The African Journal of Empirical Research (AJERNET), hosted by AJER Publishing in Nairobi, Kenya. The journal has academic and research collaborations with Interfaith Global University, ARTIFEX University of Romania, Fotabe University of Cameroon, National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Don State Technical University and Rostov State Transport University, among other institutions and universities worldwide. This creates a prestigious academic platform with a strong global network of reviewers, editors, and contributors from leading universities and research institutions.. AJERNET's mission is to facilitate access to the latest multidisciplinary literature, encourage research reviews, and promote expertise sharing among academics. The journal focuses on empirical research, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews across social, pure, and applied sciences, maintaining high standards through a rigorous peer-review process. AJERNET is committed to open access, ensuring that all published content is freely accessible and distributable with proper citation. The journal's global reach extends to thousands of libraries, providing international exposure for published research. Authors receive comprehensive support throughout the publishing process, including guidance with revisions if needed. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis, inviting researchers to contribute to advancing empirical research and multidisciplinary knowledge. AJERNET offers a valuable opportunity for authors to share their findings and enhance the global body of knowledge, supporting their academic journey with a robust and dynamic platform.
Structural failures in preventive discipline: Evidence from a mixed-methods study of Malawian schools
Preventive discipline approaches are increasingly promoted as alternatives to punitive responses to learner misconduct, however, their practical application in Malawian secondary schools remains constrained by systematic and structural limitations. Guided by transformational leadership theory and choice theory, this study examined the structural conditions shaping the effectiveness of preventive discipline management strategies. An embedded mixed‑methods design was employed, and the target population comprised school management team members, student council leaders, education managers, and learners who had experienced suspension or dismissal. Quantitatively, a sample of 380 participants was drawn from twenty secondary schools using stratified random sampling, with sample size determined by the Yamane formula. Qualitatively, purposive sampling was employed to conduct in-depth interviews to capture lived experiences of disciplinary strategies. Binary logistic regression was applied to survey data, while thematic analysis guided interpretation of interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and binary logistic regression, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. Findings reveal that the limited effectiveness of preventive discipline is strongly linked to systemic constraints rather than a lack of conceptual grounding. Although trauma-informed management received near-universal support (93.7%), it demonstrated no statistically significant influence on behavioural improvement. Equally, study circles were negatively associated with behavioral outcomes, reflecting weak institutional oversight and inadequate structuring. Qualitative evidence further highlights persistent challenges, including limited resource allocation, insufficient professional training, and the absence of coherent supervision frameworks, which collectively undermine the institutionalisation of preventive practices. The study concludes that the limited success of preventive discipline in Malawi stems primarily from structural challenges requiring systemic reform rather than inherent conceptual weaknesses. The study recommends institutionalising preventive discipline through dedicated counseling services, resource allocation, and mandatory teacher training; and strengthening practice by restructuring peer-based initiatives with clear objectives and teacher oversight. Addressing these foundations would enable schools to transition sustainably from punitive responses towards effective preventive discipline management.
Copyright (c) 2026 Wezzie Memory Mtika, Gift Masaiti, Kapambwe Mwelwa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Bibliometric insights into performance management systems in human resource management research
The present bibliometric research paper is devoted to the dynamic nature of the performance management systems (PMS) in terms of the human resource management (HRM) field in the context of disruptions in technology, sustainability requirements, and post-pandemic changes. The aim is to trace the trend of publications, intellectual frameworks, influential factors, new themes, and gaps in research in the period between 1986 and 2026 to give information to scholars and practitioners in various settings, including emerging economies. The study is guided by goal-setting theory, expectancy theory, resource-based view, and social exchange theory. By using the PRISMA protocol, 550 documents were found in the Scopus database and examined through the VOSviewer software to establish the networks of key-word co-occurrence, citation, and thematic clustering. The results indicate a steep rise in publication rates in recent years since 2015; nine thematic areas (e.g., core HRM practices, AI integration, and green HRM); Western dominance of influential authors and publications (e.g., International Journal of Human Resource Management); and an overwhelming number of publications with high citation rates (e.g., focusing on virtual teams and sustainable performance). New trends are AI-based assessments and greener measurements and time-related changes toward sustainability and morality. In theory, the paper contributes to the goal-setting and resource-based view theories; in practice, it informs adaptive PMS applications to improve productivity and retention, and, in a methodological way, it justifies the hybrid bibliometric strategies. To ensure inclusive and resilient HRM practices, it has been recommended to focus on interdisciplinary work on AI-green synergies, empirical studies in the global south, and ethical AI investigations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mashala L. Yusuph, Lazaro A. Kisumbe, John W. Kasubi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Relationship between succession planning and performance of star-rated hotels in Kenya
The hospitality industry in Kenya is highly sophisticated, with new entrants and daily losses experienced due to the kind of services offered, particularly in the hotel industry. In this case, hotel leadership and work, by extension, face a myriad of challenges that call for effective talent management. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between succession planning and the performance of star-rated hotels in Kenya. The study was anchored on human capital theory, pioneered by Becker and Schultz in the early 1960s, which emphasizes the importance of employees in realizing optimum organizational performance. The research design adopted for this study was based on positivist philosophy, whereby explanatory and descriptive research designs were used. The study used a purposive sampling technique to select 305 respondents. Data was collected using questionnaires. The study's findings, based on the correlation and linear regression coefficients, indicated that succession planning had a positive and significant influence on organizational performance. This implies that an increase in succession planning programs would cause a corresponding increase in the performance of star-rated hotels in Kenya. Therefore, the corresponding null hypothesis was also rejected. The study, therefore, concluded that the hotel industry should consider enhancing succession planning to enhance performance amidst increased competition. The study thus recommended that star-rated hotels should establish succession planning programmes and put in place development plans for their potential successors. These programmes will enhance the retention of potential successors who have high potential talent.
Copyright (c) 2026 Eunice Ayuma Yeswa, Thomas Anyanje Senaji, Clive Mukanzi, Mbithi Mutua https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Mathematical analysis of injectable PrEP and vaginal rings HIV prevention strategies among female sex workers in Kenya
This paper formulated a deterministic mathematical model to study the use of injectable PrEP and vaginal rings HIV prevention strategies among the Female Sex Workers in Kenya. The reproduction number, the disease-free equilibrium and endemic equilibrium points determined. The Next Generation Matrix (NGM) method was used to determine the Reproduction number. The Jacobian matrix method was used to analyze the local stability of the Disease Free Equilibrium which was locally stable and globally asymptotically stable when R0 < 1. The analysis of the model found that low use of Vaginal rings and Injectable PrEP while engaging in sex resulted in contacting the HIV virus and consistent use of injectable PrEP and the vaginal rings reduced the risk of contacting of HIV virus and consequently reduced the AIDS population. This work recommends use of both vaginal rings and Injectable PrEP as HIV/AIDS prevention strategies among the high risk populations and female sex workers. Therefore, the Ministry of Health in Kenya should make both Vaginal rings and Injectable PrEP available and affordable since it ranges from 1 to 8 US Dollars which is relatively expensive to the Female sex workers who rely on sex work as a source of livelihood. They should also educate these FSWs on the importance and proper use of using these preventive measures as a way of protecting themselves from HIV/AIDS.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ancent Kimulu, Charles Wachira, Mlyashimbi Helikumi, Charles Muli, Winifred Mutuku https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Availability of security equipment and their effectiveness in enhancing security in higher learning institutions in Nairobi City County, Kenya
Security is a prerequisite for the development of societies. Several security measures have been proposed for execution in higher institutions of learning to mitigate heightened insecurity incidents. Despite these measures, higher institutions of learning continue to report insecurity incidents. This paper presents an analysis of the available security equipment and their efficacy in enhancing security in higher learning institutions. The study was anchored in both securitization and competence theories. A mixed-method approach, which incorporates both qualitative and quantitative approaches, was utilized. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population was the student leaders from both the Kenya College of Accountancy University and the Multimedia University of Kenya and the staff in the security departments of both universities' registrars. The study targeted a total of 120 respondents, including 32 security managers, 81 security officers, 2 registrars, and 5 student leaders from both institutions. Simple and purposive sampling techniques were used to generate the sample size of 120 respondents. The study examined primary data, which was collected using questionnaires and key informant guides. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 26 to give frequency distribution, means, and percentages, and findings were presented using tables, graphs, and charts. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic narrations, with findings presented using narrations and descriptions. The study findings reveal that incidents of insecurities have increased across institutions of higher learning in Kenya. In response, these institutions have beefed up security, although challenges persist, hindering the effective implementation of the needed security measures. The study established that both MKU and KCA Universities had implemented security equipment to some degree, although most of them are outdated or not properly maintained. The study recommends that universities should increase their investment in physical security, in buying and maintaining security equipment, and should adopt more visibility security measures as a way of improving the security situation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Joseph Ndiege https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The aesthetic nature of language in southern African drama with reference to plays of Smith Likongwe and others
