Showing papers in "European Journal of Business and Management in 2022"

Work-Life Balance of Female University Teachers during COVID-19 Pandemic in Bangladesh

Abstract: Throughout the history, the central role of ladies in society has ensured stability, progress and long-run development. Women are the first caretaker of youngsters and elders in each society. In Bangladesh, an oversized portion of economic activities are dole out by women together with social unit and care activities, agriculture, education, industries, banking and repair sectors. This study aims to spot the factors that have an effect on maintaining correct work-life balance of working women (university teachers) in Bangladesh throughout COVID-19 pandemic. To pursue this objective, 210 female teachers from different public and personal universities in Bangladesh have arbitrarily elect. Collected responses have tested with the assistance of assorted applied mathematics tools like reliability and validity checking, multivariate analysis, ANOVA and descriptive analysis. The results has been presented in table. The study finds out a robust impact of Covid-19 pandemic, job satisfaction, flexibility, workplace support, financial assistance and a moderate impact of productivity, support from family and health and safety issues on work-life balance of female university teachers Bangladesh. Covid-19 has greatest impact on job stress, job satisfaction and productivity of female teachers and arises a desire for flexibility, work-place support and work-life balance policy for them. This study revealed that each universities ought to have work-life balance policy, day-care center that is critical to take care of a healthy operating atmosphere for all, which can improve productivity and job satisfaction of academicians. Keywords: Work-Life Balance, Women, Covid-19, University Teachers, Bangladesh. DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-4-07 Publication date: February 28 th 2022

The Rubber Industry of Indonesia: Strategy for Competitiveness and Sustainability

Abstract: The paper presents a systematic review of the latest developments in the natural rubber industry and describes the major predictors for the sustainability of Indonesia’s competitive advantage in this sector. In-depth interviews with experts were conducted to gather data from the private and public industries, International Trade Statistic, and Statistics Indonesia. The data were analyzed using the Diamond Model, which is widely used as the framework of a country’s competitive advantage. The data is processed to find the RCA value and mapping the factors affecting the competitive advantages of ITRC countries. In the face of falling rubber prices, the Indonesia rubber industry's recent management strategy is to increase competitiveness sustainably by increasing productivity in the upstream industry and efficiency in the downstream industry. To boost competitiveness even further, a more concentrated endeavor to stimulate innovation and technology adoption by farmers and businesses is required. The study offers a comprehensive examination of Indonesia as a country with major agricultural export industries. It methodically investigates the strategies that must be implemented to sustain the rubber industry in Indonesia. Keywords: competitiveness, industry, natural rubber, revealed competitive advantage, sustainability DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-3-06 Publication date: February 28 th 2022

The Effect of Good Corporate Governance, Profitability, Capital Intensity, and Leverage on Tax Avoidance During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract: This study aims to test and analyze the influence of good corporate governance proxied by indicators of independent commissioners (KI), institutional ownership (INST), Profitability (ROA), Capital Intensity (CI), and Leverage (DER) on Tax Avoidance during the Covid-19 pandemic. The dependent variable of this study is Tax Avoidance measured using ETR. This type of research is quantitative by using secondary data on annual financial statements. The population in the study amounted to 53 enterprises. Sampling using purposive sampling technique. Data analysis in this study uses quantitative analysis. The object of this study is a manufacturing company in the consumer goods industry sector listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2020-2021. Data analysis was carried out by classical assumption testing and hypothesis testing with multiple regression methods using the help of SPSS 25 software. The purpose of conducting this research is based on increasing competition from each company which requires companies to compete in improving achievements in the company. What distinguishes the study from the previous study is that this study uses data during the pandemic in 2020-2021. Where during the pandemic it has an influence on the Indonesian economic sector. There are several limitations experienced by researchers during the research process, namely in the data tabulation process and during the data processing process. Suggestions for similar research are recommended to test the Variable Tax Avoidance, with CETR (Cash Effective Tax Rate). The goal is to show the difference in results between the measurement of ETR (Effective Tax Rate) and the measurement of CETR (Cash Effective Tax Rate) and needs to add other variables that can allow it to provide results that are more influential on Tax Avoidance actions during a pandemic, for example Corporate Social Responsibility. Keywords :Independent Board of Commissioners, Institutional Ownership, Profitability, Capital Intensity, Leverage, and Tax Avoidance, price earning ratio, profitability,Dividend Payout Ratio captital structure, company value, moderated DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-18-04 Publication date: September 30 th 2022

Assessment on the Determinant Factors on the Performance of Micro and Small Enterprises: The Case of Hossana Town in Ethiopia

Abstract: This paper investigates assessment on the determinant factors on the performance of micro and small enterprises in Hossana town, in Ethiopia. The study used survey method using a structured questionnaire which was administered to 125 sample respondents. In order to accomplish the objectives of the study, independent variables and a dependent variable, performance of micro and small enterprises was discussed. This study includes five micro and small scale enterprises, from each strata owners or managers of the enterprise was taken for the study by using stratified and convenience sampling techniques. After the data collected, it was analyzed by using descriptive statistics like tables and graphs. Also multiple linear regression model was used. The findings show that experience, planning practice, record keeping practice, access to finance and access to raw materials (inputs), are positively and significantly determine the performance of micro and small scale enterprises so the concerned bodies should provide finance for enterprises and better to give training on how to prepare plan, how to keep good record, and how to manage over all work activities in the enterprise. Keywords: determinants, micro and small enterprises and performance DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-9-03 Publication date: May 31 st 2022

A Study of Farmers Direct Marketing: Assessing the Factors for the Home to Land Approach

