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.
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
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
Artificial intelligence in investment decision-making: A senior management perception among commercial banks in Kenya
The banking sector is being significantly reshaped by the rapid introduction and application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the investment decision-making processes of commercial banks. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to analyze perceptions of AI in investment decision-making by senior management in commercial banks in Kenya. The study was anchored by rational decision-making theory, bounded rationality theory, intuitive decision-making theory, heuristic decision-making theory, and the technology acceptance model. The mixed-methods approach was utilized in the study and survey and in-depth interviews with senior management of commercial banks, with secondary information drawn from industry sources. The target population was the senior managers in the investment department in all the thirty-nine commercial banks in Nairobi City. The study adopted a census approach in all the thirty-nine commercial banks. AI applications allow commercial banks to streamline their workflows and improve the ability to forecast true business health, enabling decision-making based on quality data. AI adoption leads to minimized operational risks and dynamic adaptation of investment strategies due to market changes. The study employed a mixed-methods approach to explore the possibilities of AI, the challenges of AI, and the possibilities of applying AI in the banking sector. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 25 for descriptive and inferential statistics. The results show significant positive correlations: leadership commitment with organizational culture (r=0.65, p<0.01), resource availability with leadership (r=0.58, p<0.01), and organizational flexibility (r=0.62, p<0.01). Employee attitudes are positively correlated with leadership (r=0.52, p<0.01) and culture (r=0.55, p<0.01), while perceptions of AI risks are negatively correlated with leadership (r=-0.45, p<0.01). The regression model explains 61% of perception variance (R²=0.61), with leadership showing the strongest influence (β=0.33, p<0.01), followed by culture (β=0.28, p<0.01), resource availability (β=0.22, p<0.01), and employee attitudes (β=0.17, p=0.018). Perceived risks negatively impact perceptions (β=-0.14, p=0.022). The model’s F-statistic is 18.2 (p<0.001), indicating overall significance and emphasizing the importance of organizational support in AI adoption. The report provides actionable recommendations, including augmented AI training programs, investing in AI with high scalability, and developing transparent frameworks for regulating AI in a way that will promote AI use in Kenya’s banking sector. This will enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and optimization of financial decisions. Findings from this study can be used in the formulation of policy issues on the development of AI-specific regulations and guidelines for the prudent use of AI technologies in the financial services industry in evaluating their present investment decision-making, thus contributing to SDG 9 on industry innovation and infrastructure.
Copyright (c) 2026 Milton Mucembi, Dr. Ruthwinnie Munene 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
Performance-based assessment of pre-service teachers’ planning skills in selected topics in the chemistry curriculum for colleges of education in Ghana
This study examined the extent to which pre-service teachers in a Ghanaian college of education exhibit planning skills as a key science process skill, using performance-based assessment. Grounded in constructivist learning theory, inquiry-based science education, and authentic assessment, the study adopted a quantitative approach complemented with an alternative assessment strategy. The target population was level 300 pre-service teachers. A purposive sample of 227 level 300 pre-service teachers offering primary education participated in the study. Data were collected using three performance-based tasks designed from the general chemistry curriculum—distillation, density, and osmosis—implemented through a station-by-station assessment model. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the extent of planning skills exhibited, while independent samples t-tests examined gender differences. Results revealed that pre-service teachers demonstrated generally high levels of planning skills across all three tasks, particularly in identifying procedures, sequencing steps, and organising experimental activities. However, persistent weaknesses were observed in the integration of safety measures, measurement accuracy, and explicit conceptual justification. Inferential analysis showed no statistically significant gender differences in planning skills across the tasks. These findings suggest that planning skills develop equitably among male and female pre-service teachers when assessed through authentic, inquiry-oriented tasks. It is recommended that colleges of education explicitly integrate laboratory safety reasoning into the teaching and assessment of science process skills.
Copyright (c) 2026 Anna Mwinbuabu Naah, Valentina Osei-Himah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Social media ecosystems and transnational radicalization outcomes in Kenya: A mixed-methods analysis of content, platforms, networks, and algorithms
Violent extremist organizations increasingly exploit digital and social media to disseminate ideology, recruit adherents, and coordinate across borders. In the Horn of Africa, these dynamics interact with local socio-economic vulnerabilities, yet the mechanisms through which digital environments facilitate transnational radicalization at sub-national levels remain under-examined. This paper investigates the digital-media drivers of radicalization into extremism in Kenya, focusing on Likoni Sub-County in Mombasa County. Drawing on Liberalism, Transnationalism, and Securitization perspectives, the paper disaggregates digital influence into four mechanisms: online content, platform-specific dynamics, transnational network reach, and algorithmic exposure. A mixed-methods design combined questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions among youth, community leaders, former programme participants, security personnel, civil society actors, and digital literacy trainers. Using Yamane’s formula (8% margin of error), a sample of 156 respondents was selected through multi-stage, simple random, convenience, purposive, and snowball techniques. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Results indicate that digital and social media significantly predict radicalization outcomes (R² = .634, F=115.032, p< .01), with platform dynamics (β=.336), online content (β=.298), network reach (β=.272), and algorithmic influence (β=.216) emerging as strong predictors. Qualitative evidence further shows how local grievances are reframed within global extremist narratives, recruitment shifts across open and encrypted platforms, and algorithmic curation reinforces echo chambers. The paper argues for balanced counter-radicalization approaches integrating security measures with rights-sensitive digital governance, platform-tailored regulation, digital literacy, and cross-border cooperation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fatuma Musa Said, Fredrick Ochieng Agola, Graham Amakanji Oluteyo 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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
Income differentials and academic staff attrition in South-South public universities, Nigeria
