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.
Access of tax information and tax compliance behavior among small and medium-sized enterprises in the Kariakoo tax region
Tax information is essential for enhancing tax compliance and operational efficiency among Small and Medium Enterprises. In Tanzania, studies showed that most of SMEs do not comply on tax payment. This study investigates the influence of accessing tax information on tax compliance behavior among SMEs operating within the Kariakoo Tax Region in Tanzania. The study is guided by a Planned Behavior Theory. A cross-section research design with quantitative and qualitative approaches was employed. The targeted population was the registered Small and Medium Enterprises. Stratified random sampling was used to select 156 respondents. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages, were used for analysis and a linear regression model was used assess the influence of access to tax information on tax compliance. Furthermore, thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. The study found that tax information positively influenced tax compliance behavior. The study found that tax information positively influenced tax compliance behavior (β = 0.134, p < 0.058). In additional, tax behavior intention (β = 0.159, p = 0.068), and tax attitude (β = 0.240, p = 0.037), significantly influenced tax compliance. The study concludes that tax information has a significant positive influence on SMEs’ tax compliance behavior. The study recommends that Tanzania Revenue Authority in collaboration with other stakeholders should design and implement structured tax awareness campaigns targeting SMEs. The campaigns should focus on expanding tax information sources to impart knowledge of tax obligations, rights, and procedures through accessible formats such as mobile applications, website and social media.
Copyright (c) 2026 Grace M. Mvamba , Nicholaus Mwalukasa, Philbert Nyinondi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The competitiveness of Tanzania’s coffee exports to African Countries and Non-African Countries
Coffee exports in Tanzania significantly contribute to foreign exchange earnings, employment and livelihood of smallholder farmers. However, Tanzania accounts for less than 1% of the world coffee exports and evidence of the extent to which its export competitiveness differs between African and non-African markets is limited. The purpose of this study was to compare Tanzania's coffee export competitiveness between the two export destination market groupings using the Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) theory by Balassa in 1965. Secondary data regarding coffee exports (HS Code 0901) for the period 2005 to 2024 was gathered from the United Nations Comtrade database and International Trade Centre (ITC). Consistent with the RCA theory conceptualization, comparative advantages between African and non-African countries' markets have separately been computed by calculating RCA for coffee exports between African and non-African markets and to demonstrate Tanzania's relative export specialty and competitiveness. Tanzania coffee export shows poor and sporadic and highly fluctuation competitiveness on African markets (only limited number of countries such Kenya, South Africa, Morocco, Uganda sustained comparative advantage), on contrary strong and broader and sustained competitiveness on non-African markets, especially Europe, North America, Asian and Oceanian countries have shown better trend for Tanzania with RCA above a unit in majority of non-African countries. Findings imply that Tanzanian coffee exports mostly rely on its traditional international market, but a lot of opportunities in the African regional markets have not been exploited. The study concludes that Tanzanian coffee export competitiveness needs to be boosted on African continent market and sustained for non-African for achieving a more diversified and resilient coffee export sector. The study recommends trade facilitation measures to streamline export procedures, value addition and certification initiatives, improved compliance with international quality standards and harnessing the opportunities offered by the AfCFTA to penetrate regional markets are also suggested.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mpi Y. Mwaipaja, Charles P. Mgeni, Ntengua Mdoe (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Colonial policy, gendered technology, and women’s food production in Homa Bay District, Kenya, 1902–1963
Women were central to household food production in Homa Bay District, yet the introduction of British colonial rule transformed the institutional conditions under which they accessed land, agricultural knowledge and technology. This study examined how British colonial policies shaped women’s access to agricultural technologies and influenced food production in Homa Bay District, Kenya, between 1902 and 1963. The study was guided by the Articulation of Modes of Production Theory,, and Techno-Feminism Theory .The study adopted a historical research design and drew on archival records, oral interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and secondary sources. Purposive and snowball sampling were used in the broader study to select 80 participants, comprising 56 individually interviewed respondents and 24 participants in three FGDs. Archival materials were obtained from the Kenya National Archives and regional archives, while oral evidence was corroborated with documentary and secondary sources. Data were analysed thematically and through content analysis, guided by the Articulation of Modes of Production and Techno-Feminist perspectives. The findings show that taxation and labour policies increased male labour migration and transferred greater responsibility for household food production to women. Colonial education and extension systems privileged men’s access to formal agricultural knowledge, while commercial agriculture channelled technologies such as ox-ploughs, improved seeds, fertilizers and credit mainly towards male-controlled production. Land policies, the Africa Land Development schemes and the Swynnerton Plan further intensified women’s labour and weakened their access to productive resources. Nevertheless, women demonstrated technological agency through intercropping, seed preservation, composting, manure application, drought-resistant crops, food preservation and the selective adaptation of introduced technologies. The study concludes that colonial agricultural modernization created a gendered technological system in which women became increasingly responsible for food security while remaining comparatively disadvantaged in access to formal technologies and institutional support. It recommends gender-responsive agricultural policies that strengthen women’s access to land, credit, extension services and labour-saving technologies while recognizing and integrating women’s indigenous agricultural knowledge into contemporary food-security strategies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mireri Moses Matunga, Pontian Godfrey Okoth, Ph.D., Kizito Muchanga Lusambili, Ph.D. (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Structural embeddedness and innovation commercialization in Tanzanian universities: The moderating role of network embeddedness
