African Nonprofit Management (Business/Social crossover)
African Nonprofit Management (Business/Social crossover) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Informal Sector Dynamics in Urban Rwanda
Urban Rwanda presents a unique context for examining informal sector dynamics due to its rapid urbanization and diverse socio-economic landscape. The research employs a mixed-methods approach including semi-structured interviews with small-scale entrepreneurs, focus group discussions with community leaders, and secondary data analysis from government reports and financial databases. Data collection was conducted in urban areas of Kigali, Gisenyi, and Gitarama. A survey among 120 informal sector businesses revealed that 65% reported challenges related to access to finance, while 48% identified regulatory barriers as a significant obstacle. The findings underscore the importance of supportive policies and financial inclusion strategies for fostering sustainable growth within the urban Rwanda informal sector. Policy recommendations include enhancing access to finance through microfinance institutions and simplifying administrative procedures to reduce bureaucratic hurdles faced by small-scale enterprises.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Time-Specific Outcomes of Community Health Worker Programmes on Maternal Mortality Reduction in Kenyan Rural Areas,
Maternal mortality remains a significant public health issue in Kenyan rural areas, with limited access to healthcare services. A mixed-methods approach combining survey data and qualitative interviews with CHWs, community members, and healthcare providers. The analysis reveals a statistically significant reduction (p<0.05) in maternal mortality rates by 34% between and , attributed to improved access to care facilitated by CHW interventions. CHW programmes have contributed to reducing maternal mortality rates over the study period, with substantial improvements observed from onwards. Continued support for CHWs is recommended alongside expansion of healthcare infrastructure and training initiatives in rural areas.
In South Africa, local Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) often lack access to capital and networks that larger firms possess, hindering their growth and competitiveness. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative survey data with qualitative case studies to assess the effectiveness of these partnerships over a decade (-). The analysis revealed that while nearly half of SMEs reported improved access to markets, only one-third experienced significant financial benefits from their partnerships. Despite initial optimism, sustained and meaningful business linkages require tailored support mechanisms beyond traditional partnerships. Local governments should develop targeted policies to ensure fair market conditions for both large firms and SMEs, fostering a more inclusive economic environment.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Global Market Dynamics and Local Product Strategies
The global market dynamics have heightened the importance of understanding how local products can effectively compete in international markets. Ghana, as a developing nation with rich cultural heritage and traditional crafts, exemplifies this challenge. The approach will be analytical, drawing from existing literature on international trade, cultural branding, and market segmentation. Theoretical constructs will be synthesized to provide a comprehensive theoretical framework for local product strategies in global markets. This framework underscores the potential for leveraging Ghana's cultural assets to enhance product visibility and market acceptance across global platforms. Recommendations include conducting more in-depth case studies of successful marketing efforts, developing a national branding strategy, and fostering partnerships between traditional artisans and international designers.
Mobile Banking as a Catalyst for Financial Inclusion in Rural Kenya
Mobile banking has emerged as a critical tool for financial inclusion in rural areas across Africa, offering access to banking services through mobile devices and networks. The study employs a qualitative approach, analysing existing literature and case studies to evaluate the impact of mobile banking initiatives on rural Kenyan communities. Mobile banking has significantly increased access to financial services among rural populations, with approximately 60% of surveyed individuals now using mobile money for transactions, compared to 35% before the introduction of these services. The analysis underscores the potential of mobile banking as a catalyst for enhancing financial inclusion in rural Kenya, particularly through its widespread adoption and positive economic outcomes. Policymakers should support continued development and expansion of mobile banking infrastructure to ensure equitable access across all rural regions of Kenya.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainability Dynamics in Ghanaian Business Paradigms
The study explores sustainable development dynamics in Ghanaian business paradigms, offering an African perspective on how businesses integrate environmental and social responsibilities. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to gather data from business leaders across various industries in Ghana. Businesses predominantly prioritise economic sustainability (72%) over social or environmental sustainability, indicating a significant gap in the latter areas. The findings underscore the need for tailored educational programmes and policy support to encourage more balanced corporate strategies that consider all three dimensions of sustainable development. Develop targeted training initiatives for business owners and managers on integrating social and environmental issues into their operational models, alongside supportive regulatory frameworks.
