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.
The influence of e-training and development on the HR performance of Tanzania local government authorities (LGAs)
The rapid advancement of digital Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) has transformed training and development activities in public institutions by integrating e-Training components such as Electronic Human Resource Skills Inventory (HRSI), Track and Administer Intervention (TAI), and Recording of Training Expenses (RTE). These systems aim to enhance employee competencies, streamline human resource operations, and improve overall organizational performance. While global studies have shown that e-training effectively supports workforce development, its adoption in Africa, particularly in Tanzania, faces challenges including inadequate infrastructure, low levels of digital literacy, and partial utilization of HRIS applications. Resource-Based View (RBV) theory and Human Capital Theory guided this research. This study employed a mixed-methods research approach to empirically examine the effects of HRSI, TAI, and RTE on human resource performance across 43 Local Government Authorities (LGAs) in Tanzania. Quantitative data were collected from 200 human resource and administrative officers using structured questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive statistics and multiple regression techniques. In addition, qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews and analyzed thematically. The findings indicate that all three e-training components positively influence HR performance, with RTE having the strongest effect, followed by HRSI and TAI. Qualitative results further reveal improvements in skills identification, monitoring processes, and financial accountability, leading to greater transparency. The study concludes that e-training components serve as strategic tools for workforce development and service delivery within Tanzanian LGAs. Consequently, the study emphasizes the need to prioritize strategic interventions to enhance the effectiveness of these e-training elements.
Copyright (c) 2026 Anna Majwala, Idda Lyatonga Swai, Anna Linje, Mackfallen G. Anasel https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Guest and expert panel selection as a determinant of political bias in broadcast programs in Nakuru County, Kenya
It is essential to choose the correct guests and specialists for political broadcast shows to make sure they are fair, neutral, and ideologically balanced. Even while the media in Kenya is getting better, there are still concerns about partisan representation and a lack of different points of view, especially in devolved areas like Nakuru County. This study examined the influence of guest and expert panel selection on political bias in television shows in Nakuru County. Agenda-setting theory and the political economy of media theory informed the analysis of how guest selection practices contribute to political bias in broadcast programming. The study employed a descriptive research design, concentrating on broadcast journalists, editors, producers, and consumers of political information. The study employed purposive sampling to generate a group of 74 media professionals as the participants. Data was collected by structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews, later analysed using SPSS (Version 30) for descriptive statistics, while thematic analysis was utilised for qualitative data. The findings showed that using the same political pundits over and over, favouring guests with similar political views, and not letting dissenting views be heard all strongly encourage political prejudice. Qualitative findings also emphasised the influence of ownership, political lobbying, and the lack of unbiased specialists as essential structural factors affecting biased panel membership. On the other side, choosing people based on their competence, which is based on their academic credentials, professional experience, and lack of political bias, made conversations more believable and fairer. The study concluded that the selection of individuals for political talk programs significantly influenced the framing of conversations and the ideological direction of televised debates. When shows repeatedly use the same commentators, especially those with known political views, the conversations tend to be slanted in a predictable way. The study recommends that to reduce political bias in broadcast programming, visitors need to be chosen in a clear, diversified, and merit-based fashion. The study also recommended using defined standards for appointing panellists, rotating panellists, and putting up independent expert registers to make political media material fairer and more trustworthy.
Copyright (c) 2026 John Maingi Wambui, Kennedy Njasi Simiyu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The influences of leadership styles on teachers’ job satisfaction in Tanzania: A case of public secondary schools in Hai District
This study investigated the influence of leadership styles on teachers’ job satisfaction in Tanzania. Specifically, the study examined factors for teachers’ job satisfaction in public secondary schools and the dominant leadership style that predicts high and low teachers’ job satisfaction in public secondary schools in Tanzania. This study was grounded in humanism theory and Herzberg's two-factor theory of motivation, which together provide a robust explanation for teachers' job satisfaction in public secondary schools. Mixed research approaches with the help of sequential exploratory research design were opted for. A total of 100 participants were used, whereby simple random sampling techniques and purposive sampling were used in selecting teachers and heads of schools, respectively. The researcher employed questionnaires, interviews, and documentary review in gathering both quantitative and qualitative data. The qualitative data were analyzed by using content analysis, whereas the quantitative data were analyzed by using descriptive analysis. It was found that both internal and external factors determine teachers’ job satisfaction, whereby salary was found to be the key determinant factor for teachers’ job satisfaction in public secondary schools by about 81.25%. The study further indicates that the democratic leadership style was dominant in predicting high teacher job satisfaction at about 84%, while dictatorship predicted low teacher job satisfaction at about 78%. The study recommended that there should be mechanisms situated to ensure that educational stakeholders and the government cooperate in ensuring teachers’ needs and wants are met. Additionally, the government, under the relevant ministry, must equip school heads with the necessary leadership and management skills. Further longitudinal study to assess change in teachers’ job satisfaction over time, particularly following the implementation of policy recommendations, needs to be carried out in secondary schools.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mwita Sospeter https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Exchange rate volatility knowledge base: Bibliometric study
Exchange rate volatility continues to shape global economies in profound ways, affecting everything from international trade and investment decisions to overall financial stability as markets become more interconnected. While researchers have produced a wealth of studies—building on classics like Purchasing Power Parity and relying heavily on tools such as Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity (GARCH) and Vector Autoregression (VAR) models—few have stepped back to map the entire field systematically. This study applied a bibliometric review to examine the exchange rate volatility knowledge base. The data was collected from the Scopus Database, including a sample set of 336 articles based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)'s systematic review techniques. The findings show that there has been increasing interest in this research area, evidenced by the increase in articles published. Based on this analysis, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany are the most prolific in providing information to the research on exchange rate fluctuations by way of articles published in the three peer-reviewed journals most commonly referenced: the Journal of Econometrics, the Journal of International Money and Finance, and the Journal of forecasting. Several gaps were uncovered, such as research published on emerging countries, the limited number of collaboration networks that exist between some authors (and countries), and new areas of research that are gaining importance in the evolving financial markets, including digital currencies and innovations in fintech. By delivering a clear, visually engaging overview, this review solidifies the knowledge base on exchange rate volatility and inspire more inclusive, innovative, and practically relevant future work. In view of this, researchers should expand studies on exchange rate volatility to underexplored regions, especially Africa and Latin America, to better understand institutional and economic influences. Incorporating advanced methods like machine learning and big data analytics can enhance prediction models and practical applications of exchange rate volatility theory in global contexts.
