The African Quarterly Social Science Review (AQSSR) is a distinguished peer-reviewed journal published by AJER Publishing Inc. in academic and research collaboration with Interfaith Global University, Rostov State Transport University, ARTIFEX University of Romania, Don State Technical University, National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine and Fotabe University of Cameroon among other partner institutions and universities worldwide. Bridging intellectual exploration with an unwavering commitment to excellence, AQSSR serves as a beacon for scholars, students, and educators by providing a vibrant platform for peer-reviewed research articles and empirically driven works. Established in East Africa and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, the journal thrives in a vast and wealthy ecosystem of reviewers, editors, and participants drawn from faculty, prestigious universities, seasoned researchers, and respected research institutions within the academic and research communities of various African countries. Our mission is to cultivate a dynamic environment that not only provides access to the latest literature and innovations in the social sciences but also fosters the exchange of ideas and expertise in Africa and beyond. Emphasizing empirical research, meta-analysis, and systematic reviews, AQSSR upholds rigorous standards through a meticulous peer-review process, ensuring that only the highest-quality research contributes to our publications. Deeply rooted in a rich ecosystem of reviewers, editors, and contributors from esteemed universities and respected research institutions worldwide, our journal boasts a global reach extending to thousands of libraries. We firmly believe in open access to knowledge, allowing unrestricted access, distribution, and reproduction of published works. Authors are the lifeblood of AQSSR, and we offer comprehensive support throughout the publishing journey. Whether guiding initial submissions or providing assistance with revisions, we invite you to embark on your academic journey with us, contributing to the advancement of empirical research and the exchange of multidisciplinary knowledge. AQSSR welcomes you to share your insights with the world, shaping the future of scholarly endeavors.
Lived experiences of poverty and coping strategies of Gokwe–Nembudziya community in Zimbabwe
This paper is an empirical qualitative case study which explores the lived experiences of poverty and the coping strategies used by households in Gokwe -Nembudziya area in Zimbabwe. The study is guided by theories that included capability approach, poverty trap, dependence and sustainable livelihoods framework. The study is grounded in an interpretivist paradigm, and it employed a qualitative case study design. A total of 30 participants comprising household heads, small-scale farmers, informal traders and community leaders were selected using purposive and snowball sampling. Data collection was conducted using semi-structured in-depth interviews, one focused group discussion and participant observation and it was analyzed through thematic analysis. Fundamentally, the findings reveal that poverty in the study area is driven by several intersecting factors including exploitative market prices for cotton and produce, significant education and skills gaps, weak political leadership and governance, inadequate infrastructure, a lack of diversified livelihoods and donor-dependence syndrome. The study also identified the critical coping strategies that can be used to address the discovered coping mechanisms which include value addition and agro-processing, fair pricing and improved market access, investment in irrigation and climate resilient agriculture, empowerment of youth and women through education and vocational training and investment in suitable infrastructure. The study concludes that effective poverty reduction needs a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond relief-oriented solutions to address the structural and systemic causes of deprivation. In light of this, the study recommends a collaborative strategy that involves government, non-governmental organizations, and the community itself to champion investment in sustainable agricultural practices, education, infrastructure and economic diversification.
Copyright (c) 2026 Chomunorwa Rusakaniko, Taruona Douglas (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Employability skills in the 21st-century among university business graduates: A gender-based analysis
This study examined the employability skills possessed by university business graduates in Ghana and explored gender differences in these skills. The Individual Differences Theory anchored this study. The study used a quantitative research approach and utilized a descriptive survey research design. The population comprised all business graduates, including 921 from the School of Business and 265 from Business Education, resulting in a total population of 1,186 graduates. A sample of 330 business graduates was selected using multiple sampling techniques to ensure representativeness. Primary data were collected through a structured instrument titled the University Business Graduates’ Employability Skills Questionnaire (UBGES-Q). Both descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS version 27. The results indicated that university business graduates possess a wide range of employability skills required by the labor market, suggesting that they are well-prepared to meet workplace expectations and enhance their employability prospects in the 21st century. Moreover, gender is associated with differences in certain employability skills among university business graduates, with male students reporting higher levels of communication and problem-solving skills. However, both male and female graduates exhibited similar levels of corporate sense skills. The study concluded that university curriculum serves not only as an academic framework but also as a vehicle for equipping graduates with practical, entrepreneurial, and adaptive skills aligned with the demands of the 21st-century labor market. The study recommended that university management should maintain and periodically review business programs to ensure alignment with labor market demands and 21st-century employability skills.
Copyright (c) 2026 Daniel Kweku Anhwere, Gabriel Kwasi Aboagye, Emmanuel Quayson, Theophilus Kwamena Ocran (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
A bibliometric review on digital inclusion and inequalities at work: Scope and future perspectives
The fast spread of digital technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and algorithmic management systems has redefined modern workplaces, casting important directives on digital inclusion and the new forms of inequalities in the workplace. As much as digital transformation brings efficiency, innovation, and new jobs, it is a source of increased inequalities in terms of skills, gender, access, and algorithmic bias. Although there is an increase in the scholarly focus, the intellectual framework and developmental path of this field of research are still in pieces. The proposed study is thus an attempt to identify the scope, development, and future of the field of digital inclusion and inequalities in the workplace by a systematic literature review. The research is based on the technology acceptance theory, the digital divide theory, and the sociotechnical systems theory, all of which describe the individual adoption patterns, the structural gaps in access and results, and the interplay between the technological systems and the organizational settings. The major source of data was the Scopus database. Based on the PRISMA protocol, 303 relevant documents were identified, screened and analyzed in VOSviewer software to conduct citation, co-citation and keyword co-occurrence analysis. The results reveal that there has been a marked increase in publications, especially since 2020. The field has an intellectual structure around important themes such as AI adoption, digital skills, engagement at the workplace, gender disparities, digital health, and algorithm governance. The findings also indicate the conceptualization of the individual-level technology acceptance models to the structural and institutional levels of inequality, inclusion, and workforce sustainability. The research has a contribution to theory because it combines isolated views into a harmonious intellectual map and points out new research frontiers. These results highlight the necessity of the inclusive digital policy, reskilling based on target actions, and ethical AI regulation objectives to avoid the further expansion of disparities in the workplace.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mashala L. Yusuph, Lazaro A. Kisumbe, John W. Kasubi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Availability of adolescents and youth sexual and reproductive health commodities in public healthcare centers in Tanzania following the adoption of supply chain integration