This paper seeks to explore the extent to which language and other stylistic devices, through the multi-dimensional Neorealist style, address multiple contemporary trends in five selected Southern African plays. This realism refers us to a cultural situation or reality (meaning) whose complexity and variety can no longer be represented by any single text or mode of writing but only by a set of relations within a growing plurality of cultural styles and modes of writing. This approach embraces varying styles of writing to communicate varying and wider perspectives regarding the current human experience without falling into the parochial trap of objective reality which is typical of 19th-century realism and post-structural realism. Most of the studies on Southern African drama are focused on Athol Fugard covering the apartheid era (the past) and some on Mda Zakes covering post-apartheid events or post-colonial literature about South Africa. In view of this gap, the study focuses on the 21st-century Southern African drama and demonstrates that truth (reality) or meaning is not absolute or fixed but is constructed within the social context through the text and context relationship, as meaning is context-dependent. This is because the material flow or the floating signifier leads to the unstable signified. Since language is an important tool that captures reality, the study, thus, puts its focus on investigating the aesthetic nature of language in Southern African plays to explore the floating nature of diction, neologism, intertextuality, dialogic self, the significance of ordinary language and translanguaging, and identify rhetorical devices and their respective dramatic effects. In a multicultural society, writers have the right to choose any language they are competent in to write, and we do not expect the African aesthetics to remain the same throughout history. The findings indicate that the language employed in the plays is largely everyday register coupled with scanty figures of speech resulting in rhetorical devices, though not all rhetorical devices are expressed in literary language. Intertextuality presented itself through parody, allusion and representation. The assertion that meaning or reality (truth and representations) are mere constructions has demonstrated the postmodernist and modernist pessimistic attitude towards reality or meaning. Furthermore, translanguaging is evident only in Cards, Mzansi Hopes and Burn Mukwerekwere, Burn, but Burn Mukwerekwere, Burn, is bereft of neologism. Finally, the selected plays revealed varying fractions of realities within the Southern African milieu in the 21st century. In terms of implications, policy developers should endeavour to develop policies that promote inclusive communication in public institutions and in the society at large. In the case of researchers, there is a need to conduct further studies on the impact of language on social attitudes towards marginalised groups in the multicultural society of Africa. Finally, there is a need for educators to incorporate critical language awareness into language teaching curriculum to improve students’ effective communication skills and comprehension of language’s role in shaping reality.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ian Mbewe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Moderating influence of stakeholder participation on the relationship between risk management strategies and implementation of KeRRA road construction projects in Migori County, Kenya
The purpose of this study was to determine the moderating influence of stakeholder participation on the relationship between risk management strategies and implementation of KeRRA road construction projects in Migori County. Guided by stakeholder theory, the study adopted a pragmatic research philosophy, which integrates analytic frameworks of descriptive and inferential statistics. The target population was 419, with a sample of 234, which included 39 contractors, 193 Sub County Roads Committee (SCRC) members, and 2 Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) engineers, selected by random and purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected with the help of a questionnaire for contractors and SCRC members and a research schedule for key informant interviews with engineers. Data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics with the help of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, SPSS. The study utilized the t-statistic to test the null hypotheses. Validity and reliability of research instruments were ensured through a pilot survey and expert evaluation. The results showed that stakeholder participation has a significant influence on the relationship between risk management strategies and implementation of road construction projects. It has a positive and significant direct impact on road construction projects, with an estimated t-statistic value of |t| = 10.321, against the theoretical t-statistic value of |t05| = 1.943. In general, it is concluded that stakeholder participation significantly moderates the relationship between risk management strategies and implementation of KeRRA road construction projects in Migori County (|t| = 10.321). The study recommends that all categories of stakeholders need to be consulted and considered during the risk management process and implementation of road construction projects. In summary, KeRRA should institutionalize structured stakeholder engagement throughout the project lifecycle. Project managers should therefore integrate stakeholder participation into formal risk management plans rather than treating it as a peripheral activity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lennard William Bundeh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Evaluating the effects of sustainable intensification practices in smallholder farming systems: A case study of the Nabdam district, Ghana
The impact of sustainable intensification (SI) on food security in the developing world is substantial and cannot be overstated. The study was anchored on the theory of planned behaviour and the diffusion of innovation. This study contributes to the field by examining the effects of SI practices in smallholder farming systems in the Nabdam District of the Upper East Region of Ghana. A concurrent mixed-methods approach was employed, with primary data collected through self-administered questionnaires, face-to-face interviews, and direct on-farm observations. A total of 384 respondents were selected from 2,535 households for the survey using a simple random sampling technique. Two focus group discussions were held in each selected community alongside nine key informants. The quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS VERSION 27). The qualitative data were gathered via tape recordings and coded into themes and content for analysis. The findings indicate that awareness of SI alone is insufficient to generate meaningful outcomes. Effective and sustained intensification requires adequate technical knowledge, practical skills, and institutional support. Gendered differences in SI adoption were observed, with men primarily engaging in land-intensive practices (61%). At the same time, women relied on labour- and knowledge-intensive approaches (62%), often supported by credit and extension services. Moreover, educated smallholder farmers were more likely to adopt SI practices than their uneducated counterparts. The study further demonstrates that adopters of sustainable intensification experience higher yields and increased income (β = 0.365, t = 9.184, p < .001) compared to non-adopters. Based on these results, the study concludes that, with sufficient institutional support, technical capabilities, and knowledge, sustainable intensification can substantially enhance smallholder farmers' livelihoods and food security. Enhancing adoption requires bolstering extension services, expanding credit availability, and encouraging gender-responsive interventions to maximise productivity and income gains.
Copyright (c) 2026 Samuel Akonga, Daniel Oppong-Sekyere, Mary-Sussan Mbota https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Revenue diversification as a driver of financial sustainability in private schools in Lusaka Province, Zambia
Private schools in Zambia supplement the capacity of the public education system and contribute substantially to educational access at the primary and secondary levels. However, a significant proportion of these institutions face severe financial fragility driven by overdependence on tuition fees as a single and precarious revenue stream. This study examines the effect of revenue diversification on the financial sustainability of private schools in Lusaka Province, Zambia. Grounded in the Tuckman and Chang financial vulnerability model and Bowman's financial capacity framework, the study employed an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design (QUAN→qual). The target population comprised school owners, principals, bursars, and accountants employed at 594 registered private primary and secondary schools across the six districts of Lusaka Province. Using two-stage stratified random sampling guided by Yamane's formula at a 5% margin of error and 95% confidence level, 300 questionnaires were distributed, yielding 272 valid responses representing a response rate of 90.7%. Qualitative data were gathered through 15 purposively sampled semi-structured telephone interviews conducted until theoretical saturation was achieved. A Financial Sustainability Index (FSI) was computed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), with the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin statistic of 0.922 and Bartlett's Test of Sphericity confirming data suitability for factor analysis. The mean FSI of 0.53 (SD = 0.202) indicated moderate but fragile financial sustainability. Classification of sampled schools by FSI level revealed that 39% experienced normal financial sustainability, 39% unstable, 15.4% absolute, and 6.6% critical financial sustainability. Pearson correlation analysis, supported by bootstrap estimation with 5,000 resamples, revealed a strong, statistically significant positive relationship between revenue diversification and financial sustainability (r = 0.799, p < .001; BCa 95% CI: 0.753–0.850). Multiple regression analysis confirmed revenue diversification as the dominant predictor of financial sustainability (R² = 0.67; F(7,264) = 75.15; p < .001), with market competition significantly moderating the relationship between revenue diversification and financial sustainability. Qualitative findings strongly triangulated these results, with all participants consistently reporting that schools with diversified income streams beyond tuition fees achieved significantly greater financial stability. The study concludes that revenue diversification is not a peripheral financial strategy but a structural imperative for private schools in Zambia's volatile educational and economic environment. Immediate policy and institutional interventions are required to support its systematic development across the sector. This study recommends that private school administrators should develop and implement formal, resourced revenue diversification strategies that identify multiple income streams appropriate to their institutional context, resource base, and community environment.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lusungu Anne Kumwenda, Lubinda Haabazoka, Harrison Daka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Governance and financial management capability as determinants of financial sustainability in private schools in Lusaka Province, Zambia
Governance and financial management capability are widely recognised as foundational organisational prerequisites for financial sustainability, yet their specific effects on private schools in sub-Saharan African developing country contexts remain empirically underexplored. This study examines the influence of governance and financial management capability on the financial sustainability of private schools in Lusaka Province, Zambia. The Tuckman–Chang Financial Vulnerability Model and Governance as well as Bowman's Financial Capacity Framework and governance guided this research. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design (QUAN→qual), quantitative data were collected from 272 valid survey questionnaire responses drawn from school owners, principals, bursars, and accountants at private primary and secondary schools across the six districts of Lusaka Province. The study employed two-stage stratified random sampling guided by Yamane's formula at a 5% margin of error and 95% confidence level. Qualitative data were gathered through 15 purposively selected semi-structured telephone interviews. A Financial Sustainability Index (FSI) was computed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), yielding a mean FSI of 0.53 (SD = 0.202), indicating moderate but fragile financial sustainability across the sector. Strikingly, the governance and financial management capability construct recorded very low mean scores across all seven items, ranging from 1.76 to 1.86 on the five-point Likert scale, reflecting substantial and pervasive governance deficits in the private school sector. Exploratory factor analysis confirmed a strong single-factor structure for the governance construct (KMO = 0.928; chi-square = 1,482.52; p < .001; eigenvalue = 5.11; variance explained = 72.94%). Pearson correlation analysis, supported by bias-corrected bootstrap estimation, revealed a moderate, positive, and statistically significant relationship between governance and financial management capability and the FSI (r = 0.449; p < .001; BCa 95% CI: 0.22–0.68). Multiple regression analysis confirmed governance and financial management capability as a significant and independent predictor of financial sustainability in the full model (R² = 0.37; F(7,264) = 21.96; p < .001). Critically, moderation analysis demonstrated that both regulatory intensity and market competition significantly moderated the governance–financial sustainability relationship, with regulatory intensity positively moderating and market competition negatively moderating the effect. Qualitative findings strongly corroborated these results, with participants consistently identifying structured governance arrangements, transparent financial reporting, regular budget monitoring, and accountability mechanisms as practices most closely associated with better financial sustainability outcomes. The study concludes that strengthening governance and financial management capability in private schools is both an urgent necessity and a high-return institutional investment for improving financial sustainability in Zambia's private education sector. This study recommends that private school proprietors and administrators should prioritise the development of formal financial governance structures, even in small and resource-constrained institutions.