This paper has explored income differentials and academic staff attrition in south-south public universities, Nigeria. Equity theory guided this study. The study used the tracer method of ex-post-facto research design, which surveyed 370 academic staff members who were sampled using multi-stage sampling in a population of 10,570 academics in the region. The questionnaire that was used to gather data was titled Incomes Differentials and Academic Staff Attrition Questionnaire (IDASAQ), which was validated through expert judgement and was further subjected to Cronbach's alpha reliability, and it yielded a coefficient of 0.89. Research questions were analysed using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequencies, and percentages), and the Pearson product-moment correlation hypothesis was used to test the hypothesis at a 0.05 significance level. The results showed that academic staff generally perceive significant income differences between the university sector and comparable roles in other sectors of the economy. Also, it was discovered that the rate of attrition of the academic staff in universities is quite high. Furthermore, the findings showed a significant correlation between the rate of attrition in universities and the perception of income differences among academic staff. Conclusively, the issue of income differentials is one of the biggest challenges to the retention of academic personnel in public universities. It was thus recommended that immediate restructuring of academic salary scales occur to achieve competitiveness with other sectors, along with the institutionalisation of regular salary increments based on inflation indices, the adoption of special retention measures including research allowances and performance-based incentives, and ongoing discussions between the government, university management, and academic unions to develop evidence-based income policies that reconcile fiscal realities with the need to maintain quality academics.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nkedishu, Victor Chukwubueze, Okonta, Vinella, Akpotu, Nelson Ejiro https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Unearthing the marks on the road of Chinese language education in Zambia
As China strengthens its economic, political, and cultural engagement with Zambia, Mandarin has emerged as a significant linguistic resource for academic mobility, employment, and cross-cultural communication. Despite this rapid expansion, limited empirical evidence exists on the lessons drawn from the operational and pedagogical experiences of the Chinese Institute of the University of Zambia (CIUNZA). A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews and focus group discussions. The study was informed by the cultural globalization theory. The study randomly sampled 45 CIUNZA students and purposively sampled 4 alumni, 2 Zambian and 2 Chinese instructors, 4 administrators, and 2 employers. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS to determine levels of agreement and trends in motivations and perceptions. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed to identify emerging patterns related to institutional management, learner experiences, and sociocultural dynamics. The findings indicate that the growth of Mandarin education in Zambia is driven by supportive sociopolitical relations between Zambia and China. Over 80% of learners reported instrumental motivations, citing improved job opportunities with Chinese enterprises and enhanced global competitiveness. However, challenges emerged, including limited local teacher capacity, insufficient contextualized teaching materials, inconsistent curriculum integration, and dependence on Chinese funding and expertise. Stakeholders emphasized the need for sustainable local ownership, curriculum localization, and stronger government policy alignment. Chinese language education in Zambia has achieved significant growth, anchored in institutional partnerships and learner aspirations shaped by global economic shifts. However, its sustainability depends on improved management structures, enhanced teacher development, and policies that balance external support with national educational priorities. In conclusion, the study showed that Zambia’s experience with Chinese language education programmes indicate substantial progress in cultural exchange, learner enthusiasm, and perceived relevance of the Chinese language. On the other hand, the study also unearthed the pedagogical challenges that must be addressed for sustainable growth and continuity with national ownership. The study recommends strengthening local teacher training programs, developing Zambia-specific Mandarin teaching materials, integrating Mandarin into national language policy frameworks, and enhancing monitoring and evaluation systems for language outcomes. It further suggests that Zambia pursue a more balanced cultural exchange model that promotes mutual linguistic and cultural understanding while safeguarding educational sovereignty.
Copyright (c) 2026 Harrison Daka, Guoping Fan, Mukuka Lydia Mulenga-Hagane https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Influence of county resource planning on sanitation service delivery at Makueni County government in Kenya
Devolution of governance in Kenya was intended to improve service delivery at the county level. However, many counties are still facing substantial challenges in meeting the needs of their populations. A key constraint is the inadequate allocation of resources, which significantly impairs the capacity of county governments to effectively provide essential services, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The objective of this study is to examine the influence of county resource planning on sanitation service delivery in Makueni County government in Kenya. The study was grounded in the Max Weber theory of bureaucracy. A descriptive survey research design was used. The study population was 208 stakeholders involved in sanitation services in Makueni County, out of which 30% was selected as the sample size using the stratified random sampling method. In total, the sample size was 66 participants. Questionnaires and an observation guide were used for data collection. A pilot study was done to assess the reliability and validity of the instrument. Primary data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The descriptive statistics comprised percentage frequencies, means, and standard deviation, and were presented using tables. These statistics helped to establish the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The findings revealed that county resource planning is widely institutionalized and plays a critical role in shaping sanitation services. The study concluded that county resource planning strategies are a foundational determinant of sanitation service delivery in Makueni County. It recommends that Makueni County Government should strengthen its resource planning strategies by ensuring not only the adequate allocation of financial, human, and technical resources but also the timely disbursement of funds to avoid bureaucratic delays. Stronger integration between county planning frameworks and national sanitation priorities should be pursued to enhance coherence, legitimacy, and long-term sustainability.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kipngetich Towett, Godfrey Ungaya, Evans Nyamwaka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Income gains without sustainability? Evaluating matching grants for smallholder farmers in Chipili District, Zambia
One of the most common programs to boost smallholder farming enterprises in Africa is a matching grant program, although there has been mixed evidence of whether short-term increases in income can be translated into long-term sustainability of enterprise. This study explores the effect of matching grants on household income, savings, and sustainability of smallholder farming businesses in the sustainable operation of Chipili District in the long term. This study is anchored in the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF), which posits that access to productive assets and financial capital enhances livelihood outcomes only when supported by institutional structures and enabling environments. The study analyzes post-grant enterprise continuity based on a survey that was undertaken on 352 respondents and evaluates the potential demographic factors contributing to enterprise continuity. Econometric models such as logistic regression and propensity score matching are utilized in the analysis to determine the causal effect of matching grants on household savings and income. The findings suggest that the matching grants raised household income and savings by a significant margin in the short term, but merely 19.6 percent of beneficiary enterprises continued to operate after the grant, and 80.4 percent of these enterprises stopped their operations. The demographic characteristics were found not to have a statistically significant relationship with the survival of the enterprise. The study concludes that matching grants are useful for improving short-term household welfare but are not enough to ensure long-term business sustainability. It recommends strengthening post-grant mentorship, improving access to markets, supporting value chain participation, and providing continued extension services to help smallholder enterprises remain sustainable over time.
