Showing papers in "Developing Country Studies in 2015"

Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Growth in Nigeria

Abstract: This work empirically investigates the effect of foreign direct investment on Nigeria’s economic growth over the period 1990 to 2012. The study made use of ordinary least squares (OLS) estimation techniques in analyzing the secondary data. The secondary data were mainly sourced from Central Bank of Nigeria statistical bulletin (CBN), Annual report and Statement of accounts. The result shows that Export assumes a positive sign which implies that there is a positive relationship between Economic growth and Export; in conclusion FDI has led to increase in Export in Nigeria. Keywords : Foreign direct investment, Economic growth, Gross domestic product

Factors Associated with Malnutrition among Lactating Women in Subsistence Farming Households from Dedo and Seqa-Chekorsa Districts, Jimma Zone, 2014

Abstract: Background: Nutritional status of women is particularly important, because it is through women and their off-spring that the pernicious effects of malnutrition are propagated to future generations. The extra calories and nutrients required to support breastfeeding makes lactating mothers among groups with special nutritional needs. Nevertheless, many African lactating mothers, including Ethiopians, remained to be undernourished and there is scarcity of studies both nationally and in the study locality. Objectives: This study was aimed to assess factors associated with malnutrition among lactating mothers living in Home-based food production and child centered counseling project Kebeles in Dedo and Seqa-Chekorsa districts of Jimma zone, south-west Ethiopia from Feb. 3 to March 2, 2014. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Feb. 3 to March 2, 2014 on 355 lactating mothers who were beneficiaries of the Home-based food production and child centered counseling project. Demographic characteristics and nutritional risk factors were assessed through structured interview, whereas anthropometry measurements were done to assess nutritional status. Data was entered using Epi-data version 1.4.4.0 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Percentages, means and standard deviations were used to describe the study population. Logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of underweight among the explanatory variables. Result: The mean and standard deviation of dietary diversity score of study participants was 4.9 and 1.9 respectively. Majority of study participants consumed cereals in the preceding 24 hour of data collection. 92% of study participants didn’t consume additional meal other than common family meal. 40.6% of lactating mothers were underweight. Maternal dietary diversity score was identified as predictor of undernutrition. Conclusion : Feeding practice of study participants was poor while undernutrition was high among participants so that Home-based food production and child centered counseling project, woreda health offices, health extension workers and other responsible sectors have to give due attention to improve the situation. Keywords: Lactating women, underweight, dietary diversity, feeding practice, southwest Ethiopia

Consequences of Port Congestion on Logistics and Supply Chain in African Ports

Abstract: Congestion in ports is a phenomena associated with delays, queuing and extra time of voyage and dwell of ships and cargo at the port, which always occur with unpleasant consequences on Logistics and supply chain. These often translates into extra costs, loss of trade and disruption of trade and transport agreements. In a study to identify the consequences of port congestion on Logistics and supply chain operations in some African ports, this paper has examined the common port congestion scenarios, their dimensions and the various factors that trigger congestion in the ports of Lagos, Durban, Mombasa and the catchment ports of the Suez canal. This paper typically applied the concept of variations in turn-around time of ships and cargo vis-a-vis the port’s capacity and relative efficiency level in order to identify the active factors that cause port congestion in African ports. The results provided some explanations on the consequences arising from these on notable African logistics and supply chain networks. The findings revealed that the bane of congestion in African ports emanates entirely from either planning, Regulation, capacity, efficiency or a combination of these. This paper therefore recommends that African ports should enhance their regulatory mechanisms, then to improve capacity and efficiency level in order to shoulder the ever increasing challenges of port congestion in years ahead. Key words . : Congestion, dwell time, Logistics, Ships, Ports, cargo.

Poverty and Gender Inequality in Developing Countries

Abstract: The issues of poverty and gender inequality are long standing social problems that permeate every society (United Nations, 2009). Poverty and gender inequality are experienced differently in many developing countries as compared to developed countries, and various definitions are given from different perspectives that direct policy makers how to address the issues (Batana, 2008; World Bank, 2009). The framework for understanding and addressing the problem has many dimensions; however, a general understanding is required for society to address basic human needs that allow for the daily survival of the less fortunate. Poverty and gender inequality continue to be massive social problems in developing countries. Researchers, policy makers, and various institutions including the international community, have designed measures to reduce and eradicate the problem; yet in today’s modern society, poverty and gender inequality still linger, especially in the developing world (Batana, 2008; Megahed & Lack, 2011; Rankin & Aytac, 2006; World Bank, 2009). The purpose of this paper is to review the literature regarding poverty and gender inequality in developing countries. The results and implications for social work policy and practice are discussed. This study is significant because poverty is a major social problem and social workers have a mandate to address poverty. This study is relevant to national and international gender policies to address gender poverty and inequality. The outcome may serve as a guide to policy decision making for social work research and practice in developing countries. Keywords : Gender, inequality, poverty, developing countries.

