Showing papers in "Journal of economics and sustainable development in 2017"

Factors Influencing the Agricultural Technology Adoption: The Case of Improved Rice Varieties (Nerica) in the Northern Region, Ghana

Abstract: This paper analyses factors that influence the adoption of (Nerica) rice technology in the Northern Region of Ghana. Both logit and probit models were used in the analysis. The results from the two models are consistent with each other; they have similar signs for each variable but slight difference in the magnitude of the coefficients. Factors such as farm size, credit access, on-farm demonstration, tractor ownership, and family labor had positive influence on (Nerica) rice technology and statistically significant. The age, and profit orientation of the farmers had negative influence on the adoption on (Nerica) rice technology and statistically significant. Keywords: Nerica rice; probit; logit; technology adoption; Northern Ghana.

Determinants of Sustainable Development in Kenya

Abstract: This study investigated the determinants of sustainable development in Kenya using annual data for Kenya for the period of 1991 to 2014. Adjusted net savings rate (ANSR) was used as a proxy sustainable development. The study used the autoregressive distributed lag model (ARDL) for the analysis and the bounds test for cointegration to test whether a long run relationship exists between the study variables - household consumption per capita, unemployment rate, resource productivity, energy efficiency, real gross domestic product per capita and terms of trade. The main result from the study was that a long run relationship exists between the variables. Secondly, the estimated coefficients of household consumption per capita negatively impacts sustainable development in the long run while unemployment rate and energy efficiency both negatively influence sustainable development in the short run. Resource productivity, real gross domestic product per capita and terms of trade are insignificant in determining sustainable development. The results suggest that developing the economy while stimulating savings and promoting a contractionary fiscal policy on public deficits will promote sustainable development. Keywords: sustainable development, adjustable net savings rate, ARDL

Financial Inclusion and GDP Per Capita in Africa: A Bayesian VAR Model

Abstract: Can GDP per capita translate into higher financial inclusion in Africa? Our application of a Bayesian VAR model to the World Bank Development Indicators datasets for 15 African countries over the period from 2005 to 2014, provides affirmative evidence to this question. The findings show that GDP per capita has significant impacts on financial inclusion, signifying thereby how increases in GDP per capita can be used to drive the needed financial inclusion in Africa. It is, however, interesting to note that financial inclusion has an insignificant but positive impact on GDP per capita. On the other hand, the evidence suggests that broad money, credit supply, literacy, internet users and servers have positive and significant impacts on financial inclusion. Moreover, the internet is coming out to be a significant variable indicating that more attention is required to be paid to developing internet access in Africa for the advancement of financial inclusion. The findings of this study should be of help to African central banks’ policymakers and commercial bankers as they advance innovative approaches to enhance the involvement of excluded poor people in formal finance. Keywords: Financial inclusion, income, Bayesian VAR

The Impact of Changes in Crude Oil Prices on Economic Growth in Nigeria: 1986 – 2015

Abstract: The study empirically examined the impact of changes in crude oil prices on economic growth in Nigeria from 1986 to 2015. Times series data on crude oil price, inflation rate, real effective exchange rate, fuel pump price and GDP growth rate were gathered from secondary sources that include World Bank Development Indicators, BP Statistics and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletin. Ng-Perron and Zivot-Andrews Tests, Johansen’s co-integration Test, Granger Causality Test and the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) were employed as techniques of analysis. The time series property examined showed the existence of co-integration among the variables while the empirical results suggest that the ECT coefficients have negative signs and are statistically significant in all VECMs. In addition to that, the significance of ECT also exhibits that if the system is exposed to shock, it will converge to the long-run equilibrium at the following speed: for GDP (-0.8002), inflation (-0.6714) and real effective exchange rate (-0.5715) VECMs compare to the convergence speed of fuel pump price (-0.6047) and crude oil price (-0.0436), VECMs. The study found out that a positive and unidirectional relationship that runs from crude oil prices to GDP growth rates exists. The value of R 2 and that of adjusted R 2 stood at 0.6177 and 0.5085 respectively. The value of F-statistic is 5.6570 and it is greater than the tabulated value of 2.76. The study concluded that crude oil price exert positive influence on the economic growth of Nigeria. The study recommends the need for diversification, building of buffers, more refineries and overhaul of the existing ones as well as the adoption of floating exchange rate policy. Keywords: Crude Oil Prices, Economic Growth.