Copyright (c) 2026 David Banda, Austin Mwange https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Demand for education in Rwanda: The effect of school fees on students’ completion in secondary schools
This paper examines the actual cost of school fees by class level, school location, and socio-economic status of families and how it influences the students’ completion of secondary schools in Rwanda. The purpose of this paper was to examine the influence of school fees as an aspect of education cost on students’ completion in public boarding secondary schools in Rwanda. The study was guided by human capital theory. The study used a correlational research design, and all 10 public boarding secondary schools in the Kicukiro and Ruhango districts were visited. The sample size constituted all 10 school head teachers, 2 District Education Officers, 252 students, and 126 households’ representatives sampled using Yamane formulae. The data was collected from school head teachers, District Education Officers, and households using an interview guide and from students using questionnaires. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as percentages, means, and standard deviation, as well as inferential statistics like correlation and chi-square. Through data analysis, the study established that the cost of uniforms for upper secondary school is 12.6% higher than that of lower secondary schools. It found that the students of lower secondary pay an average of 87,666 Rwandan francs, and students of upper secondary pay an average of 112,923 Rwandan francs. Through the Chi-Square test, it also indicated that there is an association between school fees and students’ completion in boarding secondary schools. It also found that education at public boarding secondary schools in urban areas of Rwanda is more costly than in rural areas, as there is a 2.86% difference in school fees. It confirmed that only 23% of students from households with low socioeconomic status were able to pay the school fees. It established that there is a weak positive correlation between school fees and socioeconomic status in public boarding secondary schools. The results lead to a recommendation that the government should increase its contribution to boarding secondary schools to increase the students’ participation in schooling and reduce the burden of household education costs. In terms of policy implications to put in place, there is a need to expand secondary school scholarship and bursary schemes, especially for girls, rural students, and children from disadvantaged backgrounds, to increase completion by reducing household financial stress.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ntakirutimana Emmanuel https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Government policies and local participation in the hospitality industry: A case study of the Kafue river catchment, Zambia
This study analyzed how government policies and regulatory frameworks influence local community participation in the hospitality industry within Zambia’s Kafue River Catchment. Guided by two objectives: exploring stakeholder perceptions of government policy and investigating community views on participation. The study was underpinned by institutional theory, which aims to explain how formal rules, regulations, and institutional structures shape organizational behavior and stakeholder interactions. Using a descriptive phenomenological qualitative design, data were collected through interviews with 22 purposively selected hospitality stakeholders, community members, leaders, and government administrators. Data were collected through interviews and analyzed thematically. Findings revealed that while hospitality establishments operate under the hospitality and tourism policy, compliance with its contents is inconsistent. Communities were engaged mainly through low-wage employment, with limited support for local businesses, as establishments preferred sourcing produce from supermarkets. Some positive contributions included training initiatives, borehole construction, and school support, though certain establishments restricted community access to facilities. The study concluded that although the policy framework is active, gaps in communication, adherence, and implementation hinder meaningful participation. Economically, benefits to communities remain minimal, and local enterprises are largely excluded. The research recommends stronger government enforcement of policy provisions, improved stakeholder awareness, and enhanced community empowerment through skills training, agricultural cooperatives, and structured support mechanisms to foster inclusive and sustainable hospitality development in the catchment.
Copyright (c) 2026 Florence Phiri, John Moose, Peccy Ngwira https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Human resource information systems as a strategic enabler of efficient public service delivery: An empirical analysis of Tanzanian local government authorities
This study examines the role of Human Resource Information Systems in enhancing organizational performance and public service delivery within Tanzanian local government authorities. The study was done at Temeke Municipal Council in Dar es Salaam. Directed by the Resource-Based View theory, the study analyzes how system utilization influences staff performance in service delivery, the effectiveness of recruitment and retention strategies, and data-driven decision-making processes. The study assumes that weak system utilization and limited user competence constrain performance outcomes, while effective system use strengthens operational efficiency and strategic alignment. A quantitative research approach was adopted, using structured questionnaires administered to 86 employees. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis, with diagnostic tests confirming model reliability, validity, and statistical significance. The findings disclose that all three dimensions of Human Resource Information System utilization significantly affect organizational performance. Success in recruitment and retention emerged as the strongest predictor, followed by service delivery performance and data-driven decision-making. The results further indicate that improvements in work accuracy, recruitment efficiency, onboarding, and availability of reliable employee data enhance overall organizational effectiveness. The study contributes theoretically by emphasizing the Resource-Based View in a public-sector context and practically by providing evidence to support investment in system functionality, staff training, and analytics capabilities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Issaya B. Hassanal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Développementalisme de la République démocratique du Congo à l’épreuve de la triangulation des cinq chantiers en Province Orientale (RDC)
Depuis l’accession de la République démocratique du Congo à l’indépendance, plusieurs programmes publics ont été mis en œuvre afin d’impulser le développement. Le programme des cinq chantiers (2008-2018) basé sur la réalisation des projets structurants dans les domaines des infrastructures, la santé, l’éducation, l’énergie et l’emploi dans les 26 provinces de la RDC a été lancé dans cette chronique. Malheureusement, son exécution en province Orientale démembrée parait déficitaire, au regard des réalisations du même programme dans d’autres provinces comme celle du Maniema, pourtant moins viable politiquement et économiquement. Sa seule ville de Kindu (Congo Vision, 2023) a bénéficié de la modernisation complète de sa voirie urbaine, de la modernisation de son aéroport dont la piste a été portée à 3900 m, de la construction d’un stade de football au standard international, de la construction de l’université et de la place MAPON, l’université officielle de Kindu, de trois grands centres hospitaliers équipés et enfin de la cité du fleuve. Dans sa conception initiale, les Cinq Chantiers qui devinrent la Révolution de la modernité prévoyaient la construction de 3400 km de routes asphaltées, 3215 km de routes en terre battue, 5000 logements sociaux, 145 polycliniques, 31 hôpitaux, 2 centrales hydroélectriques, 2 aéroports et 2 universités à travers la RDC. En 2011, le gouvernement organisa des nouvelles élections et, sans rendre compte à la population congolaise de ce qu’avaient été les Cinq Chantiers tels que lancés en 2008, lança le concept de Révolution de la modernité en relais aux Cinq Chantiers, mais cette fois doublé ambition d’émergence de la RDC à l’horizon 2030. En considérant l’état des infrastructures routières, de desserte en eau, de santé, d’éducation, la situation de l’emploi en province Orientale à l’issue du deuxième et dernier mandat de Joseph Kabila, il s’observe qu’il y a eu mise en œuvre déficitaire des cinq Chantiers en province orientale démembrée. A partir de ces constants, l’article recommande l’Eradication de la corruption et les détournements des deniers publics qui gangrènent l’administration publique, le système politique congolais compris, la dépolitisation de cette dernière et son replacement dans la trajectoire de ses missions régaliennes, notamment celle d’encadrer et exécuter les politiques publiques, le renforcement de la décentralisation en concédant plus d’autonomie financière et administrative aux Provinces et autres Entités Territoriales Décentralisées, la mise en place d’une approche down top dans la conception et la mise en œuvre des politiques publiques dont l’exécution doit être confier aux Gouvernements Provinciaux, les services techniques centraux et déconcentrés de l’administration publique en lieu et place des structures du cabinet du chef de l’etat.
