Introduction - This study aimed to explore the anticipated asymmetric effects of developmental finance institutions (DFIs) funding on investment in Zimbabwe. Given the volatile nature of development finance, Zimbabwe has faced challenges in effectively mobilizing aid, often struggling to persuade donors due to government spending plans and political factors. The research sought to investigate the potential asymmetrical linkages between DFIs funding and investment in Zimbabwe. Methodology: Model and Variables - To examine the futuristic asymmetric relationship between DFIs funding and investment in the Zimbabwean economy, a non-linear NARDL modelling approach will be employed. This methodology will estimate the projected non-linear co-integrating association between positive and negative shocks to DFIs funding and investment. The data set consisted of projected annual macroeconomic variables for Zimbabwe obtained from world bank and IMF. Results - In the short run, it was found that both positive and negative shocks influence future investment, with negative shocks expected to have a larger effect. These negative shocks arise from economic downturns or external shocks, while positive shocks could result from increased funding or favourable policy changes. In the long run, it was found that positive shocks to DFIs funding have a positive impact on investment, leading to increased economic growth and development. Conclusion and Recommendations - Based on the results, DFIs funding should exhibit an asymmetric relationship with investment in Zimbabwe. It is crucial for the government of Zimbabwe to proactively plan for these anticipated asymmetric effects and develop strategies to maximize the benefits of DFIs funding. By implementing the recommendations, Zimbabwe can be able to ensure a more favourable environment for future DFIs funding, fostering sustainable investment and economic growth.
{"title":"Asymmetric Effects of Development Finance Institutions Funding (DFIs) on Investment in Zimbabwe: A Futuristic Perspective","authors":"Ismael Tarirai","doi":"10.59413/ajocs/v5.i1.5","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.59413/ajocs/v5.i1.5","url":null,"abstract":"Introduction - This study aimed to explore the anticipated asymmetric effects of developmental finance institutions (DFIs) funding on investment in Zimbabwe. Given the volatile nature of development finance, Zimbabwe has faced challenges in effectively mobilizing aid, often struggling to persuade donors due to government spending plans and political factors. The research sought to investigate the potential asymmetrical linkages between DFIs funding and investment in Zimbabwe.\u0000Methodology: Model and Variables - To examine the futuristic asymmetric relationship between DFIs funding and investment in the Zimbabwean economy, a non-linear NARDL modelling approach will be employed. This methodology will estimate the projected non-linear co-integrating association between positive and negative shocks to DFIs funding and investment. The data set consisted of projected annual macroeconomic variables for Zimbabwe obtained from world bank and IMF.\u0000Results - In the short run, it was found that both positive and negative shocks influence future investment, with negative shocks expected to have a larger effect. These negative shocks arise from economic downturns or external shocks, while positive shocks could result from increased funding or favourable policy changes. In the long run, it was found that positive shocks to DFIs funding have a positive impact on investment, leading to increased economic growth and development.\u0000Conclusion and Recommendations - Based on the results, DFIs funding should exhibit an asymmetric relationship with investment in Zimbabwe. It is crucial for the government of Zimbabwe to proactively plan for these anticipated asymmetric effects and develop strategies to maximize the benefits of DFIs funding. By implementing the recommendations, Zimbabwe can be able to ensure a more favourable environment for future DFIs funding, fostering sustainable investment and economic growth.","PeriodicalId":396950,"journal":{"name":"African Journal of Commercial Studies","volume":"53 17","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141809857","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The growth of mobile banking services, specifically Mpesa, has transformed financial transactions in Kenya, particularly in marginalized and rural regions. Ever since Safaricom introduced Mpesa in 2007, it has enabled various financial transactions like money transfers, bill payments, savings, and loans, becoming vital to Kenya's financial infrastructure. In rural areas, Mpesa shops are at risk of facing financial challenges which can impact their operations and long-term success. This research investigates how liquidity, credit, and operational risks affect the financial performance of Mpesa outlets in rural Kenya. The mismatch between cash coming in and going out results in liquidity risks, which can cause service interruptions and unhappy customers. Credit risks, resulting from borrowers failing to repay loans on time or defaulting, put pressure on cash flow and the stability of finances. Operational risks like technical failures, fraud, and regulatory non-compliance pose additional threats to the functionality and customer trust of the shops. By thoroughly analyzing pertinent literature and empirical data, this research investigates the way in which these risks interplay and impact the economic sustainability of Mpesa shops. The results are intended to guide improved risk management methods and policy suggestions to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of Mpesa agents, guaranteeing ongoing availability of crucial financial services in rural Kenya.
