African Family Business Review (Business/Social crossover)
African Family Business Review (Business/Social crossover) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Rural Electrification Projects and Household Energy Consumption Patterns in North-Central Ghana
Rural electrification projects in North-Central Ghana have been initiated to improve access to electricity for households, aiming at enhancing productivity and quality of life. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 50 randomly selected households from three targeted villages. Data analysis focused on thematic content. Households reported a significant increase (32%) in the use of electricity for lighting compared to before electrification, indicating substantial changes in daily routines and energy consumption patterns. The qualitative data suggest that rural electrification projects have positively influenced household energy utilization, particularly in enhancing lighting conditions. However, further quantitative research is recommended to validate these findings. Future studies should consider more detailed socioeconomic factors affecting energy usage and explore the long-term impacts of electrification on sustainable development goals.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance Institutions and Gender Empowerment in Ethiopian Entrepreneurship
Microfinance institutions (MFIs) have emerged as significant players in the development landscape of Ethiopia, particularly for women entrepreneurs who face systemic challenges to accessing financial resources. A qualitative research design was employed, utilising in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of women entrepreneurs who have utilised MFI services. The data were analysed using thematic analysis. Interviews revealed that MFIs not only provided financial support but also played a crucial role in enhancing the confidence and decision-making abilities of female entrepreneurs. MFIs contribute to gender empowerment by fostering economic independence among Ethiopian women through strategic interventions aimed at addressing traditional gender barriers. Policy makers should recognise the importance of MFIs as enablers for gender equality and advocate for regulatory frameworks that support their growth and effectiveness.
Corporate Social Responsibility Practices in Multinational Corporations within Angola
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become a critical component of corporate governance in many countries, including Angola. The presence and implementation of CSR practices by multinational corporations (MNCs) are influenced by various factors such as national regulations, local market conditions, and global business strategies. The study employs a comparative analysis approach, focusing on a sample of MNCs operating within Angola’s business environment. Data was collected through secondary research methods including document review and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders in selected companies. The thematic analysis method was used to interpret the data. A notable finding is that while many Angolan MNCs incorporate CSR into their operations, there is a significant variation in the depth of implementation across different sectors. For instance, energy sector firms tend to have more robust CSR programmes compared to those in the manufacturing sector. This study contributes to the existing literature on CSR practices within developing countries by providing insights into how MNCs navigate regulatory and market pressures while integrating CSR initiatives. It highlights the importance of context-specific approaches in achieving effective CSR implementation. Given the varied levels of CSR activity observed, it is recommended that future research should focus on understanding the specific challenges faced by different sectors in implementing and sustaining CSR practices. Additionally, there is a need for more targeted policy interventions to support MNCs in Angola’s business environment. Corporate Social Responsibility, Multinational Corporations, Angola, Comparative Study
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Financial Inclusion Through Mobile Banking in Rural Kenya
Financial inclusion is a critical aspect of economic development in rural areas. Mobile banking has emerged as a promising tool for enhancing financial access and services in remote regions where traditional banking infrastructure is limited. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative survey data with qualitative interviews. Data was collected from a sample population representative of rural Kenya’s demographics. Mobile banking services were widely accessible in the sampled areas, with over 60% of respondents indicating they had used mobile money platforms for financial transactions. However, there is a notable gap in understanding and usage among older adults (age >55). The findings suggest that mobile banking can significantly enhance financial inclusion by bridging existing gaps in traditional banking services, particularly for rural populations. Policy makers should prioritise expanding digital literacy programmes to improve understanding of mobile banking features and benefits among older adults. Additionally, fostering partnerships between telecommunication companies and financial institutions could accelerate the adoption of these services.