This study examines the relationship between structural embeddedness and innovation commercialization among researchers across five Tanzanian public universities, drawing on Granovetter's theory of social embeddedness. It tests three hypotheses: the direct influence of structural embeddedness on commercialization (H01), the moderating role of network embeddedness on this relationship (H02), and the direct effect of network embeddedness on commercialization (H03). Data were collected from 274 academic staff across five public universities and analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling with 5,000 bootstrap subsamples. The measurement model satisfied all convergent and discriminant validity criteria. Structural embeddedness positively and significantly influenced innovation commercialization (beta = 0.314, p < 0.001), supporting H1, and network embeddedness exerted a significant positive direct effect (beta = 0.362, p < 0.001), confirming H3. The moderation analysis yielded a significant negative interaction (beta = -0.100, p = 0.013): the positive influence of structural embeddedness weakened as network embeddedness intensified, suggesting a substitution effect in which researchers already deeply embedded in their networks derive diminishing returns from additional structural positioning. The model explained 46.1% of variance in innovation commercialization. We conclude that structural and network embeddedness are not simply additive but interact in ways that redistribute the returns to positional advantage, extending network theory by showing its dimensions can function as partial substitutes rather than complements in a developing-country university context. We recommend that Tanzanian universities and research administrators prioritise strengthening the overall quality and density of academic-industry networks, through shared infrastructure, cross-institutional platforms and industry engagement programmes, over interventions that target only individually well-positioned researchers, since the observed substitution effect implies that network-level investment yields broader and more equitable commercialization gains.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mary John, Liliane Pasape, Akinyi Lydia Sassi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Leadership styles and economic development of Kenya, since 1963
This study looks at how the president of Kenya has led the country since it became independent in 1963. It also looks at how different presidents have made decisions. The study had four specific objectives: to look at the leadership style of Jomo Kenyatta and how it affected the Kenyan economy to examine Daniel Moi's leadership style and how it impacted the economy; to study Mwai Kibaki’s leadership and how it affected economic development in Kenya from 2002 to 2013 and to look at the leadership styles of presidents in Kenya since 2013 and how they have impacted the economy. The study used an approach and looked at old records, spoke to people who lived through it, and read what other scholars have written. It examined how presidents Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and William Ruto have led the country and made decisions. The study used two ideas: the Great Man Theory and the theory of political time. These ideas help us understand how presidents have made decisions and governed Kenya. The study found that the way the president leads has changed over time. Sometimes the president has a lot of power and control; sometimes they focus on reform. Sometimes they try to make the people happy. The study talked to people who have experienced presidents and leadership styles. It used techniques to choose the people to talk to and ended up speaking with 16 people. The study shows that economic decisions are not just based on ideas but on the president's leadership style, their power, and the country's institutions. It looked at what the people said and found patterns and themes. The study found that when the constitution changes, the president still has a lot of power. The economic strategies have also changed, from helping the rich to trying to reduce debt and help the poor. Each president has tried to grow the economy and make the country stronger. The results have been different. The study is important because it shows how the president's leadership affects the economy and the country's development. It found that Kenya's development has been shaped more by the president's influence than by policies. This helps us understand why it is hard to achieve development that includes everyone and is sustainable. The study results are important for understanding how Kenya and other African countries can achieve governance and development. It shows that the president's leadership is crucial in shaping the country's economy and development path. The study's findings can help us learn from Kenya's experiences. Apply them to other countries.
Copyright (c) 2026 Larry Iswekha Chiteyi, Omondi Bernard Ouma, Pontian Godfrey Okoth, Kizito Muchanga Lusambili (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Integration of universal design for learning principles to accommodate students with visual impairments in inclusive public secondary schools of Mwanza City, Tanzania
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an educational framework for promoting inclusive education through its three core principles: multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression, which emphasize flexible teaching and assessment practices to accommodate students' diverse educational needs. This study explored how teachers integrate UDL principles to support students with visual impairments in the selected inclusive public secondary schools of Mwanza City, Tanzania. Guided by the Social Model of Disability, the study employed a qualitative approach with a case study design involving 20 participants who were purposively selected, including teachers, school administrators, and students with visual impairments. Data were generated through interviews and observations and analysed thematically. The findings revealed that teachers integrated UDL principles through different strategies, including verbal explanations, the use of tactile materials, using Braille resources, audio-recorded lessons, the use of assistive devices such as Orbit Readers, peer support, oral assessments, and Braille -based assessments. It was also revealed that teachers integrated technology through the use of voice recorders, orbit readers and audio books. These approaches enhanced students' access to the curriculum and assessment, fostering their learning independence and participation. However, the integration of UDL principles was partial and informal, challenged by inadequate training, shortage of assistive technology, workload, and time pressure resulting from the low number of trained personnel. The study concluded that this commitment by teachers demonstrates a step toward the practical realization of inclusive education, though more efforts are still required for true and institutionalized inclusive practices. The study recommended that the educational authority should prioritize teacher training and the procurement of assistive technology. In addition, the authority should establish a clear and feasible policy and framework for UDL implementation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jackson Julius Manase, Kenneth Kapalu Muzata, Magdalene Simalalo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Family-school-community partnerships as a catalyst for sustainable development in Kenyan basic education
The article explores the potential for family-school-community partnerships to drive sustainable basic education outcomes in Kenya. It uses document analysis of a purposively delimited collection of contemporary scholarly literature relevant to the four areas of parental engagement, school-community partnership, learner support, and sustainable basic education. The analysis was anchored in Epstein’s Overlapping Spheres of Influence Theory, which explains learner outcomes as emerging from the interaction of family, school, and community influences. A systematic source-identification process located 58 records and retained seven article documents for analysis. The evidence indicates that reciprocal, structured, and inclusive partnerships enhance learner participation, academic support, retention, attendance, early-childhood engagement, school-community alignment, and sustainable-development-oriented learning. In Kenya, evidence shows that parent education, income, provision for academic resources, headteacher-led involvement, and family-based truancy impact learners. Institutional partnership routines and culturally responsive engagement in particular are additionally shown by regional and international evidence to enhance the standard of parent-school-community relationships. The article suggests that schools should recognise families and communities as co-producers of sustainable development in basic education, as being producers of learning, welfare, inclusion, and relevance. It suggests structured communication, partnership planning by the headteacher, educating parents, community-related learning initiatives, partnership indicators, and focused support to low-income households.
