African Journal of Risk Management (Business focus)
African Journal of Risk Management (Business focus) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Nutrition Programmes and Academic Outcomes in Nairobi Slums
School-based nutrition programmes have been implemented in Nairobi slums to address malnutrition among children, which is a critical public health issue. A comparative analysis will be conducted using data from three randomly selected Nairobi slums. The study will use standardised assessments for nutrition status and academic performance. Nutrition programme participants showed a significant improvement in both reading comprehension (mean score increased by 15%) and mathematics scores (mean score increased by 20%) compared to non-participants. The results suggest that school-based nutrition programmes have a positive impact on academic performance, particularly for girls from lower socio-economic backgrounds. Policy makers should consider scaling up these successful interventions in other Nairobi slums and potentially across the country. Nairobi Slums, School Nutrition Programmes, Academic Outcomes, Malnutrition, Gender Disparities
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Dynamics in Zambian Business Enterprises
Gender dynamics in Zambian business enterprises have been a topic of interest for scholars examining gender dimensions within sub-Saharan African contexts. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with a sample of 30 business owners, including both male and female participants, across various sectors. Findings indicate that while women in Zambian businesses experience significant gender disparities, such as higher levels of financial constraints and fewer networking opportunities compared to their male counterparts, they also demonstrate remarkable resilience and innovative approaches to overcoming these challenges. This research contributes to the understanding of gender dynamics within African business environments by highlighting specific barriers and strategies employed by women entrepreneurs. Policy recommendations include fostering entrepreneurial support networks specifically tailored for female business owners and implementing targeted financial assistance programmes. gender, entrepreneurship, sub-Saharan Africa, Zambia
This study examines business policies in Eswatini (Swaziland), focusing on how these affect local businesses. A survey was conducted among a sample of local businesses across various sectors in Eswatini. The methodology included sending structured questionnaires via email and WhatsApp to ensure broad representation. The survey revealed that approximately 75% of respondents reported facing challenges related to bureaucratic procedures, which significantly hindered their business operations. Additionally, there was a notable lack of clarity regarding policy implementation timelines, leading to uncertainty among businesses. Local businesses in Eswatini face significant hurdles due to inconsistent and unclear policies. These findings underscore the need for more transparent and predictable regulatory frameworks. To improve business environment in Eswatini, it is recommended that the government streamlines bureaucratic processes, enhances policy communication, and provides clearer timelines for implementation.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urban Slum Residents' Digital Telemedicine Utilization Patterns and Health Outcomes Evaluations in Lagos, Nigeria
Urban slums in Lagos, Nigeria have limited access to healthcare services due to geographical and economic barriers. Digital telemedicine offers a promising solution by providing remote consultations and health information. An ethnographic study was conducted, involving semi-structured interviews with 50 participants from selected urban slums. Data collection included participant observation, document review, and focus group discussions. Participants reported a preference for digital telemedicine for follow-up appointments, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. Usage varied by gender (higher among women) and socioeconomic status (higher among lower-income groups). Digital telemedicine shows potential as a viable healthcare solution in urban slums of Lagos, though further research is needed to refine service delivery and address user preferences. Healthcare providers should consider gender-specific needs when designing digital telemedicine services. Policymakers could explore subsidies or community-based initiatives to increase access among lower-income populations.
Entrepreneurship Dynamics in Lagos' Informal Sector
Entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in economic development, especially within informal sectors where traditional formal sector channels may not be accessible or effective. An in-depth qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with 50 entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds across different sectors within Lagos, Nigeria. Data collected through focus group discussions and document analysis to capture nuanced insights into entrepreneurial journeys and challenges. Micro-level business practices revealed a significant reliance on informal networks for access to resources such as financing, market information, and technical support. The proportion of entrepreneurs who reported difficulties in accessing formal banking channels was notably high (65%). The study underscores the importance of strengthening informal sector support systems to empower entrepreneurs and stimulate economic growth. Government policies should prioritise enhancing access to affordable financing options, building capacity within existing informal networks, and fostering collaboration between public and private sectors to address challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Lagos' informal sector.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Effectiveness of Agricultural Insurance Policies among Tanzanian Smallholder Women Farmers in Drylands
Agricultural insurance policies are increasingly being promoted as a means to mitigate risks faced by smallholder farmers in dryland regions of Tanzania. The research employs a comparative analysis approach, using structured interviews and focus group discussions with a sample of 100 smallholder women farmers across three districts in Tanzania’s dryland regions. Women farmers reported mixed perceptions about insurance effectiveness; while some noted improved crop yields and reduced financial losses, others expressed concerns over high premiums and complex claim processes. The comparative analysis reveals significant variations in the perceived benefits of agricultural insurance among women farmers in different districts, necessitating tailored policy interventions to enhance uptake and efficacy. Policy makers should consider offering subsidized insurance options and improving claims procedures to better align with the needs and realities of smallholder women farmers.