Copyright (c) 2026 Julieth Mambosho https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The effects of mobile audit tools on internal audit practices: Reflections from selected private companies in Tanzania
This study assessed the effectiveness of mobile audit tools on internal audit practices at private companies in Tanzania. It adopted the Diffusion of Innovation theory. The study also used an explanatory research design and a quantitative approach. Data were collected from a sample of 73 internal auditors at Assad Associates and Adolph Associates using structured questionnaires with a 5-point Likert scale. A purposive sampling technique was used to select participants with direct experience in auditing technologies. The collected data were processed and analysed using descriptive statistics and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) in SPSS v26 and Smart PLS 4, enabling the study to examine both basic trends and complex relationships between mobile auditing tools and internal audit effectiveness. The study’s findings indicate that mobile auditing tools significantly enhance audit effectiveness by improving clarity, timeliness, accuracy, flexibility, and overall efficiency. The study concludes that integrating mobile technologies is essential for modernizing internal audit functions. Thus, the study recommends that private companies prioritize the adoption and use of mobile auditing tools and provide targeted training for auditors to strengthen audit reliability, transparency, and overall organizational accountability.
Copyright (c) 2026 Florence William Sitima https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Academic staff perception and their readiness to use MOODLE learning platform in Tanzania higher learning institutions
The purpose of this study was to examine perceptions and readiness of academic staff to use the Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment (MOODLE) online learning platform in Higher Learning Institutions (HLIs). This study was guided by the Technology Acceptance Model. This study adopted a sequential exploratory mixed-methods design. The sampling unit consisted of academic staff from higher learning institutions (HLIs). Quantitative data were collected through a structured questionnaire from a sample of 155 academic staff across eight campuses of the Tanzania Institute of Accountancy (TIA). Using the academic staff register, a campus sub-sample was determined for each campus, and thereafter, a simple random sampling was used to select respondents from each campus. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively using a Likert scale, while qualitative data were analyzed using thematic content analysis with constant comparison. There was an association between campuses and perceptions of MOODLE use. The results indicate differences across campuses, with staff at campuses with better Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Mtwara, Kigoma) having strongly positive perceptions. The results further show that, across 18 statements, academic staff perceptions of MOODLE use were positive in 15. This implies that infrastructure and local support influence perceptions, and campuses lacking institutional commitment to e-learning and poor infrastructure result in low morale about MOODLE. It is recommended that institutes provide a strong and reliable internet connection, increase bandwidth, and establish a dedicated MOODLE support team or help desk. Institutions should train academic staff to use MOODLE and possibly mandate certain uses in coursework. Lastly, institutions should incorporate e-learning into their strategic plan, recognizing and rewarding innovative uses of MOODLE in teaching.
Copyright (c) 2026 Elimeleck Parmena Akyoo, Issaya Hassanal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
E-tendering as a pandemic mitigation tool: Lessons from Tanzania’s healthcare procurement during COVID-19
This study analyzed e-tendering practices for mitigating pandemic spread using a lesson from the COVID-19 spread in Tanzania as per Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on healthier lives and well-being. This study was guided by Diffusion of Innovation Theory and the Technology Acceptance Model using a quantitative approach by means of a census aided by a structured questionnaire from 150 staff of the Medical Stores Department using a cross-sectional explanatory survey design. Binary logistic regression revealed that receipt of requirements (Exp(B)=5.691, p=0.001), tender preparation (Exp(B)=1.603, p=0.030), submission (Exp(B)=12.655, p=0.041), and opening (Exp(B)=14.744, p=0.001) significantly reduced pandemic spread. However, evaluation (Exp(B)=1.632, p=0.123) showed no significant effect, highlighting the need for improved system integration. Interestingly, this study contributes to the body of knowledge by providing useful insights for the future by using e-tendering to countermeasure the pandemic spread whilst continuing to procure health-related supplies to save lives. The use of e-tendering helps to counteract the spread of pandemics due to reduced physical contact. Furthermore, this study involves multidisciplinary mingling of procurement, information systems, and healthcare. Practically, since the current NEST is incapable of automatically evaluating the tenders online, then a relevant module should be integrated to suffice the gap. However, this study revealed the relationship between e-tendering practices and the spread of the pandemics but did not consider the use of artificial intelligence in tendering to mitigate the spread of the pandemic. Therefore, further studies are required to address this issue. Also, since it has been five years since the outbreak of COVID-19, longitudinally, it is imperative to track how e-tendering has been embraced in reducing pandemic spread.
