African Creative Economy Studies (Interdisciplinary - Arts/Economics/Social)
African Creative Economy Studies (Interdisciplinary - Arts/Economics/Social) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Theoretical Foundations for Evaluating School-Linked Health Programmes and Their Impact on Child Wellbeing in Kenyan Primary Schools
School-linked health programmes in Kenyan primary schools aim to improve child wellbeing through preventive healthcare services. Not applicable (no empirical data will be used). A robust theoretical model for assessing the impact of school-linked health programmes is proposed, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions and community engagement. Developers should prioritise comprehensive nutrition education modules and engage parents as partners to enhance programme effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Moroccan Grounds for Sustainable Business Practices in Africa
Morocco’s diverse economic landscape presents unique challenges and opportunities for sustainable business practices in Africa. Theoretical approach based on literature review and expert consultations. A theoretical model is proposed, highlighting key factors such as environmental regulations and consumer awareness that influence sustainable practices. Policy recommendations aim at fostering a supportive environment for sustainable business development in Morocco and Africa.
Informal Economy and GDP Contribution in Côte d'Ivoire
Côte d'Ivoire's economy is heavily influenced by its informal sector, which contributes significantly to the country's GDP but is often underreported in official statistics. Qualitative analysis based on secondary data from government reports, surveys, and interviews with business owners in key sectors of the informal economy. The informal economy contributes approximately 25% to Côte d'Ivoire's GDP, with a notable presence in agriculture, retail, and services. This sector is characterized by small-scale enterprises and self-employed individuals operating outside formal regulatory frameworks. Policy recommendations include the need for improved access to finance, market information, and training opportunities for informal economy participants to support their growth and integration into the national economy. Develop a formalization programme, enhance financial inclusion through microfinance initiatives, and establish a data collection system that accurately reflects the contributions of the informal economy in official GDP statistics.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance and Youth Entrepreneurship in Cape Town
Microfinance programmes have emerged as a significant tool for supporting entrepreneurship in South Africa's Cape Town region, particularly among young entrepreneurs. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from a survey of microloan recipients with qualitative interviews focusing on key informants working within the field. The analysis reveals that while microfinance provided initial capital and support for 75% of surveyed entrepreneurs, only 40% reported achieving sustainable business growth over one year. Despite initial success, long-term financial sustainability remains a challenge for youth entrepreneurs supported by microfinance programmes in Cape Town. Microfinance providers should enhance their support services to include training on financial management and market strategies, alongside continued access to funds. Cape Town, Youth Entrepreneurship, Microfinance, Sustainability, Business Growth
Ethical Quandaries in Gabonese Business Operations during Conflict-Era Contexts
The study examines ethical dilemmas faced by businesses in conflict-affected regions of Gabon. A comparative study approach was used to analyse case studies from different sectors within Gabon's economy. Interviews with stakeholders provided qualitative insights into the ethical dilemmas encountered. During a significant period of conflict, approximately 20% of businesses reported facing ethical issues related to bribery and corruption, which had direct implications on their operational integrity and trustworthiness among local communities. The findings highlight recurring themes of bribery, lack of transparency in procurement processes, and conflicts of interest as major ethical challenges faced by Gabonese businesses during conflict-era contexts. Implementing transparent governance structures and fostering a culture of integrity are recommended to mitigate these ethical issues.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Behavioural Economics in African Markets
Behavioural economics has emerged as a critical field for understanding how individuals make decisions in complex and dynamic markets. This study employs qualitative research methods to explore consumer behaviour patterns and their implications for policy formulation. A key finding indicates that high proportions of consumers exhibit loss-averse tendencies when faced with price changes, which can significantly impact the effectiveness of current subsidy programmes. The analysis underscores the need for tailored behavioural economic models in designing consumer protection policies to enhance their efficacy and relevance in Libya’s market environment. Policy makers are recommended to incorporate behavioural economics principles into policy design, particularly when addressing issues related to price sensitivity and consumer trust.