Application of Value Management to Selected Construction Projects in Nigeria

Abstract: Due to the benefits of value management (VM) in capital projects in some developed and developing countries of the world, there has been call by built environment professionals in Nigeria for embracement of the practice by project stakeholders. VM has been introduced in the country but there are challenges with its implementation and application, this study therefore examine the influence of VM practice on 4 selected building projects. Case-study approach was employed in which group of professionals carried out hypothetical VM analysis of selected projects using 40-hour workshop plan. Prior to the examination of the projects, facilitators and members of the team were trained on the history, basis and application of VM to construction works and a typical project was examined in the course of the training. On a general note, the study revealed that VM has numerous benefits if fully implemented for construction projects thereby enhancing value for money for project clients, owners or sponsors. The two notable benefits are reduction of cost while maintaining function as well as identification and removal of unnecessary materials, process and workmen time. Beyond the introduction of VM into curriculum of higher institutions and presentation at various workshops and seminars, a major issue of implementation should be addressed by stakeholders in the construction industry. Keywords : Construction projects; Cost; Nigeria; Project function; Value management.

Women and Leadership in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects

Abstract: Women are a major stakeholder in the development project of any society. Globally, the issues of women marginalisation and low participation in political leadership and decision making have been attracting a lot of attention from scholars. Although women and men have different biological and physiological make-up, they may share common features with men in terms of educational qualifications, socio-economic status and occupation among others. Yet, they are marginalised in virtually all spheres of public life. In many African countries, such as Nigeria, obnoxious social norms, political exclusion and economic lopsidedness dictate the presence and voice of women in public life. According to 2006 Nigerian population census figure, women constituted 49% of the total population, but there has been a gross gender gap between men and women, especially in political representation, economic management and leadership. This paper, therefore, examines critically some factors that have brought about this wide political and socio-economic disparity. Using both historical and descriptive approaches and guided by patriarchy and liberal feminism theories, the paper argues that the various economic, political, social and systemic practices serve as obstacles to effective participation of women in politics, governance and decision making in Nigeria. The paper concludes that, for there to be greater participation of women in all spheres of Nigerian society, government and other stakeholders should engage in programmes and policies that would empower women politically, socially and economically. Keywords: Women, leadership, governance, marginalization, prospect, politics

An Investigation into the Prevalence of HRM Practices in SMEs: Sierra Leone an Example

Abstract: Purpose - The purpose of the study is to investigate the human resource management practices of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs hereafter) in Sierra Leone. In particular, the author looks at the relationship between the human resource management practices and SMEs performance including wages, employment and sales. Methodology - The study adopted triangulation method in collecting and analysing the data. The qualitative data was collected using 31 in-depth interviews and the quantitative data was collected using 323 questionnaires. The data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Findings - It is found that there is a significant positive relationship between HRM practices and SMEs performance including sales and employment. This implies that the more SMEs engage in formal HRM practices, the more they observe higher sales and generate more employment. Furthermore, HRM practices showed no significant statistical relationship with wages. In addition, the descriptive survey analysis pointed out that almost all of the respondents did not have an HRM department. Finally, the statistical description of the survey data revealed that most of the SMEs owner/managers in Sierra Leone make sure that employees are aware of formalized rules. Originality - This study contributes to knowledge by providing insights on the impact of HRM practices on SMEs performance in Sierra Leone. To the best of the author’s knowledge, the study is the first of its kind ever done in the country. The findings also confirm the findings of previous researches in other countries that the overwhelming majority of SMEs do not engage in formal HRM practices. Keywords – Human Resource Management (HRM), Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Resource-Based Theory, Sierra Leone.

The Relationship between Budget Deficit and Economic Growth of Pakistan

Abstract: This study examine the impact of budget deficit on economic growth in Pakistan during the period from 1976-2007. Co integration technique, VAR Granger Causality test and vector error correction model is used. Economic growth was measured as growth in GDP. The technique of time series econometrics such as Granger Causality, Johansen co integration and error correction models has been used. Johansen co integration shows that all variables are co integrated and error correction term is also significant. However we have not found any significant impact of budget deficit on economic growth of Pakistan. The results showed that GDP cause investment and investment cause deficit. However budget deficit does not cause GDP growth. The results of this study also support Keynesian view about budget deficit. The findings also show that the budget deficit has a positive impact on the growth. Key w ords : Budget Deficit, Economic Growth

Factors that affect the adoption of improved maize varieties by smallholder farmers in Central Oromia, Ethiopia.