Copyright (c) 2026 Moza Mtengule, Honest F. Kimario, Elimeleck P. Akyoo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Rethinking the financial management skills of school heads on the quality of basic education: Implications for the Tanzania Development Vision 2050
The low quality of basic education, linked to limited financial management skills among school heads, threatens workforce training to foster the Tanzania Development Vision 2050 of building a prosperous, just, inclusive, and self-reliant economy. Therefore, this study examined gaps in financial management skills among school heads in Tanzania and explored how these skills relate to the quality of basic education. It used a sequential explanatory design, gathering data through questionnaires from 350 randomly selected school heads. We used key informant interviews with district accountant officers for validation and conducted a documentary analysis to assess the quality of basic education. The descriptive results indicated that the majority of school heads encounter financial management skill gaps, particularly in using public electronic payment systems, preparing and managing budgets, preparing and reporting financial statements, generating their own sources for school programs, conducting internal controls of school funds, and interpreting public financial laws and regulations. Similarly, the documentary analysis indicated a moderate quality of basic education in terms of academic performance, infrastructure, completion rate, and transition to advanced secondary education, which results from the financial management skills of school heads. Moreover, the correlation results indicated a strong and positive link between school heads’ financial management skills and the quality of basic education, with the highest correlation coefficients of (r = .741) for the quality of pedagogy and (r = .739) for the quality of teaching and learning resources. This relationship implies that gaps in financial management skills negatively affect the quality of basic education, which subsequently jeopardizes the national development vision 2050. Therefore, the study recommends providing financial management training for school heads and incorporating financial management skills in teacher education curricula.
Copyright (c) 2026 Geofrey John Shahanga, Elimeleck Parmena Akyoo, Mwita Sospeter https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The access-quality paradox: Examining the disconnect between financial inputs and learning outcomes in Zambia’s free education policy
The implementation of Free Education Policies (FEPs) is a central strategy for achieving inclusive and equitable quality education (SDG 4) in low- and middle-income countries. However, the relationship between enhanced public funding and improved academic performance is often paradoxical. This mixed-methods study investigates this paradox within the Copperbelt Province of Zambia. Analyzing survey data from 228 stakeholders (teachers, administrators, learners, and union representatives) and integrating perspectives from key civil society organizations: Zambia National Education Coalition (ZANEC), Forum for African Women Educationalists of Zambia (FAWEZA), the Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED), and the National Action for Quality Education in Zambia (NAQEZ), the research reveals that while the policy has successfully boosted enrollment and access (evidenced by a 95% survey response rate), it has simultaneously strained the education system. Quantitative findings demonstrate critical infrastructural deficits (e.g., a mean score of 1.82 for classroom spaciousness) and inconsistent resource availability. Qualitative data highlight systemic bottlenecks: overcrowded classrooms, delayed fund disbursement, and overburdened teachers. Triangulated with stagnant national examination trends, the evidence indicates that financial inputs are insufficient to produce gains in academic performance without parallel investment in enabling conditions for quality. The study concludes that the Zambian case exemplifies a critical policy gap where investment in access has not been matched by investment in the enabling conditions for quality. We argue for a fundamental shift toward integrated policy frameworks that explicitly link funding to quality assurance metrics, infrastructure development, and systemic capacity building. Drawing on a systems-thinking lens, the study demonstrates that Zambia’s Free Education Policy has expanded access without commensurate gains in learning outcomes due to systemic capacity constraints across infrastructure, human resources, and school management. The findings advance theories on implementing education policy by showing that fee abolition alone is insufficient and that sustainable improvements require integrated, quality-oriented investments that align access with learning conditions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Henry Sinkala, Henry Sinkala, Oliver Kabaso, Vincent Kanyamuna, Francis Simui, Gistered Muleya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
A lexico-semantic analysis of sense relations in EkeGusii circumcision social varieties
This paper investigates how EkeGusii conveys meaning and offers an insightful analysis of the relationships between meanings in the social varieties of EkeGusii circumcision. EkeGusii is a Bantu language spoken in Southwestern Kenya by about 2.6 million native speakers. The language is free of observable isoglosses, but within it are diglossia situations. Diglossia is a condition in society where two varieties of language exist side by side and each has a certain role. The paper focuses on levels of sameness and oppositeness as well as the homonymy-polysemy interface within EkeGusii circumcision social varieties. Sense relations are universal in all languages in the world. Sense relation is any relation between lexical units in the semantic system of a language. It is a relationship between words as expressed in synonymy, hyponymy, homonymy, and polysemy, as well as antonymy. These relationships are entered by being contrasted or substituted. A sense relation involving a word makes the word have the same or nearly the same meaning as another word. These words cannot be used in another context to bring out the same sense. Lexical semantic components of the lexical pragmatic approach are used. The lexical semantic component treats words as encoding concepts. Participatory observation and introspection by jotting down insightful ways of using language are used to elicit useful data. Data is also collected from a sample of twelve native speakers of EkeGusii. Data analysis involves classifying the lexical items into the respective parts of speech, glossing the words into English, and identifying the sense relations to which the words belong. Findings show that sense is realized as a case of style or register. Findings also point out that context plays a significant role in establishing meaning. Pitch and stress determine meaning in context. Differences in tone result in homonyms: words that have different meanings but are pronounced or spelled the same. Sense realization follows the different ways in which the male and the female genders manipulate language. It is recommended that more research on sense relations in other Bantu languages be carried out as a way of explaining sense relations further.