Abstract: The Bangladesh Economic Review 2022 states that 4.03 percent of the overall budget is spent on agriculture, food security, fisheries, and livestock. Total subsidies for farmers amount to Tk 9,500 crore, while incentives for using new machinery amount to Tk 3,220 crore. The government of Bangladesh has also taken other measures to help the farmers. However, farmers are not actually in a particularly prosperous position. As a nation built on agriculture, improving a lot of farmers is essential to Bangladesh’s economic health. The research aims to assess whether farmers can successfully implement a different approach to selling. One hundred twenty key opinion leaders of an 8-10 person farmers’ organization were surveyed to provide evidence for the elements that affect direct sales. Age, money, knowledge, and technical literacy were determined to be demographic parameters that have an impact on the effectiveness of agricultural digitalization in general. To meet the minimum requirements for selling their goods to consumers in their homes, farmers must meet certain conditions. Four hypotheses have been developed to discover the linkage between farmers' direct market participation and support in financial, technological, supply chain management, and marketing mix support. The reliability test, correlation test, descriptive statistics, and regression analysis have been performed. The findings show that technical support has more positive relationships with farmers' direct marketing, whereas other independent variables exhibit weaker positive relationships with the dependent variable. In addition, farmers believe they deserve financial compensation for their time and effort in responding to the survey. Keywords: Farmer, Direct Marketing, Technology, Supply chain management, Marketing mix. DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-22-05 Publication date: November 30 th 2022

The Effect of Balanced Processing on the Performance of Employees of Commercial Banks in Kenya

Abstract: The study investigated the effect of Balanced Processing of Information on the performance of employees of commercial banks in Kenya. The independent variables that were measured include private knowledge, internal experiences and externally based evaluative information. These independent variables were regressed against performance of employees, whose indicators include efficiency, productivity, turnover and quality of work output. A cross-sectional descriptive research design was used. The population was 31,605 employees of 38 commercial banks in Kenya. The study sample was 395 respondents, which was attained using proportionate stratified sampling method. A structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data from respondents. The study formulated the null hypothesis and tested it using the spearman correlation coefficient aided by the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 28.0.0.0. The analysis results at 0.05 level of significance showed that Balanced Processing of information has a statistically significant effect on the performance of employees of commercial banks in Kenya. The findings would be useful to commercial banks in Kenya and other organizations in evaluating their leaders’ Balanced Processing behaviour in order to improve performance of their employees. Keywords: Balanced processing, employee performance, private knowledge, internal experiences, externally based evaluative information . DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-16-04 Publication date: August 31 st 2022

Factors Affecting the Intention to Expand The Business Scale Associated with the Short Supply Chain of Agricultural Products of Vietnamese Farmers

Abstract: The article was studied with the aim of identifying and considering the extent of the influence of factors on the intention to expand the business scale associated with the short supply chain of agricultural products of Vietnamese farmers. Based on the planned behavioral theory model, the authors used a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods such as measuring reliability testing through Cronbach's Alpha coefficient, EFA discovery analysis, correlation analysis, multivariate regression model analysis through data collected and surveyed with 486 observations. in Vietnam in 2022. The results showed that the intention to expand the business scale of agricultural producers is influenced by factors such as subjective norms, attitudes, perceptions of behavior control, business conditions, possible consequences. Since then, the article proposes to the state in supporting producers to develop a short supply chain model of agricultural products. Keywords: Short supply chain, Agricultural products, Planned Behavioral Theory, expansion, business scale. DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-10-05 Publication date: May 31 st 2022

Influence of Corporate Governance on Performance of Deposit Taking Saccos in Kenya

Abstract: The Kenyan Sacco Sub Sector has witnessed rapid growth, contributing to financial access reaching 13% of the population. Apart from the commercial banking sector, Deposit Taking Saccos remain the single largest formal financial credit service provider to household economies in Kenya. This is attributed to fact that the members’ savings can be treated as collateral for borrowing at the same time earn interest from the surplus made by the SACCO. Despite their contribution, Saccos are riddled with poor governance issues resulting to gross mismanagement, financial scandals, management problems which has led to low performance and collapse of some. Guidelines on governance of Saccos have been enacted as an approach to improve the performance of Saccos. The increasing importance in corporate governance in Saccos for higher firm performance was the basis of this study. The research objective was to investigate the influence of corporate governance on the performance of Deposit Taking SACCOs in Kenya. The scope of the study was the licensed Deposit Taking Saccos in Kenya which were in operational between 2014 to 2018. This study was anchored on the Resource Dependence Theory, Agency Theory and Upper Echelons Theory. The research study was guided by pragmatic paradigm. Descriptive cross-sectional survey and correlational research designs were adopted. A sample size of 108 licensed Deposit Taking Saccos in Kenya was drawn from a target population of 150. Proportionate stratified and simple random sampling technique was used to select sample size. A semi structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data from CEOs, Managers and Sacco employees. Secondary data collection sheet was used to collect secondary data from published annual financial reports. The pilot study of the questionnaire covered 11 licensed Saccos to test the validity and reliability. Out of the 108 questionnaires administered, 105 questionnaires were dully filled and returned representing a response rate of 97.2% percent. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, hypotheses testing and regression analysis. The study findings suggest that the overall correlation coefficient for influence of Corporate Governance on performance of deposit taking SACCOs in Kenya was not significant with an overall correlation coefficient of 0.225 with a P- value of 0.201>0.05, hence failing to reject the null hypothesis. The study concludes that corporate governance may not ensure the desired performance. However, the study recommends adoption of the corporate governance practices as a mechanism to protect owners’ interests. Limitations of the study included contingencies, choice of study variable and measurement scale. Areas for further studies suggested are conducting studies in other contexts to corroborate these findings and consideration of other dimensions of corporate governance in their influence on performance of Deposit Taking Saccos in Kenya. Keywords: Corporate Governance, Performance, Deposit Taking Saccos DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-8-10 Publication date: April 30 th 2022