Copyright (c) 2026 Benard O. Nyatuka, John K. Nyangaresi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Examining the influence of school infrastructure on retention of students in secondary schools in Bukwo district, eastern Uganda
The study examined the influence of school infrastructure on retention of students in secondary schools in Bukwo district, eastern Uganda. The study was guided by systems theory. A cross-sectional survey research design was adopted. It involved 10 secondary schools since the intention was to find out whether they have adequate infrastructures which contribute to students’ retention in secondary schools. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 10 headteachers, 32 teachers and 50 students to partake in the study. Interviews, observations and documentary guides were used for data collection. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The study revealed that, secondary schools in Bukwo district eastern Uganda have inadequate infrastructures like classrooms, furniture, ventilations and lighting. This was confirmed by the headteachers, teachers and students participated in the study when they reechoed that, infrastructures in Bukwo secondary schools are inadequate. Therefore, inadequate infrastructures negatively affect students’ retention. Further this research concluded that, retention of students is below the expectations of the stakeholders. It also emphasized that, adequate infrastructures positively impact the retention of students in secondary schools in Bukwo district eastern Uganda. The study recommended that; the government of Uganda should extend more support to the learning institutions with all the necessary financial aid needed to renovate and establish the infrastructures to boost the retention of learners in secondary schools. School administrators should implement infrastructures reorganization strategies to ensure that, students have adequate space to learn and accommodate diverse learning styles.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lucy Chemutai, Raymond Kibirige, Bernard Lutalo, Creatoris Nayebare, Paul Muleke (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Influence of daily life experiences on job satisfaction among secondary school teachers in Bungoma County, Kenya
This paper has explored how experiences in everyday life affect job satisfaction in secondary schools teachers in Bungoma County Kenya. The objective of the study was to establish the extent to which the regular professional experiences of teachers had any meaningful impact on the degree of job satisfaction. Herzberg's Motivator-Hygiene Theory guided the findings of the study. The research design used was quantitative survey with qualitative information through interviews. A sample size of 400 questionnaires was distributed among the secondary school teachers with 376 questionnaires being returned successfully, that is, the response rate of 94% from a target of 2000 teachers drawn from stratified sampling. The data was analyzed through descriptive statistics (means and standard deviations) and the relationship between daily life experience and job satisfaction was tested using regression analysis; the results showed that the general mean of the daily life experience was 4.00 (SD = 1.00). There was a great deal of agreement between teachers about how everyday experiences like student engagement and lesson planning and counseling helped their teaching to be effective. Nonetheless, regression analysis showed that the daily life experiences did not statistically affect job satisfaction (b = -0.017, t = -1.638, p = 0.102). This implies that as much as daily activities of the teacher influence the routine of teachers, it is not always the case that these activities influence the overall job satisfaction. The research was done on secondary school teachers in Bungoma County only and therefore, it may have lesser generalizability in other places or level of education. The study concluded that, teacher satisfaction should be promoted through the strengthening of institutional support systems like administrative support, professional recognition, and career advancement opportunities carried out by the educational stakeholders. The working conditions and professional well-being of teachers can be improved to achieve higher educational achievement and student performance. The study recommends that the research adds to the existing knowledge about teacher job satisfaction because it establishes that routine professional experiences alone do not have significant impacts on job satisfaction highlighting the role of other institutional and motivational elements.
Copyright (c) 2026 Andanje Margaret Ochango, Poipoi W. Moses, Ogutu J. P. Joel (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Progenitors of final-year Senior High School [SHS] students’ cognitive test anxiety: Examination preparedness, academic self-efficacy, and religiosity
This study investigated progenitors of Cognitive Test Anxiety (CTA) of final-year Senior High School (SHS) students in Ghana, focusing on examination preparedness (EP), academic self-efficacy (ASE), and religiosity. The Transactional Model of Stress and Coping was the theory that undergirded the study. Using a cross-sectional survey design, the study targeted 8,656 final-year students in 10 senior high schools within the Cape Coast Metropolis, from which 370 students were selected through proportionate simple random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to the selected students, and all questionnaires were completed and returned. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations) were computed using SPSS version 25, while Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was performed using SmartPLS 4 to analyse the data. The results indicated that final-year SHS students exhibit high levels of progenitors of CTA with EP being the highest. The results also indicated that ASE and religiosity had a significant effect on CTA but EP showed no significant effect on CTA. The study recommended that educational stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education and school administrators, implement interventions to enhance ASE and address student test anxiety.
Copyright (c) 2026 Eric Mensah, Samuel Kwarteng, Josephine Jehu-Appiah (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Does catastrophic health expenditure affect out-of-pocket health care spending in Tanzania?
The basic goal of a healthcare scheme is to confirm that everybody can get high-quality care. The study intended to determine the factors that donate to catastrophic out-of-pocket (OOP) health care costs in Tanzania. Behavioural model of health care guided this research. Time series (Longitudinal) research design adopted to this study. The targeted population from 2008/2009 to 2.5% in 20112/2013. The sampling and sample size is 1476 employed while sources of data are United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), Ministry of Finance and Planning, National Health Insurance Funds (NHIF) and National Bureau of Statistics (NBS)-Tanzania. The logit model was employed to analyse the reasons of disastrous expenditure, safeguarding that approximation issues include heteroscedasticity, endogeneity and multicollinearity are spoke. The data show that, assuming a 10% threshold for overall health spending, the calculated headcount of catastrophic expenditure is 13.9% in 2008/2009, 14.5% in 2010/2011, and 14.1% in 2012/2013. This measure indicates that, on average, among the interviewed households who stayed fitness upkeep services 4 weeks prior to the survey and paid for the services out of pocket, 13.9%, 14.5%, and 14.1% use extra than 10% of their feeding spending on health-care services crossways all rollers. The frequency and size of catastrophic health payments at the 40% level have certain commonalities. Furthermore, the findings demonstrate that the percentage of households impoverished by catastrophic out-of-pocket health care charges fell since 3.6% in 2008/2009 to 2.5% in 2010/2011, before rebounding to 3.3% in 2012/2013. Furthermore, the findings show that on average, 3.1% of the population has been destitute or rendered poor as a result of these catastrophic health-care payments. home size, age of the head of the home (65+), and experience were identified as drivers of catastrophic OOP expenditure. This study lends credence to the literature's notion that out-of-pocket health costs create financial disaster for low-income households, revealing them to additional pain and compelling them to employ hazardous managing techniques. Thus, new and stronger techniques for safeguarding weak families from out-of-pocket expenses and terrible fitness expenses are requiredTh. Catastrophic health expenditure ensuing from out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditures residues an important socioeconomic and public health problem, mostly in developing nations. The study recommends that the government should expand widespread health coverage, increase health financing, reduce user charges for important service, and easy to access the important medicine to the public hospitals.