While more efforts and interventions are directed at improving the health of young men and women in many developing countries, this study posits that supply chain integration (SCI) is the pillar of healthcare facilities in ensuring the availability of adolescent and youth sexual and reproductive health (AYSRH) commodities. This descriptive study assessed the availability of AYSRH commodities in Tanzania with an emphasis on the ongoing implementation of SCI. The study focused on the downstream level of the AYSRH service delivery by observing the public healthcare centers in four regions of Tanzania and employed a cross-sectional facility-based analysis to describe the availability of AYSRH commodities. The results indicate that short-term AYSRH commodities (such as male condoms and oral contraceptives) have a high rate of availability compared to long-term commodities such as IUDs, implants, and STI starter packs. Also, the voice of the youth captured through youth exit-intercepts revealed how commodity stockout and long waiting time hinder them from receiving AYSRH services. The study underscores the SCI potential by revealing the current level of AYSRH commodity availability, which is mainly attributed to the ongoing integration between relevant healthcare actors. The study recommends that more emphasis be directed towards improving SCI to improve the availability of long-term contraceptives and STI treatment commodities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Alfred Ain Sallwa, Henry A. Mollel, Leonada R. Mwagike (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Influence of risk management strategy on implementation of road construction projects in Migori County, Kenya
The purpose of this study was to establish the influence of risk management strategy on implementation of road construction projects in Migori County, Kenya. Implementation was measured as a function of project completion within the set time frame, meeting quality requirements and being within budget. This study was anchored on Risk Management theory. Descriptive research design was used. The target population for the study was 417 with a sample of 232 which included 39 contractors, 193 constituency roads committee members (CRCs). Simple random sampling method was applied in selecting Constituency Roads Committee members and the road contractors. Data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics with the help of statistical package for social sciences, SPSS. The study utilized the t-statistic to test the null hypothesis. Primary data was obtained through self-administered questionnaires to contractors and CRC members. Validity of research instruments was obtained through piloting and expert evaluation while reliability was tested using test retest method. Inferential statistics of Multiple Linear Regression was applied to determine the influence of risk management strategy on implementation of road construction projects by testing the hypotheses for the study. Statistical significance was assessed at p<0.05. According to the study, risk management strategy accounted for 70.0% of change in implementation of road construction projects. It also discovered that risk management strategy was moderately applied in the roads construction projects in Migori County. In summary, the study concluded that, most roads being implemented did not factor into consideration risk management strategy as a result, they faced multiple implementation challenges related to cost, timelines and quality, however, risk management has a positive and significant influence on implementation of road construction projects in Migori County, Kenya. The study therefore recommends formal integration of risk management into all stages of road construction projects and embedding risk management within county project implementation guidelines.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bundeh, Lennard William (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Gender and agriculture subject choice among secondary students in Kakamega and Bungoma counties, Kenya
This study sought to establish the role played by gender in selection of agriculture subject by students in Kakamega and Bungoma counties. Descriptive research design was adopted as guided by both occupation theory and conceptual framework. The population of study consisted of 4549 students out of which a sample size of 364 students was purposively sampled. Questionnaires and document contents analysis were used to gather data. Descriptive statistics using frequency, percentages, means and standard deviation were employed to present the findings. The findings revealed that gender plays a significant role in the selection of agriculture subjects among secondary schools. Selection trends show that more students from mixed boys’ and girls’ schools selected agriculture subject, followed by girls’ boarding and lastly boys’ boarding, hence recording increasing selection in all the categories of gender of schools. Mean agriculture selection was higher in boys’ schools, followed by girls’ schools and lastly mixed schools. Factors influencing selection in agriculture subject include type of school such as mixed or one gender school, category of school such as day or boarding school. Day schools exhibit higher selection as compared to both boarding and day, and mixed day and boarding. It was also noted that, gender plays a role such that girls are more motivated in terms of selection in agriculture career than boys; hence, gender is important in the progression to agriculture career. The study recommends the need for adaption strategies to enhance progression in agriculture career. The Ministry of education policies should be well aligned to motivate students of both girls and boys to select agriculture subject. Factors such as type of school which includes public (national, extra county, county sub county) and private, gender of school such as boys’, girls, mixed boys’ and girls’, mixed day and boarding, should be streamlined towards increased agriculture career selection through educational guidelines and policies concerning selection of agriculture subjects.
Copyright (c) 2026 Annah Nawambisa Manyasi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
African Traditional Religion (ATR) and Environmental Conservation from the Ghanaian perspective
This study explores the role of African Traditional Religion (ATR) in environmental conservation in Ghana, positioning it as a culturally embedded and indigenous framework for ecological sustainability. Employing a qualitative and interpretive research approach, the study draws on interdisciplinary insights from religious studies, environmental ethics, and African philosophy to examine how traditional belief systems shape human–environment relations. The findings reveal that ATR promotes a holistic worldview in which nature is perceived as sacred, relational, and morally governed. Cultural institutions such as taboos, totems, sacred groves, and customary laws historically functioned as effective ecological safeguards, ensuring biodiversity preservation and environmental balance. However, contemporary pressures—including globalization, urban expansion, and the gradual erosion of indigenous knowledge systems—have weakened these traditional mechanisms. The study argues that meaningful integration of indigenous ecological knowledge into modern environmental governance frameworks can enhance sustainability outcomes. By foregrounding ATR as a viable ethical and ecological resource, this research contributes to ongoing debates on sustainable development and culturally grounded conservation strategies. It concludes that renewed engagement with ATR offers critical pathways for addressing environmental challenges while reinforcing national sustainability efforts in Ghana.
Environmental Studies/Environmental Ethics
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Adam Konadu, Dr. Charles Kofi Twene, Dr. Samuel Kingsford Twene, Dr. Francis Xavier Kabir Mwinkom, Dr. Margaret Makafui Tayviah, Collins Boafo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Re-thinking foster care through community practice: Insights from St Martin Catholic Social Apostolate in Kenya
This study explores the factors that shape the success of foster care placements within the community-based foster care programme implemented by St Martin Catholic Social Apostolate (CSA) in Kenya. The study is guided by the Attachment, Family Systems and Ecological Systems theories, which together provide a framework for understanding how individual, family, and sociocultural factors influence child wellbeing in foster care settings. A qualitative case study design was adopted, focusing on foster parents, foster children, former foster children, programme staff, and the District Children’s Officer involved in the foster care programme. The study also drew on foster care case files maintained by the organisation. Stratified random sampling was used to ensure representation of both successful and unsuccessful foster care placements. The overall sample comprised ten foster care case files, nineteen individual participants, three programme staff, one District Children’s Officer, and two focus group discussions involving foster parents and former foster children. Data were collected through document review, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions, and analysed using content and thematic analysis. The findings show that successful foster care placements are influenced by a combination of foster parental commitment, parenting practices, and the provision of emotional support. Family-level factors such as acceptance within the household and relationships among family members also play an important role. In addition, the emotional adjustment and relational capacity of foster children affect placement stability. Cultural and religious values within the community were found to reinforce caregiving practices and support foster parenting. The study further highlights the importance of careful assessment and matching processes in strengthening foster care outcomes. The study concludes that community-based foster care models can provide effective and sustainable alternatives for children without parental care when supported by appropriate caregiver selection, strong family environments, and continuous programme support. It recommends strengthening assessment procedures, enhancing family support systems, and deepening community engagement in foster care initiatives.