Abstract: This study aims at identifying factors which affect the adoption of improved maize varieties in three woredas in Central Oromia, Ethiopia. The study utilized cross-sectional farm household level data collected by CIMMYT from 300 randomly selected sample households in 2012/13. Both descriptive and econometric methods have been used to analyze the data. The descriptive statistics were utilized to compare adopters and non-adopters. The logit model was employed to assess the adoption determinants.The descriptive analyses results show the existence of significant mean and proportion difference between adopters and non-adopters in terms of farmer characteristics. Adoption of the improved maize varieties among households was found to be positively influenced by adult-literacy, family size, livestock wealth, access to output market and credit access for the new varieties. On the other hand, farmer associations, distance to main markets and fertilizer credit negatively influenced adoption. Thus, the finding of this study revealed that educating farmers, strengthening extension services, improving farmer associations and improving market opportunities are some of the measures that need to be taken to enhance adoption of improved maize varieties by farmers. Keywords : improved maize varieties, small-holder farmers, adoption, determinants, Ethiopia

Exploring the Kindergarten Teachers’ Assessment Practices in Ghana

Abstract: The study aimed at investigating kindergarten teachers’ assessment practices based on two subscales: (a) teachers’ modes of assessment frequently used, and (b) their reasons for selecting a particular mode of assessment. The sequential mixed methods research design was employed. The quantitative data were gathered through questionnaires administered to 192 teachers in public and private kindergartens in six regions of Ghana. The qualitative data were gathered through interviews with three participants selected from the 192 sampled teachers. Independent samples t-test was employed to test the quantitative data. The results of the study indicated that paper- and- pencil test mode of assessment is used frequently by the teachers. In addition teachers also appeared to be using a particular mode of assessment just to meet the expectations of the parents and educational leaders without meeting the curriculum assessment prescription. Results further showed no significant difference between the public and private kindergarten teachers on almost all the items in the two subscales used in this study but differed significantly on four reasons for selecting a particular mode of assessment. Teachers’ assessment practices are therefore not supported by any known developmentally assessment theory for children. Workshops and in-service education and training are therefore recommended for all the stakeholders including the parents, educational leaders and teachers on the use of developmentally appropriate assessment practices in a much more interactive manner.

Competitive Strategies and Firm Performance in the Mobile Telecommunication Service Industry: A Case of Safaricom Kenya Limited

Abstract: Purpose: The sought to examine the relationship between competitive strategies and firm performance in Safaricom Kenya limited. The study was guided by the following specific objectives: to examine the competitive strategies adopted by Safaricom Ltd; and to assess the relationship between the competitive strategies used by Safaricom Ltd. and its performance. A review of the relevant literature was undertaken in order to eliminate duplication of what has been done and provide a clear understanding of existing knowledge base in the problem area. The literature review is based on authoritative, recent, and original sources such as journals, books, thesis and dissertations. Methods: A case study design was used to undertake the study. The population of the proposed study will be the Safaricom top revenue drivers, namely consumer sales and retail departments, which are divided into regions covering the whole country. Consumer sales department is structured into six regions – Coast, Nairobi, Mountain, Eastern, Rift Valley and Western/Nyanza and each region is represented by 4 area managers. The Retail department is also structured into six regions - Coats, Nairobi East, Nairobi West, Central, Rift Valley and Western/Nyanza and each region is headed by an Area Retail Manager. The study lasted three months. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data from the respondents. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used as an aid in the analysis. Data pertaining to the profile of respondents was analyzed by employing content analysis while determination of the link between the competitive strategies and organizational performance, the strategy related items were subjected to a factor analysis to test whether the strategic practices naturally group into the various competitive strategies. Results: The findings also show that the strategies adopted by commercial banks in Kenya so as to cope with the competitive environment include vvigorous pursuit of cost reductions; providing outstanding customer service; improving operational efficiency; controlling quality of products/services; intense supervision of frontline personnel; developing brand or company name identification; targeting a specific market niche or segment; and providing specialty products/services. The findings also show a significant relationship between the strategies adopted by commercial banks in Kenya and their respective performances with respect to the following objective performance indicators: total revenue growth, total asset growth, net income growth, market share growth and overall performance or growth. Keywords: Competitive strategies; firm performance; mobile communication; service industry