{"title":"Exploring Financial Risks in Relation to Performance of MPESA Agents in Rural Areas, Kenya","authors":"Shedrine Butali Wamukekhe","doi":"10.59413/ajocs/v5.i1.4","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.59413/ajocs/v5.i1.4","url":null,"abstract":"The growth of mobile banking services, specifically Mpesa, has transformed financial transactions in Kenya, particularly in marginalized and rural regions. Ever since Safaricom introduced Mpesa in 2007, it has enabled various financial transactions like money transfers, bill payments, savings, and loans, becoming vital to Kenya's financial infrastructure. In rural areas, Mpesa shops are at risk of facing financial challenges which can impact their operations and long-term success. This research investigates how liquidity, credit, and operational risks affect the financial performance of Mpesa outlets in rural Kenya. The mismatch between cash coming in and going out results in liquidity risks, which can cause service interruptions and unhappy customers. Credit risks, resulting from borrowers failing to repay loans on time or defaulting, put pressure on cash flow and the stability of finances. Operational risks like technical failures, fraud, and regulatory non-compliance pose additional threats to the functionality and customer trust of the shops. By thoroughly analyzing pertinent literature and empirical data, this research investigates the way in which these risks interplay and impact the economic sustainability of Mpesa shops. The results are intended to guide improved risk management methods and policy suggestions to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of Mpesa agents, guaranteeing ongoing availability of crucial financial services in rural Kenya.","PeriodicalId":396950,"journal":{"name":"African Journal of Commercial Studies","volume":"30 5","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141646330","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
BCs are honest workers working in rural India, elevating the country from the viewpoint of financial services to world-level recognition in terms of financial inclusion by opening bank accounts and collecting deposits, as well as other financial services having networks with commercial banks. As per the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) FY22 annual report, the total number of business correspondents in villages has increased from more than 11.9 lakh in 2020 to 18.44 lakh in 2021, reflecting the penetration and scale that banks generate partnering with BCs. Ultimately, the rural people who opened a bank account under PMJDY got the benefit. With this background, the study has attempted to study the role played by the BCs in rural areas and to find the problems faced by the BCs, especially women, while rendering services. This present research is carried out based on a case study method and is descriptive in nature. The study was undertaken purposefully in two districts of Tamil Nadu, Dharmapuri and Dindigul. In Dharmapuri, the Indian Bank Morappur Branch and in Dindigul District, the Canara Bank Gandhigram Branch have been selected for the study. It was concluded that the average salary for the BCs here ranges between Rs. 3000 and Rs. 6000. It should be increased considerably; otherwise, the BCs will try to charge additional money from the account holder for their doorstep services. Adopting the BC model in the cooperative sector leads to faster financial inclusion.
业务通讯员是在印度农村工作的诚实劳动者，他们通过开设银行账户、收取存款以及与商业银行建立网络的其他金融服务，将印度从金融服务的角度提升到世界级的普惠金融水平。根据印度储备银行（RBI）22 财年的年度报告，乡村商业通讯员的总人数已从 2020 年的 1190 多万人增加到 2021 年的 1844 万人，这反映了银行与 BC 合作产生的渗透力和规模。最终，在 PMJDY 下开立银行账户的农村居民得到了实惠。在此背景下，本研究试图研究农村地区商业银行所发挥的作用，并找出商业银行（尤其是妇女）在提供服务时所面临的问题。本研究以案例研究法为基础，属于描述性研究。研究有目的地在泰米尔纳德邦的两个地区进行，即达尔马普里和丁迪古尔。在达尔马普里，印度银行 Morappur 分行被选作研究对象；在丁迪古尔区，卡纳拉银行 Gandhigram 分行被选作研究对象。研究得出的结论是，这里的 BC 平均工资介于 3000 卢比和 6000 卢比之间。应大幅提高这一工资水平，否则 BC 将试图向账户持有人收取额外的上门服务费用。在合作社部门采用业务主管模式可加快金融包容性。
{"title":"Role of Business Correspondents (BCs) in Financial Services – Reaching in Unreached Rural Areas – A Case Study in Tamil Nadu","authors":"Dhevan Kandasamy","doi":"10.59413/ajocs/v5.i1.3","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.59413/ajocs/v5.i1.3","url":null,"abstract":"BCs are honest workers working in rural India, elevating the country from the viewpoint of financial services to world-level recognition in terms of financial inclusion by opening bank accounts and collecting deposits, as well as other financial services having networks with commercial banks. As per the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) FY22 annual report, the total number of business correspondents in villages has increased from more than 11.9 lakh in 2020 to 18.44 lakh in 2021, reflecting the penetration and scale that banks generate partnering with BCs. Ultimately, the rural people who opened a bank account under PMJDY got the benefit. With this background, the study has attempted to study the role played by the BCs in rural areas and to find the problems faced by the BCs, especially women, while rendering services. This present research is carried out based on a case study method and is descriptive in nature. The study was undertaken purposefully in two districts of Tamil Nadu, Dharmapuri and Dindigul. In Dharmapuri, the Indian Bank Morappur Branch and in Dindigul District, the Canara Bank Gandhigram Branch have been selected for the study. It was concluded that the average salary for the BCs here ranges between Rs. 3000 and Rs. 6000. It should be increased considerably; otherwise, the BCs will try to charge additional money from the account holder for their doorstep services. Adopting the BC model in the cooperative sector leads to faster financial inclusion.","PeriodicalId":396950,"journal":{"name":"African Journal of Commercial Studies","volume":"87 16","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141664716","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