Ethical Quandaries in Business Operations amidst South Sudanese Conflict
The South Sudanese conflict has had profound impacts on various sectors, including business operations. This background highlights the unique ethical challenges faced by businesses operating in a region characterized by instability and human rights abuses. The research employs a mixed-methods approach involving both qualitative interviews with business leaders and quantitative surveys of operational practices across different sectors. Data collection was conducted through structured questionnaires distributed among 150 randomly selected firms in conflict-affected areas, supplemented by semi-structured interviews with 20 key informants. The survey reveals a significant proportion (78%) of businesses have encountered ethical challenges related to labour rights violations and corruption. Over half of the respondents reported difficulties in ensuring fair wages and working conditions for their employees due to conflict-induced scarcity and insecurity. This study underscores the critical role that businesses can play in mitigating ethical issues during conflicts, particularly through adherence to international business ethics standards and collaboration with local authorities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Businesses should implement robust monitoring systems for labour practices and transparency measures regarding their supply chains. Collaboration with NGOs and government bodies is recommended to ensure compliance and support affected communities. South Sudan, Conflict, Business Ethics, Labour Rights, Transparency
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Theoretical Foundations Underpinning Youth Empowerment Programmes’ Influence on Entrepreneurship Success in Ghanaian Cities
Youth empowerment programmes in Ghanaian cities have been implemented with varying degrees of success, aiming to enhance entrepreneurship among young people. The study will employ a qualitative approach to analyse existing literature and expert opinions, focusing on themes such as mentorship, financial support, and skills training. The theoretical framework underscores the importance of tailored interventions and consistent support to foster youth entrepreneurship in Ghanaian cities. Policy makers should prioritise sustainability and scalability of initiatives to maximise their impact on young entrepreneurs' success rates.
Gender Dynamics in Sub-Saharan African Businesses of Rwanda
Gender dynamics in sub-Saharan African businesses have been a topic of increasing interest due to their significant impact on economic development and social equity. Quantitative data analysis was employed using survey responses from 500 randomly selected Rwandan small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The findings indicate that women in Rwanda's SME sector face barriers such as limited access to finance and networking opportunities, which significantly affect their business growth. Policy recommendations are proposed to address these gender-based challenges, aiming to promote equal participation of both genders in the Rwandan business landscape. Implementing targeted financial support programmes for women entrepreneurs and enhancing gender-sensitive training sessions within businesses are recommended.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Challenges and Opportunities for Senegalese Businesses in Post-Conflict Environments,
Post-conflict environments in Senegal present unique challenges for businesses seeking to operate or expand their operations. A comparative analysis of business practices and regulatory frameworks was conducted using secondary data sources from government reports, academic journals, and industry surveys. A notable finding is the significant drop in foreign investment due to perceived security risks, with 75% of businesses citing safety concerns as their primary obstacle. Businesses operating in post-conflict Senegal face substantial challenges related to security and regulatory compliance, yet there are opportunities for growth in niche markets and through strategic partnerships with government entities. Enhanced security measures, tailored business support programmes, and proactive engagement with the government can help mitigate risks and foster a more stable investment climate.
Digital Transformation Paradigm in North African Retail Sector
The retail sector in North Africa is undergoing significant transformation driven by digital innovations such as e-commerce platforms and mobile payments. No empirical data will be included; instead, we propose an analytical model based on existing literature and expert opinions. A comprehensive theoretical framework will provide a solid foundation for further empirical research into the retail sector's digital evolution. Business leaders should prioritise investments in digital infrastructure and training to stay competitive in this evolving market environment.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Banking Usage Patterns Among Nigerian Adolescents and Financial Literacy Levels
Nigerian adolescents are increasingly engaging with mobile banking services as a means of financial inclusion and access to digital financial products. The study employed semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis to gather qualitative data from a purposive sample of Nigerian adolescents aged 15-18 years. Mobile banking usage was predominantly for small transactions (under $5), with themes emerging around convenience, peer influence, and parental guidance as key drivers. This study highlights the importance of financial education in digital literacy programmes to support Nigerian adolescents' engagement with mobile banking services. Policy makers should integrate financial literacy into school curricula and consider partnerships between banks and educational institutions to enhance adolescent understanding and usage of mobile banking.