A Comparative Study of Dry Ports in East Africa and China

Abstract: The period between 1970s and 1990s witnessed a number of global changes. Significant ones were; liberalization of trade, deregulation of many economies, and emergence of economic integrations of countries and regions. These changes in addition to innovation and advancement of ICT impacted on trade and the shipping sector. Thevolume of trade, the cargo transported by sea, and the number of shipping vessels increased thus putting pressure on existing sea ports. Dry ports were introduced as a way of accessing the hinterland and also reduce the pressure on the bottle necked, congested and inefficient sea ports. Theadoption of dry port concept began in Europe and North America, followed by Asia, South America and then Africa. This trend created the need to conduct studies about this sector. This paper therefore tries to compare historical perspectives, developing mode, and management model of the dry ports sector in China, a high income developing country, under a socialist system, with advanced shipping infrastructure, against the East African region, which is characterized with low income countries, free market policies, anda largely less developed shipping infrastructure. The paper also presents discussions on the pros and cons of both systems from which, conclusions and recommendations are drawn to support future studies and policy formulation. This paper not only serves the purpose of contributing to existing academic knowledge in respect to dry ports, but it also gives the policy makers and practitioners in the logistics and trade sectors a chance to compare the practices in the two developing regions and apply what is suitable for a particular case. Keywords : Comparative study, Dry Ports, East Africa, China

Perceptions and Beliefs about Mental Illness (Schizophrenia) among Adults in Zaare Community

Abstract: The burden of mental illness like schizophrenia is increasing and is particularly severe for people living in rural communities. Ghana adopted a community-based rehabilitation (CBR) for persons with mental illness to address the problem comprehensively. However, negative attitudes towards the mentally ill, stigmatization and discrimination constitute a serious barrier to CBR. The objective of the study was to assess societal beliefs and perceptions about people with schizophrenia, among the adult population in a rural community (Zaare) in the Bolgatanga Municipality. The study used a mixed method where both qualitative and quantitative techniques were employed. A sample size was determined using a systematic approach. The respondents held fairly positive views about the mentally ill, despite a few negative authoritarian and socially restrictive attitudes and views. Though participants appeared to be knowledgeable about the possible physical, social and environmental causes of mental illness such as accidents and genetic factors, 94% of all participants thought mental illness could be due to witchcraft/evil spirits, and 66% felt that it could be a consequence of divine punishment. This is an indication that stigma and discrimination against the mentally ill were still widespread among the respondents. The widespread belief in supernatural causes is likely to act as a barrier to designing effective anti-stigma educational programmes and as a result frustrating the implementation of CBR. There is a need in the Bolgatanga Municipality and elsewhere to develop strategies to change stigma attached to mental illness at both the rural and urban community levels. This paper is one of the first to report to be made on attitudinal research on mental illness in the Bolgatanga Municipal area and the Zaare community. Keywords: Perceptions, Beliefs, Attitude, Schizophrenia (mental illness), Zaare

The Accounting and Auditing Profession in Jordan: Its Origin and Development

Abstract: This study reviews the historical development of accounting the auditing profession in Jordan. It investigates the social, economic, and political factors which have affected the accounting and auditing profession in Jordan. In addition, this study tracks the development of the accounting and auditing profession themselves and the related commercial legislations since the beginning of the twentieth century to the current era, with the aim of providing a general background about the development of accounting and auditing in Jordan. The findings indicate that the Anglo-American model was adopted in accounting as a result of social, political, and economical factors. Also, Jordan is currently committed to financial reporting standards and international auditing standards. Keywords: Accounting; Auditing profession, Emergence, Development, Financial reporting

Occupational Health Hazards among Workers in Garment Factories in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract: Introduction: Garment workers constitute a lion share of the total labour force in Bangladesh, which bring most of the country’s foreign currency. The competitiveness of the garment industry in the world market is seriously affected by the ill health of the workers, since ill health decreases the labour productivity to a great extent. The competitiveness of the garment industry in the world market is seriously affected by the ill health of the workers, since ill health decreases the labour productivity to a great extent.Objective: To find out the occupational health hazards among the workers, working in different garment factories in Bangladesh.Materials and Methods: This descriptive study was conducted from January 2013 to June 2013. Total sample was 145 and purposive sampling technique was followed for data collection, which was done by face to face interview by an interviewer. The data was collected on a structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed by computer by SPSS version 17.0. Results: Out of 145 respondents, majority (40%) were found in the age group of 16-20 years where mean age was 23.30 years with S.D. of ±6.92 years. Among all the respondents, 89% were female. 45.52% were educated institutionally. 52.4% respondents were machine operator, but maximum (75%) were unskilled and 72% had length of job between 2-7 years. 91% respondents normally worked for 8-9 hours. 85.5% did 2-3 hours overtime. In the last one year 64.8% had no accident but minor cut, burn or injury was faced by 28.3%. Most of the (44%) respondents did not complain about physical environmental pollution but 33.8% complained of noise pollution. Majority (84.8%) told that doctor & nurse were constantly present in their factory and they were satisfied with their health facilities. Maximum (51%) respondents suffered from headache or shoulder pain. Majority did not mention any permanent illness. In this study the prevalence of occupational health hazards was 88.28%. A significant relationship was found between noise pollution and headache (P value 0.014). Conclusion: More emphasis should be given to the workers to improve their health condition and working environment, so that they can increase their efficiency which can ultimately increase the production and add GDP to the country. Government should provide more fund for research purposes in order to improve the condition of the working population and their working environment. Keywords: Occupational Accidents, Bangladesh.