Copyright (c) 2026 Esther Kalekye, Nelson Ng'arua Ndiritu, Sarah Roelker (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Artificial intelligence and the question of moral personhood: A philosophical enquiry
The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into high-stakes domains such as healthcare, finance, and public administration has intensified debates on moral agency, moral personhood, and accountability. As AI systems increasingly shape human outcomes, concerns arise regarding whether they qualify as moral agents or should bear responsibility for their actions. This study adopted a systematic literature review design grounded in qualitative philosophical inquiry to critically examine the moral status of AI and its implications for ethical governance. The study was guided by John Searle’s critique of strong AI and Floridi and Sanders’ theory of derivative moral agency, which provide a conceptual basis for evaluating AI’s capacity for moral understanding, intentionality, and accountability. The target population comprised scholarly literature in AI ethics, moral philosophy, and philosophy of technology, with the accessible population including peer-reviewed journal articles, books, and conference proceedings published between 2019 and 2026. A criterion-based sampling technique was employed to select relevant studies based on predefined inclusion criteria such as topical relevance, scholarly rigor, and conceptual contribution. Data collection involved systematic identification, screening, and extraction of key arguments from selected sources. A critical normative and thematic analysis was conducted to evaluate competing perspectives on AI moral personhood. The findings reveal that contemporary AI systems lack genuine moral understanding, autonomous intentionality, and accountability, thus failing to meet the criteria for moral personhood. The study further establishes that attributing moral status to AI risks creating responsibility gaps and weakening human accountability. It concludes that AI should be understood through derivative moral agency, where responsibility remains with human actors and institutions. The study recommends strengthening regulatory frameworks, institutional oversight, and ethical training to ensure responsible AI governance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sandra Khagayi, Collins Odoyo, Aseneth Jepchirchir, Cyrus Muhanga, Hesborn Ocholi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Factors affecting mathematics performance among ordinary secondary school students in Tanzania and its implications for future career selection: A review of literature
Performance in the mathematics discipline has been a stumbling block among students completing ordinary secondary schools in Tanzania. The discipline has been showing inefficient results among the finalists of secondary school from year to year despite its importance. This study aimed at analyzing major factors contributing to the subject matter not being well understood among students. The study was conducted in Tanzania purposively in order to meet its objective and guided by the Expectancy Theory of Motivation. The theory posits that students’ individual motivation and intensity of work are highly affected by their future’s expectations. The study adopted a systematic literature review with the sample involving 22 studies. Data were collected from authentic secondary data sources and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Factors with higher frequencies were adopted as major contributing factors of performance in mathematics in the study area. The study found that mathematics in secondary schools was faced with factors of four categories, i.e., policy-related factors, individual factors, psychological factors, and socio-economic factors. The policy-related factors were major contributing factors to the current problem by 60%. The study concluded that the mathematics subject is seriously faced with a lot of issues, but the leading factors are related to education policy. Solving policy-related factors will mean improving performance in mathematics. The study recommends the Ministry of Education and other education stakeholders come up with a special project/program purposely to improve performance in the subject matter.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dorence M. Kalemile, Johnson N. Katabwa (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Unveiling the silent voices of Gender Based Violence [GBV]: A glimpse of gender-based violence against men in Uganda
This study examines gender-based violence (GBV) against men in Uganda, with particular attention to its forms, causes, and consequences. Guided by hegemonic masculinity theory, muted group theory, plus power and control theory, the study explores how dominant gender norms, discursive exclusion, and non-physical strategies of domination shape men’s experiences of abuse and contribute to its underreporting in Uganda. Using a narrative inquiry approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 Ugandan men aged 18 years and above who were married, divorced, or separated. Participants were selected using a combination of convenience and purposive sampling techniques. The data were analyzed thematically using MAXQDA 2020, resulting in three major themes: forms of GBV, causes of GBV, and consequences of GBV against men. Findings reveal that the primary causes of GBV against men include poverty, group pressure, adultery, family background, and female social support networks. The study further indicates that GBV against men manifests in multiple forms, including physical, sexual, verbal, psychological, and economic abuse. Consistent with power and control theory, many of these abuses were non-physical and aimed at exerting domination and control over male partners. The consequences of such violence included psychological trauma, financial losses, suicidal ideation, and marital separation. Hegemonic masculinity norms and muted group dynamics further emerged as key factors that silenced male victims, discouraged reporting, and limited institutional recognition of men as legitimate victims of GBV. These findings signify that GBV against men in Uganda is real, multifaceted, and underreported. It is driven by power dynamics and gender norms. A possible mitigation mechanism for GBV against men calls for inclusive policies, recognition, and responsive support systems nationally. The study recommends fair and inclusive hearings for all GBV victims, increased advocacy for men’s rights, expanded victim counseling services, and greater involvement of cultural and religious institutions in GBV prevention and response. To enhance awareness among policymakers and stakeholders, further research on GBV against men in Uganda and other global contexts is strongly recommended.