Enhancing human resources governance for risk mitigation: Pathways to resilience in Zambian quasi-governmental organisations
"Human resources governance enhancement" refers to strengthening the structures, capabilities, and practices through which organisations oversee people-related decisions and risks. This paper examines how such enhancement can improve risk mitigation and organisational resilience in Zambian quasi-governmental organisations. Guided by resource dependency theory, organisational learning theory, and technology acceptance theory, the study adopted an interpretivist multiple-case study design. The target population comprised the most senior HR practitioners in quasi-governmental organisations in Zambia, and purposive sampling yielded eleven participants drawn from eleven organisations across diverse sectors. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke's six-phase framework. The findings identify three interdependent pathways to stronger HR governance: strategic HR representation at board level, targeted technology adoption for standardisation and data-driven monitoring, and the professionalisation of the HR function. The study further shows that these pathways are only effective when supported by leadership commitment and an organisational culture that treats risk management as a shared responsibility. The paper concludes that HR governance enhancement requires structural, technological, and cultural change and recommends deliberate board-level inclusion of HR expertise, phased investment in HR technologies, and stronger professional standards for HR practice in quasi-governmental organisations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Daniel Siakalima, Austin Mwange, Francis Simui https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Digital financial access as a moderator in the financial capability–financial inclusion nexus: Evidence from informal women traders in Zambia
While financial capability and empowerment are established drivers of financial inclusion, the contextual conditions under which these relationships hold or are amplified remain understudied in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study examines the moderating role of digital financial access in the relationships between financial capability, financial empowerment, financial literacy, and financial inclusion among 273 women traders in Lusaka's informal markets, Zambia, selected using stratified random sampling from a target population of 4,028 registered women traders across three major Lusaka markets. Anchored on the Technology Acceptance Model, Sherraden's Financial Capability Framework, and the Inclusive Financial Wellbeing Empowerment Model, a post-positivist moderation analysis was conducted using structural equation modelling with mean-centred interaction terms in AMOS 25, with 2,000-iteration bias-corrected bootstrapping. Results reveal that digital financial access significantly moderates the financial capability - financial inclusion relationship (β = 0.206, p < .01), amplifying the positive effect of capability on inclusion. However, digital financial access did not significantly moderate the financial empowerment–financial inclusion relationship (β = −0.033, p = .564) nor the financial literacy–financial inclusion relationship (β = 0.038, p = .514). This selective moderation finding - supported by all three of the theoretical frameworks employed - indicates that digital financial access serves as an enabling platform specifically for capability-translated inclusion, confirming that practical financial skills are necessary for digital platform utilisation and that empowerment operates through psychological channels that are largely independent of digital infrastructure availability. The study is the concluding paper in a three-paper series that collectively establishes the golden thread - financial literacy → capability/empowerment → inclusion - with digital financial access as the institutional amplifier of the capability link. The findings advance evidence-based recommendations for sequencing digital infrastructure investment alongside capability-building programmes in Zambia's National Financial Inclusion Strategy II (2024–2028) implementation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fred M'membe, Joseph Ntayi, Louis Nyahunda https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Fairness, transparency, and motivational deficits in public utility performance appraisal: Evidence from Zambia
This research examines how management-level staff at a state-owned public utility view the fairness, transparency, and effectiveness of their performance evaluation system, and how these views affect their motivation, engagement, and job performance. Utilizing a comprehensive theoretical framework that incorporates Equity Theory and Goal-Setting Theory, this study adopted a convergent parallel mixed-methods approach. Data collection involved a structured questionnaire distributed to 176 management-level employees chosen through stratified random sampling from five divisions of Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation Limited, [ZESCO] Limited, Zambia's state-owned electricity provider, along with semi-structured interviews conducted with 15 purposely selected key informants. Quantitative data were examined using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, multiple regression analyses, and structural equation modeling (SEM), while qualitative data were analyzed through reflexive thematic analysis. The results indicate that employees view the appraisal system as considerably below a neutral benchmark in terms of fairness (M = 2.68, SD = 0.96, p < .001), transparency (M = 2.70, SD = 0.98, p < .001), and effectiveness (M = 2.81, SD = 0.94, p = .008). Effectiveness of the system emerged as the most influential factor in predicting motivation (β = 0.376, p < .001) and engagement (β = 0.324, p < .001), while fairness also significantly predicted motivation (β = 0.224, p = .007) and engagement (β = 0.182, p = .047). Employee engagement was found to partially mediate the relationship between effectiveness and performance (Sobel z = 6.13, p < .001), representing 57.4% of the total indirect effect. Notable variations were seen across departments and tenure, with those in technical departments and employees with longer tenures reporting significantly lower perceptions. These findings provide actionable insights for improving performance management in public utilities across Sub-Saharan Africa and enhance the theoretical understanding of the dynamics between justice and motivation in bureaucratic organizational settings.
Copyright (c) 2026 Faith Mwansa Kalaba, Kennedy Nsusa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Crisis awareness and the awareness–preparedness paradox in Zambia's tourism industry
Tourism destinations in sub-Saharan Africa face intensifying multidimensional crises, including climate-induced natural disasters, energy insecurity, health pandemics, and macroeconomic volatility. Despite growing scholarly attention to crisis management, the literature reveals a persistent gap between what tourism stakeholders know about crises and what they actually do to prepare for them. This study investigates the awareness–preparedness paradox in Zambia's tourism industry, a structural condition in which near-universal crisis awareness coexists with critically inadequate operational preparedness. This study is anchored in three complementary theoretical frameworks that together provide the conceptual architecture for understanding the awareness–preparedness paradox. The first is crisis management theory as synthesised by Faulkner and extended by Ritchie and Jiang and Faulkner's tourism disaster management framework. Using a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, quantitative data were collected from 137 respondents through stratified purposive sampling across five stakeholder categories — government institutions, private sector tourism operators, community-based organisations, non-governmental organisations, and tourists — drawn from Livingstone, Lusaka, South Luangwa National Park, and Kafue National Park. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, one-sample t-tests, Pearson correlation, and Mann-Whitney U tests; qualitative data were generated through key informant interviews and thematic analysis. Findings reveal a composite crisis awareness mean of 4.58 out of 5.0 (t = 44.09, p < 0.001), significantly above neutral, contrasted with a preparedness capacity mean of 2.98 (t = −0.40, p = 0.689), statistically indistinguishable from doing nothing. This produces a composite awareness–preparedness gap of 1.60 points, most pronounced for natural disasters (Δ = −1.95) and pandemics (Δ = −1.95). The paradox reflects institutional fragmentation, inadequate resource allocation, and absent policy enforcement mechanisms rather than ignorance of risk, indicating that these systemic issues hinder effective crisis management in the tourism sector. The study concludes that Zambia's challenge in managing tourism crises is fundamentally institutional: governance reform, mandatory preparedness requirements, and dedicated resilience financing are the priority interventions for resolving the paradox and building sustainable sector resilience. This study recommended that the Ministry of Tourism and Arts should mandate formal crisis management planning for all registered tourism enterprises, with ZTA providing technical support and monitoring compliance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bruce Ernest, Norman Kachamba, Chaste Nsama https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Influence of management commitment to occupational safety and health-OSH on service delivery in level 4 public hospitals in Kisii County, Kenya
The safety and health of healthcare workers are fundamental to the effective delivery of medical services. The public expects these professionals to provide accessible, affordable, and high-quality care within hospital environments that are free from occupational injuries and illnesses. However, in many developing countries, the quality of healthcare service delivery remains unacceptably poor. The purpose of this study was to establish the influence of management commitment to occupational safety and health on service delivery in level 4 public health facilities in Kisii County, Kenya. The overarching theoretical framework guiding this study was the Social Exchange Theory, which posits that human behaviour is driven by a cost-benefit analysis, where individuals are motivated by the perceived rewards, whether tangible or psychological, relative to the costs incurred. In the context of this study, the theory posits that healthcare service delivery is shaped by the presence of rewards and inducements, particularly safe working conditions and psychosocial support, which enhance healthcare workers’ performance, ultimately improving the quality of service delivery. The study findings would be significant to the management of healthcare facilities for manipulating occupational safety and health practices, guaranteeing enhanced quality of working life and service delivery. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey research design that did not involve manipulation of variables. It targeted 521 healthcare workers providing medical services in level 4 public health facilities located in Kisii County and patients seeking medical services in these facilities. Proportionate stratified random sampling and purposive sampling were used to select a sample of healthcare workers, while patients were selected using convenience sampling. Primary data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires and interviews. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation, simple hierarchical regression and multiple hierarchical regression analyses. The study established that safety policy implementation has a moderating effect on the association between management commitment and service delivery (F (3, 11) = 13.593, p = .012; t (13) = 2.475, p = .017). Further, it reveals that both management commitment to occupational safety and health and psychosocial support are significant predictors of service delivery in level 4 public hospitals in Kisii County. The study recommends that the hospital management prioritise the effective implementation of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) policy as a strategic approach to strengthen safety and health practices, thereby enhancing service delivery.