Copyright (c) 2026 James Daniel Chindengwike (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Climate variability and fertility preferences in Zimbabwe: Examining the impact of environmental stress on the ideal number of children
Climate variability is increasingly emerging as an important determinant of demographic behavior, particularly in Agrarian societies where livelihoods remain highly dependent on environmental stability. While fertility transition scholarship has traditionally emphasized socio-economic factors such as education, urbanization, and marital change, limited empirical attention has been given to how climate stress shapes fertility preferences in Sub-Saharan Africa. Guided by Risk Society Theory and Life Course Theory, this study examines the relationship between climate variability and the ideal number of children in Zimbabwe, conceptualizing fertility preferences as socially embedded and environmentally mediated decisions shaped by both structural transitions and ecological uncertainty. The study uses nationally representative georeferenced data from the 2015 Zimbabwe Demographic and Health Survey linked with high resolution datasets from WorldClim and NASA Earth observation sources. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, and Poisson regression was used to model the count nature of the dependent variable. The analytical sample consisted of 9910 respondents. The Findings show that Mean temperature is positively and significantly associated with ideal family size (β=0.019, p<0.001), suggesting that rising temperature may reinforce pronatalist preferences in climate vulnerable contexts. Annual precipitation showed a weak positive association (β=0.002, p<0.093), while other climatic indicators were not statistically significant. Among socio-demographic factors, higher educational attainment significantly reduced fertility preferences, with tertiary education showing strongest negative effect (β=-0.435, p<0.001). Urban residence was associated with lower ideal family size (β=-0.0122, p<0.001), while marital union, age and household composition significantly increased fertility preferences. The findings suggest that fertility preferences in Zimbabwe are shaped not only by socio-economic transitions but also environmental uncertainty. The study contributes to climate demography by demonstrating that climate change climate change is becoming increasingly embedded in reproductive decision making and highlights the need to integrate reproductive health into climate adaptation policies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Norman Makunika , Pataporn Sukontamarn , Tadashi Nakasu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Barriers to heritage-based education policy implementation in rural Zimbabwe: insights from Masvingo Cath-olic secondary schools
This study examines the barriers to effective implementation of Heritage-Based Education (HBE) policy in rural Zimbabwe, with particular focus on Catholic secondary schools in Masvingo Province. Heritage-Based Education was introduced to align the education system with Zimbabwe’s cultural values, indigenous knowledge systems, national identity, and socio-economic development goals. Despite its significance, the implementation of the policy in many rural schools has faced numerous challenges that limit its effectiveness and intended outcomes. The study explores the experiences and perceptions of school administrators, teachers, and learners regarding the practical application of HBE within Catholic secondary schools. The study is guided by Sen ‘s Capability approach and supported by Nussbaum’s Central capabilities. A qualitative case study approach was employed to gather in-depth insights from six catholic secondary selected in Masvingo Province. Purposive sampling was used to gain in-depth understanding of the phenomena and snowball sampling was used to reach difficult research participants such as schools inspectors and Responsible Authorities of the schools. Data was collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis to understand the meaning of the data and emerging patterns. The findings reveal that inadequate teaching and learning resources, limited teacher training and professional development, insufficient funding, and lack of policy clarity are major barriers to effective implementation. The study also found that tensions between heritage-based curricular expectations and the religious orientation of Catholic schools create challenges in integrating certain aspects of indigenous knowledge and cultural practices. Furthermore, poor infrastructure, limited access to technology, and the rural context of schools hinder the adoption of innovative teaching methods that support heritage-based learning. The absence of consistent monitoring and evaluation mechanisms was identified as a significant obstacle. The study concludes that while stakeholders acknowledge the importance of Heritage-Based Education in promoting cultural identity and national development, successful implementation requires stronger institutional support and contextual adaptation. It recommends increased government funding, continuous teacher capacity-building programmes, provision of relevant educational resources, and enhanced collaboration among policymakers, church authorities, school leaders, and local communities. Addressing these challenges would strengthen the implementation of Heritage-Based Education and improve its contribution to culturally responsive and sustainable education in rural Zimbabwe. The study contributes to ongoing discussions on educational policy implementation in developing contexts and offers practical insights for enhancing heritage-based learning in faith-based rural schools.
Copyright (c) 2026 Chomunorwa Rusakaniko , Wiseman Mupindu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Is our knowledge sufficient? Linking internal auditors’ knowledge to public expenditure management through internal audit effectiveness in local government authorities
Weak public expenditure management remains a persistent challenge in developing economies, undermining service delivery and fiscal sustainability, especially in local government authorities. This study examines the direct and indirect influence of internal auditors’ knowledge on public expenditure management through the mediating role of internal audit effectiveness in local government authorities. This study adopts the resource-based view (RBV) as the single overarching theoretical framework. Drawing on data from a cross-sectional survey of 49 internal audit professionals in local government authorities, structured questionnaires were distributed to collect data in the selected LGAs. For testing the study’s hypotheses, PLS-SEM in Smart PLS 4 was employed.revealing that internal auditors’ knowledge significantly predicts internal audit effectiveness (β = 0.610, f² = 0.593) and public expenditure management (β = 0.522, f² = 0.521). Internal audit effectiveness also mediates this relationship (β = 0.238, p = 0.011). The model explained 67.2% of variation in public expenditure management (R² = 0.672) and 37.2% in internal audit effectiveness (R² = 0.372), demonstrating strong reliability and predictive relevance. Results concluded that internal auditors’ knowledge is a positive and significant factor in improving public expenditure management and internal audit effectiveness. Also, internal audit effectiveness has a positive and significant direct effect on public expenditure management and partially mediates the relationship between internal auditors’ knowledge and public expenditure management. This study makes a timely contribution to public sector governance and auditing literature, especially in under-researched Sub-Saharan African contexts. This study recommends that there is urgent need for targeted capacity-building programmes to strengthen internal auditors’ expertise in financial management, alongside investments in audit quality, information access, and resource allocation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Philipo Karol, Ismail Abdi Changalima, Alex Reuben Kira (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Influence of internal communication on organizational performance of school hub libraries: Evidence from Zanzibar
This study examined the contribution of internal communication to organizational performance in Zanzibar School Hub Libraries. Specifically, the study assessed the availability of internal communication infrastructure, examined communication tools used by staff and management, and identified key challenges affecting effective internal communication. The study is guided by the Organizational Information Theory. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data collected through structured questionnaires with qualitative data obtained from semi-structured interviews. The study population for this research was comprised of librarians, teachers, computer lab technicians, science lab technicians and language lab technicians. A total of 128 respondents participated in filling out the questionnaires, while 10 individuals involved in interviews. A purposive sampling technique and a simple random sampling technique were used to select respondents. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings reveal that internal communication infrastructure and tools were generally available but inconsistently structured and utilized. While 62.5% of school-hub staff agreed that existing infrastructure supported timely information sharing, only 25.8% reported the presence of well-structured internal communication systems and 77.3% indicated that communication infrastructure enhanced collaboration and teamwork. The regression results revealed that organizational communication policy, information quality, and feedback mechanisms significantly influence organizational performance. However, challenges such as delayed information flow, limited digital skills, inconsistent use of digital platforms, and occasional technical disruptions constrained optimal organizational performance. The study concludes that effective internal communication significantly enhances coordination, teamwork, and service delivery in Zanzibar School Hub Libraries. It recommends strengthening structured internal communication systems, investing in reliable digital infrastructure, enhancing staff digital literacy and communication skills through regular training, and promoting a culture of two-way communication and feedback to improve organizational performance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jaafari M. Mwadini, Athumani S. Samzugi, Lilian D. Isowe, Abbas M. Omar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The theory-practice mismatch in proactive learner discipline management strategies: A mixed-methods study of Malawian secondary schools