Copyright (c) 2026 Peter Nzima Likambo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Contribution of Television Coverage to Mental Health Issues: The Case of Rwanda Television
This study assessed the contribution made by Rwanda Television [RTV] programs to increased mental health awareness in Rwanda through a content and impact analysis of six mental health-related programs aired between January and June 2024. Anchored on a mixed-methods research design, the study combined surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews, engaging 88 respondents drawn from the target population of 700 residents in the Kigali Sector. Cultivation Theory and Framing Theory were used to guide this study. Cultivation theory suggests that repeated exposure to television creates an individual’s perception of reality. Framing Theory states that how the media presents social issues will affect how the public understands them. Quantitative findings showed that the coverage of RTV in mental health was dominated by emotional distress and depression (23.9%), substance abuse (21.6%), trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder [PTSD] (19.3%), and finally suicide prevention (18.2%). The approaches used in raising awareness were dominated by personal testimonies at 28.4%, followed by expert advice at 25.0%, showing the station's emphasis on relatable storytelling and professional guidance. Viewers rated the programs as informative at 27.3%, discussion-promoting at 26.1%, and helpful in offering practical mental health guidance at 23.9%, showing strong engagement and perceived relevance. Despite these strengths, the study noted serious challenges to the effective communication of mental health. Crucial constraints were the shortage of trained health journalists, at 28.4 percent, who impact content accuracy and sensitivity; poor public awareness of mental health problems, at 26.1 percent, impeding deeper understanding and help-seeking behavior. Thus, though RTV is indeed playing an important role in promoting mental health literacy, certain systemic gaps remain in terms of the capacity, reach, and clarity of messages. Recommendations from this study look toward strengthening the training of journalists in mental health reporting, improving collaboration between media houses and health institutions, and encouraging more regular, evidence-based programming to quality assure and enhance the impact of mental health communication in Rwanda.
Copyright (c) 2026 Benjamin Niyokwizerwa, Joseph Njuguna https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Exploring challenges to the sustainability of tourism in the Kafue river catchment: A qualitative study of stakeholder perspectives and mitigation strategies
This research looks at the main obstacles impeding the advancement of sustainable tourism from growing in Zambia's Kafue River Basin. The study, informed by Sustainable Development Theory and Community-Based Tourism (CBT) Theory, underscores the equilibrium among economic advancement, environmental conservation, and social equity, while accentuating the significance of host community involvement in tourism planning and benefit distribution. A qualitative case study research design was utilised, incorporating in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, with data subjected to thematic qualitative analysis. The target population consisted of around 200 homes, five traditional chiefs, and 12 tourism-related enterprises in the Lower Kafue River Basin. Consequently, a purposive criterion sampling methodology was employed, resulting in a sample size of 21 participants (18 community members and 3 policy makers). The findings indicate that inadequate policy articulation and enforcement, substandard infrastructure, the marginalisation of local communities, cultural and environmental issues, and disjointed stakeholder coordination are the primary obstacles impeding sustainable tourist development. Zambia's tourist policies have improved, but they are still not being put into action well because of problems with governance and infrastructure. The study finds that sustainable tourism in the Kafue River Basin is not possible without full community involvement, strong enforcement measures, improvements to infrastructure, and cooperation amongst all parties involved. It suggests forming partnerships, making sure that policies are followed more strictly, giving local people more influence through capacity-building, and keeping cultural authenticity in order to create a tourism industry that balances social justice, economic growth, and environmental protection.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jack Kaale, Percy M. Ngwira, Robby Kapesa, Moono T. Mudenda https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
School change, education receptivity, and resource capacity as predictors of competency-based curriculum implementation fidelity in Uganda’s lower secondary schools
This study was conducted with the aim of examining the role of school change receptivity and resource capacity as predictors of CBC implementation fidelity in lower secondary schools in Uganda. Using a system and change management perspective, the study sought to examine the role of change receptivity and resource capacity in predicting CBC implementation fidelity in lower secondary schools in Uganda. The researcher has used the resource-based theory and fidelity of implementation theory as a basis for the review. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was used to examine the relationship between change receptivity and CBC implementation fidelity and how resource capacity influences CBC implementation fidelity with a sample of 972 participants from the National Curriculum Development Centre, comprising teachers, school administrators, and other staff from public and private schools in Wakiso District, Uganda, and 71 participants from in-depth interviews with teachers and school administrators from selected schools. Quantitative data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 25, and qualitative data analysis was conducted using Braun and Clarke’s framework for thematic analysis to explain and contextualize the findings from the quantitative data analysis. The results revealed that school change receptivity and resource capacity co-acted to predict CBC implementation fidelity. Human resource capacity was a dominant predictor of fidelity in that schools with trained, supported, and confident teachers recorded high levels of instruction consistency and student-centeredness. However, the lack of refresher courses and professional support hindered change receptivity. Physical resource capacity was a moderate predictor in those schools with equipped and functioning physical facilities, which recorded high levels of fidelity despite the lack of physical resources in some schools. Instructional digital and print materials recorded a low but positive effect on fidelity in that they were hindered by the lack of ICT facilities and digital materials. In conclusion, this study argues that in order to enhance CBC fidelity of implementation, there is a need to enhance schools’ change receptivity and resource capacity. It is recommended that schools be provided with professional development opportunities to enhance change receptivity and resource capacity in order to enhance fidelity in CBC implementation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tonny Muzaale, John Kitayimbwa, Wilson Eduan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The legal effectiveness of Uganda’s corporate governance framework in advancing gender equality as a human right on corporate boards