Demographic Transition and Rural Development in Nigeria

Abstract: The discourse on population growth has generally given a picture that the increase in the population of any society will negatively affect the utilisation of resources and ultimately overall development. A school of thought gave the impression that the more the population increases, the greater is the poverty, leading to underdevelopment, especially for countries in transition. This argument led to various suggestions and attempts at population control and huge budgetary spending, neglecting positive aspects of population size, particularly in the period of demographic transition, and stressing that growth in population size, especially at certain periods, could not lead to and promote development. But can population growth not be a blessing to growth, especially for the rural areas? This paper was anchored in demographic dividend and labour force models. Utilising some theoretical expositions and drawing from the lessons of countries that have transformed from underdevelopment to developed nations, the paper argued that demographic dividend can be harnessed for the development of especially rural areas in transitional countries like Nigeria. The paper concluded with the submission that, in order to tackle the pervasive poverty in Nigeria, disjointed and inconsistent rural development policies should be jettisoned and the utilization of rural population for the supply of economic goods and services for the overall development of the country embraced. Keywords : Demographic dividend; rural poverty; labour force framework; rural areas; unemployment.

Challenges of Finance and the Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMES) in Lagos State

Abstract: This study examined the challenges of finance as is experienced by business operators classified into micro, small and medium scale (MSMEs), and how this affects their financial performance. The study evaluated the efficiency of the different sources of funds available for the SMEs as well as other non financial factors responsible for the poor performance of SMEs in Nigeria. Given some of the government interventions to solving the issue of credit to SMEs, the operations of the micro finance banks were also evaluated to determine their capacity toward closing the funding gap for SMEs. This study became imperative given the conflicting reasons adduced to why small scale enterprises perform poorly in developing economies including Nigeria There was a need to find out if the major challenge of SMEs is indeed credit using the five divisions in Lagos State as the study area. The useable sample size consisted of 222 returned copies of questionnaire out of the 250 distributed representing 88.8% response rates. Quota sampling as well as stratified random sampling technique was applied in the choice of the five divisions under study and the distribution of the sampling frame; while convenience sampling technique was used to get to the individual respondents. Correlation and one sample t-test was used to test the hypotheses. The study indicated significant statistical difference for sources of funds and in the efficiency of the various sources. The challenge of funds still ranked highest followed by unstable power supply, while micro finance banks were expected to do more to assist the SMEs. Keywords : Challenges, Finance, Lagos State, MSMEs, Nigeria, SMEs.

Organizational Learning and Organizational Resilience Knowledge Management as a Mediator in Public Organizations of Iran

Abstract: The purpose of this article is the findings of the mediating effect knowledge management in the relationship between organizational learning and organizational resilience. The study adopts a cross-sectional design to collect data used to carry out mediation analysis. 28 public organizations in Iran were selected as the samples of this study. The survey was conducted among meddle and senior managers and respondents were asked to express the opinions related to the effects organizational learning as mediator in relationship between management and organizational resilience. Knowledge management had an effect on organizational resilience. Organizational learning did not have a direct effect on organizational resilience, except through the full mediation of Knowledge management. This suggests that without Knowledge management, public organizations of Iran may not improve their level of resilience. Utilizing a cross-sectional design with questionnaires is one of the limitations of this study. The results may be different in the private sector. A future research strategy that may overcome this limitation is one that involves longitudinal studies in which flow of study variables can be followed over time. In addition, using objective measures, archival data for some variables, may give results that are more objective. Keywords: Organizational learning, Knowledge management, Organizational resilience, Public section organizations

Factors Effecting The Rural Women Labour Supply in Agriculture Sector: A Case Study of District Rajanpur-Pakistan

Abstract: This paper is an attempt to find out factors affecting the rural women labour supply in agriculture sector in District Rajanpur. Out of 44 Union councils (UCs), 06 UCs have been selected randomly for this study. Out of each UC two villages are selected and from each village 25 women above 18 years have been selected randomly. The collected data then analyzed using multiple regressions. Variables women age, family type, family size, husband health status, purdah observed, source of income and number of children are found statistically significant. The results can be concluded that economic constraints due to number of factors forced the women in the study area to work outside home. However, due to religious nature of the area, mostly women are not allowed to participate in economic activities outside their homes. Keywords: labour supply, agriculture sector, Rajanpur, multiple regression, union council.