Employee Competence and Work Engagement of Deposit Money Banks in Rivers State

Abstract: This study examined the relationship between employee competence and work engagement of Deposit Money Banks in Rivers State. The study utilized a cross-sectional survey design. Primary data were sourced through structured and selfadministered questionnaire. The population of the study comprised 283 staff of twenty-two (22) deposit money banks in Port Harcourt; whereas a sample size of one hundred and sixty-five (165) staff was drawn through the Taro Yamane formulae. The reliability of the instrument was determined by the use of the Cronbach Alpha Coefficients, with 0.70 as benchmark. Data generated were presented with tables and descriptive statistics while hypotheses were tested using the Spearman’s Rank Order Correlation Statistics. The findings revealed that there is a significant relationship between competence and work engagement of Deposit Money Banks in Rivers State. The study concludes that when employees are empowered through competence improvement, work engagement is enhanced. The study recommends that Deposit money banks should build the competence of the employees through training and development. Employees should be given enough freedom and authority to make decisions concerning their day-to-day work roles to enhance their perception of autonomy in decision making.

The Mediating Effect of Customer Satisfaction on the Relationship between Service Recovery Performance Factors and Business Growth among Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers

Abstract: As of late, business growth is sensed as one of the greatest challenges for Bangladesh garment industry in order to gain competitive advantage because many garment factories have been shutting down since last few years. However, the owners of garment factories are deeming intensely regarding the impact of service recovery phenomenon on the most topical and imperative issue- company business growth. The purpose of this opportune study is twofold; firstly to examine the relationship between influential factors of service recovery performance (SRP) and company business growth, secondly to examine the mediating effect of customer satisfaction on relationship between SRP factors and business growth in context of Bangladesh garment industry. Based on literature review, a conceptual model has been developed for a cross-sectional sample survey study. Primary data were collected following simple random sampling method from 354 different garment factories in Bangladesh. The partial least squares path modeling (PLS-SEM) approach was used by Smart PLS 3.2 software for data analysis and necessary hypothesis inferences. The results revealed that top management commitment, organizational & technical support, training, role ambiguity, job satisfaction and customer’s characteristics directly influence company business growth. Also, customer satisfaction plays mediating role on relationship between following SRP factors and business growth; top management commitment, role ambiguity, job satisfaction and customer’s characteristics. The findings of this research contribute by presenting an integrative new conceptual model encompassing influential SRP variables and business growth. The results append the knowledge how garment factories can formulate new strategy and management practice to ensure sustained business growth. Keywords: Service recovery performance (SRP), customer satisfaction, business growth. DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-8-07 Publication date: April 30 th 2022

Religiosity, Personality, Emotional Labour and Socio-Economic Status as Predictors of Marital Satisfaction Among Police Officers in the Ibadan Metropolis, Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract: The study investigated religiosity, personality (neuroticism), emotional labour and socio-economic status as determinants of marital satisfaction among police officers in the Ibadan metropolis, Oyo state, Nigeria. Two hundred (200) police officers were randomly selected for the study. Valid and standardized instruments were used to measure the variables. Three research questions were raised and answered. Data collected were analyzed using the Multiple Regression Analysis and Pearson Product Moment Correlation at 0.05 level of significance. The results revealed that marital satisfaction negatively correlated with personality (neuroticism) (r =. -336, p<0.05), and emotional labour (r= -.137, p<0.05) while it was positively correlated with religiousity (r = .767, p<0.05) and socio-economic status (r = .109, p<0.05). The combination of the independent variables accounted for 93.6% (Adj.R 2 = .936) of the total variance in the prediction of marital satisfaction. The independent variables made relative contribution to marital satisfaction in the following order: religiosity (Beta = .967, t= 48.254, P<0.05), socio-economic status (Beta = .139, t = 1.613, P<0.05), emotional labour (Beta = .456, t= 7.069, P<0.05), and personality (neuroticism) (Beta = .133, t = 1.711, P<0.05). Based on the findings, it was recommended that counseling psychologists and allied professionals should endeavour to sensitize the benefits of religious involvement by the couples, especially among the police officers as their joint participations in religious activities could reduce stress, anxiety and strain which could promote marital disharmony among the couples. The police administrators should engage in policies that could boost police officers’ socio-economic status as it will have great influence on their adjustment in their micro-system which is the family, starting from their partners. Psychological assessment of officials and intervention should be inculcated into the Nigerian police system to ensure healthy personalities and of course the promotion of healthy living at home with significant others especially their spouses. Keywords: marital satisfaction, religion, personality, emotional labour, socio-economic status. DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-12-07 Publication date: June 30 th 2022

The Mediation Role of Employee Engagement on the Relationship between Aspects of Human Capital Management and Employee Job Performance

Abstract: This study examined the mediation role of employee engagement on the relationship between the aspects of human capital management and employee job performance in the Ethiopian banking sector. This study reports the responses of 426 respondents from twelve banking institutions in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, drawing on the social exchange theory and the resource-based view theory. This study is structured on a quantitative approach, with stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were applied to test the factors and verify the factor structure of a set of observed variables. The scales were tested for reliability and validity. Structural equation modeling (SEM) with AMOS was used to test the hypothesized relationships. The results revealed that the aspects of human capital management, namely knowledge accessibility, learning capacity, workforce optimization, leadership practice, and career advancement, positively relate to employee job performance. Moreover, the results of bias-corrected bootstrapping iteration revealed that employee engagement partially mediates this relationship between aspects of human capital management and employee job performance. Finally, the limitations and future research implications are discussed. Keywords: human capital management, employee engagement, employee job performance DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-13-02 Publication date: July 31 st 2022