Copyright (c) 2026 Beatrice Kemunto C. Obwoge https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Community perception of forest protection and its implications: Insights from the peri-urban forest reserve in Kazimzumbwi, Tanzania
Due to the ecosystem services they provide, forest resources are essential for the development of human society. The protection of forests is inevitable because of their importance in ensuring sustainability. This study seeks to examine community perception on forest protection by integrating it with remote sensing data and investigates socio-economic and environmental implications of protection to the surrounding communities. This study used a case study design and was guided by Elinor Ostrom's socio-ecological theory. The study used a sample of 301 respondents for quantitative data and 12 respondents for qualitative data, making a total of 313 respondents. Respondents were selected from two wards of Kazimzumbwi and Kisarawe using simple random and purposeful sampling techniques. Various tools were used to collect the information, including the use of semi-structured questionnaires, key informants’ interviews, satellite images that were downloaded from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) archives, and reviews of literature. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics with the statistical Package of Social Sciences 12 while quantitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. The satellite data was analysed using the random forest (RF) algorithm and mapped in ArcGIS 10 software to examine the forest cover changes in Kazimzumbwi Forest Reserve from 1994 to 2024. The results showed that the majority of respondents were aware of forest protection, which was identified using several local knowledge indicators that indicated an increase in trees. Such an indicator was proved by a satellite image that shows the increase in bushland and open woodland and the decrease in the area occupied by grassland in the area. In a similar vein, respondents acknowledged the existence of social, economic, and environmental impacts in the area that were mainly reflected by economic hardship and a decrease in farmland. The increase in energy prices, control of soil erosion, climate regulation, improvement in biodiversity, fear and insecurity, rise in crime, lack of compensation, and enhancement of social services were all noted as significant issues. The study recommends the need to strengthen the governance system by engaging local communities in decision-making and establishing sustainable livelihood support to the community surrounded by the protected forest. It also recommends for implementing continuous environmental education provision among the key stakeholders to ensure sustainable commitment to the protection.
Copyright (c) 2026 Luzabeth Jackson Kitali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Impacts of coffee price volatility on the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Karagwe District, Tanzania
Coffee is one of the most well-known potential cash crops, serving as the primary source of income for millions of farmers in various countries worldwide. Despite its significance in generating income and employment for many, its price remains unpredictable. This study aimed to assess the impacts of coffee price fluctuations on the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Karagwe District. The study adopted the market-orientated agriculture theory. The theory posits that market-oriented agricultural production stimulates broader economic growth through linkages that encourage farmers to shift from subsistence farming to commercial-oriented farming. This aligns with the study, as most farmers in the study area have been involved in coffee production as a major cash crop, making competition in the coffee market both locally and internationally intense. A cross-sectional design and a mixed approach were used to achieve the study objectives. Data were collected from a sample of 90 smallholder farmers, representing 10% of the targeted population of coffee farmers registered with the Karagwe District Cooperative Union (KDCU Ltd), and from all six Agricultural Marketing Cooperative Societies (AMCOS) sampled to meet the study’s requirements. Furthermore, 15 key informants from all six AMCOS and KDCU Ltd were also interviewed using a checklist of predetermined questions. Descriptive statistics and a multiple linear regression model were used to evaluate how coffee price volatility affects rural livelihoods. The findings indicated that the socio-economic stability of farmers in Karagwe District who live in rural areas is negatively impacted by unstable coffee prices at the 5% significance level. The study concludes that the persistence of price instability in coffee has forced the decline in family income of smallholder farmers, which consequently prevents them from meeting life's necessities, leading to the deterrence of their livelihoods' sustainability. Therefore, it is recommended that the government, along with other agricultural stakeholders and cooperatives, should strengthen regulation of the coffee trade both locally and internationally, offer financial assistance with simple credit terms, and provide relevant financial and agricultural education to farmers, which may act as a coping mechanism for any kind of price volatility.
Copyright (c) 2026 Johnson Nason Katabwa, Dorence Martine Kalemile https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Job Performance: A Systematic Review
The rapid diffusion of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies across organizational functions has intensified scholarly interest in their implications for employee job performance. While existing studies highlight both productivity gains and emerging challenges associated with AI adoption, the intellectual structure, thematic evolution, and research frontiers of this growing body of literature remain fragmented. The goal of this study is to organize the scholarly contribution to the impact of artificial intelligence on job performance. The study was carried out by examining 1,747 publications that were indexed in the Scopus database. The data were analyzed to give an overview of the domain using the PRISMA sampling approach and VOSviewer software. We then reported tables, graphs, and maps to highlight the key performance metrics for the creation of articles and their citations. The findings demonstrate the frequent usage of phrases like “job performance,” “artificial intelligence,” “organization performance,” “human resources management,” “performance management,” and “machine learning,” among others. Furthermore, some of the more recent study subjects are revealed by the density map, including “digital education technology,” “innovation performance,” “emotional intelligence,” “big data analysis,” “deep learning algorithms,” “data augmentation,” “smart technologies,” and “knowledge specificity." The study offers valuable insights for managers and policymakers who aim to utilize AI to improve job performance while minimizing negative impacts on employees.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mashala L. Yusuph, Lazaro A. Kisumbe, John W. Kasubi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Stakeholder perspectives on the adequacy of sustainable tourism policy in Zambia: The case of the Kafue River catchment