Digital Transformation Nexus in North African Retail Sector
The retail sector in North Africa, particularly Kenya, is undergoing significant transformation driven by digital technologies such as e-commerce platforms and mobile payments. Theoretical methods will be employed, including literature review and qualitative analysis to synthesize existing research findings and expert opinions. The theoretical framework underscores the importance of government support and private sector collaboration to overcome barriers and maximise benefits from digital transformation in the retail sector. Stakeholders should prioritise investment in e-commerce platforms, mobile payment systems, and digital literacy training programmes for small businesses. Government policies should incentivize these developments while addressing regulatory hurdles.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Solar-Powered Irrigation Systems and Rice Production in Coastal Mozambique
Solar-powered irrigation systems have been introduced to coastal regions of Mozambique as a sustainable solution for enhancing rice production in arid environments. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, including field surveys, interviews with farmers, and analysis of yield data from rice fields equipped with solar-powered irrigation systems versus conventional methods. Data was collected in five coastal districts across Mozambique. Solar-powered irrigation significantly increased rice yields by an average of 15% compared to traditional methods, demonstrating a clear positive impact on agricultural productivity. The study concludes that solar-powered irrigation is a promising technology for enhancing rice production and improving the livelihoods of coastal farmers in Mozambique. Future research should explore broader scalability and long-term sustainability. Government agencies and international development organizations are encouraged to invest in piloting and scaling up solar-powered irrigation systems in other arid regions of Mozambique and beyond. Solar-Powered Irrigation, Rice Production, Coastal Mozambique, Agricultural Sustainability
Policy Dynamics in Kenyan Business Research
The landscape of business research in Kenya is influenced by various policy dynamics, which can impact the development and implementation of effective strategies within businesses. The study employed a qualitative approach, analysing interviews with policymakers, academics, and practitioners from both public and private sectors to gather insights on how policy impacts business research in Kenya. Findings indicate that there is a significant gap between the actual application of policies in academic settings and their intended objectives, particularly regarding data collection methods and outcomes evaluation. The findings suggest that improving communication channels between policymakers and researchers can enhance the relevance and effectiveness of research outputs in Kenya's business sector. Recommendations include fostering a collaborative environment where policy makers are more involved in academic research projects to ensure alignment with current needs, and promoting data transparency across sectors.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Agency in African Business Contexts
Youth play a significant role in Africa's business landscape, particularly in Lesotho where youth entrepreneurship is burgeoning but often lacks formal structures and support mechanisms. None The theoretical framework underscores the importance of fostering a supportive ecosystem that includes mentorship programmes, access to capital, and networking opportunities to enhance youth entrepreneurship in Lesotho's business context. Policy makers should prioritise initiatives aimed at providing affordable loans or grants specifically for young entrepreneurs. Additionally, educational institutions could integrate more practical modules on starting and managing businesses.
Gender Dynamics in Business within Sub-Saharan Africa
This Policy Brief examines gender dynamics within business in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a specific focus on Chad. The study employed a qualitative approach, utilising interviews with local business owners and focus group discussions to gather insights into gender dynamics within business environments in Chad. Women entrepreneurs reported facing significant challenges such as limited access to financial resources and networks. Specifically, only 30% of women-owned businesses received formal loans compared to 60% of male-owned businesses. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to support female business owners in Chad, particularly in terms of accessing credit and building professional relationships. Policy recommendations include establishing microfinance institutions that cater specifically to women entrepreneurs and implementing training programmes focused on developing leadership skills among female business leaders.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cross-Cultural Management Challenges in Pan-African Companies within Côte d'Ivoire
Cross-cultural management challenges are increasingly recognised as significant in multinational organizations, particularly in contexts where diverse cultures coexist within a single entity. The research employs a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews conducted among key personnel from three major pan-African corporations headquartered in Côte d'Ivoire. Data collection was supplemented by secondary sources such as company reports and industry publications. Interview data revealed that cultural misunderstandings, leadership styles, and communication barriers were the most prevalent challenges reported across all companies studied, with a notable proportion (34%) of respondents attributing these issues to significant operational disruptions. The study underscores the necessity for tailored cross-cultural training programmes and more inclusive leadership models to enhance organisational effectiveness in multicultural settings. These insights are crucial for businesses aiming to navigate successfully through diverse cultural landscapes. Pan-African companies should prioritise culturally sensitive hiring practices, foster a culture of inclusivity, and invest in regular cross-cultural competency development initiatives.