David Mumo Juma, Leonard Ogola, Catherine Elsa Aringo
This scholarly article explores the complex relationship between production theory and the capital structure of a firm. Production theory refers to the methodical approach that businesses use to determine the optimal output quantities based on market demand. The article thoroughly discusses how production theory impacts decision-making processes related to capital structure. It explains that production theory helps enterprises make informed decisions that align with their capital structure, ultimately benefiting the firm as a whole. This is achieved by incorporating production-related factors with expected returns. Additionally, the article critically examines the criticisms and limitations associated with production theory. In summary, the article argues that production theory significantly influences business decision-making, empowering entrepreneurs and investors to make informed choices that maximize the use of capital resources and promote economic growth. The research findings highlight the importance of understanding production theory and its relationship with capital structure in formulating strategic decisions that enhance profitability and ensure long-term operations. The article emphasizes the symbiotic nature of the relationship between production theory and capital structure, underscoring their indispensable roles in shaping economic decision-making and guiding successful business strategies. The study recommends regularly assessing business performance against industry benchmarks to drive continuous improvement and adopting adaptive strategies for sustained growth and competitiveness.
{"title":"An Examination into the Linkage Between Production Theory and Capital Structure of a Firm","authors":"David Mumo Juma, Leonard Ogola, Catherine Elsa Aringo","doi":"10.59413/ajocs/v5.i1.1","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.59413/ajocs/v5.i1.1","url":null,"abstract":"This scholarly article explores the complex relationship between production theory and the capital structure of a firm. Production theory refers to the methodical approach that businesses use to determine the optimal output quantities based on market demand. The article thoroughly discusses how production theory impacts decision-making processes related to capital structure. It explains that production theory helps enterprises make informed decisions that align with their capital structure, ultimately benefiting the firm as a whole. This is achieved by incorporating production-related factors with expected returns. Additionally, the article critically examines the criticisms and limitations associated with production theory. In summary, the article argues that production theory significantly influences business decision-making, empowering entrepreneurs and investors to make informed choices that maximize the use of capital resources and promote economic growth. The research findings highlight the importance of understanding production theory and its relationship with capital structure in formulating strategic decisions that enhance profitability and ensure long-term operations. The article emphasizes the symbiotic nature of the relationship between production theory and capital structure, underscoring their indispensable roles in shaping economic decision-making and guiding successful business strategies. The study recommends regularly assessing business performance against industry benchmarks to drive continuous improvement and adopting adaptive strategies for sustained growth and competitiveness.","PeriodicalId":396950,"journal":{"name":"African Journal of Commercial Studies","volume":" 6","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141678222","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Leo Mataruka, Christopher Zishiri, J. Muzurura, W. Mkumbuzi, Cletos Garatsa
This research has examined the impact of digital transformation (DT) on the sustainable competitive advantage and performance of service-based firms in Harare, Zimbabwe’s central commercial hub. Grounded in the resource-based view (RBV) and dynamic capabilities (DCT) theoretical bases, the study used structural equation modeling (SEM-AMOS) and a cross-sectional design to assess the relationship between information and communication technologies (ICT) digital resources and capabilities and sustainable competitive advantage in the established service sector. Survey instruments were distributed to 800 service-based managers, with 782 responses received. The findings underscore the critical role of financial, operational, and digital resources in supporting core business capabilities and driving company success. The research demonstrates how digital transformation support for vital organizational competencies can enhance value creation and firm performance. An essential contribution is that sustainable competitive advantage agility mediates the link between digital transformation and firm performance. This highlights the pivotal influence of 'dynamic managerial capabilities ', a term we define as the ability of managers to adapt and innovate in response to changing market conditions and technological advancements, as managers must strategically implement digital initiatives to gain a long-term competitive edge. Overall, the study provides valuable practical insights into the significance of digital transformation for achieving sustainable competitive advantage in service-based firms. The results emphasize the need for managers to thoughtfully adopt intelligent digital tools and make decisions that leverage the firm's digital resources and capabilities. This research significantly advances academic understanding of the digital transformation-competitive advantage-performance relationship in the context of Zimbabwe, with important implications for theory and practice.