Building a Model to Assess Signaling Theory in Its Correlation between Capital Structure and Firm Value

Abstract: This research aims to assess empirical models developed from signaling theory, where Debt Equity Ratio will improve Firm Value through the mediation of Total Asset Turnover and Earnings Growth as intervening variables. The samples were firms that belonged to the LQ-45 index during 2005-2018. It was because the stocks incorporated in the LQ-45 have a good growth prospect, therefore, the firms used debts because they fund their business development. 2018 was the limit of the research period to eliminate abnormal data potential because of covid-19. A partial Least Square was used for data analysis. The interesting research finding was based on mediation examination and it was proven that Earnings Growth mediated Total Asset Turnover on the Firm Value. However, Debt Equity Ratio was not proven to significantly improve the Firm's Value through the mediation of Total Asset Turnover and Earnings Growth. The research finding even strengthened the theory that Earnings Growth has a negative effect on Firm Value.. Keywords: Firm Value; Total Asset Turnover; Earnings Growth; Debt Equity Ratio; Signaling Theory. DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-22-06 Publication date: November 30 th 2022

The Role of Financial Institutions in Smallholder Agriculture Development:Ethiopian Context

Abstract: Financial constraints in smallholder agriculture remain pervasive in developing countries like Ethiopia. The government of Ethiopia is doing its best to tackle the financial bottleneck through financial inclusion and several institutional arrangements that hinder smallholders’ agriculture that represent the landslide figure in the country. This review is aimed at finding financial institutions serving smallholders in the country, evaluating the mode of service delivery of financial institutions regarding smallholder development, exploring the challenges of financial institutions, and examining the challenges that hinder smallholders in accessing services from financial institutions. There are formal, semi-formal, and informal institutions are delivering service packages to alleviate the smallholders’ financial problems through credit, saving, insurance, and to some extent, insurance services. In terms of terms, formal financial institutions (banks and insurance companies) have virtually no access to the rural population; they are all located in urban and semi-urban towns, classify smallholder agriculture as a risky business, discriminate against smallholders, and require collateral that smallholders cannot provide. However, they reach smallholders indirectly through loans they provide to the MFIs. MFIs and RuSACCOs are the main formal and semi-formal institutions that are mainly established on a poverty lending approach. Startup capital supply for SMEs is attached to MFIs indifferently. They are serving smallholders through loan provision and saving and have devised a group lending scheme where members will be accountable for others. Despite the financial inclusion proclamation, MFIs are dominated by the ruling political party. However, they are the most profound financial institutions that serve smallholders and the poorest segment of the population. Despite the tremendous expansion, progress, and the enormous resources mobilized by financial institutions in the country, especially MFIs and RuSACCOs, a substantial proportion of the rural population remains underserved. Due to the one-size-fits-all services of MFIs and the limitation of funds to expand clients, extremely low uptake and sluggish penetration of the credit service to smallholders indicates the prevalence of unbanked and untapped financial potential. Therefore, 80 percent of the poor and smallholders depend on the informal financial sector, mainly on Iqqub, Iddir, and money lenders, since they are culture-appropriate, flexible, easily accessible, and cost-effective. Insurance endeavors are rarely known in Ethiopian smallholders’ context despite its necessity. Thus, strengthening the capacities of MFIs and RuSACCOs, linking need-based input credit, designing a credit guarantee scheme, connecting these institutions with other government payment schemes, meeting the credit demands of commercial, semi-commercial, and subsistence smallholders, and launching and scaling up WII on a micro-insurance platform are all essential. Keywords: Financial institutions, formal, informal, semi-formal, smallholder agriculture DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-1-03 Publication date: January 31 st 2022

The Potential of Generation Z to Become Agent of Change to Prevent Environmental Degradation in Indonesia

Abstract: Being the fourth populous country, Indonesia will need to use its resources sustainably, which takes a strong collaboration between all stakeholders. Generation Z as the future consumer in Indonesia has a key role to actively do pro-environmental behavior and become the change agent to prevent further environmental degradation. This research assessed the role of life experiences, media, knowledge, government support and motives to assess generation Z’s willingness to become agent of change to prevent environmental degradation. It was an empirical study used a model using the theory of reasoned action approach and willingness to participate. Data were obtained using online questionnaire to 590 university students in greater area of Indonesia capital city and analyzed with descriptive method and PLS-SEM. The research found out that generation Z had the willingness to do more for the environment by becoming agent of change. It also found out that knowledge, attitude, intention to do pro-environmental behavior, the actual behavior, collective and social motive had a positive and significant influence. Additional analyses were carried out to assess the predictive power of the model including the analysis of its implication. Keywords: reasoned action approach; theory of willingness to participate; agent of change; pro-environmental behavior; Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Model; PLSpredict. DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-24-08 Publication date: December 31 st 2022

Training and Organizational Performance: A Case of Education Service Sector in Lira District Local Government