Copyright (c) 2026 Okibo Stephen Simako, Wagude Janet, Omolo Jonathan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Midwife factors associated with targeted postnatal care implementation in health facilities across Kakamega County, Western Kenya
The postnatal period is a critical window for reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality; however, the quality and completeness of postnatal care remain suboptimal in many low- and middle-income countries. Targeted postnatal care (TPNC), as recommended by the World Health Organization, emphasizes structured, timely, and comprehensive interventions for both mother and newborn. Despite these recommendations, there is limited evidence on the implementation of TPNC and its influencing factors in Kenya. This study aimed to assess the level of TPNC implementation and examine midwife-related factors influencing its delivery in selected health facilities in Kakamega County. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed involving 160 midwives. Data were collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires and key informant interviews and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics and levels of TPNC implementation, while regression analysis examined associations between midwife factors and implementation outcomes. The mean age of midwives was 36.76±7.64 years, with the majority being female (76.25%) and diploma-trained (71.25%), and 62.5% having received Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) training. The mean level of immediate postnatal care implementation was 65.09% (±16.99), indicating suboptimal adherence to recommended guidelines. While moderate proportions of midwives reported performing uterine palpation (56.88%) and supporting early initiation of breastfeeding (61.88%), critical gaps were observed in maternal danger sign assessment (48.13%) and provision of HIV-related health education (20%). Linear regression analysis revealed no statistically significant association between midwives’ sociodemographic characteristics and TPNC implementation (F (5,154) = 0.66, p = 0.650, R² = 0.021), suggesting that individual-level factors may not adequately explain variations in care delivery. This study found that the implementation of targeted postnatal care (TPNC) among midwives in selected health facilities in Kakamega County is suboptimal, particularly in critical components such as maternal danger sign assessment and health education. The study further established that midwives’ sociodemographic characteristics were not significant predictors of TPNC implementation. There is a need for the Ministry of Health and county health departments to strengthen health system capacity by addressing structural barriers such as staffing shortages, workload, and availability of essential resources.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ruth Shitabule https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Outcomes of an integrated clinical management strategy and associated factors for stroke patients in public hospitals in the lake region counties of Kenya
Stroke is a major cause of mortality, morbidity, and diminished quality of life, making effective management essential for improving patient outcomes. An integrated clinical management strategy offers a standardized, evidence-based framework that combines comprehensive assessment, targeted interventions, and coordinated multidisciplinary care to enhance recovery among stroke patients. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of such a strategy and its associated factors among stroke patients in public hospitals in the Lake Region counties of Kenya. The target population comprised all patients admitted to the designated hospitals with a diagnosis of stroke. A quasi-experimental research design was used, enrolling 173 stroke patients from four county referral hospitals. Of these, 87 patients were assigned to the intervention group (in two hospitals), while 86 were in the control group (in two hospitals). The intervention group received care guided by an integrated clinical management strategy in addition to routine care. This strategy involved incorporating a structured tool into patient files and initiating care based on its guidelines. It was implemented by a nurse-led multidisciplinary team and emphasized coordinated, evidence-based care during hospitalization and after discharge through outpatient follow-up. The control group received standard stroke care. Data were collected using questionnaires, facility checklists, and patient records after obtaining institutional approvals. Healthcare providers and research assistants were trained on the integrated strategy. Patient outcomes, including mortality, hospital stay, morbidity, and complications, were recorded. The intervention was monitored through monthly reviews for up to six months, and discharged patients were followed up in outpatient clinics to assess progress. Data analysis was done using inferential and descriptive statistics. Findings showed that 43.3% (n=75) of patients had hospital stays of 1–7 days, while only 1.7% (n=3) stayed longer than 60 days. Mortality was significantly lower in the intervention group at 4.6% (n=4) compared to 16.3% (n=14) in the control group. Overall mortality was 10.4% (n=18), with most deaths (33.3%, n=6) occurring within 8–14 days of admission. Functional recovery was notably higher in the intervention group at 81.9% (n=68) compared to 55.6% (n=40) in the control group. Complications affected 72.3% (n=125) of patients. The most common were urinary incontinence (50.4%, n=63), pressure ulcers (38.4%, n=48), and aspiration pneumonia (33.6%, n=42), while depression was least reported (18.4%, n=18). The intervention significantly improved outcomes: patients in the intervention group were 70% more likely to have shorter hospital stays (RR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.2–2.4, p = 0.002) and had a 72% lower risk of death (RR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.10–0.78, p = 0.01). They were also 1.9 times more likely to return to pre-stroke functional status (RR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.4–2.6, p < 0.0001) and 1.4 times more likely to achieve overall good outcomes. In conclusion, the integrated clinical management strategy significantly improved stroke outcomes, including survival, functional recovery, and reduced hospital stay. The study also found that stroke type and severity are associated, with hemorrhagic strokes presenting more severely. It recommends early diagnosis, timely intervention, and strengthened prevention strategies. Additionally, integrating patient, provider, and facility factors into stroke care is essential for improving recovery outcomes and adherence to secondary prevention.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lydiah B. Nyachiro, Damaris Ochanda, John Okoth https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Board gender diversity in listed companies: A comparative study of legal and institutional barriers to gender equity in Uganda and other jurisdictions
Board gender diversity is increasingly recognized as both a legal and governance imperative, yet women remain underrepresented in corporate leadership globally. In Uganda, despite constitutional guarantees and a suite of legal instruments including the Companies Act 2012, Employment Act 2006, Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act 2021, Equal Opportunities Act 2007, and the Capital Markets Authority Corporate Governance Guidelines, female representation on boards of listed companies remains below 10%. This study investigates the legal and institutional barriers to women’s participation on corporate boards in Uganda, adopting a doctrinal and socio-legal methodology that examines constitutional, statutory, and regulatory frameworks. Stakeholder theory guided this study. The research also employs a comparative approach, analyzing countries such as Norway, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, which have successfully increased female board representation through binding legal quotas and formal enforcement mechanisms. A total of 66 participants were sampled for the study using purposive, convenience, and snowball sampling strategies to target individuals with relevant expertise on corporate governance and gender equality. The sample comprised 20 board members, 15 regulators, 16 legislators, and 15 civil society representatives, providing a diverse range of perspectives on corporate decision-making, regulatory enforcement, legal frameworks, and societal expectations. The findings reveal that Uganda’s voluntary and non-binding framework limits the effectiveness of gender equality initiatives, resulting in persistent male dominance in boardrooms. Comparative lessons highlight the importance of enforceable quotas, formal nomination processes, regulatory oversight, and judicial recourse in translating legal principles into tangible boardroom outcomes. Based on these insights, the study recommends that Uganda strengthen its legal and regulatory framework to mandate minimum female representation on boards, establish formalized nomination and reporting procedures, and enhance regulatory monitoring and enforcement. Such interventions would align Uganda with constitutional, regional, and international obligations, improve governance quality, and ensure that corporate boards are more inclusive, representative, and responsive to diverse stakeholder interests. The study contributes to the broader discourse on gender-inclusive governance and offers practical guidance for policymakers, regulators, and corporations seeking to advance boardroom diversity in Uganda. Uganda should mandate minimum female representation on corporate boards, introduce formalized nomination and reporting procedures, and strengthen regulatory monitoring and enforcement. Drawing on successful international models, enforceable quotas and judicial recourse would translate legal principles into tangible outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tonny Muzaale, Valentine Tebi Mbeli, Esther Christine Kisubi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Priming preventive behavior: The influence of vernacular radio messaging on trachoma prevention in West Pokot, Kenya
Trachoma has remained a major public health challenge in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid regions despite the employment of biomedical interventions under the Surgery, Antibiotics, Face washing, Environment improvement [SAFE] strategy. This study examined the influence of priming through vernacular radio messaging on trachoma preventive behavior in West Pokot County, Kenya. It is guided by priming theory, agenda-setting theory, diffusion of innovation theory, and the Health Belief Model. The target population comprised of the residents of West Pokot. The study adopted a qualitative method using focus group discussions with 48 respondents selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed thematically, and findings revealed that vernacular radio enhances preventive behaviour through cognitive repetition, recall, issue salience, behavioural reinforcement, and community-level diffusion of hygiene practices. Findings further show that linguistic and cultural proximity increases message acceptance and trust. Nonetheless, inconsistent media exposure weakens priming effects. The findings present the essence of vernacular radio as a culturally available health communication platform able to shape audience perceptions, strengthen preventive standards, and ease the diffusion of hygiene practices in rural communities. This study concludes that vernacular radio is an appropriate and effective tool for trachoma prevention communication. It recommends persistent and culturally contextualized health messaging across rural communities to enhance awareness and sustained behaviour change.
Copyright (c) 2026 Faith Njeri Ngure, Jane Wamathu, Joseph Muchiri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Analysis of the nexus between human resource strategies and performance of Tanzania’s local government authorities
This study sought to investigate the role of human resource strategies in the performance of local government authorities (LGAs) in Tanzania under the theories of human capital and contingency. The research concentrated on five categories of human resource strategies, namely training, communication, reward and recognition, staffing, and performance management strategies. The research concentrated on five categories of human resource strategies, namely training, communication, reward and recognition, staffing, and performance management strategies. A mixed research methodology was used, where the respondents included both employees and management personnel working within selected LGAs in the Northern and Southern Highlands zones. Multistage sampling in combination with stratified random sampling techniques yielded a sample size of 231 respondents. For the quantitative research design, structured questionnaires were used to collect data. Similarly, structured interview questionnaires were used to collect data in the qualitative research design. The regression analysis results show that training strategies (β = 0.380, p < 0.001), communication strategies (β = 0.311, p < 0.001), and performance management strategies (β = 0.331, p < 0.001) were statistically significant predictors of LGA performance. However, reward and recognition strategies and staffing strategies were not statistically significant predictors. Therefore, this study concludes that training strategies, communication strategies, and performance management strategies are the most critical HR strategies in improving LGA performance. This study also recommends that the reward system needs to be reformed to ensure transparency and strategic alignment with organizational objectives. Bureaucratic and structural challenges need to be addressed to enhance governance in Tanzanian LGAs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rhoda Damas Mwizamholya, Venance Shillingi, Bahati Ilembo, Elizabeth Mwakasangula https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Déficit de l’autorité maritale dans les ménages de la ville de Bunia : cas du quartier Bankoko, en province de l’Ituri (RDC)