Copyright (c) 2026 Musa Balonde, Joan Ahebwa, Rajab Idd Muyingo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Enhancing speaking capabilities in secondary schools via storytelling: An analysis of GS Gikumba in Kigali’s Gasabo District, Rwanda
This study looked at how well storytelling helped secondary school students at GS Gikumba in Kigali's Gasabo District improve their speaking abilities. The study's objectives were to assess the storytelling techniques employed by educators, pinpoint the difficulties encountered by students, and determine the connection between storytelling and the development of speaking abilities. The study was based on Vygotsky's Sociocultural Theory, which emphasizes the role of social interaction and collaborative learning in cognitive development, and Krashen's Input Hypothesis, which highlights the significance of comprehensible input in language acquisition. In order to obtain a 100% response rate, a census sampling technique was used in conjunction with a descriptive research design to gather data from all 40 students. Information on students' experiences with storytelling and how it affected their speaking performance was gathered using structured questionnaires. While correlation analysis evaluated the connection between speaking skill development and storytelling techniques, descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data in order to find trends and patterns. The results showed that storytelling has a positive impact on vocabulary, pronunciation, fluency, confidence, and classroom engagement. Language anxiety, a small vocabulary, a lack of practice outside of the classroom, and a fear of speaking in front of peers were among the difficulties that students encountered. Additionally, the study found a strong positive correlation between speaking skill improvement and storytelling engagement, suggesting that students who actively engage in storytelling exhibit greater oral communication competence. Based on these findings, the study suggests incorporating storytelling into English language training, encouraging both group and individual storytelling exercises, and giving students regular chances to practice speaking in encouraging and engaging environments. These interventions can improve learner confidence, improve oral communication abilities, and improve academic performance in general. The study shows that storytelling helps students improve their speaking skills, including vocabulary, pronunciation, fluency, confidence, and participation in class. Despite these benefits, students often struggle with language anxiety, limited vocabulary, fear of speaking in front of others, and not enough practice outside the classroom. To support them, schools can include storytelling in the curriculum, encourage both group and individual storytelling activities, and set up speaking clubs. Teachers can foster active participation to build confidence, while students benefit from practicing regularly to strengthen their oral skills. These approaches can boost learners’ confidence, communication abilities, and overall academic performance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ntibanyurwa Sosthene, Hakizimana Emmanuel, Musabyemariya Jeannette, Niyonzima Constant, Birori Gaetan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Managerial competencies of governing council members in Ghanaian universities: A comparative analysis of public and private sector perspectives
Despite the expanded statutory powers and strategic responsibilities of governing councils in both public and private universities, empirical attention has been limited to the managerial competencies that enable councils to function effectively across diverse institutional contexts. This study examines the managerial competencies of governing council members in selected public and private universities in Ghana. Anchored in institutional and corporate governance theories, the study employed a qualitative comparative case-study design to examine the managerial competencies of governing council members at public and private universities in Ghana. The study population comprised governing council members of public and private universities in Ghana, including chairpersons, external members, internal members (senior academics), and representatives of key stakeholder groups. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 29 participants, including governing council members and key institutional actors in selected public and private universities, and analysed thematically to identify patterns and variations in managerial competencies. Six interrelated themes emerged: strategic leadership and visioning; financial and resource management; risk management and institutional sustainability; decision-making and governance flexibility; professional expertise and experience; and ethical leadership and accountability. While council members in both sectors demonstrated strong commitment to governance roles, private university councils showed greater agility in decision-making, financial oversight, and performance monitoring. In contrast, public university councils were more constrained by bureaucratic processes, political influence, and regulatory controls but exhibited a stronger orientation toward public accountability and policy compliance. The study positions managerial competencies as a central analytical framework for examining the effectiveness of university governance in Ghana. It offers policy-relevant insights to strengthen governing councils through targeted capacity-building, merit-based appointments, and context-sensitive governance reforms across public and private higher education institutions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Enoch Danso Okyere (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Pricing capability, regulatory intensity, and market competition as determinants of financial sustainability in private schools in Lusaka Province, Zambia
Pricing capability and affordability management, together with the moderating influences of regulatory intensity and market competition, constitute theoretically important but empirically underexplored determinants of financial sustainability in private schools. This study investigates the direct influence of pricing capability and affordability management on financial sustainability, and the moderating roles of regulatory intensity and market competition on the financial sustainability of private schools in Lusaka Province, Zambia. Grounded in the Tuckman and Chang financial vulnerability model and Bowman's financial capacity framework, the study employed an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design (QUAN→qual). Quantitative data were collected from 272 valid survey questionnaire responses drawn from school owners, principals, bursars, and accountants at 594 registered private primary and secondary schools across the six districts of Lusaka Province, using two-stage stratified random sampling guided by Yamane's (1973) formula. Qualitative data were gathered through 15 purposively selected semi-structured telephone interviews conducted to theoretical saturation. A Financial Sustainability Index (FSI) was computed via Principal Component Analysis, with a mean FSI of 0.53 (SD = 0.202) reflecting moderate financial fragility across the sector. Pearson correlation analysis, supported by bias-corrected bootstrap estimation with 5,000 resamples, revealed a very weak and statistically insignificant direct relationship between pricing capability and affordability management and the FSI (r = -0.023; p = 0.702; BCa 95% CI: -0.14–0.11), indicating that H2 is not supported. The pricing items recorded neutral mean scores ranging from 2.88 to 3.00, reflecting widespread awareness of pricing imperatives without systematic strategic implementation. However, PROCESS Macro moderation analysis (Model 2; R² = 0.29; F(7,264) = 15.36; p < .001) revealed important contextual findings: market competition had significant positive direct effects on financial sustainability (B = 0.25; SE = 0.03; t = 9.96; p < .001), but regulatory intensity and market competition did not significantly moderate the pricing–sustainability relationship. Moderation analysis of other financial sustainability determinants revealed that market competition significantly amplified the effect of revenue diversification on financial sustainability, while both regulatory intensity and market competition significantly moderated the governance–sustainability relationship. Qualitative findings provided critical contextual explanation for the pricing null finding, with participants describing uniformly reactive, informally determined, and competitively benchmarked pricing practices that are fundamentally disconnected from institutional cost structures and strategic financial planning. The study makes original contributions by documenting the first empirical evidence of the pricing–sustainability null finding in Zambian private schools. This study concludes that by demonstrating important moderating boundary conditions imposed by regulatory and competitive environments across multiple financial sustainability determinants provides a rich qualitative account of the mechanisms through which these effects operate in practice. This study recommends that the Ministry of Education should assess the financial sustainability implications of the free education policy for the private school sector and develop complementary support mechanisms that reduce the competitive pressure on private schools to maintain fees below cost-adequate levels.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lusungu Anne Kumwenda, Lubinda Haabazoka, Harrison Daka (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Assessing skin lightening knowledge and practices among students at University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (UBIDS), Wa, Ghana