Despite increasing policy emphasis on proactive learner discipline management strategies in schools, their implementation remains uneven in the Malawian education system. This study examined the effectiveness and practical application of proacttive discipline strategies in Malawian secondary schools using a mixed-methods embedded design guided by transformational leadership theory and choice theory. The target population comprised school management team members, student council leaders, education managers, and learners who had been suspended or dismissed. Quantitatively, a sample of 380 participants was drawn from twenty secondary schools using stratified random sampling, with sample size determined by the Yamane formula. Qualitatively, purposive sampling was employed to conduct in-depth interviews with 12 participants to capture their lived experiences with disciplinary management strategies. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and independent-samples t-tests, while qualitative data was analysed through thematic analysis. The findings revealed a persistent gap between the recognition of preventive strategies and their consistent implementation. While clear school rules received strong endorsement (88.9%), learner participation in decision-making remained limited (56.6%), reflecting continued hesitation toward shared governance. Statistically significant differences were observed between boarding and day schools in the use of positive reinforcement (p = 0.045) and supervised study practices (p = 0.003), suggesting contextual variation in implementation. Qualitative evidence indicates that proactive efforts are constrained by limited resources, insufficiently trained counselling personnel, and entrenched fault-finding disciplinary cultures, resulting in largely reactive responses to learner misbehaviour. The study concludes that proactive discipline management in Malawian secondary schools is widely recognised but inconsistently implemented, making it more aspirational than operational. It recommends strengthening guidance and counselling services, enhancing learner participation, investing in positive reinforcement, and promoting supportive and proactive discipline strategies to improve learner behavioural outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Wezzie Memory Mtika, Gift Masaiti, Kapambwe Mwelwa (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Breaking barriers: Professional growth of women leaders in Ghanaian public universities
The study explores the professional growth of women leaders in two public universities in Ghana: the University of Mines and Technology and the University of Education, Winneba. A qualitative research approach, employing a case study design was adopted. Seven women leaders were purposively selected, and data were collected through in-depth, face-to-face interviews. The data were analysed thematically, guided by the gender theory. The findings revealed that the women leaders shared comparable experiences across their respective fields. A combination of career advancement, professional development, and active participation in development networks and associations shaped their professional growth. Key factors that facilitated their success included mentorship and strong support systems. However, the women also encountered significant challenges, including difficulties in balancing family and work responsibilities, socio-cultural constraints, and persistent gender stereotypes and discrimination. The evidence suggests that although the women leaders have made significant progress in their careers, their advancement continues to be influenced by both supportive factors and systemic barriers. The study contributes to the limited literature on women's leadership in higher education in Ghana. It offers valuable insights into general leadership dynamics and the specific experiences of women leaders within the higher education sector. The findings provide a deeper understanding of the barriers faced by women leaders and suggest strategies including gender-responsive leadership selection processes, family-friendly institutional policies, and gender mainstreaming units to support women’s advancement into senior administrative positions within Ghanaian Universities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Abigail Adwoa Anooh Hagan, Mavis Amo-Mensah (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
An analysis of the implementation of the quality management system in the public sector in Tanzania: A case study of TANESCO Kinondoni South Region
This study examines effective implementation of Quality Management System (QMS) in the public sector in Tanzania, using Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (TANESCO) at Kinondoni South region as a case study. The main objective is to assess the extent of QMS implementation and its impact on service quality. Guided by Total Quality Management (TQM) theory, a quantitative cross-sectional survey design was employed. Data were collected from 110 TANESCO employees selected through stratified and convenience sampling techniques. We used structured questionnaires to collect primary data. We analysed our empirical data using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that TANESCO has substantially implemented many aspects of QMS practices, particularly in the assessment of quality standards, monitoring and evaluation, and in determining performance accountability. Regression analysis further indicated that QMS practices have significantly influenced organizational performance, especially in service delivery as demonstrated by improved customer services, customer satisfaction and proper resource utilization. This study also noted that challenges such as inadequate employee training, financial constraints, and resistance to change continued to hinder effective implementation of QMS. The study concludes that effective QMS implementation enhances organizational efficiency, performance accountability, and service delivery in public sector organizations. It is recommended that public originations should strengthen employees’ training programs in the use of QMS, expanding the use of digital technologies, improving performance monitoring systems, and enhances top management’s commitment to ensure sustainable QMS implementation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Robert N. Kagali, Andrew S. Sulle (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Religious interpretation and response to climate and its changes in the pluralistic Ghanaian perspective
In a place like Ghana, with its diverse religious creeds and the cultural norms of pluralistic societies, climate change is understood through a number of religious epistemologies. Many people of different religions take different actions as if the problems are natural and therefore unique. However, limited attention has been paid to how Ghana's major religious traditions shape climate interpretations and environmental responses. This study examines how Christianity, Islam and African Traditional Religion shape interpretations of climate change, environmental behaviour, and climate governance in Ghana. Based on multi-disciplinary research in fields of environmental ethics, theology, and climate governance, the study argues that climate change in Ghana should be understood as a scientific, moral and spiritual challenge requiring interdisciplinary responses. It is thus not just managed with policy and technical measures, however, but is also managed through religious imagination, ritual practice, and moral language. The paper grounds Ghana in global conversations about religion and climate change through a qualitative interpretive synthesis of data. It finds that religious traditions in Ghana offer strong moral models for environmental stewardship, but also generate interpretive tensions that serve to heighten or hinder climate action. ATR stresses ecological balance and sacred-nature relations; Christianity vacillates between stewardship and dominion interpretations; and Islam values trusteeship (amanah) and moral accountability. The authors draw the conclusion that a dialogical interfaith environmental ethic is necessary for an effective climate response in the pluralistic Ghana. The study recommends that climate change in Ghana needs to be treated in a manner not reliant only on technological and policy solutions. Since religion continues to play a central role in generating public opinion, values and behaviour, climate governance should deliberately use the religious diversity of the country as a strategic resource for environmental sustainability.