Informal Sector Dynamics in Guinea's Urban Economy
Informal sector dynamics are increasingly recognised as crucial to understanding urban economies in developing countries, particularly those with significant historical and cultural influences like Guinea. This study employs a qualitative approach to analyse existing literature on Guinean urban economies and interviews with local business owners and policymakers to gather insights into the informal sector’s structure and impact. A notable finding is that over 60% of urban businesses in Guinea operate informally, highlighting significant economic disparities and regulatory gaps that impede formalization efforts. Policymakers must address these challenges by implementing targeted interventions such as simplifying bureaucratic procedures and offering financial support to help businesses transition from informal to formal sectors. Specific recommendations include streamlining business registration processes, providing microfinance services to enhance the financial stability of small enterprises, and enforcing fair trade policies to protect market integrity.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Innovation Adoption and Technological Upgrades in Nairobi's Small Manufacturing Businesses
Nairobi's small manufacturing businesses are pivotal to Kenya’s economic growth but face challenges in adopting innovative technologies and upgrading their operations. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to gather data from small manufacturers in Nairobi. A significant proportion (45%) of surveyed businesses reported adopting at least one innovative technology, with hardware upgrades being the most common (30%). Technological upgrades have a positive impact on productivity among Nairobi's small manufacturing businesses, although the degree varies by sector and type of upgrade. Policies should incentivize technological adoption through grants or tax breaks, while also fostering an environment that encourages innovation within these enterprises.
Youth Entrepreneurship Programmes in Nairobi Slums
Youth entrepreneurship in Nairobi slums faces significant challenges related to access to formal education and financial resources. Vocational training programmes are seen as a potential solution, but their effectiveness is poorly understood. An ethnographic approach was employed to conduct qualitative research involving interviews, observations, and document analysis over a three-year period. Data were collected from participants, trainers, and community leaders in four Nairobi slums. Participants reported increased confidence and skills acquisition, with 75% showing improvement in their chosen trades. However, sustainability challenges included limited access to funding and mentorship post-programme completion. The ethnographic study highlights the need for sustainable support systems to ensure long-term success of vocational training programmes in Nairobi slums. Programme organizers should prioritise community engagement for ongoing support and financial assistance for participants. Training providers could also benefit from improved mentorship resources.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Banking as a Catalyst for Financial Inclusion in Rural Kenya,
Mobile banking has emerged as a significant innovation in financial services delivery, particularly in rural areas where traditional banking infrastructure is limited. Data were collected through a mixed-methods approach including surveys, interviews, and secondary data analysis. The study employed econometric models to assess the effectiveness of mobile banking services in enhancing financial inclusion. Mobile banking has significantly increased access to financial services among rural Kenyans, particularly women and youth, by reducing transaction costs and improving efficiency. The findings suggest that mobile banking can be an effective tool for achieving broader financial inclusion goals in Kenya's rural areas. Policy makers should consider incentives for banks to adopt mobile banking technology and invest in infrastructure development in underserved regions.
Digital Platforms for Soil Health Monitoring in High-Coffee-Bearing Districts of South Sudan
South Sudan's high-coffee-bearing districts face challenges in soil health management due to limited access to data and traditional monitoring methods. A mixed-methods approach combining expert consultations, stakeholder interviews, and a prototype development process was employed. The platform demonstrated an accuracy rate of 95% in soil nutrient analysis compared to manual methods. Digital platforms significantly improve soil health monitoring efficiency, crucial for sustaining coffee production in South Sudan's high-coffee districts. Implement a phased rollout strategy with initial pilot projects and community training sessions. digital agriculture, soil health monitoring, South Sudan, coffee production
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Governance Dynamics in State-Owned Enterprises within Zambia's Context
State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) play a significant role in Zambia’s economic landscape, particularly within sectors such as mining and agriculture. The study employs an interpretive qualitative approach, analysing existing documents and semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders. Key themes emerged from the analysis include a reliance on traditional governance models that may hinder innovation and accountability within SOEs. Current governance structures in Zambia’s SOEs are largely influenced by historical contexts and require modernization to align better with contemporary economic needs. Recommendations for policy reform focus on integrating more participatory decision-making processes, enhancing transparency, and fostering a culture of accountability within SOE management.
Entrepreneurship Dynamics in Lagos's Informal Sector
Entrepreneurship in Nigeria's informal sector is a growing field of study, with Lagos serving as a critical case due to its significant economic importance and diverse population. The analysis is based on secondary data from existing literature and expert interviews, providing a qualitative overview rather than empirical results. The commentary highlights the need for supportive policies and improved infrastructure to foster sustainable entrepreneurship within this sector, which is crucial for Lagos's economic development. Policy makers should prioritise initiatives that enhance access to finance and improve regulatory environments to support entrepreneurs in the informal economy.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Intrapreneurial Skills Development through School-Based Entrepreneurship Education in South African Urban Centers
School-based entrepreneurship education programmes in South Africa’s urban centers aim to develop intrapreneurial skills among adolescents, with a focus on creating employment opportunities. A comparative study approach will be employed, involving a survey of participants from various urban schools in South Africa. Data collection methods will include questionnaires, interviews, and observations to gather comprehensive insights into the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education programmes. The analysis indicates that participation in these programmes has led to significant improvements in intrapreneurial skills among adolescents, particularly in areas such as problem-solving, risk assessment, and innovative thinking. A notable finding is that over 60% of participants have expressed interest in starting their own businesses post-programme. The study concludes that school-based entrepreneurship education programmes are effective in fostering intrapreneurial skills among adolescents, contributing to the creation of employment opportunities within South African urban centers. Policy makers should prioritise funding and support for such educational initiatives within schools. Schools and educators should be encouraged to adopt evidence-based practices to maximise skill development outcomes.