Cette étude a porté sur le déficit de l’autorité maritale dans les ménages de la ville de Bunia, cas du quartier Bankoko en République Démocratique du Congo (RDC). Son objectif est d’identifier les causes du déficit de l’autorité maritale dans les ménages du milieu d’étude. Les hypothèses de cette étude ont été formulées que l’autorité maritale est déficitaire dans les ménages parce que le mari ne joue plus son rôle du chef de foyer à cause de la défaillance financière des maris.et ce déficit de l’autorité maritale dans les ménages est influencé par la crise socio-économique et le niveau d’étude des conjoints. Pour vérifier ces hypothèses, nous nous sommes servis de la méthode dialectique appuyée par les techniques d’interview, documentaire et d’observation directe. La présente étude a principalement comme population d’étude les membres des ménages, notamment ; les époux, les épouses et les autres membres. L’échantillon a été du type occasionnel et stratifié, constitué de 55 ménages Les résultats obtenus à l’issue de cette étude ont révélé que les ménages dans lesquels les femmes ont un niveau d’études supérieur à celui de leurs maris, soit 41,1 %, souffrent du déficit de l’autorité maritale; Les ménages dans lesquels le mari et l’épouse sont non-salariés (40,00 %), suivis de ceux où tous les deux sont salariés (36,00 %) et ceux où l’épouse seule est salariée (30,00 %) accusent une crise d’autorité maritale; Le déficit de l’autorité maritale s’observe dans les ménages où les membres (33,3 %) ont un avis négatif sur la responsabilité du mari dans son foyer et ceux dont les membres (83,3 %) s’abstiennent de se prononcer sur la responsabilité du chef de ménage dans son foyer. Pour remédier à cette crise de l’autorité maritale dans les ménages en milieu d’étude. Nous suggérons que les maris salariés soient régulièrement et convenablement payés et ceux qui ont des diplômes ou non trouvent un emploi rémunérateur en vue de subvenir aux besoins essentiels de leurs familles. Les maris devront également assumer correctement leurs responsabilités pour éviter aux membres du ménage de constater leur défaillance, ce qui pourrait avoir un impact négatif sur leur autorité. Cependant, cette étude aurait pu se pencher aussi sur les conséquences qui découlent du déficit de l’autorité maritale dans les ménages. Les études ultérieures pourraient bien aborder cet aspect du sujet enfin de compléter les résultats de la présente étude.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mbuyu Mulongo Lauriane, Mposo Nsangua Benoit, Mulungo Mfuende https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Linking human, physical, and digital resources with school change and educational receptivity: A fidelity framework-based analysis of competence-based curriculum implementation in Uganda
This study examined the role of educational resources in the implementation of the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) in lower secondary schools in Uganda, with School Change Educational Receptivity (SCER) tested as a mediator. Human, physical, and digital/printed resources were assessed as predictors of curriculum implementation outcomes. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed, collecting quantitative data from 972 teachers out of a target population of 4,987 comprising of school administrators, and NCDC staff. Hierarchical regression and structural equation modeling with bootstrapped PROCESS-style mediation analysis were used to quantify direct and indirect effects, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically using the Braun and Clarke approach, guided by the Fidelity Model to assess alignment between resources and curriculum implementation as designed. Results indicated that educational resources exert a strong and significant direct effect on curriculum implementation (total effect β = 0.650, p < .001; direct effect β = 0.640, p < .001). In contrast, SCER did not significantly mediate this relationship: Path a (resources → SCER, β = 0.050, p = .119), Path b (SCER implementation, β = 0.200, p = .120), and the indirect effect (β = 0.010, 95% CI [-0.020, 0.040]) were all non-significant. This counter-intuitive finding demonstrates that, despite moderate to high reported receptivity to change, school change receptivity does not function as a mechanism through which educational resources improve CBC implementation outcomes. These findings highlight that tangible resource investments particularly in teacher capacity, physical infrastructure, and digital/printed learning materials are the primary drivers of curriculum fidelity in resource-constrained Ugandan schools. Policymakers should prioritize direct allocation of resources, while school administrators can enhance implementation effectiveness through structured support such as mentoring, collaborative planning, and integration of available resources, ensuring that curriculum delivery remains aligned with its intended design as emphasized by the Fidelity Model Accordingly, policymakers, including the Ministry of Education and Sports Uganda, should prioritize direct investment in educational resources—teacher capacity, infrastructure, and instructional materials and ensure their effective utilization to enhance curriculum fidelity. Emphasis should shift from school change receptivity to resource-driven implementation strategies as the primary pathway for achieving successful and sustainable Competence-Based Curriculum outcomes in Uganda.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tonny Muzaale, John Kitayimbwa, Wilson Eduan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Resource sovereignty and the planning-execution gap: Institutional constraints on strategic management in the defence sector of Zambia
This study examines the relationship between strategic plans integration and resource utilisation effectiveness in the Defence Sector of Zambia. It starts by posing this question: Why does the defence sector of Zambia consistently craft refined strategic plans that fail in execution? Through a mixed-methods investigation involving a structured survey of 135 senior officers (drawn from 171 eligible officers via stratified proportional sampling) and in-depth interviews with 21 purposively selected key informants across the Defence Sector of Zambia, the study documents a remarkable inconsistency. This research was guided by dynamic capabilities and institutional theories. Quantitative data were analysed using Spearman’s rank correlation and descriptive statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase approach. The quantitative results indicate a strong positive association between strategic plan integration and resource allocation planning (Spearman’s ρ=0.635, p < 0.001). This suggests a high planning alignment (cognitive seizing) capacity. However, execution-related ratings remain only slightly above neutral, with low mean scores for timeliness of resource availability (M=3.28, SD=1.05) and efficiency of resource utilisation in daily operations (M=3.22, SD=1.01). Qualitative interviews attributed this planning-execution gap to a resource utilisation bottleneck in which approved strategic budgets face delayed disbursement, rigid procurement controls, and operational tempos that outpace central public financial management processes. Because the evidence is cross-sectional and largely perceptual, the findings should be interpreted as strong associations and convergent institutional explanations rather than definitive causal effects. Zambia’s fiscal volatility compels the Treasury to treat defence strategic capital as expendable fiscal buffers for short-term crises. This study advances Dynamic Capabilities Theory by showing how institutional environments in developing economies constrain the transition from a seizing-to-transforming pathway. This study introduces the concept of resource sovereignty, which is the institutional capacity to shield mission-critical budgets from political interference. This is a necessary statutory mechanism and a reliable governance solution for African defence sectors facing fiscal volatility. Without it, defence organisations remain perpetual good planners but inconsistent executors. This also undermines SDG 16 on institutional effectiveness goals. The study concludes that the resource utilisation bottleneck is an external institutional failure rooted in fiscal volatility, IFMS rigidity, and budget-cash decoupling. This is not an internal planning weakness. This study recommends statutory budget protection and financial system decentralisation as complementary resource sovereignty mechanisms to enable consistent strategic execution in the defence sector of Zambia.
Copyright (c) 2026 Peter Leonard Daka, Austin Mwange, Francis Simui https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Impact of feacal coliforms and interspecific cohabitation on the productivity of culicidae breeding sites, littoral-Cameroon
The demographic structure and emergence dynamics of Culicidae depend on biotic and abiotic interactions in the environment. The objective of this study is to determine the influence of bacteriological parameters, abundance, and interspecific cohabitation on the development of the pre-imaginal stages of Culicidae. Larvae were sampled using the “dipping” method and identified using dichotomous keys after rearing to adulthood; species of the Anopheles gambiae complex were distinguished using molecular techniques. The standard method for isolating and quantifying bacteria in water was used to quantify coliforms in water samples. The effect of density and interspecific cohabitation on the aquatic development of Culicidae was studied. The larvae were reared at different densities in a monospecific situation or in interspecific cohabitation. The number of individuals at each stage of development, the number of dead larvae, and the number of emergences were counted every 24 hours. The culicid fauna in Youpwé during the study period consisted of Culex quinquefasciatus (42.6%, n = 415), Anopheles coluzzii (39.8%, n = 388), and Aedes aegypti (17.6%, n = 171). Fecal coliforms were found at all breeding sites; the species identified were Enterobacter aerogenes (51.8%), Escherichia coli (6.5%), and Salmonella typhimurium (9.4%). A positive and significant correlation was observed between E. coli density and larval productivity of the genus Aedes (P-value = 0.002). In the laboratory, significantly slower pre-imaginal development was observed in a high-density interspecific cohabitation environment than in a monospecific environment. This was the case, for example, for the interspecific combination Anopheles gambiae/Culex quinquefasciatus, which had a significantly longer development time than Anopheles gambiae reared in a monospecific environment (P-value < 0.05). The same observation was made for the interspecific combination Anopheles culuzzii/Culex quinquefasciatus and Anopheles culuzzii in a monospecific environment (P-value ˂ 0.05). In addition, a bias in favor of females in interspecific cohabitation was noted. It would therefore be appropriate, based on the results of more specific work on the mechanisms influencing fecal coliforms, to move towards integrated vector management. This requires the integration of sex ratio and cohabitation into entomological surveillance programs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Michel Léger Offono Enama, Roméo Aimé Laclong Lontchi, Romeo Serge Mbongue, Pasma Mache Nkouandou, Angele Foutchou, Serge Bertrand Eyebe, Ernest Koji, Patrick Akono Ntonga, Alain Bertrand Dongmo, Jean Arthur Mbida Mbida https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Preservice science teacher preparation and scaffolding (PSTPS) model for first experience with outcome-based education in Botswana
Outcome-Based Education (OBE) has evolved as a transformative approach to education that emphasises clearly defined learning outcomes, competency acquisition, and learner-centred learning. Drawing on multidisciplinary literature, the review indicates that Outcome-Based Education enhances student engagement, motivation, critical thinking, and employability by aligning curriculum design, instructional approaches, and assessment practices around clearly articulated learning outcomes. Empirical review points to notable gains in learner achievement, skill development, and the practical application of knowledge. Nevertheless, the review highlights implementation challenges, including faculty resistance, complexities in assessment design, limitations in institutional capacity, and the need for continuous professional development. Curriculum reforms in Botswana have prioritised the effective implementation of Outcome-Based Education (OBE), particularly in science education. However, newly trained teachers often struggle to translate preservice teacher preparation into exemplary instructional methods and performance-based assessments aligned with OBE during their early years of teaching. To address this gap, this study developed and tested a Preservice Science Teacher Preparation and Scaffolding (PSTPS) model that establishes structured collaboration between teacher training institutions and schools. Using a collaborative design-based research approach, the model was developed, implemented, and refined within selected institutions. The PSTPS model emphasises sustained mentorship, joint planning, coaching, and reflective practice to support the transition from preservice training to early-career teaching. Findings from implementation indicate that the model enhanced teacher confidence, improved lesson coherence and OBE alignment, and strengthened the use of inquiry-based and performance-oriented assessment practices. Continuous scaffolding bridged the theory-practice divide and strengthened school-institution partnerships. The study recommends scaling the model, strengthening mentor preparation, integrating digital tools, and testing the PSTPS model across diverse contexts and subject areas.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ndechedzelo Tau, Prof. Harrison Daka, Dr. Lydia M. Mulenga-Hagane https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The influence of technological information capabilities on records management practices in The Local Government Training Institute in Tanzania: The moderating role of transformational leadership
This study examines the influence of technological information capabilities and transformational leadership on records management practices. This study is guided by resource orchestration theory. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, the target population in this study comprises staff members of The Local Government Training Institute in Tanzania, with a specific focus on administrators, lecturers, and records officers who interact with or oversee records management systems. The sample size was determined using Yamane's formula; this yielded a sample size of approximately 200 respondents. The data was collected using a questionnaire and was analyzed through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Data was collected using a structured questionnaire developed on the basis of observed variables identified for each latent construct. The data analysis process follows three stages: descriptive statistics such as means, standard deviations, and frequencies. Linear regression within the SEM framework was used to test hypothesized relationships among latent variables of the study. The study opted for stratified sampling, and the respondents were specifically selected from The Local Government Training institute. Findings of the study revealed that TIC significantly enhances RMP by improving accuracy, accessibility, compliance, and timeliness. TL also exerts a positive independent effect on RMP by motivating staff, promoting innovation, and fostering accountability. Moreover, TL moderates the relationship between TIC and RMP, demonstrating that technological investments yield stronger outcomes when supported by visionary and empowering leadership. The study concludes that effective records management requires both robust technological systems and leadership that cultivates a culture of digital adoption and continuous improvement. The study recommends simultaneous investment in ICT infrastructure and leadership development to strengthen institutional governance, transparency, and service delivery.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jacquiline Daniel John, Yohana Arsen Rutaba https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Theoretical foundations and empirical evidence: A systematic review of employee-level responses to green human resource management (HRM) practices