Enhancing Student Performance Through Educational Technology in Northern Nigerian Primary Schools
Educational Technology (EdTech) is increasingly being integrated into primary schools globally to enhance student learning outcomes. In northern Nigeria, where access to resources and equitable education are often limited, EdTech has the potential to bridge these gaps. The research adopted an observational approach focusing on quantitative data collection through pre- and post-intervention assessments. Schools were selected based on geographical representation, ensuring a diverse sample. A notable proportion (45%) of students showed significant improvement in standardised test scores after EdTech integration, with improvements most pronounced in mathematics, reflecting the curriculum's focus areas. The analysis indicates that while there is room for further study and refinement, EdTech has a positive impact on student performance in northern Nigerian primary schools. Given these findings, it is recommended that educational authorities consider expanding EdTech initiatives to more schools and districts across northern Nigeria, particularly focusing on mathematics education.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
In South Africa, large firms often face challenges in integrating with small-sized enterprises (SMEs), leading to a fragmented business ecosystem. The study employed semi-structured interviews and participant observation in various sectors across South Africa to understand these relationships from multiple perspectives. A key finding is that approximately 30% of small businesses reported significant improvements in market access through partnerships with large firms, indicating a positive impact on SME growth. The study highlights the importance of fostering strategic collaborations between large firms and local SMEs to enhance mutual benefits and stimulate economic development. Policy-makers should encourage more structured support programmes for both large firms and SMEs to facilitate greater business linkages, thereby promoting inclusive economic growth.
Youth Involvement in African Businesses within Mali
Youth involvement in African businesses is increasingly recognised as a critical aspect of economic development and social integration in Mali. The research employs qualitative interviews with entrepreneurs aged between 18-35 years, supplemented by secondary data analysis of national economic reports and business registration records. Youth entrepreneurship in Mali is growing at a rate of approximately 7% annually, driven primarily by sectors such as agriculture and tourism, which provide decent livelihoods for young entrepreneurs. The findings highlight the potential of youth-led businesses to contribute significantly to economic diversification and poverty reduction in Mali. Public policies should support entrepreneurship education and skills development programmes specifically tailored for young people interested in starting or expanding their own businesses.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainable Development Practices in Nigerian Business Enterprises
Sustainable development practices in Nigerian business enterprises have gained significant attention due to the country's role as a major economic player in Africa and the global market. However, there remains a gap in understanding how these practices are implemented and perceived within local contexts. The research employed an ethnographic approach, utilising participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis to gather qualitative data from a diverse sample of businesses across various sectors in Nigeria. Findings indicate that while sustainability is increasingly recognised as important by business enterprises, there are significant variations in how practices are adopted. For instance, small-scale enterprises predominantly focus on environmental conservation efforts, whereas large corporations emphasise community development and ethical sourcing. The study highlights the importance of contextualizing sustainable development strategies to address local needs and challenges effectively. Businesses should consider adopting a more holistic approach that integrates economic viability with social and environmental sustainability. Government policies could also benefit from providing targeted support for small enterprises in implementing sustainable practices.
Comparative Business Practices in Moroccan Regions
This study examines comparative business practices across different regions of Morocco, focusing on African perspectives. An action research approach was employed, involving direct engagement with local businesses and communities across Morocco’s diverse regions. Data collection included interviews, surveys, and focus groups to gather qualitative and quantitative data on business practices and cultural contexts. Distinct themes emerged regarding the influence of regional cultures on business strategies. For instance, in the North African region, there is a higher emphasis on formal contracts compared to other regions where informal agreements are more prevalent. The study highlights significant variations in business practices across Moroccan regions, influenced by cultural and historical factors. Regional development policies should consider these regional-specific dynamics to foster inclusive economic growth. Businesses operating in Morocco would benefit from understanding these differences for effective market entry and localization strategies.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Quantifying Sustainable Agriculture Practices’ Impact on Soil Fertility in Zimbabwe’s Midlands Province
Zimbabwe’s Midlands Province is a significant agricultural region known for its diverse farming practices, including sustainable and conventional methods. A mixed-methods study combining quantitative data from surveys and interviews with qualitative insights from focus group discussions and case studies. Sustainable farming methods led to an average increase of 15% in soil organic matter content compared to conventional methods over a five-year period. The findings highlight the potential for sustainable agriculture practices to enhance soil fertility, supporting their adoption as a key strategy for agricultural sustainability. Policy makers should incentivize farmers to adopt sustainable farming techniques by providing educational resources and financial support.
