African Strategic Management Journal is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Resilience Dynamics in Tunisian Agriculture
Climate change presents significant challenges to agricultural productivity in Tunisia, where climate shocks have become increasingly frequent and severe. The Tunisian economy heavily relies on agriculture, making it vulnerable to these environmental shifts. We employ a comparative analysis approach, leveraging secondary data from government reports and academic literature on climate change impact studies in Tunisia. Our methodology includes quantitative analyses of resilience metrics across different agricultural sectors. A notable finding is the significant proportion (45%) of surveyed supply chains implementing proactive measures such as diversification strategies to mitigate risks associated with climate shocks. The study reveals that while some Tunisian agricultural supply chains exhibit robust responses, there remains room for improvement in terms of policy support and resource allocation aimed at enhancing resilience against future climatic events. Given the identified gaps, recommendations include strengthening regulatory frameworks to ensure compliance with climate change adaptation standards and increasing investment in research and development focused on climate-resilient agricultural practices.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth unemployment in Lagos, Nigeria is a significant social and economic challenge, with poverty rates often disproportionately affecting young people. The research employed an ethnographic approach, involving participant observation and semi-structured interviews with stakeholders including programme beneficiaries, organizers, and community leaders to gather comprehensive data on the efficacy and challenges faced by these initiatives. A key finding was that while some programmes showed modest improvements in employment rates among their participants, there were notable variations in success across different sectors and socio-economic backgrounds, suggesting a need for tailored interventions. Despite initial signs of progress, the findings highlight the complexity of addressing youth unemployment through targeted employment programmes and underscore the importance of sustained support and community engagement to maximise impact. Future policy should prioritise robust evaluation frameworks, inclusive planning processes, and collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and local communities to enhance programme effectiveness and sustainability. Youth Employment Programmes, Poverty Alleviation, Lagos, Nigeria, Ethnographic Study
Youth Leadership in Senegalese Business Arena
Youth in Senegal play a significant role in various sectors of the economy, including business. A qualitative approach was employed to gather insights through interviews with young entrepreneurs and industry experts. The youth-led business sector is crucial for the economic development of Senegal and requires tailored support strategies. Government policies should focus on enhancing financial inclusion and entrepreneurship education for young entrepreneurs.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Resilience Architecture in Agricultural Supply Chains Amid Climate Shocks in Niger
This study examines the resilience architecture of agricultural supply chains in Niger, focusing on their capacity to withstand climate shocks. Not applicable The theoretical framework posits a resilience architecture comprising adaptive management, diversified production systems, and improved market access as critical components for enhancing agricultural sustainability under climatic stress. Policy recommendations include investing in early warning systems, promoting local seed banks, and fostering regional trade networks to mitigate the impacts of climate change on agriculture.
Micro-Insurance as a Catalyst for Behavioural Shifts in Ethiopian Coffee Farmers
Micro-insurance has emerged as a critical tool in addressing financial vulnerabilities among smallholder farmers globally, particularly in Ethiopia where coffee is a significant cash crop. No empirical data or statistical analysis are provided; instead, theoretical models and literature reviews form the basis for understanding the potential impacts of micro-insurance on farmer behaviour. The theoretical framework presented supports the notion that micro-insurance serves as an effective mechanism for encouraging behavioural change in coffee-growing communities, highlighting its potential to enhance sustainability and resilience. Future research should focus on implementing pilot projects combining micro-insurance with capacity-building programmes to assess their combined impact more comprehensively.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Healthcare Insurance Expansion and Maternal Mortality Reduction in Rwanda
Rwanda has made significant strides in healthcare reform, including expanding its healthcare insurance coverage to reduce maternal mortality. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative survey data with qualitative interviews to understand perceptions and experiences related to healthcare insurance expansion. Findings indicate that an increase in health insurance coverage by 15% over a two-year period correlated with a 7.8% reduction in maternal mortality rates. The study highlights the importance of continued investment in healthcare insurance as a key strategy for achieving significant reductions in maternal mortality. Recommendation is to prioritise expansion of health insurance coverage, particularly among vulnerable populations such as rural women and low-income earners.
Counseling Services within Cape Town's Slums
Cape Town's slum communities are faced with high rates of domestic violence, which not only affects individuals' mental health but also disrupts social structures and economic opportunities. The methodology will draw on existing literature, qualitative research insights from South African contexts, and the principles of psychology and sociology to construct a robust theoretical framework. This theoretical framework underscores the critical role of tailored counseling services in supporting domestic violence survivors and highlights their potential to mitigate long-term societal impacts. Policy makers should prioritise funding and resource allocation towards establishing more accessible and culturally sensitive counseling programmes within Cape Town's slum communities.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Social Safety Nets and Adolescent Out-of-School Girls in Kenyan Urban Slums
Adolescent out-of-school girls in Kenyan urban slums face significant socio-economic challenges, including poverty and limited access to education. The study employed a qualitative approach involving in-depth interviews with 50 adolescent out-of-school girls from Kenyan urban slums, supplemented by focus group discussions and secondary data analysis. Findings indicate that social safety nets provided modest but consistent support for food security, while alternative income sources such as microfinance initiatives showed higher potential for sustainable livelihoods among participants. The study underscores the need for a balanced approach to addressing adolescent out-of-school girls' socio-economic challenges, incorporating both traditional safety net programmes and innovative income generation strategies. Policy makers should consider integrating social safety nets with microfinance services to enhance support for urban slum adolescents.