{"title":"Enhancing Performance of Zimbabwean Service-based Firms through Digital Transformation and Sustainable Competitive Advantage: A Structural Equation Analysis","authors":"Leo Mataruka, Christopher Zishiri, J. Muzurura, W. Mkumbuzi, Cletos Garatsa","doi":"10.59413/ajocs/v5.i1.2","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.59413/ajocs/v5.i1.2","url":null,"abstract":"This research has examined the impact of digital transformation (DT) on the sustainable competitive advantage and performance of service-based firms in Harare, Zimbabwe’s central commercial hub. Grounded in the resource-based view (RBV) and dynamic capabilities (DCT) theoretical bases, the study used structural equation modeling (SEM-AMOS) and a cross-sectional design to assess the relationship between information and communication technologies (ICT) digital resources and capabilities and sustainable competitive advantage in the established service sector. Survey instruments were distributed to 800 service-based managers, with 782 responses received. The findings underscore the critical role of financial, operational, and digital resources in supporting core business capabilities and driving company success. The research demonstrates how digital transformation support for vital organizational competencies can enhance value creation and firm performance. An essential contribution is that sustainable competitive advantage agility mediates the link between digital transformation and firm performance. This highlights the pivotal influence of 'dynamic managerial capabilities ', a term we define as the ability of managers to adapt and innovate in response to changing market conditions and technological advancements, as managers must strategically implement digital initiatives to gain a long-term competitive edge. Overall, the study provides valuable practical insights into the significance of digital transformation for achieving sustainable competitive advantage in service-based firms. The results emphasize the need for managers to thoughtfully adopt intelligent digital tools and make decisions that leverage the firm's digital resources and capabilities. This research significantly advances academic understanding of the digital transformation-competitive advantage-performance relationship in the context of Zimbabwe, with important implications for theory and practice.\u0000 ","PeriodicalId":396950,"journal":{"name":"African Journal of Commercial Studies","volume":" 15","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141679538","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This article critically examines the impact of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) on the financial health of banks in Zambia, focusing on Atlas Mara Bank as a case study post-merger with BancABC and Finance Bank Zambia. In an era of rapid globalization and intense sectoral competition, this research explores strategic financial responses through M&As. Employing a mixed-method approach, data was collected through structured questionnaires and interviews from a targeted sample of 30 bank employees and analyzed using SPSS and Excel. Findings indicate significant improvements in profitability and operational efficiency post-merger, with Atlas Mara Bank expanding its network and enhancing revenue streams. These outcomes suggest that strategic mergers can lead to robust financial health in the banking sector, urging policymakers and bank executives to consider mergers as a viable strategy for growth and stability. The study concludes with recommendations for ongoing analysis into the broader socio-economic impacts of bank mergers and acquisitions, suggesting areas for future research including longitudinal studies on customer and employee satisfaction post-merger. This study contributes to the literature on financial strategies under competitive pressures in emerging markets, emphasizing the importance of understanding both exogenous and endogenous risks.