Non-Justiciability of Chapter II of the Nigerian Constitution as an Impediment to Economic Rights and Development

Abstract: The whole of Chapter II of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFRN) 1999 (made up of 12 sections spanning section 13 to 24) contain the political, economic, social, cultural and developmental rights of the citizens. However, this chapter is non-justiciable by virtue of section 6 (6) (c) of the same constitution.Examination of the implications of such non-justiciability show that citizens cannot obtain redress from the courts if denied their socio-economic, developmental and other rights provided for in this chapter of the constitution. It is therefore a formidable impediment to socio-economic development.Furthermore, continuation of non-justiciability of Chapter II CFRN may result to lack of development and non-accountability by the Executive and Legislative arms of government, without any hope of a successful judicial challenge.It is further found that some other African countries and India now have provisions to allow Courts to adjudicate on socio-economic rights relying on the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights which should be applicable in Nigeria. It is recommended that Nigeria repositions to correct this aberration and allow for justiciability of this chapter of the constitution in order to facilitate socio-economic development. Keywords : Non-justiciability, Constitution Impediment, Socio-economic rights, Development.

Macroeconomic Indicators and Stock Market Development

Abstract: The stock markets play a key role in both developing and advanced countries because it channelize idle money into productive investment and generate capital for businesses which boosts the economy up. Pakistan’s stock market is an emerging stock market. The main objective of the study is to check the contribution of macroeconomic indicator to the stock market development. In this study, an attempt is made to capture the macroeconomic determinants that effect more or less in stock market development. Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) is taken as a representative stock exchange of Pakistan. This study considered Gross Domestic Saving (GDS), Money Supply (MS) and Foreign Remittances (FR) as explanatory variables and stock market development (SMD) takes as dependent variable. The study employed Phillips and Perron (PP) test for Stationarity. Finally the study utilized the ARDL to co-integration approach because it is more dominant and robust procedure to examine the short run and long run dynamic relationship. Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) and Error Correction Model used to find the relationship between the variables of selected econometric model. The ARDL to Co-integration results showed that Gross domestic savings ,money supply positively contribute to the development of stock market in Pakistan in both short run and long run that are consistent with theoretical and conceptual framework and literature (See also; Raza et al., 2012; Adam and Tweneboah, 2009). Foreign remittances have insignificant effect in both short run and long run on stock market because most of the foreign remittances are used in consumption. CUSUM lines remained inside the critical bound at 5 percent significance level that guaranteed the stability of model. Keywords: Stock Market development, Money Supply, Gross Domestic Saving, Foreign Remittances

Women and Poverty in Nigeria: Agenda for Poverty Eradication

Abstract: Women constitute a vital social group in all known human societies. Apart from playing a very significant role in the continuity of society through reproduction and socialization, their economic, social and political roles cannot be overemphasized. Yet, this vital group has been mitigated with very harrowing challenges in their various respective societies. In Nigeria where the level and rate of poverty have skyrocketed over the years, women continue to face daunting and debilitating challenges. In fact, despite every efforts made by the Nigerian authorities and other none-formal organizations towards poverty reduction in the country, this problem has continued to mitigate women from living happily and contributing their own quota to national growth and development. This negative trend calls for urgent concern. This paper utilized secondary data to study women and poverty in Nigeria. The objective of the paper is to analyze the condition of women under persistent poverty with the view of suggesting how the problem can be effectively dealt with in Nigeria. The paper argued that, although women contribute greatly in societal growth and development, they have continued to suffer unjustly in precarious condition of poverty due to their underprivileged class position in the society. It was suggested in conclusion that until the structural imbalances in the existing social system was corrected by means of poverty eradication agenda; women will not only continue to suffer from poverty but the future effects may be catastrophic to social order in the country.