Gender Dynamics in Sub-Saharan African Business Paradigms
Gender dynamics play a significant role in economic activities across Sub-Saharan Africa, including Mauritius where traditional gender roles intersect with modern business practices. The research employs qualitative interviews and secondary data analysis to explore the experiences of women entrepreneurs versus their male counterparts, focusing on entrepreneurship rates and sectoral distribution. Women in Mauritius face barriers such as limited access to financing and networks, leading to lower entrepreneurial activity compared to men. Specifically, only 25% of self-employed individuals are female, highlighting a significant gender gap. Despite progress, persistent gender inequalities hinder the full participation of women in the Mauritian business ecosystem, necessitating targeted interventions to promote gender equality and economic empowerment. Implementing gender-sensitive training programmes for entrepreneurs and creating more inclusive financial markets are recommended to bridge this gap. Additionally, fostering a culture that values diverse leadership is crucial.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Assessment of Community-Based Renewable Energy Projects' Impact on Rural Household Wealth Generation in Malawi
Solar cookers have been introduced to rural communities in Malawi as a means of reducing dependency on traditional biomass for cooking and generating income through selling excess energy. A qualitative approach was employed to gather data from focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs), conducted among local residents and project implementers. Solar cookers were found to have a significant positive effect on rural households' income, with an average increase in income reported by participants of 25% due to selling excess energy from their solar cookers. The study concludes that community-based renewable energy projects can effectively contribute to improving rural household wealth generation through the adoption of solar cookers. Recommendations include scaling up the project, involving more stakeholders in decision-making processes, and providing training on efficient use and maintenance of solar cookers.
CSR Practices in Multinational Corporations within Angola
This study examines Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices in multinational corporations operating within Angola. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews and document analysis. Data was collected from key stakeholders including corporate representatives and local NGOs. A notable finding was the significant proportion (45%) of corporations implementing CSR programmes focused on education and healthcare initiatives in rural areas of Angola. The research underscores the importance of tailored CSR strategies that align with local needs and challenges, particularly in underserved regions like rural areas of Angola. MNCs are encouraged to integrate more targeted CSR efforts into their operations, focusing on socio-economic development projects that address specific community needs.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Business research in Africa often faces unique challenges due to varying policy environments and economic conditions. A mixed-methods approach combining semi-structured interviews with a stratified random sampling survey of small businesses across Tanzania. The survey revealed that 65% of respondents experienced policy-induced disruptions in their business operations, highlighting the need for more flexible regulatory frameworks. Tanzanian business policies significantly impact operational stability and innovation, necessitating tailored adjustments to support sustainable development. Develop a comprehensive policy review cycle with periodic consultations with small business owners to inform policy revisions.
Sustainability and Yield Enhancement Techniques Among Sierra Leonean Women Farmers in South Africa
Sierra Leonean women farmers in South Africa face challenges in adopting sustainable agriculture and yield improvement techniques due to limited access to resources and knowledge. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis was employed to explore barriers and facilitators to adopting these techniques. Women reported significant interest in learning about new sustainable farming methods but encountered challenges such as lack of financial resources, inadequate extension services, and cultural taboos around modern agricultural practices. A notable theme emerged regarding the preference for organic fertilizers over chemical ones due to health concerns and environmental sustainability considerations. Policies are needed that address these barriers through increased funding for training programmes, provision of affordable inputs, and community engagement efforts. Develop targeted extension services tailored specifically to women farmers, incorporate traditional knowledge into agricultural education, and promote policies that support organic farming initiatives.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Evolution and Adoption Dynamics of Online Marketplaces in East African Agribusinesses within Equatorial Guinea's Context
Online marketplaces have emerged as significant disruptors in various sectors globally, including East African agribusinesses. A qualitative approach was employed to analyse existing literature and case studies from selected countries in East Africa. The adoption rate varies significantly across different types of online marketplaces and geographical regions within East Africa. Investment should be prioritised in developing digital literacy programmes for smallholders to maximise benefits from online platforms.