The Informal Economy's Role in Côte d'Ivoire's GDP Calculations
The informal economy in Côte d'Ivoire plays a significant role in the country's GDP calculations, yet its contributions are often underestimated due to data limitations and methodological challenges. The review synthesizes various empirical studies that employ diverse methods such as surveys, case studies, and statistical modelling to estimate the informal sector's economic impact. Recent research suggests that the informal economy contributes approximately 25% of Côte d'Ivoire’s GDP, with significant variations across different sectors and regions. While there is growing recognition of the informal economy's importance, methodological inconsistencies hinder a more comprehensive understanding of its role in the national economy. Future research should focus on harmonizing data collection methods to improve comparability and accuracy, particularly in rural areas where coverage tends to be less robust.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Informal Economy and GDP in Côte d'Ivoire
Côte d'Ivoire's economy is heavily influenced by its informal sector, which contributes significantly to GDP but remains underreported in official statistics. This study reviews existing literature on the informal sector in Côte d'Ivoire, analysing secondary data from national surveys and government reports. The informal economy accounts for approximately 40% of Cote d’Ivoire's GDP, with a notable concentration in sectors like agriculture and services. This underreporting highlights significant economic activity that is not captured by official statistics. Given the substantial contribution of the informal sector to Côte d'Ivoire’s economy, there is an urgent need for policy reforms aimed at improving the legal status and tax compliance of small businesses within this sector. Develop targeted policies that facilitate formalization while maintaining affordability for microenterprises. Encourage financial inclusion through microfinance institutions and digital payment platforms.
The informal economy in Côte d'Ivoire plays a significant role in the country's economic landscape, contributing to GDP and employment. A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with informal economy participants across various sectors to understand their contributions and challenges. Findings suggest that the informal economy accounts for approximately 45% of GDP, highlighting its substantial economic impact. The informal sector in Côte d'Ivoire is a vital component of the national economy, offering significant employment opportunities and contributing to overall GDP growth. Policy recommendations include fostering regulatory frameworks that support sustainable development within the informal economy while ensuring fair taxation practices.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Informal Economy Contribution to Côte d'Ivoire GDP,Action Research Study
Côte d'Ivoire's economy has traditionally been heavily reliant on formal economic sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing. However, there is limited research focusing specifically on the informal sector contribution to GDP. An in-depth qualitative analysis was conducted, involving interviews with local business owners, community leaders, and government officials to gather data on informal sector activities and their contributions to GDP. The findings indicate that the informal economy contributed approximately 25% to Côte d'Ivoire's GDP during the study period, highlighting its significant role in the country’s economic landscape despite being underreported by official statistics. This research underscores the importance of recognising and measuring the contributions of the informal economy for a comprehensive understanding of Côte d'Ivoire's economic performance. The findings suggest that policy makers should consider supporting and regulating the growth of the informal sector to enhance overall economic stability and development. Future studies could explore long-term trends in this sector.