Foreign Direct Investments and Economic Growth in Saudi Arabia: A Cointegration Analysis

Abstract: This study used the Johansen cointegration framework to evaluate the causal relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI) and economic growth in Saudi Arabia during 1970-2012. By referring to endogenous growth theory and integrating an analysis of two additional variables of domestic capital investment and trade openness, the results show that there is at minimum a long-run relationship between FDI inflows, economic growth, domestic capital investment and trade openness. Moreover, Granger causality tests showed that FDI inflows promote both short- and long-term economic growth. As such, FDI has factored into improvements in the Saudi Arabia economic situation mainly since 2000. This result supports the FDI-led growth hypothesis of endogenous growth theory. Keywords: FDI inflows, economic growth, domestic capital investment, trade openness, Johansen cointegration approach, Saudi Arabia.

Oil Exportation and Economic Growth in Nigeria

Abstract: This paper examines the economic impact of oil exportation on Nigerian economy from 1970 – 2012. The objective of the study is to look at the impact of oil exportation on the economic growth in Nigeria. Secondary data were collected based on the model used in the research work and unit root test was conducted on the data to test their stationary, after which we perform co-integration test to analyze the long run relationship among the variables and VECM and impulse response was also employed for the analysis. The result obtained from our empirical analysis shows that there exist a long run relationship between the dependent variable and the explanatory variables. The conclusion of the study is that Exports should not be promoted at all cost, but rather the utilization and allocation of the physical resources and labor complement of the country in the most advantageous combination as between production for the local and foreign markets and that diversification should be seen as an economic management strategy aimed at ensuring stability of incomes. Keywords: Exportation, Nigeria, VECM, GDP

Growth Performance of Dorper and its F1 Crossbreds at Debre-Birhan Agricultural Research Center

Abstract: The current work was conducted at Debre-Birhan Agricultural Research Center to evaluate the growth performance of pure Dorper sheep and their F 1 crosses from Menz and Afar indigenous sheep. A total of 527 lambs (233 pure Dorper, 294 Dorper X Menz 50% and 30 Dorper X Afar 50%) were born at Debre-Birhan Research Center between 2011 and 2014. The overall birth weight in the current study was 3.04 + 0.04 kg ranging between 1.00 and 5.60 kg. In the present study pure Dorper lambs were heavier at birth than the F 1 crosses (P<0.05) with Afar and Menz breeds with the mean birth weight of 3.39 vs 2.57 and 2.77 kg, respectively. Pure Dorper lambs were 32 and 22% heavier than the Afar x Dorper 50% and Menz x Dorper 50% lambs, respectively, at birth. Single born lambs were significantly (P<0.0001) heavier at birth compared to their twin counterparts; they had 29% more weight at birth than twins. Parity had also significant effect (P<0.0001) on the lambs birth weight. There was a trend of improvement in birth weight as parity advances. It was noticed that lambs born from the first parity were 16.77 % and 15.13% lighter in birth weight than lambs born from 2 nd and 3 rd parities, respectively. Lambs born in main rainy season and cold dry season had the higher birth weight compared to those born in the dry season and short rainy season. This tells us the difference in pasture availability in terms of quality and quantity among the different seasons of the year. Weaning weight at 90 days of age had significant (P<0.001) effect on most variables considered. Pure Dorper lambs were significantly (P<0.0001) heavier at 90 days compared to the Dorper x Afar 50% and Dorper x Menz 50% lambs. They were 71 and 31% heavier at this age compared to the F 1 crosses of Dorper x Afar and Dorper x Menz lamb, respectively. Lambs born in the dry season were 33 and 31% inferior in weaning weight compared to those born in the main and short rainy season, respectively. Breed/ genotype, sex, birth type, year and season of birth of the lambs had significant (<0.05) effect on the body weight of lambs at 6- months of age. Pure Dorper and Dorper x Afar 50% and Dorper x Menz 50% lambs weighed 24.30, 13.18 and 17.25 kg, respectively. Male lambs weighed 17.53 while females 16.33 kg at 6-months of age. More than one kg difference was observed on average between male and female lambs; this may be due to the effects of male hormone as age advances. Lambs born in the main rainy and short rainy seasons demonstrated to have good 6 month weight compared to those born in the cold dry and dry seasons. The adjusted yearling weight for the lambs from the current study was 32.43 + 0.46 kg. Comparable yearling weight (34.43 vs 31.33 kg) was obtained from Dorper x Menz 50% lambs to pure Dorper lambs. However, Dorper x Afar 50% lambs were 27.5 lighter (24.96 vs 34.43 kg) than the pure Dorper lambs at yearling age. There was significantly (P<0.0001) better pre-weaning growth pattern for the pure Dorper compared to the Dorper x Afar 50% and Dorper x Menz 50% lambs (142.93 vs 73.19 and 106.24 g/h/d, respectively), that accounted 95% and 35% more weight from pure Dorper compared to Dorper x Afar and Dorper x Menz 50% lambs at weaning age. This may be the dam effect since pure Dorper lambs were raised by the pure Dorper dam while the Dorper x Afar and Menz 50% lambs were reared by indigenous ewes. From the present study it can be concluded that both the pure Dorper and its f 1 crosses with the Menz sheep adapted very well and had higher body weight and better gain than indigenous sheep breeds. It is suggested to observe the performances of different blood levels of cross breeds with Dorper sheep and also investigate the finishing capacity of Dorper cross breeds at different age and feeding levels. Key words: Dorper, Menz and Afar sheep, cross breeding, year of birth, season of birth, and birth type