Copyright (c) 2026 Adam Konadu, Georgina Tabi, Francis Xavier Mwinkom Kabir, Asante Gordon (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Challenges in the management of land disputes and their impact on social cohesion in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya
Land disputes are a persistent and complex challenge in Kenya, particularly in multi-ethnic and agriculturally rich regions such as Uasin Gishu County. These disputes not only hinder socio-economic development but also undermine social cohesion, creating fertile ground for mistrust, ethnic polarization and violence. This qualitative study assesses the challenges the management of land disputes and their impacts on social cohesion in Uasin Gishu County. Guided by conflict theory. this study relied on in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and document reviews involving local administrators, community elders, land officials, civil society actors and residents of Uasin Gishu County. A total of 45 participants were selected purposive sampling comprising community elders, community administrators, land officers, representatives of civil society organizations, members of peace committees, and officials from the National Cohesion and Integration Commission. Qualitative data obtained from interviews, focus group discussions, observations, and document reviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that land dispute management is constrained by bureaucratic inefficiencies, corruption and poor governance, ambiguous and complex legal frameworks, political interference and limited public awareness of resolution mechanisms. Socially, land disputes weaken trust, erode inter-ethnic cooperation, disrupt livelihoods and heighten the potential for violence, especially where historical grievances intersect with contemporary land pressures. The research concluded that effective land dispute management requires coordinated institutional reforms, transparent adjudication processes and community-driven approaches that promote inclusivity, dialogue and trust-building. Recommendations included strengthening alternative dispute resolution systems, streamlining land registration processes, improving public education on land rights and insulating dispute resolution from political manipulation. These insights contribute to the discourse on land governance and peacebuilding in Kenya and offer lessons for managing land-related conflicts in other volatile multi-ethnic regions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Moses Masika Wamukota, Frank Khachina Matanga, Ruth Naliaka Simiyu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Effect of employee involvement strategies in decision-making on employee performance in level four and three public health facilities in Vihiga County, Kenya
Although the government has invested heavily in the health sector, public health institutions continue to operate below the expected standards, as highlighted in the 2023 report by the Kenya Medical Practitioners. Similarly, the World Health Organization observed that the quality of healthcare services provided in Kenya’s public health system falls short of the essential principles of quality care, which emphasize privacy, dignity, choice, safety, autonomy, and fulfillment. This study examined the effect of employee involvement strategies in decision-making on employee performance in level four and three public health facilities in Vihiga County. The study was guided by unitary theory. The study adopted a mixed research approach comprising a descriptive and causal research design. The study targeted a population of 765, that is, 499 from level four and 266 staff from level three. These were the healthcare workers comprising 318 nurses, 70 clinical officers, 31 medical officers, 47 laboratory technicians, 18 pharmacists, 11 nutritionists, 21 public health officers, 107 administrative officers, and 142 support staff. The study's total sample size was 263, using the Yamane formula. The study applied stratified, proportionate, and simple random sampling techniques. Structured questionnaires aided in data collection. A pilot study was done at Malava Sub-County Hospital in Kakamega County using 26 respondents as 10% of the sample population. Reliability was tested using Cronbach's Alpha, while validity was tested using content validity. The study analyzed data using both descriptive and inferential statistics, where descriptive statistics included frequency, mean, standard deviation, and percentages. Inferential statistics entailed Pearson correlation and regression analysis. Data was presented using tables and graphs. A positive effect was significant (β = 0.694, p < 0.05), where employee participation was responsible, as employees felt more motivated and more responsible when they were engaged in decision-making. The discussion has determined that strategic industrial relations are key drivers of employee performance in healthcare institutions. Employee involvement brings about ownership and motivation. County health administrators are advised to institutionalize participatory decision-making. The research suggests that public health institutions must institutionalize effective collective bargaining mechanisms that ensure equity and transparency in employment relations. There should be increased participation of employees through providing inclusive platforms where the staff can have a say in major decisions. The conflict resolution systems should be formal, transparent, and regular to reduce workplace conflicts in order to ensure peace. The communication systems need to be improved through encouraging open and timely, as well as feedback-based, channels that increase trust and accountability.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kadenyi Maurine, Robert K.W. Egessa, Kelvin Machuki (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Examining the influence of head teachers’ instructional supervision on teachers’ pedagogical practices in government-aided primary schools in Lukaya Town Council, Kalungu District, Uganda
Pedagogical practices encompass the instructional methods, strategies, and approaches that educators use to facilitate learning and promote academic success. They form the basis of quality instruction in the teaching and learning process. Thus, the study examined the influence of head teachers’ instructional supervision on teachers’ pedagogical practices in government-aided primary schools in Lukaya Town Council, Kalungu District, Uganda. Guided by McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y, the study adopted a qualitative research approach with a multiple case study design to explore how supervision shapes pedagogical practices. The target population comprised the district education officer, inspector of schools, head teachers, teachers, and pupils from the seven government-aided primary schools in the four wards of Lukaya Town Council. Out of the targeted population of 140, only 103 were selected using purposive and simple random sampling techniques to participate in the study. These were the District Education Officer (DEO), the District Inspector of Schools (DIS), 7 headteachers, 35 teachers, and 59 learners. Observation, interviews, and focus group discussions were used as data collection instruments. Qualitative data were analyzed through coding, categorization, and were analyzed thematically. The study found that head teachers demonstrate a generally high level of engagement in instructional supervision. Further, the research indicated that teachers exhibit a commendable level of commitment to pedagogical practices. It also emphasized that there is a significant and direct relationship between the head teachers’ instructional supervision and teachers’ pedagogical practices in government-aided primary schools in Lukaya Town Council. The study recommended that head teachers in government-aided primary schools in Lukaya Town Council should institutionalize a robust instructional supervision framework on the preparation and supervision of pedagogical practices. It recommended that head teachers should equip teachers with the required skills to apply quality pedagogical practices in ongoing lessons. It also recommended that the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders should strengthen leadership development programs focused on instructional supervision and pedagogical practices.