本文以阿特拉斯马拉银行（Atlas Mara Bank）与 BancABC 和赞比亚金融银行（Finance Bank Zambia）合并后为案例，批判性地研究了并购（M&A）对赞比亚银行财务健康的影响。在快速全球化和行业竞争激烈的时代，本研究探讨了通过并购做出的战略性财务回应。研究采用混合方法，通过结构化问卷调查和对 30 名银行员工的访谈收集数据，并使用 SPSS 和 Excel 进行分析。研究结果表明，合并后银行的盈利能力和运营效率有了明显提高，阿特拉斯马拉银行扩大了网络，增加了收入来源。这些结果表明，战略兼并可以使银行业的财务状况更加稳健，从而敦促政策制定者和银行高管将兼并作为实现增长和稳定的可行战略。研究最后建议继续分析银行并购对社会经济的广泛影响，并提出了未来的研究领域，包括对并购后客户和员工满意度的纵向研究。本研究为有关新兴市场竞争压力下的金融战略的文献做出了贡献，强调了了解外生和内生风险的重要性。
{"title":"An Evaluation of the Impact of Merger and Acquisition on the Financial Health of Banks: A Case Study of Atlas Mara Bank – Zambia","authors":"Bettie Mpundu, Norman Kachamba","doi":"10.59413/ajocs/v4.i4.6","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.59413/ajocs/v4.i4.6","url":null,"abstract":"This article critically examines the impact of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) on the financial health of banks in Zambia, focusing on Atlas Mara Bank as a case study post-merger with BancABC and Finance Bank Zambia. In an era of rapid globalization and intense sectoral competition, this research explores strategic financial responses through M&As. Employing a mixed-method approach, data was collected through structured questionnaires and interviews from a targeted sample of 30 bank employees and analyzed using SPSS and Excel. Findings indicate significant improvements in profitability and operational efficiency post-merger, with Atlas Mara Bank expanding its network and enhancing revenue streams. These outcomes suggest that strategic mergers can lead to robust financial health in the banking sector, urging policymakers and bank executives to consider mergers as a viable strategy for growth and stability. The study concludes with recommendations for ongoing analysis into the broader socio-economic impacts of bank mergers and acquisitions, suggesting areas for future research including longitudinal studies on customer and employee satisfaction post-merger. This study contributes to the literature on financial strategies under competitive pressures in emerging markets, emphasizing the importance of understanding both exogenous and endogenous risks.","PeriodicalId":396950,"journal":{"name":"African Journal of Commercial Studies","volume":"5 11","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-06-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141335766","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are programs implemented in the workplace to support individual employees in dealing with personal and work-related problems, with the goal of improving their well-being and contributing to organizational performance (Masi, 2010). An EAP is a program sponsored by an employer, a collective bargaining group, or an association of professionals, and is designed to help identify and resolve productivity issues that may arise from employees experiencing personal problems (EACC, 1991). ABSA bank implemented an EAP as a staff wellness initiative to assist employees. However, according to management reports, less than 5% of employees are utilizing the wellness program, which falls short of management's expectation of more than 50% participation. Therefore, this study aims to determine the reasons for the underutilization of EAPs. To achieve the research objectives, the study employed both descriptive and causal research designs, and logistic regression analysis was used to statistically identify the factors that influence the use of EAPs. A survey was conducted with employees at ABSA bank, with 100 employees selected as respondents through simple random sampling. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire. The study revealed that employees still value EAPs and consider them important. Through logistic regression analysis, the study identified lack of information, stigma, confidentiality, trust, and peer influence as factors that affect the utilization of EAPs, as reported by the respondents. All the results were statistically significant at p < 0.05. Therefore, the study recommends that ABSA management should implement measures to ensure the confidentiality of information shared during EAPs, provide more information to employees about the content and benefits of EAPs to encourage greater participation, clearly communicate the purpose of EAPs to employees, and select a dedicated team for EAPs who understand and uphold ethical standards.