The Influence of Business Education on Entrepreneurship Development in Uganda
Uganda is a country experiencing rapid urbanization and economic growth, which has created an environment conducive to entrepreneurship development. However, there remains a gap in understanding how business education influences this process. A survey research approach was employed, targeting a diverse sample from Uganda's higher education institutions. Data were collected through questionnaires administered online and in-person, ensuring comprehensive coverage across different regions and demographics. Findings indicate that business education significantly enhances entrepreneurial skills among students, with over 70% of respondents reporting improved ability to identify market opportunities after completing their studies. This study substantiates the critical role of formal education in nurturing entrepreneurship within Uganda. It underscores the need for further research and policy interventions aimed at strengthening educational curricula and resources for entrepreneurial development. Educational institutions should integrate more practical components into business courses to align with real-world market demands, while policymakers must consider funding mechanisms that support entrepreneurship education initiatives.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cross-Cultural Management Challenges in Pan-African Companies
Cross-cultural management in Pan-African companies faces unique challenges due to diverse cultural backgrounds within these organizations. This study employs qualitative thematic analysis to explore the experiences and perspectives of managers in Pan-African companies operating within South Africa. The theoretical framework provides a robust model for understanding the complexities of managing diverse cultures in Pan-African companies within South Africa. Strategies such as implementing multilingual training programmes are recommended to mitigate language-related cross-cultural management challenges.
Success Factors and Limitations of Microinsurance Programmes for Vulnerable Rural Communities in Northern Nigeria
The success of microinsurance programmes in mitigating financial risks for vulnerable rural communities has been a subject of interest in Northern Nigeria. A survey research method was employed to gather data from participants representing various microinsurance schemes across rural areas. Quantitative analysis methods were used for statistical evaluation of findings. Microinsurance uptake varied significantly by community type, with urban centers showing higher participation rates compared to rural areas. Despite some challenges, microinsurance programmes have demonstrated potential in enhancing financial stability among vulnerable communities in Northern Nigeria. Programmes should consider tailoring insurance offerings and outreach strategies to better align with the needs of different community types.
Geographic Terms: Nigerian Methodological: Qualitative Research Theoretical: Risk Management Conceptual: Microfinance Contextual: Rural Development Empirical: Survey Analysis
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Banking Integration with Government Beneficiary Systems in Senegal
The integration of mobile banking platforms with government beneficiary systems in Senegal presents an opportunity to enhance financial inclusion and reduce corruption through direct payments. A comparative study approach was employed, analysing data from mobile banking platforms in collaboration with government beneficiary systems in three distinct regions of Senegal. Data were collected through surveys, interviews, and administrative records over a period of one year. Mobile banking integration showed an average increase of 35% in payment accessibility compared to non-integrated regions, though fraud reduction rates varied significantly across tested areas, ranging from 18% to 27% overall. The study suggests that while mobile banking platforms offer significant benefits for financial inclusion and transparency, the integration process is not uniform and requires tailored strategies based on regional contexts. Regions with lower initial fraud rates should prioritise awareness campaigns and stricter oversight mechanisms to maximise the benefits of mobile banking integration. Regions with higher fraud rates may benefit from more stringent data security protocols and technological upgrades.
Eco-Friendly Packaging as a Strategic Lens for Kenyan Coffee Farmers in Market Penetration
The global demand for eco-friendly products is increasing, driven by environmental concerns and consumer preferences. In Kenya, coffee farmers face challenges in market penetration due to limited access to sustainable packaging solutions. The study employs qualitative research methods to analyse existing literature on eco-friendly packaging solutions and their application in the agricultural sector, particularly focusing on coffee farming practices in Kenya. This theoretical framework underscores the potential of eco-friendly packaging as a strategic asset for Kenyan coffee farmers in achieving market success while addressing environmental concerns. Farmers and industry stakeholders are encouraged to invest in research and development of sustainable packaging solutions, engage with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance, and collaborate with international partners to expand their market reach.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Investment Climate and Foreign Direct Investment Attraction in Mozambique
Mozambique's investment climate is a critical factor in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), influencing economic growth and development. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative case studies to comprehensively assess FDI trends and investor perceptions in Mozambique. The proportion of foreign investors reporting improved business conditions due to enhanced regulatory frameworks has increased by 20% over the past two years, highlighting a positive trend in investment climate improvements. Investment climate plays a pivotal role in FDI attraction, with specific policy interventions yielding tangible benefits for Mozambique’s economic development. Implementing targeted reforms and fostering international partnerships can further enhance Mozambique's attractiveness as an investment destination.