Epidemiology of Malaria Parasites Infection among Pregnant Women in Some Part of Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract: The study was carried out to determine the prevalence of malaria parasites infection among pregnant women in some selected areas of Nasarawa State. It was assessed from April to September, 2014 (period of high malaria transmission). Both thick and thin films were made and stained using parasitological standard procedures. Of the 360 samples examined, 316 (88%) had malaria in their blood. Age group 25 – 28 years recorded the highest prevalence rate and mean parasite density of 93.5% and 999 d1-1 and the difference between the pregnant women and age groups were statistically significant (P<0.05). Illiterate pregnant women had the highest mean parasite density of 840 dl-1 with (97.3%) prevalence rate. Drugs used were also considered in which local herbs had 100% sensitive to plasmodium falciparum than orthodox curative drugs. Keywords : Malaria, parasite, pregnancy, plasmodium falciparum

The impact of foreign direct investment on economic growth : evidence from Vietnam

Abstract: The relationship between Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and economic growth has long been a topic of great interest in the field of international development. Although this interest has provided rich insights into the impact of FDI on growth in developing countries, there are very few empirical analyses of the linkage in Vietnam compared to other developing countries. Therefore, this study investigates the impact of FDI inflows on economic growth in Vietnam over the period from 1990 to 2013 using time series analysis techniques that address the problem of nonstationarity. Specifically, the Unit root test and Cointegration approach are applied to ensure that the regressions are not spurious. The empirical results reveal that FDI inflows, domestic investment, trade openness and secondary education have positive impacts on economic growth whereas inflation rate is found to have negative effect on economic growth. In addition, the impact of government consumption on economic growth is negative and statistically insignificant. Ultimately, this paper suggests that Vietnamese government should improve regulations governing business activities by easing the process of business start-up, controlling price, enhancing public spending on education and training, and augmenting cooperation between training centers and Foreign-invested enterprises. Keywords: Foreign Direct Investment, economic growth, time series, unit root test, cointegration, Vietnam.

Housing Strategies and Quality of Housing in Nigeria: what lessons from Wales?

Abstract: This paper discusses the strategies for the provision of housing in Nigeria and the nexus with quality of housing. It reviews the various approaches at the provision of housing for Nigerian urban and rural dwellers since the independence of Nigeria over fifty years ago. The paper notes that housing need in Nigeria particularly in urban centres has continued to increase phenomenally while effective demand by the vast majority of the populace has not shown any visible improvement. It further notes that a consequence of all the interplay of forces in housing provision has been poor quality of housing in the country. It takes a look at housing provision in Wales, UK and the strategies used in achieving this, and draws a correlation with the Nigerian situation. It asserts that there are lessons to be learnt from Wales in improving housing provision and reducing the level of housing inadequacy in Nigeria. Keywords: nexus, Nigeria, quality, strategies, Wales.

Prospect Theory and Risk-Seeking Behavior by Troubled Firms

Abstract: The paper studies the relationship between the risk and returns to check its conformance with the prospectus theory which is affecting the rational decision making behavior of investors and it is argued by many critiques. The study uses a different approach for measuring the reference point which is an important element of Prospect theory and for the measurement of the risk as well. Data is taken from 2003 to 2011 from the BSA and results are quite consistent with the prospect theory which means that firm which shows the return below their target level, they start showing the risk seeker behavior while on the contrary, firms with the returns above their target level start showing a risk averse behavior. Keywords: Prospect Theory

The Effect of Increase in Population on the Economic Growth of Bangladesh

Abstract: Cross countries studies on the relationship between economic growth and population growth is inconsistent because the underlying parameters and assumption vary greatly across countries. Specific country analysis is more useful; in this study I examine the impact of population growth on economic growth for Bangladesh using data from 1980 to 2005 by employing multiple linear regression model. The result indicates that economic growth and population are both negatively correlated and that an increase in population will have a negative impact on the economic growth of Bangladesh. Government can focus on family planning programs to overcome the negative consequences of rapidly increasing population. Keywords: Population growth, Economic growth, Bangladesh, Per Capita Income.