Copyright (c) 2026 John Robert Inyalio, Creatoris Nayebare, Raymond Kibirige, Bernard Lutalo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Determinants of poor implementation of strategic planning in the public sector in Tanzania: The case of DAWASA and Ubungo Municipality
Strategic planning has become an important management tool for public organizations in most countries including Tanzania. It is however, noted in the current public sector literature that this management tool has been poorly implemented in many developing countries. For instance, since the 1990s public organizations in Tanzania are required to implement strategic planning and by now the assumption is that most public organizations should have developed sufficient experience to effectively implement strategic planning. However, studies have demonstrated that most public organizations in Tanzania have poorly implemented strategic planning as their management tools. This study examines factors affecting the effective implementation of strategic planning in two selected public organizations in Tanzania, namely DAWASA and Ubungo municipality. This study is informed by institutional theory and by design it is a case study. The study used both primary and secondary data to achieve its noble mission. The target population of the study comprised 414 employees from both DAWASA and Ubungo Municipality In addition; two sampling techniques were employed; purposive and simple sampling techniques to obtain a sample of 165 respondents. Quantitative data from questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics with SPSS version 26, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis to identify pattern of issues that are of interest in relation to our research objective. Our findings noted that both DAWASA and Ubungo Municipality have been implementing strategic planning as part of their service delivery tool. It is further noted that, although these two public organizations claim that strategic planning plays a critical role in enhancing their organizational performance, but strategic planning is poorly implemented in these two public organizations. Our study has further noted that factors such as resource constraints, poor alignment of resources with planned activities, resistance to change and bureaucratic procedures have significantly affected the effective implementation of strategic planning at the two public organizations studied. The study concludes that strategic planning has been poorly implemented due to factors identified. The study recommends that public organization to address factors that hinders effective implementation of this reform aspect so as to improve public service delivery. In addition, future research should be expanded to include more public organizations across regions for comparative analysis so as to broaden our insights into sector-specific challenges and best practices in implementing strategic planning in public organizations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Andrew Sulle (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The role of political parties’ women’s wings towards inclusive leadership in Tanzania
Political parties' women's wings are established to promote women's political participation, leadership development, and representation in decision-making processes within political parties and national governance structures. Despite these efforts, women in Tanzania continue to be underrepresented in key leadership positions. This reflects persistent gender disparities within the political sphere. This study examines the role of political parties' women's wings in advancing inclusive leadership in Tanzania. Specifically, the study explored the status quo, functions, challenges and the untapped opportunities of political parties’ women’s wings in enhancing inclusive political leadership in Tanzania. Guided by Feminist Theory, the study employed qualitative research approach and a case study research design. The study’s population involved all women members of political parties which have women’s wings in Tanzania, whereby, sample of 72 respondents, gathered through purposive and snowball sampling techniques, were involved in data collection through interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze data. The study revealed that women’s wings were formally established in all political parties, with significant differences in their degree of institutionalization, operational capacity, and availability of resources. Besides, women’s wings continue to face persistent barriers such as patriarchal norms, inadequate resources, weak policy implementation, male-dominated gatekeeping, and sexualized stereotypes. The study recommends political parties in Tanzania, policymakers, and relevant stakeholders to strengthen women’s wings beyond symbolic representation by ensuring adequate financial resources, institutional autonomy, enforceable gender quotas, and meaningful inclusion of women in party decision-making structures.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ben Sanga, Matilda Demzee, Ambiliasia Mosha, Adam Kihaka (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Nature of conflicts in the Anglican diocese of Nairobi, Kenya
Christians globally live under the expectation that the church should be different from other secular institutions. The Anglican Diocese of Nairobi has experienced recurring conflicts; disputes over leadership succession, church property and, legal battles. Different leaders within the Diocese have used different styles of leadership that has resulted into conflicts, often leading to a clash of expectations and a lack of clear-cut conflict resolution mechanisms. This study examined the nature of conflicts in the Anglican Diocese of Nairobi, Kenya. The study was justified in three-fold: academic, policy and philosophical taking the scope into consideration. The literature was done thematically adopting the structural conflict theory. The study adopted the descriptive and evaluative research designs. The study area was the Anglican Diocese of Nairobi, Kenya. The simple random sampling was used to select the parishes and respondents from the selected parishes while purposive sampling was used to select the key informants. The sample size comprised of 256 respondents (only 238 responded). The participants included Bishop, Archdeacons, and Vicars, Curates, Parish Church Council (PCC), Mother’s union (MU), Kenya Anglican Men’s Association (KAMA) and youth. Questionnaires and interview guides were used to collect primary data. Desk top review was used to collect secondary data. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics via SPSS Version 30. Validity and Reliability of research instruments, limitations of the study, and ethical considerations were taken into consideration. The findings were presented in frequencies, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviation. Qualitative data was processed via thematic and content analysis. The results showed that the most prevalent nature of conflict was disagreements over the appointment of Bishops, and church elections which had 51.7 %. The study findings would contribute to helping policymakers in the Anglican Church of Kenya, Diocese of Nairobi, in coming up with new policies or improving the existing ones to address the various conflicts that are occasioned by leadership styles. The study recommends that the Anglican Church should periodically organize the development and training of clergy and the laity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Stephen Omucheni Shisia, Prof. Crispinous Iteyo, Rev. Dr. Elijah. O.S. Odhiambo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Unlocking the drivers of smallholder farmers’ adoption of improved seed varieties in Kilosa District, Tanzania
This study examines the determinants affecting the adoption of improved seed varieties of maize, rice, and sunflower among smallholder farmers in Kilosa District, Tanzania. Data were collected from a cross-sectional household survey of 243 farmers, who were randomly selected. Descriptive statistics and multivariate probit analysis were employed for data analysis. The findings revealed a significant negative association between the adoption of improved maize and improved rice varieties, indicating that the adoption-enhancing factors of either improved maize or improved rice varieties would negatively impact adoption in the other. Conversely, the adoption of improved sunflower varieties was not interdependent. However, the adoption of improved maize varieties was positively influenced by farm size and the level of education and extension contact. Nevertheless, extension contact and household size positively influenced the uptake of improved rice varieties, while the effect of education was marginally positive. Regarding sunflower varieties, education was the significant factor, and the availability of credit was marginally significant. The study recommends that improving agricultural extension services and enhancing the accessibility and provision of information to farmers would greatly impact the uptake of improved seed varieties and the increased agricultural output of smallholder farmers in Tanzania.