Despite the serious harmful consequences of skin lightening outlined in medical journals, many Ghanaian students still indulge in the practice. This study assesses the knowledge and practices of skin lightening among students at the Faculty of Integrated Development Studies (FIDS), University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (UBIDS), Wa. Guided by the social learning theory, the study employs a cross-sectional mixed-methods research design, combining questionnaires and in-depth interviews for data collection. The target population comprised all undergraduate students at the Faculty of Integrated Development Studies (FIDS), UBIDS, Wa. The study uses a mixed-methods approach. Primary data was obtained through questionnaires and interviews from 100 students selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Qualitative data was analyzed using an interpretative approach and presented in narrative form, while quantitative data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS v.20) and presented in charts and tables. The study reveals that 52% of respondents could differentiate between skin bleaching and skin toning. However, 71% were unaware of the lethal chemicals and abrasive agents in skin lightening products and their dangers. Only 18% of students self-reported current or previous use of skin lightening products. However, 47 students were initially sampled based on visible physical indicators of potential skin lightening use, suggesting possible underreporting driven by social desirability bias and semantic denial. Sources of knowledge included the internet (42 respondents), friends (30), celebrity endorsements on radio/television (23), billboards (3), and family (1). The findings underscore how digital platforms, peer networks, and celebrity culture create platforms that normalize skin lightening while suppressing awareness of health risks. The study recommends comprehensive health education campaigns, media literacy programs, and psychological support services to address skin lightening practices among university students.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ismail Saani, Robert Kuchengye Mokulogo, Chalisung Bernard Isung (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The impact of mobile fintech on financial inclusion in Tanzania (2020 – 2024): A literature review
Despite the growing body of literature on the impact of mobile fintech services on promoting financial inclusion, the trends in the adoption of mobile money services, as well as the number and value of transactions that enable the access of a variety of financial services such as savings, transfers, payments, credit, insurance and investment opportunities, remained less understood and inadequately documented. This study aimed to review the impact of mobile fintech services on financial inclusion in Tanzania from 2020 to 2024. The study was guided by two key theories: the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Financial Inclusion Theory. This study employed both quantitative and qualitative research methods approaches, based on a comprehensive literature review. Data were drawn from a range of published articles in peer-reviewed journals accessed through several academic databases as well as grey literature from websites of key organisations, including the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA), the Bank of Tanzania (BOT) and fintech service providers. The findings indicated that the mobile fintech service in Tanzania is dominated by a few service providers such as M-Pesa, Mixx by Yas and Airtel Money. The mobile money accounts in Tanzania have increased from 32,268,630 in 2020 to 63,207,569 in 2024, recording an annual increase of 19.85% in 2020, 8.55% in 2021, 13.84% in 2022, 22.55% in 2023 and 16.35% in 2024. Further, Tanzania has experienced a consistent improvement in its financial inclusion index from 0.45 in 2020 to 0.81 in 2024. The Pearson's correlation coefficient has shown that mobile money accounts have a positive and statistically significant correlation with the financial inclusion index (r = 0.930, p = 0.011). Similarly, the number of transactions had a positive and statistically significant correlation with the financial inclusion index (r = 0.917, p = 0.014). The value of transactions also showed a positive and statistically significant correlation with the financial inclusion index (r = 0.858, p = 0.032). Furthermore, mobile money accounts had a very strong positive correlation with the number of transactions (r = 0.996) and with the value of transactions (r = 0.973), indicating that as mobile money adoption increases, so do the number of transactions and the value of these transactions. This study concludes that the adoption of mobile fintech services has a strong positive correlation with financial inclusion in Tanzania from 2020 to 2024. This study recommends that policy and decision-makers in Tanzania should focus on creating a more favourable environment that fosters competition among mobile money service providers, ensuring that fintech services remain affordable, efficient, and accessible to all population segments, particularly low-income and rural communities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Magreth Kulwa Emmanuel (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Evaluating the influence of media strategies on the implementation of media policy protecting children against harmful television content in Nairobi County, Kenya
Mass media content in Nairobi, particularly broadcast radio and television, is largely free to air. This unrestricted access poses a significant challenge regarding specific content exhibited and its potential long-term effects on audiences and society. The most affected audience category is children, who risk exposure to unregulated, age-inappropriate content that may cause them harm. This paper therefore evaluated the influence of media strategies on the implementation of media policy protecting children against harmful television content in Nairobi County. The study was grounded in Implementation Theory, which conceptualizes policy execution as a dynamic, interactive process shaped by stakeholder engagement. It adopted a descriptive research design to determine how media policy implementation strategies influence the safeguarding of children. The study involved all child media policy implementing bodies: government agencies, the Media Owners Association, media policy experts, television stations, and parents within Nairobi County. A total of 416 respondents were sampled using Purposive Sampling Technique. Self-administered questionnaires were administered to selected parents, while structured interviews were conducted with other identified respondents. A critical analysis of Kenyan media policy was carried out to examine the extent of stakeholder involvement, establishing a relationship between stakeholder involvement and policy implementation. Data was analyzed using linear regression. The study found that while media policy implementation strategies are generally sufficient, they do not guarantee adherence to set guidelines. Moreover, unlike media agencies, parents demonstrate low awareness of mechanisms regulating safe children's television content. The study recommends civic education and participation by all stakeholders in media policy formulation and strategies, as well as continuous review of existing policies governing safe children's television content.
Copyright (c) 2026 Samson Guatai Raiji, Prof. Hellen K. Mberia, Dr. Augustus O. Nyakundi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Factors Influencing Student retention in East Kenya Union Conference SDA Secondary Schools in East Kenya: An Empirical Study
Student retention is a significant issue in secondary education, especially in faith-based institutions that prioritize holistic development. This study evaluated student retention in secondary schools affiliated with the SDA Church in EKUC. The study utilized a concurrent mixed methods research design and employed an exploratory strategy through a descriptive survey. The study's subjects comprised students, principals, Conferences/Field Education Directors, and chairpersons of the Board of Management (BoM). The study employed a contemporaneous mixed methods research approach, grounded in expectation theory of motivation. The target population comprised the twenty Seventh-day Adventist Church-operated secondary schools in EKUC. The unit of analysis comprised eleven secondary school principals, five education directors, eleven chairpersons of the school boards of management, and 335 pupils. The cluster sampling technique was employed to obtain the samples. The target demographic was categorized into five clusters: principals, students, education directors, and board chairpersons. Samples were collected from each of these clusters. The data gathering instruments employed were questionnaires administered to students. Interview schedules were arranged for education directors, school Board of Management chairpersons, and principals for the purpose of triangulation. An observation schedule was established. This focused on the school infrastructure and all activities occurring within the institution. The educational facilities and the conduct of teachers within the school were also documented here. The additional instrument employed was the document analysis tool utilized to gather data over a span of 8 years. Three hundred thirty-five students were mandated to complete the supplied questionnaire, while eleven principals, five educational directors, and eleven Board of Management chairpersons had interviews. The documentary analysis method was employed to obtain information on KCSE performance throughout the same eight-year period. The acquired data was evaluated utilizing descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. An study of documents regarding teacher retention was conducted. Content analysis was conducted on the responses from interviews and open-ended questions. The statistics indicate a significant number of pupils in Form 2 and 3 who either withdrew or enrolled during the year. Students were substituted as they withdrew in certain years. In conclusion, the annual turnover rates were elevated. This may impact the learning processes and pupils' academic achievement. The report advocates for schools to implement ways to ensure the availability of learning facilities for pupils. Students ought to be encouraged to persist in their education. Bursaries and sponsorships for students from disadvantaged families should be provided. Spiritual mentoring, employment initiatives, and adaptable fee payment structures should be established to assist children from disadvantaged backgrounds in continuing their education.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shadrack Kamundi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Analyze the structure of the economic diplomacy frameworks between Kenya and Ireland