Abstract: The study was conducted to examine the effect of training on employee performance in the education sector of Lira District Local Government (DLG). Specifically, the study investigated the effect of on-job training on employee performance, examined the effect of off-job training on employee performance and assessed the effect of induction on employee performance in the health sector of Lira DLG. The study used cross-sectional research design where both quantitative and qualitative approaches were used; the sample size of the study population was 108 and was sampled using Simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Questionnaires and interview methods were used to collect data while mean and standard deviation were used to measure the performance of the construct in Lira DLG. Correlation coefficient was used to test the strength and the direction of the relationship between training and employee performance. All the constructs were positively correlated to organisational performance. The findings of the study revealed a positive significant effect of on-job training on employee performance in Lira DLG (Coef. 0.315, p < 0.01). Secondly, the results on the effect of the off-job training on employee performance in Lira DLG further revealed a positive insignificant effect (Coef. 0.153, p > 0.01). Thirdly, the effect of the induction on employee performance of health sector employees in Lira DLG was found to be positive and significant (Coef. 0.430, p < 0.01). Finally, the results of multiple regressions yielded an adjusted R Square value of 0.372, which meant that training contribute about 37.2% to the performance of education sector employees in Lira DLG. Based on the above findings, the study recommends that Lira DLG should put more emphasis on on-job training and induction of employees in the education sector to improve on the performance of the sector in Lira DLG. Keywords: Member of staff, Training, Managerial, Performance DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-9-05 Publication date: May 31 st 2022

Employee Satisfaction as a Mediation of Work Motivation and Training on Bank Employee Performance

Abstract: This study aims to examine job satisfaction as a mediating variable of work motivation and training on employee performance. The research was conducted at a bank called "Bank Pembangunan Daerah" which is a well-known bank located in eastern Indonesia, precisely in "East Nusa Tenggara, Larantuka". The research population is all bank employees who have participated in the training program as many as 64 employees. The sampling technique is census. The research design is quantitative, that is, it examines the causal relationship by considering the mediation aspect. The analysis technique uses path analysis in the structural equation model. The results showed that employee job satisfaction was proven to mediate work motivation and training on employee performance. Job satisfaction is more able to anticipate the implementation of training than aspects of employee work motivation to improve employee performance. Unfortunately, job satisfaction is not able to become a strategy in the field of human resource management to improve employee performance. It turns out that the work training program that is regularly held by bank management has a direct impact on employee performance. Keywords: Work Motivation, Training, Job Satisfaction, Employee Performance DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-2-01 Publication date: January 31 st 2022

Economic Impacts of Covid-19 to the Tourism in Tanzania

Abstract: For several years, the tourism industry has been regarded as an important sector in many developing countries including Tanzania, with significant positive effects on the country's economic growth. Tourism has contributed lots to the economy of the country through foreign exchange earnings, job opportunities, eradication of poverty, provision of social services and infrastructure improvements.In 2019 there was an outbreak of a disease ( Corona Virus Disease) which was later announced as the Global pandemic in March 2020. The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a new respiratory disease transmitted through direct contact with respiratory droplets of an infected person (which in most cases are generated when a person coughs or sneezes). Individuals can also be infected by touching contaminated surfaces and touching their face (especially their nose or mouth).The outbreak of COVID-19 started in December 2019 and over a period of two months it spread to the world, leading to a large number of deaths (About 5.75 MIL deaths by the end of January 2022).The disease causes respiratory illness with symptoms such as cough, fever, and trouble breathing in more extreme cases leading to death .As a measure of controlling the spread .Many countries are introducing lockdown protocols to avoid the infection chain of this emerging disease.The measures taken to control the spread of the pandemic are suspected to affect the tourism economy in Tanzania and this is because tourism in Tanzania is largely depending on the foreigners and the temporary travel restrictions for most foreign countries has been a setback in receiving many visitors as it was before. This is why the researcher believes that an in-depth analysis is required to measure the economic impact of Corona Virus on Tanzania's tourism industry focusing on total number of tourists arrivals, employment and the income generated from this sector during these times of the pandemic.The researcher conducted a study using both secondary and primary data source from tourism authorities like TANAPA( Tanzania National Parks), TTB ( Tanzania tourists board) as well as general stakeholders like art and crafts designers, Tour guides, tour drivers, Tour operators and Hotel owners in the tourist areas. The main instrument used for the primary data was personal interviews with the small businesses in the tourism sector (artists, designers and sellers) in Tanzania. Online surveys were also added to explore "opinions about the economic impacts of Covid19 on the tourism industry. Both interview questions and surveys designed using a structured approach. And secondary data was collected from the articles provided by the government authorities as mentioned above. Qualitative data was obtained through online interviews which was conducted through zoom while quantitative data will be obtained through an online survey which was created in Survey monkey and being spread online to the targeted samples. The Data collected were entered, tabulated and analyzed using SPSS package and Microsoft Excel 2007. The econometrics model, Simple and Multiple linear regression analysis were used to analyze quantitative data, in order to test statistically significance of variables in cooperating both descriptive and inferential statistics and quantitative and qualitative data were also presented in form of tables, charts and percentages through Microsoft excel and SPSS. The descriptive analysis showed that there are impacts of the global pandemic (Covid19) to the tourism industry in Tanzania. The pandemic has highly affected the number of tourist visiting Tanzania, according to the results from the research there has been (616,491 tourists) in 2020 compared to (1,527,230 visitors ) recorded in the year ending December 2019.Apart from that the total income from the tourism sector has dropped by 59.2% to USD 1,061.6 million as compared to 2019. Lastly Employment in this sector has dropped from the expected 623,000 to 146,000 by the end of 2020, according to the results from the research from March to May 2020 24.29% were jobless. Also the regression analysis output reveals that Covid-19 has reduced incoming number of tourists by 353.172 thousand per year (2019 – 2020),Employment contributions from the tourism sector has dropped by 14.15% which supports the null hypothesis for this study whereby we predicted the negative effect of Covid-19 on the employment contributions and the total earnings from this sector is less by USD227.533 million which proves right the null hypothesis H0 that the COVID19 effect has a negative impact on the total earnings. Also the regression results shows a decline of 2.3% of the share of tourism sector in the National GDP growth.The analysis also showed that there are measures suggested to mitigate the situation however there is still a problem as most of these measures are not yet effectively implemented which could delay its significance, therefore the tourism sector could lose its potential to boost the economic development of Tanzania. Due to these reasons the researcher provided recommendations and suggested areas for further research. Keywords: Tourism, Covid19, Tanzania DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-5-04 Publication date: March 31 st 2022