Copyright (c) 2026 Maria Shishira, Davis Meela, Mkubya Wambura (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Navigating the digital distraction: Unravelling the impact of cyberloafing on employee performance
The study examined the impact of cyberloafing on employee performance in the Ghanaian banking industry and was grounded in the conservation of resources theory. This study adopted the quantitative research approach using an explanatory research design. The population of the study constituted 1,300 employees from the five largest banks in Ghana, namely Ghana Commercial Bank PLC, Ecobank Ghana PLC, ABSA Bank Ghana Limited, Access Bank Ghana PLC, and Agricultural Development Bank PLC. A sample size of 646 employees was selected using cluster sampling and simple random sampling. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents and the data was analysed using descriptive statistics (frequency counts and percentages) and structural equation modeling using SPSS version 27 and Smart PLS version 4.1.1.4. The bootstrapping results indicated that all the dimensions of cyberloafing behaviour have a statistically significant positive influence on employee performance. The study concluded that cyberloafing is not inherently detrimental to organizational outcomes, as commonly perceived, but may serve important psychological, cognitive, and emotional functions that support employees in meeting workplace demands. It is recommended that management of banks in Ghana should adopt balanced and realistic internet-use policies that regulate excessive cyberloafing without completely restricting employees’ access to non-work-related online activities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gabriel Kwasi Aboagye, Emmanuel Quayson, Stella Kwaw-Nimeson, Daniel Kweku Anhwere, Emmanuel Essandoh, Ernest Ampomah Arkoh, Benjamin Asiedu-Boamah, Eric Teye Baafi, Bennice Nelson (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Core vocabulary and frequently-used words between Dholuo and Ekegusii languages of Kenya
This study focused on establishing if core vocabulary (also known as basic vocabulary) and frequently-used words can be borrowed in linguistic contact situations. The languages studied were Dholuo and EkeGusii. The two languages have no phylogenetic relationship. Dholuo is a Nilotic language and EkeGusii belongs to the Bantu family of languages. The two linguistic communities have been contiguous for possibly more than 400 hundred years. In such contact situations, borrowing of linguistic items across the two languages is inevitable. The linguistic items which are susceptible to borrowing in contact situations are those which belong to the peripheral vocabulary. However, core vocabulary are those which belong to certain domains which accompany linguistic communities independently of their specific environments. Such vocabulary tend to resist borrowing because they do not fulfil the reasons for borrowing which are spelt out in the literature. The objective of the study was to establish if core vocabulary and frequently-used words have been borrowed as a result of contact between the Luo and the Abagusii. The research used a qualitative research approach. A questionnaire was used as the data collection instrument in which the respondents gave a translation of the words into EkeGusii. The questionnaire had a list of words which fall within the domains of core vocabulary. There were 96 respondents who were EkeGusii speakers who were purposively sampled. The sample size was arrived at by data saturation formula which takes a mean of 12 respondents in qualitative research. They were expected to translate each of the words in the list into EkeGusii. The sample size is a microcosm of the entire speakers of EkeGusii. The words were compared with the Dholuo equivalents for similarity in form, pronunciation and meaning. The study used the Linguistic Interference Theory. The theory considers borrowing as interference with the recipient language as it introduces foreign linguistic items and other linguistic features. The linguistic items were analysed in relation to \the phonemic inventories and phonemic properties of the two languages. The findings proved that there is borrowing of a number of core vocabulary and frequently-used words between the two linguistic communities. The findings, however, did not establish why the core vocabulary and the frequently-used words would be borrowed by a speech community which has the said words in their basic lexicon already. The finding is critical considering the assertion in the literature that the words under study are resistant to borrowing. Further study is recommended to establish why a linguistic community would borrow words which it already has and are in active everyday use.
Copyright (c) 2026 James Omolo, Prof. Pamela Oloo, Dr. Erick Omondi Odero, Dr. Damaris Nyakoe (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Effectiveness of micro-learning as an instructional innovation in basic education: The case of a public basic school in Ghana
Present-day learners are accustomed to interactive and engaging methods of learning with the aid of technological tools. In line with this, microlearning has emerged as an innovative approach to learning. While widely studied in corporate training and higher education, studies at the basic educational level, specifically, as a classroom-based, formally structured and collectively paced instructional tool used in real time are limited. This study investigated the efficacy of microlearning as an instructional innovation in basic education, specifically the impact of microlearning on learner performance and the perceptions of teachers and a head teacher on the use of microlearning. The Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning guided this study. An embedded mixed-methods design was employed. The study involved seventy-three learners, two teachers and one head teacher. For the quantitative phase, an experiment was conducted on seventy-three learners who were randomly assigned into three classes. Data were collected through pre- and post-tests and analysed using Kruskal–Wallis and Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Tests. For the qualitative phase, data were gathered via semi-structured interviews with the participants to explore their perceptions of microlearning. Qualitative data collected from the interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Results indicated that the microlearning significantly improved learner performance. The participants also had positive perceptions of microlearning, emphasising that the teaching technique compared to traditional instruction, enhanced engagement and comprehension due to the use of brief lessons combining visuals, narrations, and text. Nonetheless, the participants had concerns regarding implementing microlearning in everyday classroom due to challenges such as financial constraints and technical competence. The study concluded that microlearning has a strong potential to enhance learning outcomes and should be considered as an instructional approach in regular classroom practice. Recommendations were provided for considering its adoption in regular teaching practices and the provision of skills training to teachers on its use.
Copyright (c) 2026 Emmanuella Hemeng, Prof. Alfred Kuranchie, Prof. Judith Bampo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Public procurement as a strategic tool for the achievement of sustainable development goals in Tanzania: Experience from public higher learning institutions in the Dar es Salaam Region
The achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a key priority for developing countries, with governments increasingly using public procurement as a strategic tool to support their attainment. This study examined public procurement as a strategic instrument for attaining the SDGs in Tanzania, with a specific focus on public higher education institutions in the Dar es Salaam Region. Specifically, the study examined the influence of gender consideration, youth participation and sustainable procurement in achievement of sustainable development goals. Data were collected using questionnaires from 161 randomly selected respondents drawn from a target population of 271. Out of the 161 questionnaires distributed, 155 were returned and properly completed and were therefore included in the analysis. The research utilized a quantitative cross-sectional methodology to collected data from the respondents and employed multiple linear regression to analyze the gathered data. The findings indicated that all three examined variables, specifically; sustainable procurement practices, gender considerations in procurement, and youth participation in procurement exhibit a substantial positive correlation with sustainable development goals. The study concluded that public procurement practices widely contribute to poverty alleviation, gender equality and environmental sustainability if is well managed by the procuring entities. The study recommended that procuring entities should address challenges faced by youth-led enterprises, particularly regarding size related barriers in competitive bidding. Secondly, the government should strengthen and fully integrate gender-sensitive policies into supplier selection criteria to improve access for women-owned businesses. Third, government should prioritize environmental sustainability by promoting the use of renewable materials and requiring suppliers to demonstrate sustainability commitments.
Copyright (c) 2026 Yussuf Masoud, Mzomwe Mazana (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0