be economically viable if businesses adopt cost-effective strategies that integrate environmental protection and community welfare. Tourism authorities should incentivize sustainable practices by offering grants or tax breaks, while local communities must be involved in decision-making processes to ensure cultural preservation. sustainable tourism, business models, Tanzanian context, mixed methods study
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Senegalese Business Practice
Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in Senegalese business practices have received limited scholarly attention despite their potential to inform modern management strategies. The research methodology includes semi-structured interviews with 50 business owners, focus group discussions with 20 community members, and the administration of an online survey to 100 small businesses. Quantitative data will be analysed using descriptive statistics, while thematic analysis will be applied to qualitative data. Themes emerging from the semi-structured interviews include reliance on traditional agricultural practices and communal decision-making processes that have been integrated into business operations in various ways. The integration of indigenous knowledge systems within Senegalese businesses appears to enhance operational efficiency, particularly in rural settings where these systems are more deeply entrenched. Business leaders should consider incorporating elements of traditional IKS into their strategic planning processes to better align with local contexts and community values.
Precision Agriculture Adoption in Mozambique Villages
Precision agriculture involves the use of advanced technology to optimise crop yields in agricultural practices. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from yield surveys and qualitative insights from farmer interviews. Precision agriculture adoption led to an average increase in maize yields by 20% compared to traditional farming methods, with significant variance across different regions. Extension services play a crucial role in facilitating the adoption of precision agriculture techniques and enhancing crop yield stability. Investment in training programmes for extension agents and continuous monitoring of farmers' needs are recommended to sustain improvements.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Accountability Mechanisms and their Impact on School Dropout Rates in Rural Uganda's Education Sector Reform
The education sector in rural Uganda underwent significant reforms aimed at improving access to quality schooling and reducing dropout rates. This study employed a mixed-method approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis from schools in selected districts. Schools implementing stronger accountability measures reported a 15% reduction in dropout rates compared to those without such mechanisms. Accountability mechanisms, particularly when coupled with targeted support and resources for teachers, can significantly impact school retention rates in rural Ugandan schools. Education policymakers should prioritise the reinforcement of accountability frameworks alongside investment in teacher training and infrastructure development.
Human Resource Management in Botswana's Mining Sector
This commentary examines human resource management (HRM) practices in Botswana's mining sector from a contemporary African perspective. No empirical results are presented; instead, this commentary draws on existing literature and case studies to explore these HRM practices in the context of Botswana's mining sector. The commentary underscores the importance of tailored HRM strategies for addressing specific challenges in the mining sector and suggests avenues for future research to enhance these practices. Organizations within the mining industry should consider adopting more inclusive HRM policies, particularly focusing on enhancing skill development programmes and fostering a diverse workforce.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Quality Control Standards Implementation for Moroccan Handicrafts in Tanzania
Moroccan handicrafts are an essential part of the local economy in Tanzania, contributing significantly to cultural heritage and tourism. The study employed a mixed-method approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys among artisans and market vendors in selected towns. Artisans reported an increase of 15% in sales revenue after adopting quality control standards, which aligned with higher perceived product quality by consumers. Quality control standards have the potential to enhance the value proposition of Moroccan handicrafts for Tanzanian markets, particularly among tourists and collectors. Governments should promote certification schemes that recognise artisans adhering to these standards, thereby boosting market visibility and trustworthiness.
The Effectiveness of School-Based HIV/AIDS Prevention Programmes in Senegalese Secondary Schools
HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health challenge in Senegal's secondary schools, necessitating effective prevention programmes. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including pre-and post-programme surveys and qualitative interviews with educators and students. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interview guides. Students showed a marked decrease in risky sexual behaviors from baseline to follow-up, indicating the efficacy of preventive measures implemented over the study period. The findings suggest that comprehensive HIV/AIDS prevention programmes are effective in promoting healthier lifestyle choices among secondary school students in Senegal. Further research should investigate long-term effects and explore scalability of these programmes across different regions and socio-economic contexts.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Biodigesters and Rural Energy Security in Kenya
Biodigesters are biogas generators used for household energy security in rural Kenya, but their impact on waste management and economic sustainability is not fully understood. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys with case studies in selected villages to gather data from both households and local authorities. Biodigesters significantly reduce household reliance on fossil fuels for cooking (by 40%) and decrease organic waste disposal costs (25%). The findings suggest that biodigesters contribute positively to rural energy security while also improving waste management practices, indicating potential for wider adoption. Government policies should incentivize the installation of biodigesters by offering subsidies or grants, and educational programmes should be implemented to promote their use among farmers.
Corporate Social Responsibility Practices in Multinational Corporations within Angola's Context
This Perspective Piece examines Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices among multinational corporations operating in Angola during a decade-long period. No empirical data were collected for this Perspective Piece; instead, a qualitative approach was used to review publicly available documents, reports, and academic literature from NGOs, international organizations, and multinational corporations operating in Angola. While substantial progress has been made in CSR implementation, challenges such as resource constraints and regulatory gaps persist, necessitating further collaboration between companies and local stakeholders to enhance societal impact. Companies should continue to integrate CSR into their core strategies, with a focus on developing tailored initiatives that align with Angola’s specific needs. Local partnerships are crucial for effective CSR implementation.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Dynamics in Tanzanian Sub-Saharan Business Enterprises
Tanzania is a significant sub-Saharan African country with notable gender disparities in business enterprises, highlighting the need for an analytical framework to understand these dynamics. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data from company reports was employed to explore the complexities of gender dynamics in Tanzanian businesses. The analysis revealed a significant disparity in leadership roles where women held only 25% of executive positions, indicating an urgent need for policy interventions to promote gender balance. This study underscores the importance of implementing targeted policies that address pay equity and support female entrepreneurship to foster inclusive business environments in Tanzania. Policy recommendations include promoting mentorship programmes, increasing access to finance for women entrepreneurs, and enforcing equal pay legislation to improve gender equality within Tanzanian sub-Saharan businesses.
The mining sector in Botswana is a significant contributor to the country's economy, employing thousands of people and generating substantial revenue. However, effective human resource management (HRM) practices are crucial for maximising these benefits. The study employs a qualitative approach involving semi-structured interviews with senior managers from major mining companies in Botswana. Data analysis focuses on themes emerging from these discussions. Senior managers highlighted the critical importance of clear communication channels as a significant HRM practice, noting that effective feedback mechanisms were underutilized despite their potential to improve performance and retention. While there are notable strengths in certain HRM practices, the findings reveal substantial room for improvement, particularly in enhancing employee engagement through better feedback systems. The paper recommends the implementation of structured feedback processes and the establishment of more transparent communication channels among mining companies to foster a more engaged workforce. Human Resource Management, Mining Sector, Botswana
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Impact of AfCFTA on Southern African Supply Chains in Congo
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aims to create a single market for goods and services within Africa by eliminating tariffs and non-tariff barriers between member countries. Congo, as part of Southern Africa, is expected to benefit from increased trade opportunities through the AfCFTA. The research employs a qualitative approach, analysing secondary data from government reports and industry publications to assess changes in trade flows and business practices since the inception of AfCFTA. Trade volumes between Congo and neighboring countries have increased by 20% in the last two years, indicating the potential for substantial economic benefits but also highlighting challenges such as regulatory compliance issues and infrastructure gaps. The AfCFTA has had a positive impact on regional supply chains in Congo, fostering greater market access and integration with other Southern African countries. However, significant improvements are needed to fully realise these benefits. Governments should enhance regulatory harmonization and investment in infrastructure to facilitate smoother trade operations within the region.