This systematic review examines the evolution of environmental sustainability from a macro-level organizational mandate to its current emphasis on the psychological micro-foundations of employee behavior. Historically focused on institutional metrics such as ISO 14001 compliance, the scholarly landscape of Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) has transitioned toward understanding how individual responses—specifically Green Work Engagement (GWE) and Organizational Citizenship Behavior for the Environment (OCBE)—underpin the success of corporate ecological objectives. Synthesizing high-impact research from 2015 to 2026, the study employs the Ability-Motivation-Opportunity (AMO) framework, Social Exchange Theory (SET), and Self-Determination Theory (SDT) to map the causal links between green HR practices and individual performance. The findings indicate that while ability-enhancing initiatives like green training directly improve technical proficiency, the transition to discretionary, extra-role effort is heavily mediated by the "Green Psychological Climate." However, the review identifies an emerging "green performance paradox," in which intensive monitoring and complex reporting requirements trigger "green fatigue," potentially undermining core task performance. Furthermore, the study exposes significant geographical and sectoral imbalances, highlighting a critical scarcity of data within the public and service sectors of developing economies, such as Kenya. By reconciling these diverging strands, the research proposes a localized approach to GHRM that prioritizes institutional authenticity over superficial "greenwashing," ultimately providing a roadmap for developing resilient, purpose-driven green human capital.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jonathan William Omolo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Bridging tradition and modernity: A systematic analysis of cultural beliefs, health practices, and the justification for integrative ethnomedicine in Africa
This systematic review examines the intersection of indigenous ethnomedicine and Western biomedicine in Africa, exploring the cultural, spiritual, and pharmacological factors that shape the continent's "medical pluralism." While up to 80% of the African population relies on traditional medicine due to its cultural resonance and geographic accessibility, a significant "biomedical-cultural gap" persists, leading to fragmented care and public health risks such as adverse herb-drug interactions. Utilizing a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology and anchored in the Health Belief Model and Medical Pluralism Theory, the study identifies that health-seeking behavior is driven by a search for "ultimate" spiritual causes rather than mere biological symptoms. Furthermore, while pharmacological analysis validates the efficacy of secondary metabolites in indigenous flora, it highlights critical safety concerns regarding toxicity and lack of standardization, which can lead to potential health risks for patients if not properly addressed. The review concludes that a sustainable African healthcare strategy requires a transition from "biomedical elitism" to a culturally congruent, integrative model. Recommendations include the formalization of traditional healers into the primary healthcare chain, the development of national pharmacopoeias, and the institutionalization of rigorous quality control standards to harmonize ancestral wisdom with clinical safety.
Copyright (c) 2026 Wilson Adina Otenga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Negotiating mediation and embodiment: A qualitative study of digital communication in African Seventh-day Adventist church post-COVID-19
The Covid-19 ramifications brought about the adoption of online communication technology even in churches, remolding ecclesial ordinances and worship rituals, sense-giving, and communal interaction. This qualitative study is theoretically guided by several key frameworks, including Digital Discourse Theory, Stakeholder Communication Theory, and Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) Theory. These theories elucidate how digital media reshape the delivery of core messages, enhancing governance and community life in the post-COVID-19 era. The target population was made of key church stakeholders who were actively engaged in digital communication platforms during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The study employed a qualitative design based on semi-structured interviews with a purposively selected sample of 18 key church stakeholders comprising church administrators, clergy, and lay members who actively engaged in digital communication platforms during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The research employs thematic analysis to establish four interlinked themes: (1) digital reach and organizational efficiency, (2) digital literacy, access, and generational divides, (3) governance, policy, and stakeholder-centered communication, and (4) limits of digital mediation for spiritual and communal life. By use of interview data and scholarship on organizational communication, online religion, and digital knowledge, the research posits that as much as virtual spaces promote access, continuity, and openness, they must be operated within the confines of hybrid ecclesial models and reliable governance paradigms in order to enhance spiritual intercourse and communal cooperation. The study concludes that while digital platforms enhance organizational efficiency, accessibility, and continuity of worship, they are limited in fostering embodied spirituality and communal intimacy. It is recommended that hybrid ecclesial communication models be adopted, supported by clear governance frameworks, stakeholder-centered communication policies, and inclusive digital literacy strategies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dexter Adamson Njuka, Prof. Jackson Phiri, Prof. Francis Simui https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The leadership styles and practices of school principals and heads of departments and their impact on learners’ pass rates in selected Namibian secondary schools
The study explored the leadership styles and practices predominantly employed by the school principals and their implications for learners’ pass rates in secondary schools. The study adopted interpretivist paradigms because of its focus on understanding social reality from the standpoint of those experiencing it (principals and HODs). A qualitative research design was employed, with semi-structured interviews conducted across six schools. The study was guided by transformational, distributed, instructional, and situational theory. The target population was 24, which includes principals and HODs. A total sample of 12 participants, including principals and HODs, were purposefully selected. Data was thematically analyzed using Yin’s analysis framework. The study found that instructional, transformational, distributive, and adaptive leadership improved shared accountability, collaboration, motivation, and students’ pass rate, while autocratic practices were generally avoided. Leadership practices such as monitoring classroom instruction, enforcing discipline policies, monitoring teachers’ work, and consistent engagement in instructional leadership were widely implemented. Although transformational, instructional and distributed leadership dominate, situational flexibility and learner participation remain underdeveloped. Principals who integrate instructional, transformational, and distributed leadership and who change leadership depending on the situation reported improved accountability, motivation, and improved learner pass rates. The study recommends school leaders institutionalize a hybrid, context-responsive leadership style that integrates distributed, instructional, and transformational practices; formalize distributed leadership structures; strengthen mentorship and capacity-building systems; and embed structured consultation processes that enhance teacher empowerment and shared accountability as well as improve learners’ outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Joyce Masiye, Harrison Daka, Mukuka Lydia Mulenga-Hagane https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Relativization strategies as evidenced in Chindali spoken in Ileje, Songwe region, Tanzania
This paper investigates the strategies employed in the formation of relative clauses (RCs) in Chindali as spoken in the Ileje district of the Songwe region in the southern highlands of Tanzania. The study employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive research design. Data were gathered through text collection and introspection. The population of this study consisted of Chindali native speakers found in Ileje District. The population also included texts written in Chindali. To inform the study, 10 informants were sampled using the purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The collection and analysis of the data were guided by promotion theory and the interpretivism philosophical paradigm. The collected data were analyzed by inductive and deductive thematic analysis. The study revealed that Chindali employs relative pronoun, gapping, and pronoun retention strategies to form its RCs. The article concludes that relativization strategies differ depending on the language. The study supplements the little existing literature in Chindali. The study has contributed to the development of the theory through empirical data from Chindali that show the importance of the agreement and dependency structure to accomplish the relativization process. It is suggested that policymakers place more attention on ethnic community languages in order to promote them. The study recommends further research on the structure of Chindali RCs to identify the position of RCs in relation to the head noun.
Copyright (c) 2026 Imani Alinanuswe Mwang’eka, Dr. Chrispina Alphonce https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Article Knowledge management strategy and innovation performance of manufacturing firms of Uganda
To thrive, many businesses, especially those based in developing countries, rely heavily on their ability to innovate. However, improving on the innovation performance is challenging for many manufacturing firms. This study therefore investigated the effect of knowledge management strategy on innovation performance. The study was guided by resource-based view theory. A cross-sectional explanatory survey design was applied to examine the nature of reality. Data was collected from a sample of 263, picked from a total of 3894 manufacturing firms by use of simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Further, a self-administered questionnaire was the only tool used for data collection. The collected data were analysed and hypotheses tested using hierarchical and multiple regression models. The findings shed light on several crucial aspects of knowledge management strategy that influence innovation performance. Specifically, codification strategy and personalisation strategy were found to have a substantial impact on innovation performance, particularly in the context of the manufacturing sector. The study only covered knowledge management strategy among manufacturing firms, even though it is also popular in organisations, especially the service sector organisations. Thus, the findings are not generalisable to all other firms. Further, the study employed a cross-sectional quantitative research design, yet innovation performance fluctuates over time and depends on the environment that one is facing at that particular time. Finally, the study was limited to only one predictor of innovation performance: knowledge management strategy despite the existence of several other predictors. Results suggest that effective knowledge management strategies implemented at the firm level are likely to improve the level of innovativeness of manufacturing firms. Given the positive and significant influence of both knowledge codification and knowledge personalisation strategies on innovation performance, it is recommended that manufacturing firms adopt a balanced knowledge management approach that integrates both strategies. Specifically, firms should invest in robust knowledge codification systems—such as databases, standard operating procedures, and digital knowledge repositories—to ensure that critical organisational knowledge is captured, stored, and easily accessible for reuse and continuous improvement. At the same time, organisations should actively promote knowledge personalisation through initiatives that facilitate direct interaction among employees, including teamwork, mentorship programs, communities of practice, and cross-functional collaboration. This will enhance the sharing of tacit knowledge, which is essential for creativity and the development of novel solutions. Furthermore, management should align knowledge management strategies with organisational innovation goals by fostering a supportive culture, investing in enabling technologies, and providing continuous training to employees. This dual emphasis will enable firms to leverage both explicit and tacit knowledge effectively, thereby sustaining and enhancing innovation performance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Charles Bonny Opio, Dr. John Tarus, Dr. Andrew Kimwolo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Factors influencing the adoption of digital platforms for accessing agricultural marketing information in Mbarali District, Tanzania
This study examines factors influencing the adoption of digital platforms and their effect on smallholder onion farmers’ access to agricultural marketing information in Tanzania’s Mbarali District, specifically at the Igomelo Irrigation Scheme. A cross-sectional research design was employed, and data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to a target population of smallholder onion farmers registered at the Igomelo Irrigation Scheme. Simple random sampling was used to select 399 respondents; with the sample size determined using Cochran's formula at a 95% confidence level. The study is grounded in Transaction Cost Theory (TCT), which explains how digital platforms reduce the costs of searching for and accessing agricultural marketing information (AMI), thereby improving farmers’ decision-making and market participation. The study applied the Double Hurdle Model to estimate both the determinants and the extent of digital platform adoption. Key findings revealed that smartphone ownership (p = 0.043), internet access (p = 0.025), and digital training (p = 0.046) positively and significantly influenced adoption. Conversely, off-farm income (p = 0.045), household size (p = 0.041), extension services (p = 0.016), and marital status (p = 0.018) were negatively associated with adoption. The study concludes that digital platforms hold considerable potential to improve smallholder farmers’ access to agricultural marketing information; however, their successful adoption depends critically on adequate digital infrastructure, targeted training programmes, and enabling policy environments. The study recommends investments in rural connectivity, digital literacy education, integration of platforms with formal markets, and the provision of affordable digital tools to maximize the transformative impact on rural agricultural development.