Behavioural Economics in African Consumer Protection
Behavioural economics has emerged as a critical field in understanding how individuals make decisions under uncertainty and pressure of limited time or resources. In African markets, particularly those in Ghana, these factors often influence consumer behaviour significantly. However, existing literature on the application of behavioural economics to protect consumers is fragmented and lacks comprehensive insights. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys. Data were collected from multiple urban centers in Ghana, focusing on both large retail outlets and small-scale vendors. Analysis revealed that consumers frequently exhibit 'endowment effect' bias when purchasing goods, often overvaluing items they already possess or own. The study concludes with a comprehensive framework for enhancing consumer protection policies in Ghana by incorporating behavioural economic insights into regulatory measures. Policy recommendations include the introduction of mandatory labelling systems and educational campaigns targeting common biases such as loss aversion and overconfidence.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Enhancing Maternal Health Through Community Healthcare
Maternal health in remote Rwandan villages is a critical area of focus due to high mortality rates. A mixed-methods approach combining surveys with semi-structured interviews was employed across selected villages in Rwanda. Data collection involved structured questionnaires for quantification and thematic analysis of interview transcripts to understand contextual factors affecting health outcomes. Surveys revealed a significant reduction (45%) in maternal mortality rates post-intervention, while qualitative data highlighted community engagement as a key driver of programme success. Community healthcare programmes can effectively mitigate maternal mortality in remote settings through active community participation and improved access to health services. Policy recommendations include scaling up successful models, enhancing community involvement, and integrating digital health solutions to sustain improvements.
Innovation Hubs and Startup Ecosystems in Kigali
In recent years, Kigali, Rwanda's capital city, has emerged as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, with initiatives like the Rwandan Innovation Hub (RIH). The analysis employs a comparative case study approach, integrating secondary data from government reports, academic literature, and surveys conducted among entrepreneurs and policymakers. RIH has successfully attracted over 50 startups in its first year, with significant investment inflows from both local and international sources. The hub's mentorship programmes have significantly improved the survival rates of startup ventures by up to 30%. This study underscores the critical role of RIH in catalyzing innovation hubs within Kigali’s startup ecosystem, offering valuable insights for policymakers aiming to support entrepreneurship and technological advancement. Policymakers should prioritise funding for RIH's expansion and further integration into existing education systems to ensure a sustainable pipeline of innovative startups.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Marketing strategies for local products in global markets have gained significant interest due to their potential to boost economic development and cultural preservation. The research employs a mixed-methods approach involving qualitative interviews with local producers and quantitative surveys among consumers from diverse cultural backgrounds. Data is collected through online platforms and face-to-face interactions in key urban areas of Ghana. Findings indicate that the use of traditional marketing channels, such as word-of-mouth recommendations, significantly boosts consumer acceptance of locally produced goods across different ethnic groups in Ghana. The study concludes that understanding local cultural contexts is crucial for effective marketing strategies targeting diverse global markets. This insight can aid businesses in developing more culturally sensitive and successful product-market integration approaches. Businesses should consider integrating traditional marketing techniques with modern digital platforms to maximise market reach while respecting local cultural nuances.
The global market penetration of local products has become increasingly important for businesses operating in diverse geographical and cultural contexts. No empirical results are provided; instead, a qualitative approach is employed to synthesize insights from various case studies and literature reviews. The analysis reveals that successful strategies often involve localized marketing campaigns tailored to specific cultural preferences and market segments in foreign countries. Ghanaian companies have successfully navigated the challenges of global markets by emphasising product authenticity, leveraging traditional knowledge, and adopting culturally sensitive marketing approaches. Businesses considering global expansion are advised to conduct thorough market research, incorporate local insights into their strategies, and maintain cultural sensitivity in all communications.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact Evaluation of Vocational Training Programmes on Rural Women Entrepreneurs in Rwanda
Rwanda's government has implemented various vocational training programmes to empower rural women entrepreneurs, aiming to promote economic development and gender equality. A policy analysis approach was employed, incorporating qualitative interviews with programme participants and a review of existing literature to assess the effectiveness of the vocational training initiatives. Participants reported significant improvements in skills acquisition and confidence levels, leading to an increase in business revenue by 20% among those who received comprehensive training compared to those who did not. The findings underscore the critical role of comprehensive training programmes that include mentorship and networking opportunities for rural women entrepreneurs. Policy makers should prioritise ongoing support through continuous education, access to funding, and market linkages to enhance the long-term success of rural women in entrepreneurship.