Corporate governance in Uganda is founded on the principles of transparency, equality, non-discrimination, and responsibility. Uganda’s legal framework brings out strong obligations to gender equity. However, these obligations persist entirely on the motivational principles of corporate domain due to the lack of binding legal commands, enforceable shares, or clear duties on board structure. While Uganda is signatory to key international conventions such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Maputo Protocol, the enforcement of some of the requirements into corporate governance preparations remains inadequate, primarily reliant on soft-law backgrounds such as the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) Guidelines and the Companies Act, 2012. The study was underpinned by the Feminist Theory. The supposition supporting this study is that gender-scattered boards lead to improved governance and tougher corporate act through improved discussion, accountability, and depiction. The Equal Opportunities Commission Act (2007) and the 1995 Constitution offer a legal foundation for favorable gender sensitive action, yet their bid to governance remains minor and oversensitive. This study suggests that closing the lacuna between constitutional standards and corporate veracities requires legislative improvement to entrench gender multiplicity mandates inside Uganda’s core company law. Without implementable instruments, the transformative budding of diversity remains muffled, rendering Uganda's corporate industry powerless to bind the governance and routine advantages of comprehensive boardrooms. As such, this research recommends that binding legislative reforms be passed that incorporate the requirement of mandatory gender diversity into the very heart of Uganda’s company law. This will help close the gap between constitutional requirements and corporate practice, ensuring that Uganda’s corporate sector benefits from all the positive attributes that gender diversity has to offer.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muzaale Tonny, Mbeli Valentine Tebi, Kisubi Esther Christine https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Navigating the path to universal health coverage: A comprehensive framework for the implementation of national health insurance in Zimbabwe
Universal Health Coverage (UHC), which provides all people with necessary health services, has not been achieved in Zimbabwe because government health funding remains below 4% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The research creates an extensive method for implementing Zimbabwe's National Health Insurance (NHI) program, a road map to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC), which currently exists as an aspirational legislative requirement yet remains pending. The researchers used a qualitative comparative case study research design to carry out qualitative analysis through document reviews together with a comparative evaluation of health insurance systems from Kenya, Ghana, and Rwanda to identify problems within the national health financing system, which exists in a state of emergency. A systematic documentary review of Zimbabwean policy documents, which included the NHI Act, the National Health Strategy 2021-2025, and budget statements from 2019 to 2024. For Kenya, sources such as NGO reports and census data were utilized for the systemic review. In Ghana, sources used for the review include World Bank reports and health surveys, which provided valuable information. Rwanda's sources that were systematically reviewed include conflict resolution reports and economic development studies. Zimbabwe's health expenditure shows a strong dependence on out-of-pocket costs, which make up 34% of total health expenditures, while government health funding operates at less than 4% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This then creates financial disasters for 30% of households and produces extreme differences in healthcare access. The proposed framework creates three distinct phases for a ten-year transformation process, which includes foundational piloting (Years 1-3), national expansion (Years 4-6), and maturation and integration (Years 7-10). The main changes involve creating an independent NHI Fund through statutory requirements, implementing biometric IT systems, requiring formal sector payroll payments, developing a subsidized hybrid system for informal workers, and moving to capitation and diagnosis-related group (DRG) payment systems through strategic purchasing. The framework evaluation process uses a critical approach to assess organizational risks, which include two major threats: financial sustainability challenges from the high level of informal employment (76% of employment) and governance risks through corruption, which regional situations demonstrate. The NHI legislation needs transformation through an evidence-based phased approach that focuses on financial sustainability and governance strength and equality to become the main element of Universal Health Coverage in Zimbabwe.
Copyright (c) 2026 Matipedza Lole, Lubinda Haabazoka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Socio-cultural and structural determinants of infant feeding practices: A retrospective qualitative focus group observational study in Kitwe, Zambia
Moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) continues to be a serious public health concern among infants in Zambia, despite the implementation of the WHO infant and young child feeding (IYCF) guidelines. This retrospective qualitative study examined the social, cultural, and structural factors that influence IYCF practices among mothers in Kitwe and their links to MAM during the first year of life. Ninety-six mothers of infants aged 3 months at the start and 9 months at the end of the study participated in longitudinal focus group discussions. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected from mothers and caregivers through interviews and focus groups, with emphasis on household, community, and cultural influences on feeding decisions. Reflexive thematic analysis identified six main themes: 1) The Negotiated Feeding Trajectory: From Intention to Early Introduction, 2) Cultural Logics: Water, Insufficient Breast Milk, and Herbal Wisdom; 3) The Social Architecture of Feeding: Grandmothers, Absent Fathers, and Peers, 4) The Material Boundaries of Choice: Economics, Work, and Health, 5) Maternal Experience: Eating Beliefs and Bodily Changes, and 6) Envisioning Improvement: Maternal Prescriptions for Change. Results showed that although mothers aimed for exclusive breastfeeding in the first 6 months, complementary foods were often introduced prematurely (sometimes as early as 3 months). The study reveals that social norms, family dynamics, and structural barriers, rather than lack of knowledge, hinder the adoption of recommended guidelines. Major reasons for early introduction included cultural expectations and advice from elders, especially grandmothers; perceived infant hunger or behaviors; economic challenges and limited food supplies; and maternal work pressures. While health workers' advice recommending complementary feeding at six months was valued, it was frequently ignored due to strong social norms and financial barriers. Traditional remedies were often used when biomedical treatments seemed ineffective, highlighting the persistent influence of cultural beliefs on infant care. Mothers proposed practical solutions, such as routine maternal health checks and improved economic support, to promote optimal feeding, emphasizing the need to address both social-cultural and structural obstacles. The study emphasizes that infant feeding behaviors in Kitwe are shaped by a complex interplay of social, cultural, and structural factors, not solely by knowledge. Feeding choices are influenced not only by medical guidelines but also by cultural beliefs, social networks, and caregivers’ daily realities. Understanding these interactions is essential for developing locally appropriate, culturally sensitive interventions to prevent MAM. The findings call for culturally tailored, community-engaged strategies that involve elders, address household food insecurity, and support working mothers. This research demonstrates that infant feeding decisions in Kitwe are affected not only by maternal knowledge and adherence to health guidelines but also by social negotiations and structural barriers. It advocates shifting from mother-centred, information-only interventions to family-inclusive counselling, culturally sensitive behavior-change strategies, strengthened maternity protections, and stricter regulation of commercial influences. By linking infant feeding recommendations to real-life experiences of urban mothers, the study offers practical insights for creating nutrition policies that are socially grounded and structurally responsive in Zambia.