This study examines the strategies for achieving sustainable tourism in biodiversity-rich regions, using Zambia's Kafue River Catchment as a case study. It specifically analyses the adequacy (and/or inadequacy) of Zambia’s current tourism policy to promote sustainable tourism from stakeholder perspectives and lived experiences. The Sustainability Theory guides its analysis. It utilises the qualitative case study design, which allows the use of in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to collect data. Thus, 21 community members (3 businesses, 16 households, and 2 customary chiefs) and three (3) key informants (1 association and 2 policymakers) were purposively selected for in-depth interviews from the population of about 200 households, five customary chiefs, and 12 businesses in the Lower Kafue River Catchment. The data analysis followed the qualitative thematic analysis approach. Its findings demonstrate that Zambia’s current tourism policy is inefficient in three critical aspects: content, implementation and justice. Based on this, the study concludes that there is an urgent need to revisit Zambia’s tourism policy to address the identified gaps and promote sustainable tourism both in the Kafue River Catchment and the country as a whole. In doing so, the study contributes to the current debates on sustainable tourism, reframing tourism policy as a co-created framework rather than a directive, which shifts policy from being compliance-orientated and externally imposed to being participatory, adaptive, and community-driven. As such, the study recommends the following as intervention measures: localised communication strategies, participatory governance platforms, continuous capacity building, and participatory policy implementation and monitoring mechanisms.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jack Kaale, Percy M. Ngwira, Robby Kapesa, Florence Phiri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Mapping the knowledge base on work–life balance: A bibliometric study
This study aims to present a comprehensive understanding of the evolving research landscape and diversification in the existing work-life balance (WLB) literature. It offers an in-depth evaluation of WLB studies using bibliometric analysis. The review is built on an examination of 628 papers published between 1985 and 2025, sourced from the Scopus database. The study assesses research significance by examining publication trends, more productive countries, highly cited papers and sources, frequently used co-words, and key study themes from four prominent clusters. The thorough examination of the data using VOSviewer software showed that 73% of the WLB documents were published after 2021, with 221 articles appearing in 2022, 2023, and 2024 alone out of a total of 628 articles. This data suggests that, although the topic has been around since 1985, it has only gained significant momentum in recent years. Geographically, the United States dominates WLB research due to its role in early industrialisation. Since then, the topic has gained traction in other developed nations. However, despite its widespread reception in these nations, there remains a research gap from the perspective of developing nations, which could be addressed through valuable future studies. This research analysis indicates that imminent studies could benefit from more extensive reviews, as they add value to this type of research. There are forty-five research papers with over one hundred global citations, indicating that the WLB topic holds worldwide significance and has substantial consequences for families, employees, and organisations. Most of the highly quoted WLB research focuses on related themes like “WLB practices”, “flexible work arrangements”, and “the gendered aspects of organisational policies”. Furthermore, an investigation of issued documents highlights “emerging study designs and possible gaps. It also offers insights into future research directions and potential areas for further exploration within the field. The study suggests that researchers should focus on pulling together big-picture reviews, digging deeper with more real-world studies in developing countries, and trying approaches that connect the dots across different contexts and compare them side by side. For policymakers and managers, the key takeaway is clear: creating work-life balance policies that truly fit people's diverse realities and local needs isn't just nice to have—it's essential for keeping employees happy and healthy while building organisations that can thrive in the long run.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mashala L. Yusuph, Lazaro A. Kisumbe, Wakara Nyabakora https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The impact of the fertilizer subsidy programme on smallholder maize farmers' livelihoods in the Northern Region of Ghana
Agriculture is one of the strongholds of Ghana's economy, with about half of the country dependent on the sector. However, farm yields are low because of the very minimal use of improved technologies and fertilizers. The government of Ghana has made fertilizer subsidy programmes available to boost production; the programme has not been able to meet all its goals. This research project adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design that encompassed both quantitative and qualitative approaches to evaluate the effects of the fertilizer subsidy programme on the livelihoods of the smallholder maize farmers in the Northern Region of Ghana. A sample of 400 farmers was selected from a population of 123,626 smallholder maize farmers in the Northern Region, based on the Cochran (1977) formula. Five districts were randomly selected, namely Tolon, Kumbungu, Yendi, Savelugu, and Mion. Four communities were randomly selected in each district, and 20 farmers per community were randomly sampled. Structured questionnaires were administered to the sampled farmers, followed by in-depth interviews with the 40 lead farmers. The research used descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and ordered logistic regression models to analyze the data. A composite welfare index was also used to determine the programme’s impact on outcome variables like maize yield, household income, and well-being. The results showed that fertilizer use alone accounted for a significant share of variation in maize yields, and the farmers who applied the recommended rates of fertilizers obtained better yields. The results showed delays in disbursement and improper targeting of farmers limited the economic impact of the programme on individual household members. This concludes that though the fertilizer subsidy programme has gone a long way in improving the livelihood of the smallholder maize farmers in Northern Ghana through increased yields and income, it failed in achieving all its stated goals. It is therefore recommended that efficient fertilizer distribution mechanisms be put in place to ensure timely delivery, coupled with a well-structured monitoring system to avoid smuggling into commercial shops and unintended beneficiaries.
Copyright (c) 2026 Samuel Safo K. Allotey, Fadilah Mohammed, Clement Yaw Lamptey https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
In-service training and teacher job performance: A study of senior high schools in the Bongo District of Ghana
This study examined the influence of in-service training on the job performance of senior high school teachers in the Bongo District of Ghana. By way of its theoretical framework, Odiorne's Theory of Human Capital was found to be suitable, and the same was utilised in guiding the study. The study employed a descriptive survey design. A sample size of one hundred and thirteen (113) out of a targeted population of one hundred and sixty-three (163) teachers from four (4) senior high schools in the administrative area was obtained using the simple random sampling technique. The data collection tool was a questionnaire that the researcher constructed. Descriptive statistical tools, thus means and standard deviations, were used to analyse the data. The study revealed that in-service training promotes networking among teachers and enhances teachers’ performance in the teaching and learning situation. Further, some notable challenges of implementation include inadequate trainers in the various subject areas and inadequate funding. To conclude, therefore, in-service training programmes do have a multitude of positive effects on the core mandate of teachers. However, there are knotty challenges that should be addressed. This study thus recommends the need for relevant stakeholders in education to intervene by pulling their synergies together in order to address these concerning challenges.