The increasing significance of economic diplomacy in international relations has initiated several countries to prudently employ diplomatic channels to achieve their economic goals. Despite a framework of diplomatic engagement, the economic exchanges between these two nations are characterized by a profound and persistent imbalance, reflecting a neo-colonial pattern of trade that undermines the very principles of sustainable and mutually beneficial development. The urgency for targeted study is amplified by the changing global landscape, including the African Continental Free Trade Area, which offers Kenya new platforms for value-added exports. Despite a friendly bilateral environment, the absence of a formalized economic diplomacy framework results in an imbalanced trade structure and missed opportunities in key sectors. Therefore, this study sought to investigate the economic diplomacy frameworks between Kenya and Ireland. This study was anchored on power theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The research was conducted within Nairobi County. The study targeted business traders, exporters, the Irish ambassador to Kenya, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade representatives, Irish business networks, trade and policy analysts, trade directors, Customs and Trade officers-KRA, the Kenya Investment Authority representative, and the Kenya Private Sector Alliance [KIPPRA] representative, yielding a total of 247 sampled respondents. Purposive sampling was employed to select the sampled respondents. The primary data were collected using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. These were complemented by extensive secondary data, including trade reports and academic publications. Quantitative data was analyzed through SPSS version 26, while qualitative data was analyzed verbatim thematically. Quantitative data was presented in the form of tables and figures, while qualitative data was recorded thematically via verbatim. The study findings revealed the existence of a formal institutional framework supporting bilateral relations, which included embassies, trade missions, and bilateral cooperation agreements. The study concludes that economic diplomacy has been achieved through agriculture, especially horticulture; technology; infrastructure; education; and joint trade missions; however, with challenges such as political instability, cultural differences, and lack of strong partnerships and agreements. The study recommended that both governments establish a joint economic commission and formal trade agreements to structure engagement and unlock potential in agriculture, technology, and renewable energy sectors.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lucy Cynthia Mugala, Dr. Sussy N. Kimokoti, Dr. Elijah S.O. Odhiambo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Factors influencing high and low performance in Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examinations: A comparative study of primary schools in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya
Examinations serve as gatekeepers in educational systems, determining learners’ progression and career trajectories. In Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya, some primary schools consistently performed well in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examinations between 1995 and 1999, while others persistently performed poorly. Understanding the factors accounting for this variation is critical for educational planning. This study aimed to identify factors leading to high performance in some primary schools and low performance in others within Tharaka Nithi County. A comparative descriptive survey design was employed. Four consistently high-performing and four consistently low-performing schools were purposively sampled from 105 schools over five years (1995–1999). Participants included 37 Standard 8 teachers (78.4% male, 91.9% professionally qualified), 8 head teachers, former pupils, parents, and education officers. Data were collected using validated questionnaires (α = 0.501), interview schedules, and observation checklists. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used. High-performing schools demonstrated: (a) excellent administrative organization with regular staff meetings (82.3% of teachers agreed this contributed to performance); (b) high teacher commitment (81.0% agreed/strongly agreed teachers were committed); (c) motivated learners through prize-giving systems (54% disagreed that learners were poorly motivated); (d) disciplined environments (73.0% disagreed that learners were undisciplined); (e) provision of breakfast and lunch for teachers, enabling extended learning hours from 6:30 AM. Low-performing schools exhibited: poor financial management (48.6% agreed poor management leads to low performance), teachers residing >1 km from school (78.4%), unstable parental occupations (81.1%), and high parental illiteracy (67.6% of fathers and 67.5% of mothers were non-literate). Socioeconomic factors were paradoxically both a hindrance (lack of resources) and a motivator (desire to escape poverty). School administration quality, teacher commitment, pupil discipline, and motivation systems are stronger determinants of KCPE performance than socioeconomic status alone. Interventions should focus on strengthening school leadership, teacher welfare, and community engagement.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shadrack Kamundi, Tabitha Gituriandu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Fintech adoption and entrepreneurial decision-making: How trust, risk, and capability reshape choices
Research on FinTech adoption has concentrated extensively on predicting adoption intention, while the downstream effects of adoption on entrepreneurial decision-making have remained underexplored. This conceptual paper shifts the analytical focus by treating FinTech adoption as an input to, rather than an outcome of, entrepreneurial decision-making. Drawing on the Technology Acceptance Model, the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, perceived risk facets theory, digital trust theory, and entrepreneurship decision-making scholarship, the paper identifies three interconnected pathways through which FinTech adoption reshapes entrepreneurial choices. First, trust transformation describes how system-based and institution-based trust reshape the relational and contractual environment within which entrepreneurs trade. Second, risk reframing describes how FinTech shifts the risk portfolio of entrepreneurs from cash-based risks toward digital and platform risks, altering investment timing and opportunity evaluation. Third, capability expansion describes how FinTech generates a digital information trail that, when combined with adequate financial literacy and operational competence, enhances forecasting, pricing discipline, and working capital management. This paper employs an integrative conceptual synthesis approach that combines theory development with selective empirical illustration. An Integrative Decision Model for Entrepreneurial FinTech Adoption is proposed that maps the flow from acceptance drivers through adoption to decision environment changes and conditional decision outcomes. The model predicts heterogeneous outcomes: constructive decision transformation in high-trust, high-capability institutional contexts, and defensive adoption or adverse outcomes in low-trust, low-capability environments. The paper contributes to both the FinTech adoption and entrepreneurship literature by providing a theoretically grounded, mechanism-level account of how digital financial technology changes what entrepreneurs decide, not only whether they adopt it. This study concluded that FinTech adoption is relevant for entrepreneurship not only because it expands access to financial services but also because it changes the decision environment within which entrepreneurs evaluate opportunities, manage liquidity, and respond to uncertainty. This paper closes with targeted recommendations for regulators, entrepreneurship support organisations, FinTech providers, and entrepreneurs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Windu Matoka, Austin Mwange, Kampamba Clarence Chibesa, Bwalya Katuta, Lwando Kalaba, Kabwalwa Chilyata (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Human resource risks and organisational performance in Zambian quasi-governmental organisations
This paper investigates the human resource (HR) risks faced by quasi-governmental organisations in Zambia and examines their effects on organisational performance. Anchored in stakeholder theory, human capital theory, and institutional theory, the study adopted an interpretivist multiple-case study design. The target population comprised the most senior HR practitioners in quasi-governmental organisations in Zambia, and purposive sampling produced eleven participants drawn from parastatal and statutory bodies across diverse sectors. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke's six-phase framework. The findings identify five critical HR risk categories, namely recruitment corruption and political interference, recruitment and skills mismatches, casualisation and legal exposure, talent drain from uncompetitive compensation, and benefit misalignment with workforce demographics, together with reputational damage as a cross-cutting governance consequence. These risks undermine organisational performance through capability depletion, operational disruption, financial liability, and legitimacy erosion. The paper concludes that HR risks in quasi-governmental organisations are strategic rather than merely administrative problems and recommends stronger recruitment controls, reduction of unlawful casualisation, improved retention and reward strategies, and greater elevation of HR risk to board and executive attention.