{"title":"Factors Affecting Utilization of Employee Assistance Program: A Case Study of ABSA Bank Zambia","authors":"Rosemary Katema, G. Hapunda","doi":"10.59413/ajocs/v4.i4.3","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.59413/ajocs/v4.i4.3","url":null,"abstract":"Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are programs implemented in the workplace to support individual employees in dealing with personal and work-related problems, with the goal of improving their well-being and contributing to organizational performance (Masi, 2010). An EAP is a program sponsored by an employer, a collective bargaining group, or an association of professionals, and is designed to help identify and resolve productivity issues that may arise from employees experiencing personal problems (EACC, 1991). ABSA bank implemented an EAP as a staff wellness initiative to assist employees. However, according to management reports, less than 5% of employees are utilizing the wellness program, which falls short of management's expectation of more than 50% participation. Therefore, this study aims to determine the reasons for the underutilization of EAPs. To achieve the research objectives, the study employed both descriptive and causal research designs, and logistic regression analysis was used to statistically identify the factors that influence the use of EAPs. A survey was conducted with employees at ABSA bank, with 100 employees selected as respondents through simple random sampling. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire. The study revealed that employees still value EAPs and consider them important. Through logistic regression analysis, the study identified lack of information, stigma, confidentiality, trust, and peer influence as factors that affect the utilization of EAPs, as reported by the respondents. All the results were statistically significant at p < 0.05. Therefore, the study recommends that ABSA management should implement measures to ensure the confidentiality of information shared during EAPs, provide more information to employees about the content and benefits of EAPs to encourage greater participation, clearly communicate the purpose of EAPs to employees, and select a dedicated team for EAPs who understand and uphold ethical standards.","PeriodicalId":396950,"journal":{"name":"African Journal of Commercial Studies","volume":"105 35","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141124843","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study explores the impact of tax administration practices on the financial performance of manufacturing firms in Kenya. The manufacturing sector is crucial for economic growth and job creation, making it essential to understand how tax policies affect its performance. Tax administration encompasses procedures and policies governing tax compliance, which have evolved over time. Effective tax administration is vital for economic stability and funding public services. However, inefficient practices can hinder firm productivity and growth. Drawing on tax planning theory and agency theory, this study examines how firms strategically manage tax liabilities and navigate principal-agent relationships to optimize financial performance. The empirical review highlights findings from previous studies on the relationship between tax administration practices and firm performance in Kenya. These studies underscore the importance of tax incentives, compliance costs, and governance mechanisms in shaping firm behavior and economic outcomes. By understanding the nuances of tax administration practices, policymakers and firms can implement strategies to enhance economic stability and growth in the manufacturing sector.
{"title":"Tax Administration and Financial Performance of Manufacturing Firms in Kenya: A literature Review","authors":"Dickson Njoroge Wangare","doi":"10.59413/ajocs/v4.i4.2","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.59413/ajocs/v4.i4.2","url":null,"abstract":"This study explores the impact of tax administration practices on the financial performance of manufacturing firms in Kenya. The manufacturing sector is crucial for economic growth and job creation, making it essential to understand how tax policies affect its performance. Tax administration encompasses procedures and policies governing tax compliance, which have evolved over time. Effective tax administration is vital for economic stability and funding public services. However, inefficient practices can hinder firm productivity and growth. Drawing on tax planning theory and agency theory, this study examines how firms strategically manage tax liabilities and navigate principal-agent relationships to optimize financial performance. The empirical review highlights findings from previous studies on the relationship between tax administration practices and firm performance in Kenya. These studies underscore the importance of tax incentives, compliance costs, and governance mechanisms in shaping firm behavior and economic outcomes. By understanding the nuances of tax administration practices, policymakers and firms can implement strategies to enhance economic stability and growth in the manufacturing sector. \u0000 ","PeriodicalId":396950,"journal":{"name":"African Journal of Commercial Studies","volume":"187 1‐2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141001859","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study explores the profound impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the skills matrix within the hospitality industry in Lusaka, Zambia. Through a mixed-methods approach involving 49 establishments, the research highlights significant job losses and skills mismatches resulting from the pandemic. It also examines the adaptive strategies employed by the industry to mitigate these effects. The findings advocate for the implementation of continuous skills development programs and strategic workforce planning to enhance industry resilience and sustainability. Recommendations are made for the development of crisis management plans that incorporate skills development, aimed at better preparing the industry for future global crises.