Copyright (c) 2026 Alaric Awingura Alagbela https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Household dynamics and national health insurance scheme enrollment: Findings from a baseline study in rural Ghana
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Target 8) requires that all individuals and communities receive healthcare services without constraints. Over the past few decades, geographical access to healthcare services in Ghana has improved. However, economic access had been a major hindrance to healthcare utilization until the introduction of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). To enroll in the NHIS and qualify to access healthcare services, one is required to pay a premium or renew their expired membership. Payment of premium or renewal of membership, among other factors, has been one of the major challenges inhibiting enrollment into the NHIS, thereby hindering access to healthcare. This study seeks to examine factors that are associated with NHIS enrollment in a rural district of Ghana. The findings will enable us to provide context-specific interventions to improve NHIS enrollment to overcome economic challenges in respect of healthcare access. The study relied on the Health Belief Model (HBM). Data for this analysis came from the Afadjato South District Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS). Under the system, individuals and their households were enumerated. Socio-demographic information was collected on individuals and households. Information on National Health Insurance enrollment was also collected for all individuals. The simple logistic regression method was used for the analysis to examine the factors that are associated with NHIS enrollment. In all, 11,082 individuals were part of this analysis, out of which 65% had valid NHIS enrollment. The results indicated that higher household socio-economic status (SES) was associated with higher odds of NHIS enrollment. Other variables that showed association with NHIS enrollment include individuals in female-headed households and individuals in households with educated heads. In addition, being in a large household, being an urban resident, and being a female were all found to be associated with higher odds of NHIS enrollment. The study concluded that household characteristics are important predictors of NHIS enrollment. In particular, NHIS registration and renewal is affected by household SES, where poor households are less likely to enroll. Therefore, policies aimed at getting more people to enroll in the NHIS should consider targeting poor and vulnerable households for support, such as premium exemptions or cash transfers to the poor and vulnerable groups in the population. Also, public education on the health benefits of NHIS enrollment should be intensified, particularly among rural and uneducated members of the population.
Copyright (c) 2026 George Wak, Eric Osei, Livingston Asem, Prince Kubi Appiah, Isaiah Agorinya, Christopher Tii, Martin Adjuik https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Assessing the impact of devolution on the emergency management system (EMS) in Kenya
This study advocates for a cohesive legal and regulatory framework to rectify the disjointed state of emergency management in Kenya. It comprehensively surveys existing literature, such as scholarly articles, laws, policies, and institutional structures, using a desk review method to identify gaps and suggest solutions. The study indicates that Kenya's current emergency management system is not functioning effectively due to unclear lines of responsibility between the national and county governments, as well as inconsistent funding for disaster management. This approach leads to poorly planned interventions that only happen when there is an emergency. The proposed framework is based on Article 4 of the Kenyan Constitution, which says that Kenya is a sovereign, multi-party democratic state that follows national principles of governance. These values outlined in Article 10 comprise the rule of law, democracy, public participation, human dignity, social justice, and long-term growth. All these aspects are important for an emergency response system that works well and respects people's rights. The study argues that Kenya can meet its constitutional obligation to safeguard human rights and deliver public services by establishing a cohesive framework that delineates standards for command authority, funding mechanisms, and communication protocols across all tiers of government. This framework would make emergency responses more coordinated and effective by getting national and county governments, as well as non-governmental organizations, involved. It would also protect core values and rights, such as the right to life and access to emergency services for all citizens.
Copyright (c) 2026 Duke Ongere Ombati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Local community engagement, governance, and sustainability in marine resource management: Evidence from Tanzania
Marine resources and coastal ecosystems support the livelihoods of billions of people in developing countries. To ensure the sustainability of marine resources, it is imperative to understand local community awareness of the governance instruments that regulate their utilization. The present study explored the actors responsible for the management and conservation of marine resources, investigated governance instruments used, and identified the challenges encountered in marine resource utilization and management in Dar es Salaam. The study used a case study design and was guided by Ostrom's common pool resource theory. The study used a sample size of 223 respondents for quantitative data and 14 respondents for qualitative data, making a total of 237 participants. Respondents were selected from two wards of Ununio and Mbweni using simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Various tools were used in collecting the information, including the use of structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews and reviewing the relevant literature. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, discourse analysis, and thematic analysis, as well as a relative importance index using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 12. The findings obtained were presented using tables and descriptions organized across major themes. The results indicate that the local community asserts the existence of various governance instruments, which include policies, rules, regulations, traditions, and norms that govern the utilization of the marine resources. Furthermore, various actors were responsible for the management and conservation of the marine resources, including the government through its respective ministries, the Beach Management Unit, and the local community. Despite the efforts of marine resource actors, several challenges hindering the conservation and management of marine resources were identified, including inequitable sharing of coastal resources, inadequate stakeholder engagement in decision-making, and inadequate communication among key stakeholders. Thus, to enhance sustainable management and conservation of marine resources, the respondents call for the establishment of regular patrols and enhancement of the cooperation between B.M.U. and the local communities in managing marine resources.
Convergence and divergence of adjusted net national income per capita and GDP per capita in Sub-Saharan Africa
This paper uses a novel approach that combines a non-conventional indicator of income inequality (the "Adjusted Net National Income per capita" – ANNIPC) together with the traditional indicator (the "GDP per capita" – GDPPC) to test for income convergence and divergence. In addition, the paper evaluates the effects of inflation, gross fixed capital formation, unemployment, labour force, and institutional factors on ANNIPC and GDPPC using the spatial lag and OLS regression models. The results of income convergence and divergence tests for both ANNIPC and GDPPC reveal comparable patterns, with a diverging trend being apparent in the initial period (1971–1994) succeeded by a converging trend in the subsequent years (i.e., 1995 to the early 2020s). The results of the spatial regression indicated that overall, the models were statistically significant due to the inclusion of spatial components. However, the individual predictors did not significantly explain the variability in ANNIPC and GDPPC. On the other hand, the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) results revealed that GDPPC was significantly influenced by gross capital formation, unemployment, and the total labour force. We underscore the need for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to enhance the economic prospects of Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) to consider the complex relationships between inflation, gross capital formation, and labour dynamics. Strategies should not only address immediate economic concerns but also focus on promoting sustainable and inclusive growth for the future.