Copyright (c) 2026 Margaret Pansho, Jason Mwanza 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
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
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
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
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
This research looks into the encoding of tense and aspect (TA) in Nguu, a lesser-studied Bantu language spoken in Tanzania, with the goal of improving descriptive and theoretical understanding of Bantu verbal morphology. Nguu makes a particularly strong case, demonstrating a variety of ways for identifying temporal and aspectual distinctions, such as pre-root, post-root, combination, and null-marked forms. The study's data were gathered using a combination of direct elicitation, organised translation tasks, and verb paradigm exercises, as well as naturalistic observation of spontaneous speech and storytelling. The fragmentation approach was used to analyse verb forms and their constituent morphemes to determine the distribution and function of TAM markers, where the analysis reveals that TAM markers are systematically distributed among different verbal morphemes. The data show that Nguu separates the recent and distant past using pre-root na-/ne- and post-root -ag markers, respectively, but present and future forms frequently use both pre- and post-root morphemes. Continuous and perfective aspects are typically conveyed using the auxiliary verb '-nd-' in conjunction with subject markers and consecutive morphemes, indicating a cumulative approach to temporal and aspectual decoding. Null marking is seen in present perfect forms, indicating a reliance on subject markers and contextual information rather than overt morphology. Furthermore, future tense forms use subjunctive marking, showing the connection between temporal reference and modality. These patterns demonstrate the adaptability and functional clarity of Nguu verbal morphology while also challenging rigid typological beliefs regarding Bantu TAM systems. Overall, this study emphasises the significance of underdescribed languages in developing typological and theoretical descriptions of tenses and aspects. The study recommends future studies with a broader empirical scope that include diverse Nguu-speaking communities to capture possible dialectical variations in encoding the tenseaspect. It also recommends comparative studies with related Bantu and Niger-Congo languages to better situate Nguu within the typology of tense and aspect systems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Noel R. Mwegoha, Amani Lusekelo, Ibrahim Rwakakindo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Timeliness of antenatal care initiation and its associated factors among pregnant women: Evidence from the 2022 Tdhs-Mis
Reducing maternal mortality and enhancing women's healthcare are key targets of the Third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), aiming to lower the global maternal mortality ratio (MMR) to 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. This study examines predictors of the timing of the first antenatal care (ANC) visit among pregnant women in Tanzania. It was pegged on three theoretical frameworks: the Health Belief Model (HBM), the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), and Andersen's Behavioral Model. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using 2022 Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey data. The study population included adult women aged 15–49 years. Data were weighted to reflect the complex survey design. The study employed descriptive statistics to assess ANC initiation across trimesters, log-rank tests to select variables, and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression to identify timing-related factors. Of 5,195 women, 66% initiated ANC after three months, while 34% did so within the recommended period. Older women (35–49 years) delayed their ANC by 43.7% compared to those aged 15–24 (AHR: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.67–0.90, p < 0.001). Education shortened ANC timing: primary (AHR: 1.27, p = 0.003), secondary (AHR: 1.30, p = 0.007), and higher (AHR: 1.80, p = 0.008). Proximity to health facilities (AHR: 1.11, p < 0.074), employment (AHR: 1.02, p < 0.08), and media exposure (radio: AHR: 1.13, p = 0.067; TV: AHR: 1.18, p = 0.028) showed a non-significant trend toward earlier ANC. Age, education, distance to facilities, employment, and media exposure significantly influence ANC timing. Health literacy promotion and media campaigns are recommended to enhance timely ANC initiation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mwajabu Mashinde, Stanslaus Paul, Janeth Migamba 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
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
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
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
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.
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
Factors influencing farmers’ climate adaptation strategies in major rice-growing regions in Tanzania
Climate change increasingly threatens rice-based farming systems in Tanzania, where production is highly sensitive to water availability, labor constraints, and climate variability. This study examines the determinants and interrelationships of climate adaptation strategies among rice-farming households in major producing regions, Mbeya, Morogoro, and Shinyanga, using nationally representative cross-sectional data from 441 households drawn from the 2020/21 Tanzania National Panel Survey. Drawing on random utility theory, the multivariate probit model is applied to estimate adoption decisions jointly for six adaptation strategies: supplemental irrigation, improved resilient rice varieties, integrated soil fertility management (ISFM), integrated pest management (IPM), alternate wetting and drying (AWD), and engagement in non-farm economic activities (NFEA). The results show that adaptation decisions are interdependent, with significant complementarities among water-management strategies and between improved varieties and pest management. However, strategies are not uniformly complementary; instead, they exhibit tradeoffs driven by labor availability, farm size, institutional access, and market connectivity. Water-related strategies are strongly shaped by regional agro-hydrological conditions, particularly in Morogoro, while labor-intensive practices such as ISFM and AWD depend heavily on household labor endowments. Larger farms are more likely to adopt improved varieties and IPM, whereas smaller farms favor soil and water management practices. Institutional factors, especially access to extension services, climate and weather information, and membership in social unions, emerge as key enablers of adaptation. Engagement in non-farm activities functions largely as a substitute adaptation pathway, reflecting opportunity-driven diversification rather than distress responses. This study shows that climate adaptation among rice farmers in Tanzania is characterized by interdependent and context-specific strategy choices shaped by agroecological conditions, household resources, and institutional access. The findings highlight that effective adaptation depends not on blanket promotion of climate-smart practices but on aligning specific strategies with local water availability, labor endowments, farm scales, and market integration. Policies should therefore prioritize geographically targeted water investments, scale-differentiated adaptation packages, and stronger farmer organizations and extension systems. Such context-sensitive and institutionally grounded approaches are essential for enhancing adoption, efficiency, and resilience in Tanzania’s rice sector.