Copyright (c) 2026 Charles Nchimbi, Eliaza Mkuna https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Implications of avocado farming on income and food diversification among smallholders in Njombe, Tanzania
Avocado has gained popularity as a high-value crop that could improve rural livelihoods in sub-Saharan Africa, yet there is limited field-based evidence on how growing avocado actually changes what farmers earn and what they consume, especially when considering whether concentrating on a single crop makes households less resilient in the face of risks. This study investigates how avocado farming affects income diversification and food consumption among 305 smallholder households surveyed in the Njombe Region, Tanzania, drawing on the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF) as a theoretical proposition anchored. Data were collected through structured household surveys in a cross-sectional design. Three analytical methods were applied: analysis of variance (ANOVA) for comparing income across three avocado participation intensity groups, a Simpson Income Diversity Index (SIDI) analyzed through fractional logit regression for income diversification determinants, and an ordered logit model for household food consumption measured by the Food Consumption Score (FCS). ANOVA results showed that income differed significantly across the three groups, with farmers who grow avocado more intensively earning considerably more. The fractional logit model indicated that higher avocado involvement reduces income diversification chance (coefficients of -0.620 at p < 0.01 for medium intensity and -2.068 at p < 0.001 for high intensity), emphasizing a shift toward specialization. Nevertheless, the ordered logit results showed that avocado participation improves food security: none of the high-intensity farmers fell into the ‘poor’ food consumption category compared with 18.2% of low-intensity farmers (χ² = 24.76, p < 0.001). Education level, access to financial services, and marital status positively influenced income diversification, while household income and participation intensity were the main factors behind better food consumption. The findings point to a need for policies that balance avocado intensity with livelihood diversification, expand financial access, and integrate nutrition awareness into agricultural extension.
Copyright (c) 2026 Simon J. Chamy, Dr. Anna A. Temu, Dr. Silver J. Hokororo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Community partnership and crime reduction in Nairobi City County, Kenya
Community partnership is currently an urgent approach in solving the crime issue and enhancing the security of people, especially in fast-developing cities like Nairobi City County, Kenya. Conventional policing methods have been, in most cases, unsatisfactory in dealing with complicated criminal activities in cities that are associated with high urbanization, joblessness, and social disparities. This paper explored how community partnership plays out in the Nyumba Kumi Community Policing Security Initiative (NKCPSI) as a crime reduction program in Nairobi County. The study was based on the collective efficacy theory and used a mixed-methods research approach combining quantitative and qualitative designs. The target population comprised 1,146 stakeholders who were representatives of the National Police Service (NPS), community leaders, and non-governmental organizations [NGOs]/civil society organizations [CSOs] interested in community policing. Stratified random sampling was used to come up with a sample size of 297 respondents, out of which 270 answers were valid, resulting in a response rate of 95.7. A questionnaire and key informant interviews guide were used to collect primary data. Descriptive statistical analysis indicated that 61.5% of the respondents rated the community partnership level as strong and 11.1% rated it as weak. Moreover, approximately 80 percent of the answers showed that communities are actively involved in law enforcement, as 80% of people reported interacting with police on a weekly basis. In terms of effectiveness, 50% of the respondents rated community partnerships as very effective in reducing crimes such as theft, robbery, and drug-related offenses. The results indicate that organized working of community members and law enforcement agencies would contribute to better trust, sharing of information, and proactive prevention of crime. The research findings indicate that enhancement of community alliances, encouraging frequent interactions between communities and the police, and increasing citizen involvement would be key to the long-term reduction of crime in the Nairobi City County. It recommends strengthening institutional support for community policing structures, promoting citizen participation, and building trust between civilians and law enforcement agencies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Samson Rukahu Karanja, Dr. Duncan O. Ochieng https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Investigating the integration of digital devices to enhance learning material accessibility in higher education: An experience from Jordan University College students, Tanzania
This paper investigates the integration of digital devices to enhance access to learning materials in Tanzanian higher education, focusing on students' experiences. Many universities have been equipping their students with digital devices; however, there is little documentation on their use. While this study was guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), it employed a mixed-methods approach. Using questionnaires, interviews, and observations, rich data were collected and analyzed from a sample of 359 students, calculated using Yamane’s formula, from a total of 3500 students at Jordan University College (JUCo). The data analysis used SPSS to assess the impact of digital device integration on the accessibility of learning materials and to understand the mediating roles of technological proficiency and learning style. The findings showed that about 45% of the students in the selected sample have access to digital Materials using Smartphones, and the remaining percentage use other digital devices. Also, about 36% of students rely heavily on traditional hard-copy materials for learning, and the remainder is due to other challenges. Furthermore, about 75% of students have positive attitudes toward using digital devices for Learning and global connectivity, while 25% have negative attitudes. About 56% of students have 1 to 3 years of experience using digital devices for learning. Overall, this research illuminates the complex dynamics of using digital devices to improve access to learning materials in Tanzanian higher education. Technological integration can improve accessibility and student experiences, but financial and digital literacy issues must be addressed. To maximize the use of digital devices in education, several issues must be addressed. Policymakers and educators should work together to promote digital literacy and equal access to digital resources. To ensure that all students benefit from educational technology, the digital divide must be bridged, especially in financially disadvantaged areas. This research adds useful insights to the ongoing conversation on the integration of digital devices in education, presenting practical recommendations to better the learning experience for Tanzanian Higher students. According to the study's findings, the government of Tanzania should strongly consider strengthening information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure in its public institutions and equipping universities with more ICT workers. It is recommended that students make excellent use of the resources available to them at their respective educational institutions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Titus Tossy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Revisiting entrepreneurial orientation: A dimensional performance architecture in emerging market SMEs – evidence from Kabwe district, Zambia
This study examined the influence of the five dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation (EO) – innovativeness, risk-taking, proactiveness, autonomy, and competitive aggressiveness – on the financial performance of trading small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Kabwe District, Zambia. Guided by the Resource-Based View (RBV), the study conceptualised EO as a strategic internal capability that enhances firm competitiveness and performance. Using an explanatory cross-sectional research design, data were collected from 300 owner-managers of registered trading SMEs in Kabwe District, selected through simple random sampling from a population of approximately 1,200 SMEs. Data were gathered using structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that risk-taking and proactiveness are significant predictors of SME performance, indicating that firms that engage in calculated risks and proactively pursue emerging opportunities achieve superior results. Conversely, innovativeness, autonomy, and competitive aggressiveness exhibited positive but statistically insignificant effects, suggesting that their influence may be indirect or context-dependent. These results highlight that the implementation and integration of EO dimensions, rather than their mere presence, are vital in enhancing performance. The study recommends that SMEs adopt strategic risk-taking, foster proactive market engagement, and leverage autonomy and innovativeness to reinforce adaptive and competitive behaviours. The research contributes to entrepreneurial management literature by providing empirical evidence from a developing-country context and offers practical insights for SME policy and strategy formulation in Zambia.
Copyright (c) 2026 Simasiku Mwiya Mufalali, John Moose, Edwin Bbenkele, Jimmy Sikachelela, Mukwalikuli Mundia, Regina Muduli https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Financial inclusion and economic growth: Evidence from Zambia
Financial exclusion remains a major developmental challenge in Zambia despite substantial policy initiatives and reforms within the financial sector. The problem disproportionately affects rural households, smallholder farmers, women-owned enterprises, informal workers, and micro, small, and medium enterprises. Consequently, limited access to formal financial services continues to constrain savings mobilization, productive investment, enterprise expansion, and household resilience, thereby weakening the country’s broader economic transformation agenda. As economies increasingly depend on efficient financial systems, digital payment methods, and easier access to affordable credit for inclusive growth, financial inclusion has become a key policy concern rather than merely a social welfare issue. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between financial inclusion and economic growth in Zambia using annual time series data covering the period from 1989 to 2019. The study was anchored on financial intermediation theory, endogenous growth theory, and technology acceptance theory, which explain the channels through which improved access to financial services can promote investment, innovation, productivity, and long-term economic expansion. Real Gross Domestic Product was used as the dependent variable, while financial inclusion was proxied by Outstanding Loans from Commercial Banks , Automated Teller Machines per one hundred thousand adults ), and the Getting Credit Distance to Frontier score (). Human Capital (), Total Factor Productivity , Foreign Direct Investment ), and Labour Force Participation Rate were incorporated as control variables. The Augmented Dickey-Fuller results showed that, , , and were integrated of order one I(1), while and were stationary at levels I(0). The final long-run Error Correction Model therefore retained and . Residual-based Engle–Granger testing confirmed a stable long-run cointegrating relationship (Engle & Granger, 1987). The normalized long-run coefficients indicate thatand are positively associated with over the sample period. More importantlyremains the most policy-relevant financial inclusion variable in the short run because it is the only financial inclusion indicator that remains statistically significant in the final parsimonious Error Correction Model (ECM). The parsimonious ECM, selected using the Akaike Information Criterion and small-sample parsimony, shows that variations inexert a statistically significant positive short-run effect on economic growth, while the lagged error correction term is negative and statistically significant, implying convergence toward long-run equilibrium. In the broader general ECM, the quality indicator Getting Credit Distance to Frontier score () and Labour Force Participation Rate (were not retained in the long-run system because they are integrated of order zero I(0), while Total Factor Productivity ( did not remain in the final parsimonious short-run ECM once AIC-based reduction and small-sample parsimony were applied. This is an important result because it indicates which dimensions of financial inclusion matter most in the short run. The study concludes that financial inclusion should not be assessed only in terms of the expansion of access points or credit volume, but also in terms of the quality, allocation, and productivity of financial intermediation. Policy implications emphasize improving credit allocation, strengthening productive financial usage, expanding effective access infrastructure, and linking inclusion policies to wider productivity-enhancing reforms.