Challenges and Opportunities for E-commerce Adoption by SMEs in Egypt
E-commerce adoption by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Egypt is an area of growing interest due to its potential to enhance market access, productivity, and competitiveness. The study employed an action research approach, involving semi-structured interviews with 50 SME owners/managers across various sectors of Egypt's economy. Data collection was conducted from January to June , focusing on perceptions and experiences related to e-commerce adoption. SMEs in Egypt face significant barriers such as inadequate digital infrastructure, lack of training, and resistance to change, with over 60% indicating these challenges hinder their e-commerce efforts. However, the proportion of SMEs actively using e-commerce platforms is rising, from 25% in to 40% by . Despite initial challenges, there are clear opportunities for growth and innovation within the Egyptian e-commerce landscape if these barriers can be effectively addressed. The study's findings suggest a dynamic environment where e-commerce adoption is on the rise but requires targeted interventions to accelerate its impact. To facilitate further e-commerce adoption by SMEs in Egypt, policymakers should invest in digital infrastructure development and implement training programmes for business owners. Additionally, fostering an enabling regulatory environment can encourage more SMEs to embrace online commerce.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Waste-to-Water Technologies in Kenyan City Squatter Settlements
Waste-to-Water (WtW) technologies have emerged as a promising solution to address water scarcity in urban informal settlements. In Kenya, city squatter settlements face significant challenges with access to clean drinking water and wastewater management. The research employs a mixed methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys among residents and stakeholders. Data collection includes field observations, semi-structured interview guides, and structured questionnaire design. Findings indicate that while some communities have successfully integrated WtW technologies into their water management systems, there is considerable variation in the implementation of these technologies across settlements. For instance, 45% of respondents reported significant improvements in water quality post-WtW technology installation. The study reveals a nuanced understanding of how WtW technologies can be adapted to suit different contexts within Kenyan squatter settlements, providing insights into the potential for broader adoption and improvement in community water management practices. Recommendations include the development of tailored educational programmes to enhance community acceptance of WtW technologies and the establishment of supportive policies that facilitate technology diffusion among informal settlement communities. Waste-to-Water Technologies, Water Stewardship, Urban Informal Settlements, Mixed Methods Study
Practices and Sustainable Development in Ghanaian Enterprises
Ghanaian enterprises are increasingly recognising the importance of sustainable development in their operations to enhance long-term viability and reputation. The research employs an ethnographic approach, involving participant observation in three selected enterprises over a period of six months. Data collection includes interviews, observations, and document reviews. Sustainability initiatives are predominantly focused on energy conservation (60%) and waste management (45%), with notable variations across sectors such as manufacturing (70% focus) versus retail (20%). Ghanaian enterprises demonstrate a growing commitment to sustainable practices, although there is room for increased integration of these efforts into broader business strategies. Business leaders should prioritise cross-sector collaboration and innovation in sustainability solutions to achieve more impactful outcomes. Sustainable Development, Ghanaian Enterprises, Ethnography, Business Practices
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Informal Economy's Role in Côte d'Ivoire's GDP
Côte d'Ivoire's economy is increasingly recognised for its dual nature, with both formal and informal sectors contributing significantly to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The informal sector plays a crucial role in employment generation and economic resilience, though it often faces regulatory challenges and underreporting. The study employs a comprehensive literature review and secondary data analysis, focusing on historical economic reports and government statistics to assess the impact of the informal economy on Côte d'Ivoire's GDP over recent years. Historical data reveals that the informal economy in Côte d'Ivoire contributes approximately 35% to the country’s GDP, highlighting its significant role despite regulatory constraints. This underreporting underscores the need for more inclusive economic policies. The findings suggest a need for policy reforms aimed at improving regulations and providing better access to formal financial systems for the informal sector. Such measures are essential for promoting sustainable growth and reducing poverty in Côte d'Ivoire. Policy recommendations include developing targeted support programmes, enhancing tax compliance mechanisms, and fostering partnerships between government and private sectors to facilitate smoother integration of the informal economy into the formal system.
Digital retail dynamics have become increasingly important in the North African region, particularly within Ethiopia's retail sector. The study employs qualitative analysis of existing literature and interviews with key stakeholders to understand the current state and future prospects of digital retail in North Africa, focusing specifically on Ethiopia. The commentary highlights the importance of embracing digital transformation for sustainable growth in Ethiopia's retail sector, emphasising the need for continued innovation in technology applications. Retail businesses should invest in AI and blockchain solutions to stay competitive and enhance customer engagement. Policymakers should also consider implementing supportive policies that facilitate digital infrastructure development.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance's Impact on Rural Women’s Livelihood Projects in Kenya
Microfinance initiatives have gained traction in addressing poverty and promoting economic empowerment, particularly among rural women in Kenya. The study employed qualitative research methods to gather data from interviews with participants and focus groups, providing an in-depth understanding of implementation challenges and outcomes. Despite initial optimism, persistent obstacles such as bureaucratic inefficiencies hindered full realization of microfinance’s potential to boost rural women's livelihoods. Enhanced collaboration between government agencies and microfinance institutions is recommended to streamline processes and reduce operational barriers.