Copyright (c) 2026 Daniel Siakalima, Austin Mwange, Francis Simui (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Exploring Tanzanian secondary school teachers’ challenges and opportunities in the use of tablets as a pedagogical tool in teaching and learning
This paper explored Tanzanian secondary school teachers' challenges and opportunities in using tablets as a pedagogical tool for teaching and learning. For the past few years, the United Republic of Tanzania (URT) has distributed more than 290,000 tablets in primary and secondary schools. However, these tablets are still underused, and there is no documentation of the challenges and opportunities they bring. The study, guided by the constructivist learning theory, employed both quantitative and qualitative methodology. A target population of 758 respondents from secondary schools, and data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The collected quantitative data were examined and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The study founder's severe challenges include limited access to electricity, lack of technical support from the school management when the tablet encounters a problem, lack of adequate training to effectively use tablets, lack of confidence in using the tablets, lack of the skills to install the necessary apps on their tablets related to teaching and learning, lack of accessibility to ICT-based resources, language problems (barriers), limited access to the internet, and a few noted that they have limited time. This study revealed various opportunities due to the use of tablets in secondary schools. Some of these opportunities encourage teachers to experiment with innovative teaching strategies, help teachers to increase their technological skills and digital literacy, foster professional growth, and encourage lifelong learning. Tablets enable teachers to collaborate and share teaching resources with colleagues more easily, provide a platform for teachers to communicate more effectively with parents and guardians, help to broaden the range of various subjects/content to teach, enhance personalized learning opportunities, and improve communication and global exposure. The findings will benefit policymakers, teachers, and curriculum developers in Tanzania by providing valuable insights into how to effectively support and encourage tablet use in secondary education.
Copyright (c) 2026 Titus Tossy (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Evaluating the influence of mobile and internet banking on customer satisfaction: Evidence from Absa Bank Tanzania
This study examines the influence of mobile and internet banking on customer satisfaction in the Tanzanian banking sector, using evidence from ABSA Bank’s Ngorongoro Branch. Grounded in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the study adopts a quantitative cross-sectional design and utilizes primary data collected from 127 digital banking users through structured questionnaires. The target population comprised 150 customers actively using mobile and/or internet banking platforms. Simple random sampling was employed to ensure representativeness, with respondents selected from a list of eligible digital banking users provided by the branch. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression. The findings reveal that mobile banking significantly enhances customer satisfaction through ease of cash withdrawal and balance inquiry, while inefficiencies in money transfer services negatively affect satisfaction. Similarly, internet banking contributes positively to customer satisfaction through fast transaction processing, whereas transaction errors significantly reduce customer satisfaction. The cost of internet banking services was found to be statistically insignificant, suggesting that customers prioritize service efficiency and reliability over pricing considerations. Overall, digital banking variables explain 51.1% of the variation in customer satisfaction. The study concludes that convenience, efficiency, and system reliability are critical determinants of customer satisfaction in digital banking. It recommends that banks improve system stability, minimize transaction errors, enhance transaction speed, and invest in user-friendly digital platforms to strengthen customer experience and competitiveness. The study contributes to the literature by providing branch-level empirical evidence from an emerging economy and highlighting the differential effects of specific digital banking attributes on customer satisfaction.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fredrick B. Mwangela (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Challenges faced by teachers in teaching inclusive education at St. Charles Special School, Zambia
This study aimed to identify the challenges encountered by science teachers at St Charles Special School when delivering subject content to learners, with the goal of proposing possible solutions to enhance the quality of knowledge and skills acquired by students. This study is grounded in social constructivist theory. A case study design was adopted, guided by the following objectives: (1) to identify the challenges associated with teaching science at St Charles Special School, (2) to assess the impact of these challenges on the learning of pupils with hearing impairment, and (3) to explore suitable teaching strategies that accommodate both groups of learners in an inclusive school setting. Respondents were purposively selected from the target school. To achieve the stated objectives, ten teachers from the science department completed a questionnaire comprising Likert-scale and open-ended questions. Additionally, ten pupils, five of whom were hearing impaired, responded to a questionnaire with open-ended questions. Data were analysed using SPSS and Excel, with findings presented in tables and pie charts. The results indicate that inclusive educators encounter various barriers that impede effective delivery of knowledge and skills. The study found that science teachers and learners at St Charles Special School face significant challenges, including communication barriers in sign language, a shortage of trained special education teachers, limited teaching resources, and bullying, all of which negatively affect teaching effectiveness and learners’ understanding and academic achievement. The study underscores the need for educators to take an active role in fostering student success by employing teaching strategies that support all learners.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mirriam Mulenga, Chikonde Andrew, Muma Mulenga (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
L’audiovisuel comme levier pour améliorer l’expression orale en FLE : Étude de cas au Groupe scolaire Rutunga (Rwanda)
Cette étude analyse l’apport de l’audiovisuel dans l’amélioration de l’expression orale en français langue étrangère (FLE) dans le contexte des écoles secondaires rwandaises. S’inscrivant dans les cadres théoriques de la compétence communicative, de l’apprentissage multimédia et de la théorie de l’autodétermination, la recherche examine les effets cognitifs et motivationnels de l’audiovisuel sur les apprenants. L’étude adopte une approche qualitative interprétative fondée sur une étude de cas menée au Groupe scolaire Rutunga. La population de l’étude est constituée de trois enseignants de FLE et de trente élèves de première année du secondaire. Les données ont été recueillies à travers l’analyse documentaire, des observations de classe, des entretiens semi-directifs avec les enseignants et un questionnaire administré aux élèves. Les résultats révèlent que l’usage de supports audiovisuels favorise la motivation, la participation orale et la confiance en soi des apprenants. Les élèves exposés à ces supports manifestent un plus grand intérêt pour les activités d’expression orale et participent davantage aux interactions en classe. L’audiovisuel contribue également à une amélioration perçue de la prononciation, de l’intonation et de la fluidité, surtout dans des situations guidées. Toutefois, son utilisation demeure irrégulière et dépend largement des initiatives individuelles des enseignants. L’étude met en évidence plusieurs contraintes, notamment le manque d’équipements, l’absence de formation spécifique et le temps limité consacré au cours de français. En conclusion, l’audiovisuel apparaît comme un levier pertinent pour le développement de l’expression orale en FLE, à condition d’être intégré de manière systématique et soutenu par des mesures pédagogiques, formatives et institutionnelles adaptées.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gakwerere Sangwa Viateur (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Knowledge governance and national development: Conceptual foundations, institutional architecture, and a framework for the knowledge management ecosystem