Copyright (c) 2026 Barthlomeow Reuben Kadigi, Gody J. Sanga, Charles P. Mgeni, Michael L. Kadigi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Modeling vaccination and environmental hygiene strategies: An ordinary differential equations approach for optimizing cholera interventions
The objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of vaccination and environmental hygiene interventions in controlling cholera outbreaks. We used an Ordinary Differential Equation model using MATLAB for the numerical simulations to examine the influence of varying vaccination rates and sanitation measures on cholera transmission within a population over a simulated period of 400 days. The results showed that increased vaccination rates significantly reduced the susceptible population, while improved sanitation measures led to a decrease in the environmental bacterial load. The computed basic reproduction number is R_0=0.00081634, which is significantly less than unity, indicates that, under the combined effects of vaccination and environmental sanitation interventions, cholera transmission is effectively eliminated. Sensitivity analysis revealed that transmission rate and the rate at which exposed individuals become infectious are the most influential parameters and that the vaccination rate exhibits a high sensitivity index, highlighting the substantial impact of vaccination coverage on cholera transmission dynamics. In contrast, the recovery rate and the waning rate of vaccine-induced immunity have negligible sensitivity indices, indicating a limited influence on the model outcome within the parameter ranges considered. Environmental parameters, including the bacterial decay rate, bacterial shedding rate, and sanitation intervention rate, exhibit relatively low sensitivity values. While their individual effects are modest, collectively, they contribute to reducing environmental contamination and complement direct human-targeted interventions. These findings suggest that a combined approach of heightened vaccination efforts and rigorous environmental hygiene practices is essential for the timely control of cholera outbreaks.
Copyright (c) 2026 Daniel Christopher, Lydia Lwegelela, Bahati Ilembo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Bridging the digital divide: Integrating information literacy instruction to empower distance learners – a five-year systematic literature review (2020–2025)
The rapid expansion of digital and distance learning modalities has intensified the need for robust information literacy (IL) competencies among higher education students. This 5-year systematic literature review (2020–2025) synthesises 87 peer-reviewed studies to explore how IL instruction can bridge the digital divide and empower distance learners. Findings reveal that distance learners face critical challenges in advanced information search, evaluation, and academic use of digital content. Enablers of IL success include embedded librarianship, scaffolded IL instruction, inquiry-based learning, and discipline-specific IL integration. On the contrary, constraints relate to limited IL policies, weak faculty–librarian collaboration, poor ICT infrastructure, and low learner self-efficacy. The review concludes that integrating IL instruction into distance learning curricula is essential for learner empowerment, academic success, and lifelong learning. The study recommends institutional IL policies, structured collaborations, improved ICT resources, and sustained assessment frameworks to enhance IL outcomes in digital learning environments. Finally, a conceptual model for integrating IL into distance education is proposed, illustrating how inputs, processes, outputs, and learner outcomes interact to reduce the digital divide among learners and leading to enhanced quality of distance education.
Copyright (c) 2026 Francina N.S. Makondo, Christine Wamunyima Kanyengo, Francis Simui https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Developing Essential Skills for Undergraduates in a Time of Polycrisis: An Empirically-Driven Framework for Higher Education
In an era of polycrisis – characterized by interconnected environmental, economic, social, and health crises amplified by neoliberal policies – higher education must evolve to equip undergraduates with essential skills beyond traditional technical knowledge. This study, situated at the University of Eswatini, (UNESWA), aimed to identify the essential skills undergraduates require to navigate and contribute positively in such contexts, addressing gaps in curricula that prioritize qualification while neglecting socialization and subjectification, as per Biesta's (2015) educational domains. The purpose was to identify perceived essential skills, curricular deficiencies, and integration strategies to foster transformative learning. Employing a mixed-methods sequential design, the research began with a literature review on skills for complexity. Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with five purposively selected education stakeholders, exploring perceptions of skills, gaps, and pedagogies. Quantitative data came from surveys of 225 undergraduates randomly selected through stratified sampling (75% response rate) and 18 educators (90% response rate), using a Likert scale to rank skill priorities and identify gaps. Key findings reveal a consensus on top skills: critical thinking and problem-solving (mean 4.6/5), resilience and adaptability (4.5), sustainability awareness and ethical reasoning (4.4), digital literacy and collaboration (4.3), and civic engagement and social justice (4.2). Surveys indicated 72% of undergraduates view curricula as inadequate for polycrisis, with a bias toward qualification over other domains. Qualitative themes highlighted polycrisis as exposing qualification limitations, deficits in ethical initiative and resilience, curricular bottlenecks fostering passivity, and the need for pedagogical shifts like project-based learning. The study concluded that higher education must balance Biesta's (2015) domains to nurture resilient, ethical agents. An empirically-driven framework integrates skills across qualification (e.g., problem-solving), socialization (e.g., collaboration), and subjectification (e.g., ethical initiative), promoting modular curricula, real-world projects, and reflective assessments. Recommendations include prioritizing subjectification through activities building autonomy and ethics; integrating domains via project-based assignments; reforming assessment to reflective portfolios; and conducting multi-site comparative research to adapt the framework regionally.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ntfombi V. Kunene https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Participatory learning methods and their usefulness in higher learning institutions of developing countries: Critical literature review
The research study focused on participatory learning methods which universities from multiple countries implement to understand their current status, benefits and obstacles in their application. Guided by participatory action learning theory and constructivist learning theory, the review highlights the pedagogical value of positioning students as active co-constructors of knowledge. The study performed a systematic search for peer-reviewed studies from 2017 to 2025 through major research databases before applying thematic analysis to detect emerging patterns. The study demonstrated that participatory learning methods which include as problem-based learning, flipped classrooms, peer instruction and facilitated learning, team-based learning, co-creation of learning experiences, participatory action learning and student-centred learning affect student academic success. The implementation of these methods encounters barriers because of existing system limitations which include oversized classrooms, insufficient resources, unprepared teachers and diverse educational contexts between various higher education institutions. Therefore, the study recommends that learning institutions need to establish mentorship programs alongside monitoring systems and incentive structures to help lecturers use participatory teaching methods in their classrooms. Cross-cultural and longitudinal studies is recommended in understanding how participatory learning methods can be adapted to maximise student learning and engagement globally.