Copyright (c) 2026 Beatrice Ndosi, Prof. Joseph Hella, Prof. Ntengua Mdoe 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
La motivation des décisions de justice pénale : Approche comparative du droit pénal camerounais et Rwandais
En matière pénale, la motivation de la décision de justice est une obligation à la fois constitutionnelle et législative exprimée par le principe de la légalité criminelle. La motivation constitue une obligation pour le juge pénal qui doit permettre au justiciable de comprendre les raisons de sa condamnation ou de son acquittement. Il s’agit d’une garantie du droit à un procès équitable Toutefois, la motivation en droit pénal rwandais et camerounais ne reflète pas le même formalisme. La présente étude vise à interroger et identifier les référents formels et matériels de la motivation des décisions de justice en matière pénale au Rwanda et au Cameroun. Elle repose sur une méthodologie de recherche analytique et comparative axée sur l’exploitation de la législation, de la doctrine et de la jurisprudence dans les deux pays. Aussi, l’exploration des sources légales, jurisprudentielles et doctrinales révèlent une disparité dans la consécration des instruments de motivation de la décision pénale. Ainsi, tandis que le juge pénal rwandais est enfermé dans la stricte légalité de sa motivation, son homologue camerounais se trouve dans la liberté du choix, ou de la légalité, ou de la légitimité de sa motivation, ce qui lui confère un large pouvoir d’appréciation des faits et de la valeur probante des preuves.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jean Christian Nguetna Vessah, Didace Nshimiyimana, Jean Damascene Kamali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Public Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) in Zimbabwe: A historical overview and its suggested role in achieving national health insurance (NHI)
This paper openly critiques the history and policies of the Zimbabwean Public Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) for their lack of standing as the foundational launching platform of the proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) Scheme. Instituting a very thorough qualitative desk review of peer-reviewed literature, government documents, audit reports, and media analyses from 2019-2024, the paper utilizes the WHO Health Systems Building Blocks Framework and theories including Strategic Purchasing, Governance, and Principal Agent to diagnose institutional viability. The study also utilizes health financing models and the path dependency theory, which suggests that past decisions and events can have a significant impact on current and future outcomes, even if those decisions were made under different circumstances. This theory helps to explain how the history and policies of PSMAS have influenced the current state of the proposed NHI Scheme in Zimbabwe. The account draws on convincing evidence divulging that PSMAS has been allowed to decline down the crevice of systemic collapse marked by governance fraud of about US$40 million as reported by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission in 2022, hard liquidity crises with US$47 million in contribution arrears, and operational breakdown indicating 72% of members getting scared of being denied such access by unfriendly providers blacklisting them. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe's NHI policy is a work in progress, and the disconnect between the "broad contours" of the NHI policy versus an initially promising program promises that a further relationship could be established to finance actuarial models suggesting the crop of proposed financing items needed considerable review, namely the NHI's ability to cover Zimbabwe's huge remaining informal sector workforce. The study argues that the basic vulnerabilities from past institutional failure vis-a-vis PSMAS and path dependency count as an existential threat for any NHI built from its structure. The narrative is one of the safeguarding stances: fundamentally rethinking a dead horse instead of propping it up yet again, and PSMAS finds itself to be the flagship of the NHI. This notion is fundamentally unattractive. Recommendations call for a holistic approach to the effectuation of a proper NHI framework. This framework, thus, sees first-order calls of law having an enactment of a dedicated NHI Act, establishing a new purchasing agency, and phase-wise action that insulates the national scheme from PSMAS legacy liabilities.
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
Civic virtue acquisition in Zambia: A social learning and communitarian perspective
Civic virtue is essential for ethical leadership and participatory governance, yet its acquisition in sub-Saharan Africa remains under-theorized. This article examines civic virtue acquisition in Zambia through the lenses of social learning theory and communitarianism theory. The study used a qualitative approach with an exploratory case study design. It included twenty participants who were teachers of civic education, civic leaders, and members of the neighbourhood watch groups. The researcher selected participants through purposeful sampling to achieve diverse yet appropriate viewpoints. The research team used semi-structured interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and document analysis to collect data. In its findings, the study argues that civic virtue must be elevated from descriptive ideals to transformative practices that strengthen democratic participation, ethical leadership, and inclusive development. The culmination of the different dynamics into a conceptual framework demonstrates that civic virtue acquisition is not a product of isolated interventions but a holistic outcome of integrated social systems. By integrating social learning processes with communitarian values, the study contributes to African scholarship on civic virtue and systemic governance reform. In conclusion, the study emphasized the interplay between grassroots mobilization, cultural and communitarian practices, and institutional factors. The findings conclude that civic virtues are not merely taught through formal instruction but are cultivated through lived experiences, indigenous knowledge systems, and participatory engagement. The study recommends the use of the proposed conceptual framework developed in it, which demonstrates that the acquisition of civic virtues is a holistic process, requiring synergy across social, cultural, and institutional domains. Further research could concentrate on a longitudinal survey of how these acquired civic virtues are sustained in the communities and the wider Zambian society.
Copyright (c) 2026 Adam Daka, Gistered Muleya, Francis Sumui, Gladys Matandiko 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
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
Morphological analysis of personal names in Chindali language, Ileje District of the Songwe Region, Tanzania
This paper presents a morphological analysis of personal names in Chindali, a variety of Ndali spoken in the Ileje District of the Songwe Region in the southern highlands of Tanzania. The study employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive research design to analyse the internal morphological structure of Chindali personal names. Data were collected from elderly native speakers selected through purposive and snowball sampling methods, basing in age and language proficiency. The sample size depended on the saturation point of data. The primary data collection techniques included structured elicitation, introspection, and document analysis. The researcher used onomastics theory to study Chindali personal names. Data were analysed by analysing the morphological patterns of Chindali personal names such as roots and affixes. The findings reveal that Chindali personal names exhibit three major morphological patterns: monomorphemic, dimorphemic, and polymorphemic. These patterns reflect not only morphological variation but also embedded cultural, social, and grammatical meanings within the Ndali-speaking community. The study concludes by recommending further research into the phonological and syntactic constraints influencing name formation in Ndali, as well as comparative morphological analyses across related Bantu languages to assess potential universality in naming structures.
Copyright (c) 2026 Imani Alinanuswe Mwang'eka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Influence of knowledge management practices on teaching methods and assessment in selected higher learning institutions of Tanzania
This study examines the influence of knowledge management (KM) practices on teaching effectiveness among academic staff in Tanzanian higher learning institutions (HLIs). The study, guided by Organizational Knowledge Creation Theory (OKCT) and the Knowledge Sharing Model, grounded in the understanding that KM enhances instruction quality and institutional performance, explores the extent to which KM practices, namely knowledge creation, storage, sharing, and application, are embedded in academic routines. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from two public universities, the Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) and Mbeya University of Science and Technology (MUST), involving 190 academic staff. The population of academic staff was divided into strata based on academic rank, department, and years of experience. The sample size for each stratum was proportional to its population size to ensure representativeness. Random selection of participants within each stratum was conducted using a random number generator, guaranteeing that all subgroups are represented in the sample. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Descriptive statistics revealed moderate engagement across all KM domains, with the highest mean score recorded in knowledge creation, followed by sharing and application, while storage practices ranked lowest. Inferential analysis using regression modeling indicated that organizational, technological, and individual factors significantly predicted KM engagement levels, thereby influencing teaching preparation, delivery, and assessment strategies. Duncan’s post hoc tests further underscored differences in KM practices across the academic ranks and faculties, suggesting a need for contextualized support interventions. Qualitative data complemented these findings by revealing structural constraints, including weak leadership, low commitment, limited digital infrastructure, and a lack of recognition for KM activities. Participants emphasized the disconnect between institutional KM policies and actual teaching practice, highlighting insufficient training, knowledge silos, and low integration of student feedback mechanisms. These barriers compromise pedagogical innovation and reduce the responsiveness of instruction to contemporary academic and societal demands. Despite the increasing acknowledgement of KM practices, the study concludes that their inconsistent implementation hinders efforts to enhance teaching quality and learning outcomes. Therefore, the study recommends institutionalization of KM policies, targeted capacity building for academic staff, enhancing digital infrastructure, and promoting the knowledge-sharing culture among academic staff, hence aligning KM activities' performance metrics.