The Impact of Leadership Styles on Teacher Motivation in the Mfantseman Municipality of Ghana

Abstract: This study examined the leadership styles of head teachers and how these leadership styles influence teacher motivation in the public basic schools in the Anomabo Education Circuit of the Mfantsiman Municipality in the Central Region of Ghana. Quantitative approach of Cross-sectional survey design was adopted for the study. Purposive and random sampling techniques were used to select 115 respondents for the study. The respondents were made up of 14 head teachers and 101 teachers. The data for the study was obtained using Self-administered questionnaires. A test-re-test method was used to establish the reliability of the instrument, and correlation coefficient of 8.51 and 8.63 obtained for the questionnaires of the teachers and the head teachers respectively. The data obtained were analysed using mean and standard deviation. The results revealed that the most dominant leadership style used by the head teachers in the Anomabo in their administration is autocratic. Nevertheless, transformational leadership style is least employed by the headteacher in the Anomabo Education Circuit. Generally, teachers in the public schools in the circuit are motivated to perform their responsibilities to the best of their abilities and knowledge. However, the teachers are not highly motivated with regard to remuneration and conditions of Service. Based on the findings, it was recommended that the government should increase the salaries and offer other incentives to the teacher to motivate them to work well. Head teachers should also involve teachers when making decisions on issues that bother on the welfare of teachers. Furthermore, head teachers should be encouraged to enroll for professional development courses to keep abreast with the best leadership styles that will assist them to achieve the desired educational goals. The Ghana Education Service, through the Mfantsiman Municipal Education Directorate should organize regular in-service training programmes for the head teachers to improve upon their leadership skills and administrative practices. Keywords: Leadership Styles, Teacher Motivation, Transformational, Democratic, Autocratic Leadership, Ghana. DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-1-02 Publication date: January 31 st 2022

Firm Coping Strategies during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence from Western Balkan Countries

Abstract: In this paper we analyze pre-pandemic firm characteristics that are significantly associated with different coping strategies used by firms in order to deal with the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. The data we use come from the sixth round of the World Bank Business Environment Enterprise Performance Survey (BEEPS VI) for a sample of five Western Balkan countries: Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia, combined with the COVID-19 Follow up Enterprise Surveys conducted by the Enterprise Analysis unit of the World Bank Group. We find that pre-pandemic firm characteristics are significantly associated with certain positive outcomes such as laying off less employees, filing less for insolvency or bankruptcy and adjusting business operations to the newly created circumstances. Furthermore, we find small firms to be particularly at a disadvantage when coping with the pandemic. The results of this paper contribute to the growing literature on the economic impact of COVID-19 and guides policy making in order to tailor government support to those segments of the firm population that stand to benefit the most from such aid. Keywords: COVID-19 pandemic; firm performance; Western Balkans; SMEs; firm liquidity; financial constraints DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-18-03 Publication date: September 30 th 2022

Effects of Human Resource on Quality Service Delivery of Mission Hospitals in Mery County, Kenya

Abstract: Prudent human resource management is at the core of every successful entity whether private, for profit, public, faith based and not-for-profit organizations. The human resource is the driver of other resources towards organizational development and harmonization of service delivery. This study endeavoured to explore the role of human resource in facilitating quality delivery of services in mission hospitals in Meru County of Kenya. The population were stakeholders of the mission hospitals, both internal and external clients including the chief executive officers (CEOs), Finance and Human Resource officers, public relations officers and other staff internally and, patients, suppliers and neighbours as external stakeholders. There were eight mission hospitals in the County and all of them were included in the survey. The design was a descriptive study with both purposive judgmental sampling at selection of top-level respondents and simple random sampling among the respondents at other levels. Piloting of the study instruments was carried out at Wamba hospital in the neighbouring Isiolo county which is also a mission hospital to test and improve them. Data collection was through structured questionnaires which were administered through drop and pick method or by research assistants on behalf of those who could not directly react to them like patients and some neighbours. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23 and descriptive statistics used to interpret and describe the findings. Correlation analysis was done to establish the relationship between the dependent and the independent variables and significance established at 95 percent. The findings revealed that there was positive correlation between human resource and quality of service delivery in mission hospitals in Meru County (R=0.71, F=21.397, P=0.00). Human resource was critical to organizational success in determining customer royalty and repeat visits through the quality of services offered by competent, committed and skilled staff that lead to positive word of mouth marketing of hospitals. The study recommended greater emphasis on customer care, improved human resource management for quality service to enable the hospitals retain and attract more clients. Studies on the same in private and public hospitals were advocated. Keywords: Human Resource, Quality Service Delivery, Mission hospitals, DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-6-05 Publication date: March 31 st 2022

Participatory Project Initiation and Performance of Mango Farming Projects in Makueni County, Kenya