The Impact of External Debt on Zambia’s Economic Growth: An ARDL Approach

Abstract: This paper examines empirically the impact of External debt on the Economic growth in Zambia using annual time series data spanning 1980 to 2014 and the Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model (ARDL) or bounds testing approach to cointegration. External debt is found to have a positive relationship with economic growth in the short run and a negative relationship in the long run. The long run results indicated that external debt accumulation has a negative impact on economic growth. This confirms the existence of a debt overhang problem in Zambia. Debt servicing is also found to have a significant and negative impact on GDP growth in the short-run. As the debt servicing tends to increase, there will be less opportunities for economic growth. Debt servicing is found to have crowding out effects on economic growth in the short-run. In addition, the Granger causality test was used to check for the direction of causality among the variables. The findings established a unidirectional causality from external debt to economic growth. Consequently, the study recommends, that government should embark on prudent borrowing and encourage export-oriented growth. Keywords : HIPC, external debt, debt overhang, ARDL, Economic growth, Granger causality

Barriers of Financial Inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract: This paper examines barriers to financial inclusion across sub-Sahara Africa (SSA) using the 2014 Global Findex dataset from the demand-side perspective. A two-level model is estimated with individual households nested in the country level variables. Lower levels of income are associated with lower levels of access to formal account. Similarly, literacy rates have significant effect on the level of account ownership. Estimation results also reveals that as individuals grow old, they tend to switch from one form of account to the other. Owning a debit card is more likely to increase account ownership. Another important barrier to account ownership is proximity to the nearest financial services. These barriers have the potential to cause market failure and therefore the right policy interventions are required to stabilize the market. Keywords: Financial Inclusion, Multilevel Analysis, sub-Saharan Africa

Foreign Portfolio Investment and Economic Growth in Nigeria Democratic Settings

Abstract: The study examined the relationship between foreign portfolio investment, democracy and economic growth in Nigeria. This was with a view to explore the nexus between foreign portfolio investment, democracy and economic growth in Nigeria.Secondary data were used in this study. Annual time-series data for the period 1986 to 2013 on foreign portfolio investment and maximum lending rate were obtained from Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletin, while data on variables such as GDP growth rate and gross domestic savings were obtained from World Development Indicators (WDI) database, published by the World Bank. Data collected were analyzed with both descriptive statistics and econometric techniques. Time series properties of the variables were examined using both Augmented Dickey Fuller and Phillip Peron tests. Cointegration properties of the variables were also examined. Vector Auto-Regressive technique supported by Variance Decomposition and Impulse Response analysis were employed to empirically determine the relationship between foreign portfolio investment and economic growth in Nigeria. The results showed that foreign portfolio investment inflow was more stable in democratic periods between 1999 and 2013 than the military periods between 1986 and 1998 and that the correlation between economic growth and foreign portfolio investment is positive and very significant. The result showed that in the longrun foreign portfolio investment had positive and significant effect on the economic growth in Nigeria (t = 3.7, p 0.05). This study therefore concluded; the impact of foreign portfolio investment on economic growth was very large and significant in the longrun; that democracy in itself affected economic growth significantly and positively but democratic government had no significant effect on the relationship between foreign portfolio and economic growth;. Keywords : Democracy, Foreign Portfolio Investment, Economic Growth: JEL CODES; F02, F3 O10,