Copyright (c) 2026 Paul Rogath, Nicholaus Mwalukasa, Ester Mnzava 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
Navigating the sacred spectrum: Implications of multiple church membership in urban Ghana
The contemporary Ghanaian religious environment has progressively seen a widespread of multiple church membership (MCM). However, scholarly debates are limited in this discourse, particularly in relation to how Christians negotiate these religious identities and implications for spiritual formation. Extant research on African Christianity often draws attention to mobility, the widespread of Pentecostalism, and denominational pluralism, but they hardly investigate how Christians simultaneously engage in multiple churches. This study addresses this gap by exploring the motivations, experiences, and implications of MCM among Christians in the Adentan Frafraha area of Accra. Social Identity Theory (SIT) anchored this research. Using a phenomenological approach, the study draws on 24 participants through in-depth interviews with leaders and congregants (Presbyterian, Charismatic, Pentecostal, and Catholic). Findings reveal that MCM is driven by diverse factors, including the search for spiritual empowerment, prophetic encounters, family obligations, proximity, ministry opportunities, and enduring emotional ties to former congregations. Participants reported that exposure to varied teachings and worship styles enriched their spiritual lives, broadened their theological perspectives, and enhanced their sense of belonging. However, the study also identifies significant challenges. These include doctrinal confusion, fragmented spiritual formation, conflicting commitments, and weakened congregational loyalty. Church leaders expressed concern about inconsistent attendance patterns and the difficulty of providing coherent discipleship to members with multiple affiliations. The study concludes that MCM reflects a broader shift toward fluid, pragmatic, and experiential forms of Christian identity in urban Ghana. It calls for further interdisciplinary research on how religious mobility, charismatic spirituality, and urban social dynamics shape emerging patterns of Christian belonging and participation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ebenezer Kwashie Hutorwu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
An examination into tax compliance mechanisms: The effect of tax amnesty among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Lusaka district, Zambia
Tax compliance poses a significant obstacle for revenue generation in developing countries, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Tax amnesty, defined as a temporary government policy that allows taxpayers to settle outstanding tax liabilities with reduced or waived penalties and interest, has been implemented in various forms globally. Although Zambia has initiated various tax amnesty programs, there is a lack of substantial empirical data regarding the relationship between amnesty and enforcement strategies, taxpayer awareness, and digital initiatives across various compliance profiles of SMEs. This research examines the effects of tax amnesty and related compliance mechanisms on SMEs in Lusaka District, Zambia, grounded in Compliance Theory and Agency Theory. Utilizing survey data collected from 400 SMEs through stratified random sampling, the study applies multinomial logistic regression to evaluate the influence of tax amnesty, tax awareness, tax audits, and tax penalties on compliance levels categorized as low, moderate, and high. The findings indicate that tax amnesty notably enhances the likelihood of SMEs, both high and low in compliance, meeting their tax obligations, although its impact differs among compliance categories. Enforcement practices like audits and penalties discourage compliance in SMEs that are less compliant while promoting it amongst those already adhering to tax regulations. Tax knowledge shows similar conditional effects on compliance. These results highlight the necessity for tailored compliance strategies rather than a one-size-fits-all approach to enforcement. This study adds to the tax compliance literature by illustrating the conditional effectiveness of tax amnesty and enforcement strategies within the context of SMEs in a developing nation. The policy implications underscore the need for amnesty initiatives to be combined with digital resources, taxpayer education, and ongoing monitoring post-amnesty to ensure lasting compliance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mando Chalwe, John Musantu, Joe Likando https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Exploring small and medium-sized enterprises’ (SMEs’) perceptions of tax amnesty programmes in Zambia: A qualitative analysis of compliance behaviour and institutional constraints
In emerging economies, tax forgiveness initiatives are commonly used to reclaim unpaid taxes and encourage businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to comply voluntarily with tax obligations. Nevertheless, there remains a lack of consensus on their effectiveness, and limited qualitative evidence exists regarding SME perceptions in sub-Saharan Africa. This study explores the views of SMEs that engage, or may potentially engage, in tax amnesty initiatives in Zambia, with a focus on institutional dynamics, administrative challenges, and behavioral responses. Data was collected through SME surveys and semi-structured interviews with tax officials, tax advisors, and policymakers using a qualitative research approach. The analysis employed Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis framework, informed by compliance theory and agency theory. The findings reveal significant gaps in understanding and awareness that hinder SME participation in tax amnesty programs. Although financial incentives such as penalty reductions and flexible payment arrangements strongly motivate participation, long-term compliance is constrained by complex administrative procedures, digital system challenges, inadequate tax knowledge, and limited post-amnesty support. Following the amnesty period, many SMEs reverted to non-compliance, indicating that observed behavioral improvements were largely temporary. Key informants further highlighted moral hazard concerns arising from repeated amnesty and persistent distrust between SMEs and tax authorities. The study concludes that while tax amnesty programs can generate short-term compliance gains, they are insufficient on their own to achieve sustained compliance among SMEs. This underscores the need for complementary reforms in taxpayer education, administrative support, digital capacity enhancement, and trust-building initiatives. Policy implications emphasize the importance of clear communication strategies, structured post-amnesty support mechanisms, tailored compliance assistance that recognizes SME heterogeneity, improved digital infrastructure with capacity development, and institutional trust-building between tax authorities and SMEs to transform tax amnesty from a revenue recovery tool into a foundation for a durable culture of compliance. The study suggests a few changes based on what it found. First, it's a good idea to offer more tax education specifically for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Next, making administrative processes simpler would help a lot. Also, providing better support for digital systems is important. Finally, setting up ongoing assistance after tax amnesty programs can really make a difference. By doing these things, tax amnesty programs could become tools that encourage people to follow tax rules on their own over the long term, instead of just bringing in quick money.
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