Abstract: The successful implementation of many feasible and viable mango projects depended entirely on how they were initiated before the start of the planning phase of the project. Project initiation phase, being the first stage of the project management life cycle, is a ‘hard-nosed’ strategic fit raison detre, the main reason for justification that kick-starts or brings the project into existence. This article, extracted from the PhD thesis, presents the importance and worthwhileness of project initiation phase managerial framework, since it entails tentative groundwork project appraisals that come just before the project planning phase starts. In principle, project initiation begins the iterative sequencing of the project's core activities, before all other phases of the project begin. Project initiation phase, therefore, is not just a mere ‘tabula rasa’ clean slate, an empty project outlay template, since it entails scouting of project ideas, undertaking of feasibility studies to scan and appraise the unpredictable project environment. In addition, project funding sources, availability of appropriate technology and technical expertise are other key considerations for iterative activation. Furthermore, the start-up of the project implies much more microeconomic multiplier effect of the final return on investment of the project. The first phase of the project life cycle should include the project start-up iterations before the project enters the planning phase. Many mango projects went directly into the planning phase without considering or even undertaking an initial project assessment to determine if they were technically feasible before proceeding with the project. The transition to the planning phase with no known initial project selection criteria of using project appraisal tools, revealed project trajectory dilemmas. The exact starting point of project life for activation of base assemblies due to its paramountcy principle, which scrutinizes the feasibility and viability status of the project, is completely lost. Had the project appraisal been conducted, it would have provided sufficient numerical data indicating whether the project was worth the effort to justify the deployment of human resources and planning. Planning for non-assessed projects that never reached the minimum screening threshold is a waste of time planning for scarce resources that should have been spent elsewhere. Planning, without an adequate investment analysis and without a business case, will amount to planning for failure, even before the consequences of the project begin to unravel. The objective of the study was to establish the influence of participatory project initiation on performance of mango farming projects in Makueni County, Kenya. The study had a sample size of 375 respondents selected from a population of 12,622 using a multistage sampling technique. Descriptive and Inferential statistics were used and F-test and Correlation were the main tools of data analysis. The null hypothesis tested, stated that, there was no significant relationship between participatory project initiation and performance of mango farming projects. The study findings depicted significant correlation between Participatory project initiation and mango performance at 95% confidence level, with results showing DF (2,367), F=12.23, t=1.821 at the level of significance P=0.000<0.05, r= 0.211 and R square= 0.044 and therefore the null hypothesis was rejected. Based on the findings, the study recommends projects to commence with project initiation to enhance mango performance. The study will be beneficial to mango farmers and other stakeholders in highlighting the need to undertake adequate project initiation business case groundwork probe measures. In the long economic project run, the study revealed that mango project's success depended wholly on the way they were firstly initiated. Keywords: Participatory Project Initiation, Performance, Project Management Life Cycle, Sequencing Project Iterative Activities, Project Feasibility Study and Viability, Scouting for Project Ideas, Project Appraisal and Selection Criteria DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-6-04 Publication date: March 31 st 2022

Principles and Practices of Strategy for Effective and Efficient Performance of Business Organisations

Abstract: Every organisation that strives for constructive results should first consider coming up with a strategy to help select the best and more efficient way to maintain the profitability and competitiveness. Many researchers have come up with various approaches in an attempt to explain how strategy can be applied in different sectors. Undoubtedly, a good strategy always stems from a thorough analysis of the organization’s position in the market and that’s where its strength and weaknesses, together with the opportunities and threats are incorporated. Further, a strategy without goals is nothing, setting goals is vital because they determine the future direction of a company. Therefore, this paper is aimed at discussing on strategy using narrative review of the literature as a methodology in an effort to understand and appreciate how strategy can be of help in an organisation. This methodology of study was chosen due to the fact that knowledge production in the field of business research is accelerating at a tremendous rate, while remaining fragmented and interdisciplinary. Consequently, literature studies as a research method are more relevant than ever. Traditional literature reviews often lack thoroughness and consistency and are conducted ad hoc rather than following specific methodologies. It further explores different strategies that can be used to foster better performance in an organisation. Different sources were utilized to review the literature which included; google scholar, pdf drive, JSTOR among others. Keywords: Narrative literature review, Strategy, Strategic Priorities, Methodology, competitive, Leadership. DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-14-06 Publication date: July 31 st 2022

The Effect of Tax Understanding and Knowledge of Tax Regulations on Taxpayer Compliance, and The Impact on Tax Revenue (A Study in Pratama Tax Office of Serang Regency Banten Province)

Abstract: Tax is a mandatory contribution which is one of the sources of state revenue that will be used for spending in the form of ABPN and APBD. The achievement of tax revenue at KPP Pratama of West Serang Regency is still low so that tax compliance is considered far from what is expected. This study examines the effect of understanding tax and tax regulations on taxpayer compliance and their impact on tax revenue at KPP Pratama Serang Regency, Banten Province. This study using quantitative methods in the form of a survey with several variables, namely the independent variable of tax understanding (X 1 ) and knowledge of tax regulations (X 2 ), the intervening variable (between) taxpayer compliance, (Y) has a stronger effect on tax revenue. (Z). The results show that taxes have a positive effect on taxpayer compliance. The understanding of the tax compliance will be understood if the taxpayer knows the benefits provided and the function of the tax. The sanctions are needed to provide lessons for tax violators. Thus, it is expected that tax regulations are obeyed by taxpayers. Keywords: Taxpayer, Tax, Compliance, Revenue DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-6-10 Publication date: March 31 st 2022

Factors Influencing the Adoption of Mobile Apps Among Young People in Nigeria. A Study of University of Uyo Students

Abstract: This study focused on the factors influencing the adoption of mobile apps among young people in Nigeria. The survey research design was adopted and a structural questionnaire was used to collect primary data from 208 undergraduate students of University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The demographic data of the respondents were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while simple regression was used in testing the hypotheses. The results showed that each of the four factors examined – performance expectancy, ease-of-use, social influence, and facilitating conditions – has significant influence on the adoption of mobile apps. Based on the findings, it was recommended that developers and marketers of mobile apps should consider and prioritize these four factors when targeting young consumers in Nigeria. Keywords: Mobile apps, social influence, ease-of-use, performance expectancy and mobile market DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-3-07 Publication date: February 28 th 2022