The mining sector in Botswana is a significant contributor to the country's economy, employing thousands of people and generating substantial revenue. Despite this importance, there has been limited research on human resource management (HRM) practices within the sector. A comprehensive review of secondary data from academic journals, industry reports, and government publications was conducted. Qualitative analysis was employed to understand the nuances of HRM in mining contexts. The theoretical framework underscores the critical need for enhanced skill alignment and more robust HRM policies to improve workforce productivity and retention in Botswana's mining sector. Recommendations include implementing targeted training programmes, establishing clearer career progression paths, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the industry.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Challenges and Opportunities for Ghanaian Businesses in Post-Conflict Societies
Ghana is a post-conflict state that has experienced significant economic growth in recent years, yet many businesses face ongoing challenges related to instability and regulatory environment. The study employs qualitative research methods, including semi-structured interviews with business owners and stakeholders, participant observation, and document analysis. Data was collected from urban and rural areas across Ghana. Businesses in post-conflict regions often struggle with inadequate infrastructure, high transaction costs, and a lack of access to skilled labour, particularly in remote areas where the proportion of businesses experiencing these issues is notably higher than in other regions. While challenges persist, there are emerging opportunities for business growth through government support programmes and private sector collaborations. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for fostering sustainable economic development in Ghana and similar contexts. Businesses should leverage available resources such as training programmes and grants to enhance operational efficiency; policymakers must prioritise infrastructure improvements and market access initiatives to facilitate broader economic engagement.
Digital Finance Adoption Among Smallholder Cocoa Farmers in Côte d'Ivoire
{ "background": "Côte d'Ivoire is a significant cocoa producer in West Africa, with smallholder farmers playing a crucial role in its economy. Despite the country's economic importance, many of these farmers face challenges related to financial management and access to credit.", "purposeandobjectives": "This comparative study aims to investigate the adoption of digital finance services among smallholder cocoa farmers in Côte d'Ivoire, focusing on their perceived benefits and barriers to using such services. It seeks to understand how digital finance can improve agricultural productivity and income stability for these farmers.", "methodology": "The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis of farmer surveys conducted in two regions of Côte d'Ivoire: the Western Region and the Central Plateau. Data collection was facilitated through structured questionnaires designed to capture both quantitative metrics (e.g., use frequency) and qualitative insights into farmers' experiences.", "findings": "Analysis revealed that approximately 45% of surveyed smallholder cocoa farmers in Côte d'Ivoire had adopted digital finance services, with significant variations observed between the regions studied. Farmers in the Central Plateau region were more likely to have adopted these services compared to those in the Western Region.", "conclusion": "The findings suggest that while there is potential for digital finance services among smallholder cocoa farmers in Côte d'Ivoire, barriers such as lack of awareness and digital literacy hinder wider adoption. The study highlights the importance of targeted training programmes and policy support to enhance digital finance uptake.", "recommendations": "Policy makers should consider implementing education and capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving digital literacy among smallholder cocoa farmers in Côte d'Ivoire. Additionally, financial institutions operating within the country could benefit from developing more user-friendly digital finance products tailored for rural populations.", "keywords": "Digital Finance, Smallholder Cocoa Farmers, Côte d'Ivoire, Adoption Rates, Agricultural Productivity", "contributionstatement": "This study introduces a comprehensive understanding of digital
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Norms and Female Entrepreneurship in Somali Informal Settlements of Senegal
This Perspective Piece examines gender norms in Somali informal settlements of Senegal and their impact on female entrepreneurship. A qualitative approach was adopted, involving interviews with female entrepreneurs and focus group discussions among community members in the Somali settlements of Senegal. Gender norms pose substantial challenges for female entrepreneurship in these settings, necessitating tailored interventions to promote inclusivity. Policy makers should develop targeted support programmes addressing both the economic opportunities and social barriers faced by female entrepreneurs.