The accelerating transition towards knowledge-based economies has rendered the systematic governance of knowledge assets an urgent strategic priority for nations aspiring to sustainable development. Yet the conditions under which national knowledge management frameworks translate into measurable development outcomes remain theoretically underspecified and empirically underexplored, particularly in the sub-Saharan African context where institutional capacity constraints intersect with acute development imperatives. Employing a qualitative methodology that integrates narrative literature review with systematic content analysis of policy documents across multiple national and institutional contexts, this paper advances the argument that knowledge governance - defined as the deliberate, institutionally embedded orchestration of the processes through which knowledge is created, captured, shared, and applied - constitutes a structural prerequisite for effective national development rather than a peripheral administrative function. The analysis proceeds through five analytically distinct but interrelated dimensions: the conceptual architecture of national development and its embeddedness in knowledge-intensive processes; the taxonomy and developmental applications of explicit and tacit knowledge assets; the comparative landscape of knowledge management strategy, legal, and policy framework adoption across global, regional, and national institutional tiers; the institutional morphology of knowledge governance structures; and the empirically documented contribution pathways through which knowledge management produces national development outcomes. Synthesising these dimensions, the paper introduces a five-component Knowledge Management Ecosystem framework that provides a theoretically coherent and practically actionable architecture for integrating knowledge governance into national development systems. The paper's principal contribution is the development of a theoretically grounded and empirically informed framework that positions knowledge governance as the connective tissue linking national development aspiration, institutional capacity, and sustainable development outcomes, with direct implications for development policy, public administration reform, and knowledge management scholarship across the Global South.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sitali Wamundila, Christine Wamunyima Kanyengo, Austin Mwange (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Moderating role of technology acceptance on the relationship between digital HRM practices and organizational performance: Evidence from organizations in Dar es Salaam and Dodoma cities, Tanzania
Digital transformation has altered human resource management (HRM) worldwide, but its performance outcomes in emerging economies are not yet well researched, especially the conditional role of user acceptance. This paper investigates the moderating role of technology acceptance on the relationship between digital HRM practices and organizational performance in Tanzania. The research is based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), and Resource-Based View (RBV). The hypotheses are that digital HRM practices positively influence performance, technology acceptance directly influences the main effect, and acceptance enhances it. The survey was a quantitative cross-sectional study of 304 ICT and HR professionals and managers in all public and private organizations in Dar es Salaam and Dodoma, selected using purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) in SmartPLS 4. Findings show that digital HRM practices contribute to organizational performance in a significant and positive manner, technology acceptance has a direct and positive effect, and acceptance moderates the relationship positively. The model is a strong predictive model that explains 58% of the variance in performance. Theoretically, this research takes a step toward the integration of personal acceptance variables and organizational resource perspectives in an African context. In practice, user-focused training, user-friendly interfaces, and change management should be prioritized in organizations to enhance the benefits of digital HRM and achieve long-term competitive advantage. To facilitate the introduction of inclusive and sustainable HRM change across Tanzania, policymakers must implement acceptance-based interventions within national strategies for a digital economy, public sector reforms, and Vision 2050 initiatives.
Tourism resilience in the SADC region: A multi-crisis analysis and integrated crisis management model
The tourism industry in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region is highly vulnerable to multiple, overlapping crises, including environmental disasters, energy shortages, political instability, economic fluctuations, and global health pandemics. Despite the growing importance of resilience in tourism research, existing studies largely adopt single-crisis or destination-specific approaches, limiting their applicability to complex regional systems, which is particularly problematic given the interconnected nature of crises affecting the SADC region. This study examined tourism resilience in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, with a focus on the impacts of crises, the strategies adopted to enhance resilience, and the effectiveness of these adaptation measures. The study adopted a qualitative research design based on a systematic desk review of secondary data. Literature was sourced from peer-reviewed journals, books, and policy reports from institutions such as SADC, UNWTO, and the World Bank, retrieved through databases including Google Scholar, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. A thematic analysis approach was used to synthesize findings on tourism resilience and crisis management in the SADC region from studies published between 2000 and 2025. The study finds that tourism in the SADC region is highly vulnerable to multiple interrelated crises, including environmental, economic, political, energy, and pandemic shocks, which significantly disrupt sector performance, with uneven recovery across countries. Despite this, resilience is gradually emerging through digital transformation, infrastructure and technological adaptation, and market and product diversification, although these efforts remain constrained by structural inequalities and weak coordination. The study recommends the adoption of an integrated SADC Crisis Management and Resilience Model (S-CMRM) to strengthen multi-level governance, enhance adaptive capacity, and promote a more proactive and transformative approach to tourism resilience in the region.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bruce Ernest, Norman Kachamba, Chatse Nsama (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The influence of regional integration on inflation volatility: Evidence from Tanzania in the East African community (EAC)
This study examines how East African Community (EAC) regional integration influences inflation volatility in Tanzania. The study uses the Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedastic (ARCH) and Generalised Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedastic (GARCH) family of models to describe the conditional variance dynamics. It is guided by Optimum Currency Area (OCA) theory, which suggests that sharing a currency decreases inflation volatility through policy coordination by increasing shock absorption due to labour and capital mobility and requiring symmetry among economic partners. Employing quarterly time-series data over critical integration periods, including the attainment of the Customs Union in 2005 and the Common Market in 2010, the findings show that regional integration reduces inflation volatility by encouraging trade convergence, improving monetary coordination, and strengthening expectation anchors. Under the Exponential Generalised Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity (EGARCH) specifications, the estimated asymmetry and persistence parameters were found to be statistically significant, with integration reforms accounting for approximately 79% of quarterly volatility carryover. After 2005, mean-stable inflation with an average of around 1% characterises Tanzania, in contrast to persistently high inflation. However, post-reform turbulence and clustering of volatility point towards the risk of external shocks as a vulnerability for emerging markets aligned with commodity shocks. The results support the conclusions from the optimum currency area (OCA) theory, suggesting that integration fosters convergence and stabilisation, while revealing structural asymmetries such as the agrarian reliance on Tanzania and manufacturers’ tilt of Kenya, which are magnets for uneven volatility among member states. The policy implications of these findings advocate for the rapid operationalisation of the EAC Monetary Union, stronger fiscal surveillance, trade diversification, and the increased sophistication of econometric frameworks. Through enhanced integration that also tackles structural weaknesses, Tanzania and the EAC can create an environment in which inflation variability is a controllable risk rather than an insurmountable barrier to continued economic expansion. Building on these implications, this study recommends strengthening regional stabilisation mechanisms, such as dedicated stabilisation funds; enhancing agricultural productivity to reduce food price volatility; and deepening financial market development to improve monetary transmission. In addition, investing in cross-border infrastructure supports supply chain resilience, and adopting joint inflation-forecasting frameworks enables policymakers to anticipate and mitigate external shocks. Collectively, these measures will reinforce the foundations of integration and culminate in a successful monetary union (MU).
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Nicodemas C. Lema (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0