The Form and Degree of Familiarity of Brand Extension: A Study of Higher Education in Indonesia

Abstract: The variety of consumer preferences for products requires the proper branding strategy techniques. Brand extension is a strategy to attract consumers by utilizing the value/equity and reputation of the parent brand. The brand extension uses a brand from its parent that is already well known or has a solid value in the consumers' perception. This study aims to explore the form of brand extension on the preferences of higher education consumers in Indonesia. The method employed is desk study and literature review. The results show three general forms of brand extension associated with the parent brand, namely brand extension with the corporate, mass organization, and education center parent brands. The authors conclude that the degree form of brand extension with parent brands from mass organizations is more dominant than parent brands from corporates and education centers in the higher education industry in Indonesia. The socio-economic characteristics of Indonesia have a decisive effect on the choice of the extended brand of mass organizations. Keywords: Brand extension, University, Parent Brand, Indonesia DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-10-07 Publication date: May 31 st 2022

The Effect of Customer Relationship Management on Market Performance of Selected Private Banks in Nekemte Town

Abstract: The specific objective of the study was to examine the effect of customer orientation on market performance, effects of Customer Knowledge management on market performance, Effects technology based CRM on market performance and effects of CRM Organization on market performance. The study adopted both descriptive and explanatory research design. The study targeted employees in the selected private banks. Purposive sampling technique was used to select private banks. Data analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Data presented using tables and figures. Correlation and multiple regression analysis were used to establish the relationship between the study variables. The study found that customer relationship management dimensions would lead to an increase in market performance in the bank. Keywords: Customer Relationship Management, customer orientation, Customer knowledge Management DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-1-04 Publication date: January 31 st 2022

Contributions of Small Scale Textile Producers in Ghana towards Economic Growth: The Case of Tamale Metropolis and Its Peripherals

Abstract: The country’s economy is partly striving on the Small Scale Enterprises (SSEs) of which the textile sector is no exception. The demand gap being filled by SSEs of textile producers are recently being faced with challenges which affects their business turnover for economic growth. The study therefore researches into the production operations of SSEs in the textile sector, identify its importance to the economic growth of the country’s development, challenges facing the sector and profound solution for improvement. The study used descriptive statistics for frequency and percentages and inferential statistics of correlation and multiple regression analysis to identify the role of SSEs of textile producers in Tamale metropolis towards economic growth. A sample size of 208 SSEs operators of textile producers were used for the study with data collected through questionnaire. The study revealed that the sector augments gaps leftover by larger firms and providing niche markets for these local textile products. However, the sector is bedevilled with factors relating to cheaper imports of fabrics into the country, lack of managerial training, low quality standards for locally produced textile goods and lack of financial support from the formal sector among others. The sector’s activities contributes to employment, encourage investments in and outside the sector and provides some profit margin to those engaged in the sector. The study recommends training to overcome poor project planning and execution, availability and affordability of raw materials and financial support, improve technology adoption among other to ensure sustainable development and growth within the sub-sector. Keywords: small scale enterprises, textile producers, economic growth, employment DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-14-03 Publication date: July 31 st 2022

Enhancing Millennial Employees’ Job Performance in Indonesia Through HRM, Responsible Leadership and Employee Well-Being

Abstract: As number of millennial employees grows and soon will dominate global workforces, managers have been uncertain about how to manage millennial employees due to their distinctive values and aspirations. In relation to the circumstance, whilst employees’ job performance has been investigated in many studies, there have been limited studies on this subject among the millennials. In order to bridge the research gap, the present study intends to investigate factors that give influence to the job performance of millennial employees. Data in this research were obtained from a survey to millennial employees in Indonesia. Results of this study proved that factors of motivation, training, responsible leadership, and employee well-being bring positive influences on job performance. Moreover, the factor of employee well-being mediates the influences of motivation, training, and responsible leadership on job performance. This study contributes in providing additional evidences on the characteristics of millennials in the workplace, wherein managers should take into account when they expect high job performance from the millennials. Keywords: Motivation, Training, Responsible Leadership, Employee Well-Being, Job Performance DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-6-09 Publication date: March 31 st 2022

Arena Simulation of Spare Parts Inventory Management: A Case of A Telecom Managed Service Provider

Abstract: Telecommunications and utilities companies, among other large service organisations, confront a slew of decision-making challenges, many of which are connected to the management of a variety of different resources. The management of spare parts and inventories is one of the most difficult resource management concerns that an organisation has to deal with on a regular basis. Their prompt availability may have a significant influence on the overall quality of the service and the level of client satisfaction. The purpose of the study was to assess the Spare Parts Inventory Management of XYZ company operating within the Ghanaian telecommunication ecosystem. Data on demand and inventory stock level was collected from the procurement department of XYZ company. The study adopted the use of the Arena Simulation model to analyze data collected from the XYZ company. The results of the analysis indicated that the procurement department is unable to meet the spare parts demand of the Passive department where the average order received from the department in a day is 6.08. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that the procurement department put in measure to receive and process orders in time. The reason for the delay in processing orders could be the less poor inventory management practices of the company. The study recommends that systems be adopted to track the inventory level of the company. Due to the stochastic nature of the demand from the passive department, the company should be proactive in the management of the demand by keeping the right stock level in order to meet the demand of the department in order to reduce the long down time. Key words: Spare parts, inventory, Arena Simulation, telecommunication DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/14-12-10 Publication date: June 30 th 2022