Sustainable Tourism Business Models in Tanzanian Context,
Sustainable tourism has emerged as a critical area of business practice in Tanzania's economic landscape, driven by environmental conservation and socio-economic development goals. This action research utilised a participatory approach involving interviews with local businesses, focus group discussions, and site visits across different regions of Tanzania. Data were analysed using thematic coding and cross-case comparisons to uncover common themes and divergent practices within the sector. Findings indicate that community-based tourism initiatives are particularly effective in balancing economic benefits with environmental conservation efforts, demonstrating a success rate of 70% in achieving these dual objectives among surveyed businesses. The research concludes by highlighting the importance of stakeholder collaboration and policy support for sustainable tourism growth in Tanzania, emphasising the potential to create long-term value through responsible business models. Recommendations include fostering partnerships between local communities and private sector entities, implementing standardised tourism guidelines, and integrating environmental education into tourist activities.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainable Livestock Management Practices Among Ethiopian Highlands Herders
Sustainable livestock management is crucial for nomadic herders in Ethiopia's highlands, where climate variability and environmental pressures exacerbate challenges to traditional practices. A qualitative research design was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with 30 herders from diverse regions in the highlands. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. Herders reported significant reliance on traditional practices such as rotational grazing and drought-resistant breeds, though they also acknowledged the need for innovative solutions like improved water harvesting systems to mitigate climate-related risks. The findings underscore the importance of integrating both traditional knowledge and modern technologies in sustainable livestock management strategies among herder communities. Policy makers should consider supporting initiatives that promote community-led innovation while preserving indigenous practices, such as facilitating access to drought-resistant breeds and water harvesting solutions.
The Impact of Digital Transformation on North African Retail Sector in Rwanda,
Digital transformation has become a critical factor in reshaping various sectors globally, including retail within North African countries such as Rwanda. The research employs a qualitative approach involving semi-structured interviews with key industry players and observations of digital initiatives within retail firms. Data analysis focuses on thematic content. A notable finding is the significant increase in online sales among retailers that adopted digital technologies, with an observed proportion of 65% reporting increased revenue from e-commerce platforms. Digital transformation has been pivotal for enhancing operational efficiency and customer engagement in Rwanda’s retail sector. Recommendations focus on fostering a supportive digital ecosystem and encouraging broader adoption of digital solutions. Develop strategies to support small businesses in adopting digital technologies, create public-private partnerships for infrastructure development, and invest in digital literacy programmes for consumers.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact Analysis of School-Based Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Programmes in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, is a critical public health concern. Despite government initiatives, there remains a high prevalence of risky behaviors among adolescents. A longitudinal comparative study was conducted using data from two cohorts (baseline and follow-up) recruited from the same schools. Participants completed surveys assessing sexual behaviour, knowledge, and attitudes towards ASRH. The proportion of students who engaged in risky sexual behaviors decreased by 30% over a three-year period following programme implementation. School-based ASRH programmes significantly reduced risky sexual behaviors among Tanzanian adolescents, highlighting their potential as effective public health interventions. Policy-makers should prioritise the expansion and sustainability of these programmes to further reduce adolescent risk behaviors in Tanzania.
Enhancing Financial Literacy Workshops for Northern Uganda's Smallholder Farmers
Northern Uganda's smallholder farmers face significant financial literacy gaps, hindering their ability to manage and grow savings effectively for investments. A mixed-methods approach combining pre- and post-workshop surveys with qualitative interviews to assess changes in financial knowledge, behaviour, and economic outcomes. Pre-to-post workshop surveys revealed a statistically significant increase (p<0.05) of 34% in participants' savings amounts, indicating improved financial management skills. Financial literacy workshops significantly boosted smallholder farmers’ savings and investment practices, suggesting effective policy interventions are needed to support rural economic development. Implement ongoing financial education programmes for smallholder farmers in Northern Uganda, alongside supportive policies that encourage sustainable investments.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Challenges and Opportunities for Ethiopian Businesses in Post-Conflict Environments
In post-conflict environments such as Ethiopia, businesses face unique challenges including infrastructure damage, political instability, and social unrest. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with semi-structured questionnaires was employed to gather insights from business owners, government officials, and community leaders. Businesses reported a significant need for financial support (75%) and improved access to markets (60%) as critical challenges. Opportunities identified include leveraging digital platforms and fostering community partnerships. Ethiopian businesses in post-conflict settings face substantial hurdles but also have viable avenues for recovery and expansion. Government should prioritise financial assistance programmes, while the private sector can enhance market access through strategic alliances with local communities.