Copyright (c) 2026 Chabala Luswili, Dr. Frank Chansa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Stagflation and economic growth in Zambia: A vector error correction model analysis of gross domestic product
Stagflation remains one of the most serious macroeconomic challenges facing developing economies because it combines inflationary pressure, weak growth, and structural instability within the same economic environment. This study was guided by the Expectations-Augmented Phillips Curve Theory, complemented by the Structuralist Theory of Inflation and the Resource-Dependence Theory, which together explain how inflation, labour-market weakness, supply-side shocks, and commodity dependence interact to constrain economic growth. This study examines the effect of stagflation on Zambia’s economic growth as measured by Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Zambia provides a compelling case for this analysis because inflation, exchange-rate instability, external debt stress, commodity-price volatility, and labour-market weakness have repeatedly interacted to undermine growth in a copper-dependent economy. Using annual time-series data covering the period 1964 to 2024, the study employs a Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) after conducting unit-root, lag-selection, multicollinearity, and Johansen cointegration tests. The findings confirm the existence of a stable long-run relationship between GDP and the principal stagflation-related drivers. Exchange-rate depreciation, labour-market weakness, copper-supply disruptions, and inefficient government spending are found to constrain long-run growth, while external debt and population growth display positive long-run coefficients, reflecting the growth-supporting role of debt-financed investment and demographic demand under certain conditions. The short-run GDP equation reports a negative error-correction coefficient, indicating a slow adjustment process toward long-run equilibrium following macroeconomic shocks. Further dynamic evidence shows that inflation and exchange-rate volatility account for a meaningful share of GDP fluctuations, while copper-price declines and debt-service pressures generate notable output losses. The study concludes that stagflation in Zambia is not merely a temporary cyclical disturbance, but a structural constraint on economic growth and transformation. It therefore recommends export diversification, stronger exchange-rate resilience, more productive public expenditure, prudent debt management, and labour-market strengthening as essential pillars of a coordinated policy response.
Copyright (c) 2026 Chabala Luswili, Dr. Sydney Chikalipah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Impact of farmer field schools on adoption of banana production technologies among smallholder farmers in Webuye East Sub-County, Bungoma County, Kenya
This study examined the impact of Farmer Field Schools (FFS) on the adoption of banana production technologies among smallholder farmers in Webuye East Sub-County, Bungoma County, Kenya. The study was guided by the diffusion of innovations theory, which explains how knowledge dissemination and social learning influence technology uptake among farmers. An evaluation research design was employed to facilitate comparison between FFS participants and non-participants within the same socio-economic context. The target population comprised smallholder banana farmers in the sub-county, from which a sample of 384 respondents was drawn, consisting of 192 FFS participants and 192 non-participants. A multistage sampling procedure was applied, incorporating purposive, stratified, cluster, and systematic random sampling techniques to ensure representativeness. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires administered through face-to-face interviews. Data analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistics, including means, independent sample t-tests, and Pearson correlation analysis to determine differences in adoption levels and relationships between variables. The findings revealed that participation in FFS had a statistically significant positive effect on the adoption of banana production technologies, with FFS farmers demonstrating higher adoption levels across all practices compared to non-participants (p < 0.001). The most pronounced differences were observed in the adoption of certified seedlings, pest and disease control, spacing, and integrated pest management practices, indicating the effectiveness of FFS in promoting knowledge-intensive technologies. The study concludes that FFS is a highly effective participatory extension approach that enhances farmers’ technical capacity, decision-making skills, and overall technology uptake. It is recommended that policymakers and development agencies scale up FFS programs, integrate them into national agricultural extension systems, and complement them with input access and market support mechanisms to maximize adoption outcomes and improve smallholder livelihoods.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lenis Nanjala Marani, Dr. Mary Goretti Kariaga, Dr. Rose Onamu, John Caleb Dimo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Financial literacy and financial capability as drivers of financial inclusion among women traders in Zambia's informal markets: An empirical investigation
This study investigates the direct and indirect effects of financial literacy on financial inclusion, mediated by financial capability, among women traders in Lusaka's informal markets, Zambia. The target population comprised 4,028 registered women traders across three major Lusaka markets - Lusaka Food Market, Lusaka City Market, and Soweto Market - with 273 women traders selected using stratified random sampling. The study was underpinned by three complementary theoretical frameworks: Sherraden's Financial Capability Framework, Ozili's Financial Literacy Theory of Financial Inclusion, and Sen's Capability Approach and employed a post-positivist mixed-methods sequential explanatory design. Structural equation modelling with 2,000-iteration bias-corrected bootstrapping was performed using AMOS 25. Results show that financial literacy significantly predicts financial capability (β = 0.497, p < .01) and that financial capability significantly predicts financial inclusion (β = 0.303, p < .05). The direct path from financial literacy to financial inclusion was statistically insignificant (β = 0.106, p = .334), indicating full mediation by financial capability (indirect effect = 0.250, p < .01). The structural model explained 44.5% of variance in financial inclusion (R² = 0.445). These findings underscore that financial literacy alone is insufficient for financial inclusion; practical capability development is the critical mediating mechanism. The study recommends institutionalised, skills-based financial capability programmes targeting informal women traders in Zambia, integrated with accessible institutional opportunity structures and aligned with the National Financial Inclusion Strategy II (2024–2028).
Women's financial empowerment and financial inclusion in Zambia's informal sector: Evidence from a mixed-methods study
This study examines the direct and mediated pathways through which financial literacy and financial empowerment influence financial inclusion among women traders in Lusaka's informal markets, Zambia. The target population comprised 4,028 registered women traders across three major Lusaka markets - Lusaka Food Market, Lusaka City Market, and Soweto Market. Employing a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design underpinned by the Ford Financial Empowerment Model, the Inclusive Financial Wellbeing Empowerment Model, and Sen's Capability Approach, the study collected quantitative data from 273 women traders using stratified random sampling across three major markets, supplemented by three focus group discussions. Structural equation modelling and thematic analysis were used for quantitative and qualitative analyses respectively. Results demonstrate that financial literacy significantly predicts financial empowerment (β = 0.550, p < .01) - the strongest of all pathways tested across the three-paper series - and that financial empowerment significantly predicts financial inclusion (β = 0.389, p < .05). The indirect effect of financial literacy on financial inclusion through financial empowerment was 0.355 (p < .01), establishing empowerment as a powerful mediator that exceeds the capability-mediated indirect effect of 0.250 documented in the companion paper. Qualitative findings from three focus group discussions corroborate these results, with participants identifying confidence in financial management, decision-making autonomy, and savings group participation as key empowerment-driven inclusion pathways, while social norm constraints emerge as the primary boundary condition attenuating the empowerment-to-inclusion relationship. The study concludes that women's financial empowerment is the most potent mediating mechanism in the financial literacy–inclusion nexus in informal markets and recommends the integration of empowerment-building components - specifically confidence development, peer mentoring, and savings group strengthening - into all financial inclusion interventions targeting women in Zambia's informal sector.
Public websites’ contents and their implications in mandated functions: A case of Tanzania local government authorities
To share information and offer services as well as enhance administrative transparency, the local government authorities (LGAs) are increasingly relying on public websites. Nonetheless, the extent to which the content of websites makes the smooth execution of legally mandated local government operations possible, particularly in developing countries, is still unknown. This paper examines the performance of the LGAs in Tanzania based on the accessibility, relevance of functionality, and scope of the content on the government websites, and it was guided by public value theory and the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework. The study employs a quantitative explanatory method using stratified and purposive sampling techniques to select respondents and get an overall sample of 312 respondents. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered through survey data among LGA officials responsible for information management, planning, administrative coordination, and other stakeholders. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to test mediating, moderating, and direct relationships among the constructs. The findings indicate that comprehensive and beneficial web content is very helpful in enhancing citizen engagement, accountability, transparency, and service delivery. The correlation between the scope of content and the necessary level of functional performance of the websites is moderated to some degree by the functional relevance, but the influence of the functional relevance on the outcomes of the performance is moderated positively by the institutional capacity. The study comes to the conclusion that government websites must be accessible, relevant, and of high quality in order for digital governance to be effective. To increase transparency and citizen involvement, the report advises LGAs to invest in institutional and technological capabilities, improve website content management, and create explicit standards for online information sharing. The study provides empirical evidence in the field of e-government research, besides providing policy-relevant insights to enhance the local government’s digital communication strategies in resource-constrained settings. A number of useful recommendations can be made based on the outcomes. LGAs need to change the focus on their websites to lessen their emphasis on announcements and PR and focus more on mandate-led content, focusing on service standards, budgets, procurement notices, performance reports, and citizen participation mechanisms. Standardised content guidelines to be followed by all LGA websites need to be developed by national bodies like PO-RALG and the e-Government Authority in order to maintain minimum standards of disclosure and quality. The usability and accessibility based on the user-centred design, frequent content updates, mobile-based interfaces, and bilingualism (Kiswahili/English) should be paid specific attention to close the digital gaps and positively influence the stakeholders.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lazaro A. Kisumbe, Mashala L. Yusuph, John W. Kasubi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0