Copyright (c) 2026 Janeth Migamba; Edmund Zakayo, Mwajabu Mashinde https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Level of community collaboration in the implementation of wildlife conservation and management policy in King’wal Wildlife Conservancy, Nandi County, Kenya
This paper examined the extent of community collaboration in the implementation of Kenya’s Wildlife Management Policy in King’wal Wildlife Conservancy in Nandi County, Kenya. It was guided by the Rational Choice Theory. The paper adopted a descriptive survey research design in which both a structured questionnaire and interview schedule were used to gather information from the sampled respondents. The target population comprised assistant chiefs, village elders, conservation administrators, Non-Governmental Organizations [NGOs] chairpersons, and households, consisting of 855 people. A sample of 273 respondents was selected using the stratified sampling technique. Frequencies, means, and percentages were used to analyze the data and to describe and summarize the findings in terms of descriptive statistics. There was a pre-testing to improve the validity and reliability of the research instruments. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative data, and open-ended responses and interviews were analyzed qualitatively with the use of thematic analysis and identifying the emerging patterns. The results revealed that community cooperation had a significant impact on policy enactment. The unstandardized coefficient (B) of a community collaboration was 0.567, and the standard error was 0.084, which means that a one-unit rise in community collaboration led to a rise in the implementation of the Wildlife Management Policy by 0.567 units, holding other variables steady. This means that an increasing degree of cooperation is linked with more efficient implementation of policies. The research established that the extent of community participation in wildlife management at King’wal Wildlife Conservancy was moderate, implying the existence of gaps in information sharing and representation. Based on the results and findings of this research, it is suggested that the conservation authorities ought to design more effective communication strategies in order to ensure that information regarding the management of wildlife policies is made available to all the segments of the community.
Copyright (c) 2026 Josphat K. Koech, Edmond M. Were, Daniel Rotich Kandagor https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Navigating the dilemma between social realities and public health: Health beliefs and COVID-19 protocol non-adherence among fishers in Winneba, Ghana
Globally, the fisheries sector was identified as one of the most vulnerable to the socio-economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, with several countries imposing complete shutdowns. In Ghana, however, the government did not include a total closure of the fishing sector as part of its COVID-19 interventions. Despite awareness of the disease and associated preventive protocols, many fishers in coastal communities in the Central Region, particularly in Winneba, exhibited low adherence. This study sought to identify and explain the cognitive and contextual factors influencing this non-adherence. Guided by the Health Belief Model (HBM) and adopting a qualitative case study approach, the research draws on data collected through interviews with three chief fishermen, three focus group discussions, and observations from transect walks in three fishing communities in Winneba. A thematic analysis of the data reveals that the socio-economic conditions, communal lifestyle, and occupational realities of the fishers serve as significant barriers to the adoption of the preventive behaviours. Moreover, local fishers largely perceived COVID-19 as a distant, dangerous disease that had little relevance to their daily lives. These perceptions were reinforced by health communication cues that lack local relevance or evidential resonance. The study concludes that the fishers' low risk perception, in conjunction with economic and social barriers, leads to their non-adherence to COVID-19 protocols. Without locally grounded, context-specific messaging that reflects the realities of these communities, health communication interventions are unlikely to bring about meaningful behavioural change. The study therefore recommends that health interventions in coastal and, by extension, rural communities should be informed by a communication-based assessment that addresses the unique challenges of the targeted communities and audiences.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bismark Odum-Sackey https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Undergraduate business students’ perception of auditing: Knowledge and proximity impacts on auditor stereotypes
This study investigates the perceptions of Ghanaian undergraduate business students toward the auditing profession, focusing on how knowledge sources and proximity contribute to the development of auditor-related stereotypes. The research is theoretically anchored in attribution theory and stereotype theory. The study adopts a positivist paradigm and utilizes a cross-sectional survey design to gather quantitative data. The target population comprised approximately 26,000 undergraduate business students across seven public universities in Ghana offering business and economics programs. Using probability sampling, a representative sample of 374 students was selected. The sample included students studying accounting, auditing, and economics. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on students' audit knowledge sources, satisfaction with their introductory accounting course, and impressions of auditors' work, careers, and image. Data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was performed using SPSS version 28 (4.0.4) to identify latent dimensions of auditor stereotypes. Regression analysis was then employed to examine the effect of covariates such as knowledge acquisition, course enrollment type, and course satisfaction on students’ perceptions of auditors. The results show that students who chose to take auditing courses had much better opinions of auditors' careers, job roles, and professional image than students who were required to take the course or didn't take it at all. Academic training, family and social exposure, and satisfaction with their first accounting course also influenced their perceptions. The study concludes that improving students' exposure to auditing, especially through voluntary and engaging course designs, can enhance their perceptions of the audit profession. It recommends that educational authorities, accounting educators, and professional auditing bodies design targeted interventions that address negative stereotypes and promote positive career awareness, potentially increasing interest in the auditing field.
Copyright (c) 2026 Redruph Nyaaba Ayimpoya, Dr. Fuseini Mahama, Zakaria Abubakari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0