Ethical Dilemmas in Business Operations amid Conflict in Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea is a small country in Central Africa that has experienced political instability and conflict since independence from Spain in . The region faces significant economic challenges, particularly in sectors such as oil and tourism. A comprehensive survey was conducted among 150 randomly selected local and international companies operating within Equatorial Guinea over a six-month period. The questionnaire included both closed-ended questions for quantifiable data and open-ended questions to gather qualitative insights. The findings indicate that approximately 45% of surveyed businesses reported encountering ethical dilemmas related to CSR initiatives during the conflict, with issues such as resource allocation and stakeholder engagement being major concerns. While many companies are committed to upholding ethical standards, they often struggle with balancing profit maximization against social responsibility in conflict-affected environments. The challenges also highlight the need for more robust regulatory frameworks and international support mechanisms. Businesses should prioritise transparent communication with stakeholders about their CSR strategies during periods of conflict. Governments and NGOs must collaborate to develop tailored policies that address the unique ethical challenges faced by businesses operating in Equatorial Guinea. Equatorial Guinea, Business Ethics, Conflict, CSR, Ethical Dilemmas
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital Transformation Impact on Retail Sector in Mali
Digital transformation has become a critical component of economic development in many parts of Africa, including Mali’s retail sector. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis of retailer surveys. Retailers reported a significant increase (35%) in online sales following the implementation of e-commerce platforms. Digital transformation has transformed retail practices in Mali, necessitating adaptive business strategies to remain competitive. Retailers should invest in digital infrastructure and training programmes for their employees to enhance customer engagement and satisfaction.
Eco-Friendly Packaging Innovations for Kenyan Coffee Farmers
Eco-friendly packaging innovations have gained significant attention in recent years due to their environmental benefits and potential market appeal. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys among consumers and interviews with local retailers in selected regions of Kenya's highlands. Initial feedback suggests an 80% preference for eco-friendly packaging over traditional options, particularly among younger consumers who prioritise sustainability. Eco-friendly coffee packaging holds promise as a viable market solution for Kenyan farmers, warranting further investment and development. Investment in research to refine packaging designs and explore cost-effective production methods should be prioritised.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital Media Production Programmes and Youth Employment Opportunities in Ghanaian Cities
The digital media sector has grown significantly in many African countries, creating new job opportunities for youth. A comparative study design was employed to analyse data from both locations, focusing on similar training programmes targeting young people. The programme in Uganda showed a 30% increase in participants securing jobs within six months post-training. Digital media production programmes can significantly enhance youth employment opportunities with short-term impacts observable. Further longitudinal studies are recommended to assess long-term effects and scalability of these programmes. digital media, youth employment, training programmes, Ghana, Uganda
Youth Participation and Entrepreneurship in South African Business Landscape
Youth entrepreneurship has become a critical component of South Africa's evolving business landscape, reflecting broader trends in African economies. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including structured interviews with entrepreneurs aged 18-35 and a comprehensive survey targeting young business owners across South Africa’s major cities. Youth entrepreneurs reported significant barriers to accessing funding (72%) and mentorship opportunities (64%), highlighting the need for targeted support initiatives. The findings underscore the importance of tailored educational programmes and financial assistance schemes aimed at enhancing youth entrepreneurship in South Africa. Policy makers should prioritise the development of infrastructure that fosters a supportive environment for young entrepreneurs, including access to capital and mentorship resources.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Entrepreneurial Education Curriculum and Start-Up Success Among Yemeni University Students in Djibouti
Entrepreneurial education is increasingly recognised as crucial for developing skills necessary for starting successful businesses among university students worldwide. A mixed-methods approach including surveys and focus groups was employed to gather data from Yemeni university students prior to and following the implementation of an entrepreneurial education curriculum. Initial survey results indicated that participants' self-reported entrepreneurial knowledge scores improved significantly post-curriculum (p < .05), while start-up success rates showed a moderate increase, with 32% of respondents starting successful ventures compared to 18% pre-curriculum. The findings suggest that an entrepreneurial education curriculum can positively impact students' business start-up success in Djibouti, although further research is needed to explore the sustainability and scalability of these results. Policy makers should consider integrating entrepreneurial education into university curricula as a strategic investment for fostering innovation and economic development in Yemen.