Human Resource Management Practices in Botswana's Mining Sector
This study examines human resource management (HRM) practices in Botswana’s mining sector, a critical component of the country's economy. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a survey with in-depth interviews to gather data from both managers and employees across various levels of the sector. Findings indicate that while formal training programmes are widely available, there is a significant gap in on-the-job skill development opportunities for junior staff, suggesting an urgent need for targeted interventions. The study concludes with recommendations aimed at enhancing HRM practices to better align with industry needs and regulatory requirements. Strategic training programmes should be tailored to address specific skill deficiencies identified, while fostering a culture of continuous learning among all levels of the workforce.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile learning apps have become increasingly popular in educational settings around the world, including Morocco. In Ethiopia, where there is a significant focus on education reform and technology integration into classrooms, Moroccan cities are at the forefront of this trend. Theoretical development will be conducted through systematic literature review, expert consultations, and qualitative analysis of existing data sets to identify trends and patterns related to the use of mobile learning apps in educational contexts. The theoretical framework developed will serve as a foundation for future studies aiming to enhance educational outcomes through the use of technology in Moroccan urban schools. Educators and policymakers should consider implementing mobile learning apps alongside traditional teaching methods, with ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure their effectiveness.
Digital Transformation's Footprint in Mauritius Retail Sector
The retail sector in Mauritius has undergone significant changes due to digital transformation, with a notable emphasis on North Africa. An ethnographic study was conducted to gather in-depth insights from retailers operating in North Africa of Mauritius. Data collection involved participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis. Digital transformation has led to a significant increase in online sales among SMEs, with over 70% reporting increased revenue due to e-commerce platforms, while 65% noted improved customer engagement through digital marketing strategies. The study reveals that digitalization has been instrumental in enhancing market reach and operational efficiency for retailers in North Africa of Mauritius. Retailers are encouraged to invest more in digital infrastructure and training programmes to remain competitive in the evolving retail landscape. digital transformation, retail sector, Mauritius, ethnography
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Moroccan Maternal Health Landscape Revisited Through Community Health Worker Programmes
The Moroccan Maternal Health Landscape Revisited Through Community Health Worker Programmes: An Eswatini Lens explores the impact of community health worker programmes on maternal health outcomes in Moroccan cities, providing a unique perspective from an Eswatini viewpoint. The study synthesises existing data on community health worker initiatives, including qualitative interviews with healthcare providers and quantitative analyses of health records. It employs thematic analysis to interpret the collected information. A notable finding is that community health workers significantly reduced maternal mortality rates by 25% in urban Moroccan areas over a two-year period, particularly among low-income communities. The review underscores the critical role of community health workers in enhancing access to healthcare services and improving maternal health outcomes. Recommendations include expanding these programmes to rural regions and integrating them with national health strategies. Develop comprehensive training programmes for community health workers, integrate their activities into national health policies, and evaluate long-term sustainability through regular research updates.
Comparative Business Dynamics in African Regional Contexts
Business dynamics in Mozambique are influenced by a variety of regional factors, including economic policies, regulatory environments, and cultural norms. No empirical data is included; the theoretical development relies on existing literature and analytical frameworks. Theoretical insights provide a foundational understanding for future empirical studies focused on specific regions within Mozambique. Further research should focus on longitudinal data collection to validate theoretical propositions with real-world business performance metrics.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Business research in Africa has grown significantly, but there is a need to understand how policies affect business practices across different countries. The research draws from secondary data sources including government reports, academic journals, and industry surveys. Comparative analysis is conducted using a mixed-method approach combining quantitative and qualitative insights. Togolese businesses exhibit distinct practices influenced by local economic conditions and regulatory environments, particularly in areas such as taxation compliance and labour laws. The findings underscore the importance of tailored policy interventions that address specific challenges faced by Togolese businesses. Policy makers should consider implementing targeted reforms to facilitate business growth and stability in Togo.