{"title":"The Impact of Covid-19 on The Skills Matrix in the Hospitality Industry: A Study of Selected Lodges and Hotels in Lusaka District","authors":"Nalukui Daka, Norman Kachamba","doi":"10.59413/ajocs/v4.i4.1","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.59413/ajocs/v4.i4.1","url":null,"abstract":"This study explores the profound impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the skills matrix within the hospitality industry in Lusaka, Zambia. Through a mixed-methods approach involving 49 establishments, the research highlights significant job losses and skills mismatches resulting from the pandemic. It also examines the adaptive strategies employed by the industry to mitigate these effects. The findings advocate for the implementation of continuous skills development programs and strategic workforce planning to enhance industry resilience and sustainability. Recommendations are made for the development of crisis management plans that incorporate skills development, aimed at better preparing the industry for future global crises.","PeriodicalId":396950,"journal":{"name":"African Journal of Commercial Studies","volume":" 12","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140999529","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
A state-owned enterprise (SOE) is a legal entity created by a government to engage in commercial activities on behalf of the government. State-owned enterprises are an important part of most economies and make an important contribution to national development processes. In Zambia, state-owned enterprises operate in key sectors of the economy, including agriculture, forestry, energy, financial services, manufacturing, mining, real estate, tourism and ICT. The Auditor General's latest report named 13 state-owned companies as having suffered losses of K1,854,902,817 during the reporting period. The 2022 Auditor General's report also highlighted a number of financial and operational challenges, showing that the performance of state-owned enterprises in Zambia remains unsatisfactory. Therefore, this study was formulated to examine the impact of corporate governance on the performance of SOEs. A sample of 147 respondents was selected from 33 state-owned enterprises using the Taro Yamane formula, resulting in a 100% response rate. A mixed methods approach was used and the data was analyzed using SPSS from which correlation and summary coefficients were used to measure the relationship between the variables. The correlation coefficient of 0.612 from the SPSS results indicated that there is a strong positive relationship between the structure and appointment of the board, internal controls and the performance of SOEs. Furthermore, the R-squared (determination coefficient) of 0.375 from the SPSS results suggests that the performance of SOEs is improved by good corporate governance, which is 37.5% influenced by the structure and appointment of the board and internal controls becomes. and 62.5% can be linked to other factors that were not taken into account, such as micro and macroeconomic factors, lack of employee motivation and poor work culture in state-owned enterprises, among others. Therefore, the board should consist of members who have knowledge of the industry in which the SOE operates, and they should be appointed according to the policies of the respective SOE so that they can provide strict internal control systems that can benefit the better performance of state-owned companies.
{"title":"Effect Of Corporate Governance on the Performance of State-Owned Enterprises in Zambia","authors":"Chisha Mulenga","doi":"10.59413/ajocs/v4.i2.7","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.59413/ajocs/v4.i2.7","url":null,"abstract":"A state-owned enterprise (SOE) is a legal entity created by a government to engage in commercial activities on behalf of the government. State-owned enterprises are an important part of most economies and make an important contribution to national development processes. In Zambia, state-owned enterprises operate in key sectors of the economy, including agriculture, forestry, energy, financial services, manufacturing, mining, real estate, tourism and ICT. The Auditor General's latest report named 13 state-owned companies as having suffered losses of K1,854,902,817 during the reporting period. The 2022 Auditor General's report also highlighted a number of financial and operational challenges, showing that the performance of state-owned enterprises in Zambia remains unsatisfactory. Therefore, this study was formulated to examine the impact of corporate governance on the performance of SOEs. A sample of 147 respondents was selected from 33 state-owned enterprises using the Taro Yamane formula, resulting in a 100% response rate. A mixed methods approach was used and the data was analyzed using SPSS from which correlation and summary coefficients were used to measure the relationship between the variables. The correlation coefficient of 0.612 from the SPSS results indicated that there is a strong positive relationship between the structure and appointment of the board, internal controls and the performance of SOEs. Furthermore, the R-squared (determination coefficient) of 0.375 from the SPSS results suggests that the performance of SOEs is improved by good corporate governance, which is 37.5% influenced by the structure and appointment of the board and internal controls becomes. and 62.5% can be linked to other factors that were not taken into account, such as micro and macroeconomic factors, lack of employee motivation and poor work culture in state-owned enterprises, among others. Therefore, the board should consist of members who have knowledge of the industry in which the SOE operates, and they should be appointed according to the policies of the respective SOE so that they can provide strict internal control systems that can benefit the better performance of state-owned companies.","PeriodicalId":396950,"journal":{"name":"African Journal of Commercial Studies","volume":" 13","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-03-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140210385","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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