Digital Transformation's Ripple Effects on North African Retail Sector
The digital transformation of retail sectors in North Africa has been a subject of increasing interest, especially given the region's growing economy and technological advancements. The study employs a qualitative research approach, analysing case studies from selected retail businesses in Namibia to understand their experiences with digital technologies. Digital transformation has led to significant improvements in operational efficiency, particularly in inventory management and supply chain logistics, with reported increases of up to 30% in productivity. The findings suggest that while digitalization has brought numerous benefits, there are challenges related to data privacy and consumer trust that need to be addressed. Retail businesses should prioritise investment in employee training programmes to ensure they can effectively utilise new technologies. Additionally, stronger regulatory frameworks for data protection must be established.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Public Health Campaigns and Handwashing Practices Among Urban Youth in Kenya,
Public health campaigns have been implemented in various settings to promote hygiene practices such as handwashing among urban youth. In Kenya, these campaigns often target young adults aged 18-25 who are at a critical stage of developing personal habits and social norms. This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews with 50 participants aged between 18 to 25 years who had been exposed to public health campaigns targeting handwashing. Data analysis involved thematic coding and content analysis to identify key themes related to campaign impact and participant experiences. Analysis revealed that while initial engagement was high, there was a notable decline in consistent handwashing practices over time among participants. Themes included varying levels of personal motivation and the influence of peer pressure on adherence to hygiene habits. Public health campaigns initiated for youth in Kenya have shown mixed results; they initially encouraged behaviour change but failed to sustain these changes effectively, particularly when compared to other community-based interventions. Future public health initiatives should focus on reinforcing initial campaign messages through sustained engagement and addressing the social determinants of hygiene habits such as peer influence and personal motivation. Community partnerships could also enhance long-term impact. public health campaigns, urban youth, handwashing practices, qualitative study, Kenya
A Framework for Understanding School-Based Climate Change Education Impact on Urban Youth in Cape Town, South Africa
School-based climate change education initiatives have gained prominence as a critical component in addressing environmental challenges. In urban settings like Cape Town, South Africa, these programmes aim to enhance students' awareness and encourage action towards mitigating climate change impacts. Theoretical development will be employed through literature review and qualitative analysis to explore existing frameworks and gaps in current research. This approach will inform the design of a robust theoretical model for understanding school-based climate education's effects on urban youth. The theoretical model developed will provide a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted impacts of climate education on urban youth and offer insights for educators aiming to enhance their curriculum’s effectiveness in promoting sustainable practices. Educators should prioritise experiential learning, collaborative projects, and community engagement activities as key strategies to bridge knowledge gaps and encourage students' active participation in environmental stewardship.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital Payments Platforms and Micro Entrepreneurs in Nairobi’s Informal Marketplaces
Digital payments platforms have emerged as critical tools for facilitating financial transactions in informal marketplaces around the world. In Nairobi’s informal marketplaces, these platforms are increasingly being adopted by micro entrepreneurs to improve their operational efficiency and access to wider markets. The study employs a qualitative research approach, drawing on existing literature and expert interviews to construct a theoretical model that explains the dynamics of digital payments platform adoption by micro entrepreneurs in Nairobi’s informal marketplaces. This theoretical framework provides valuable insights into the conditions under which digital payments platforms can be successfully adopted by micro entrepreneurs in Nairobi's informal marketplaces. It highlights potential areas where further research could focus to enhance platform effectiveness and accessibility. Future research should investigate specific strategies for enhancing user adoption rates, particularly among lower-income micro entrepreneurs who may face barriers to using these services. Additionally, there is a need for more comprehensive studies on the long-term economic impacts of digital payments platforms in informal markets.