Economic Analysis of Gas Pipeline Projects in Nigeria

Abstract: Nigeria has the largest gas reserves in Africa and Gas pipeline industry has been in operation in the country since the gas discovery in the country in late 1960s. Lack of sufficient gas development infrastructure has caused energy imbalance in the country, and making the country rely heavily on the few existing pipelines, which makes the country’s energy sector vulnerable to any shock on these pipelines. Recently, the Nigerian government resolved to build new gas pipelines as part of its plan to maximise gas utilization. As such, this research analysed the economics of these possible gas pipelines options so as to assess if investment in new gas pipelines is viable in Nigeria and which of the pipeline route option is more viable. The research used gas pipeline models that already exist in literature to analyse the investment cost, gas deliveries as well as costs and benefits of six possible gas pipeline routes options in the country. The BSRO pipelines route option was found to be more viable and estimated to have an annual gas delivery of 37.25 bcm, investment cost of $1.15 billion, NPV of $2.43 billion, IRR of 50.38%, payback period of 2.60 years for forty years of operation. However, in terms of coverage and ability to supply more gas to more locations, the all gas pipeline route option is more recommendable. Other gas pipeline routes options are also viable except the NRO gas pipelines, and it is recommended not to consider this option alone, even in the future, the best recommendation is to combine it with the BRO pipelines option. Keywords: Gas Pipeline Routes, BNRO, BSRO, BNRO, NRO, SRO, NRO, NPV, IRR, payback period

Capital Market Development and Economic Growth: Evidence from the Mint Countries

Abstract: Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey are 4 countries referred to as the ‘MINT’, and have been predicted to be gigantic economies by 2050. Leading Authors and researchers have argued in various studies that financial development is an engine to economic growth, and it is expected that this will drive the realisation of the predictive outcome of these countries. The study thus focuses on how capital market development as a subset of financial development has directly translated to economic growth of the MINT for a 13-year period of 2000—2012, through the composition of a balanced panel dataset comprising capital market activity variables of market capitalisation ratio to gross domestic product (GDP), number of listed securities and value of transactions as ratios of GDP and gross fixed capital formation respectively; with key economic growth indicators of change in GDP, gross domestic savings relative to GDP and gross fixed capital formation relative to GDP. The results reveal that number of listed securities is the most impacting capital market development measure on economic growth of the MINT as a group. This indicator was seen to be negative and significantly related to GDP, but positive and significantly related to gross domestic savings and gross fixed capital formation ratios to GDP. Statistical evidence further shows that Indonesia is mostly affected positively by capital market development, especially since it both increases gross domestic savings and gross fixed capital formation ratios. It is recommended that the study’s timeframe should be elongated in other to conduct long run econometric analysis that can be more valid and reliable. Keywords: Capital market development, economic growth, market capitalisation, value of transactions and gross domestic product (GDP)

Determinants of the Adoption of Sustainable Land Management Practices among Smallholder Farmers’ in Jeldu District, West Shewa Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia

Abstract: Land degradation is a major cause of Ethiopia's low and declining agricultural productivity, continuing food insecurity, and abject rural poverty. The productivity of agricultural economy, which is the backbone of the country's economy, is being seriously eroded by unsustainable land management practices both in areas of food crops and in grazing. Low land productivity due to land degradation in form of soil erosion is one of the leading challenges to improving the performance of the smallholder farming system sector in Ethiopia. In this context, the adoption of Sustainable Land Management practices/ technologies is quite crucial to increase agricultural productivity, ensure food security and improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. Farmers recommend various SLM practices/technologies for sustainable implementation, but adoption of such agricultural land management practices/ technologies is still very low. There is no clear understanding of the problems encountered by farmers in the adoption of recommended SLM practices/ technologies. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to assess the socio-economic, institutional, psychological and biophysical determinant factors that influence adoption of SLM practices/technologies among smallholder farmers in Jeldu district in West Shewa zone. Primary data were collected through household questionnaires surveys, focus group discussions, key informants interviews and personal observations while secondary data were collected from relevant local authority reports and records. A total of 224 households were interviewed. Both Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression model were used to analyze the data. The computed independent T-test for the mean income difference was statistically highly significance between adopters and non-adopters, suggesting that adopters were in better-off position to improve their livelihood. From the 18 explanatory variables entered into the model, 14 variables were found to be statistically significant in determining adoption of SLM Practices by farmers in the study area at less than 5 to 10% probability levels. These are education level of the household head, farm size, perception of land degradation ,effectiveness of SLM practices, credit service access, frequency of development agent contact and livestock ownership significantly positively affect adoption of land management practices while distance to market affects it negatively at less 10% probability levels. Planners and policy makers should formulate appropriate policies and programs considering the farmers’ interest, capacity, and limitation in promoting improved soil conservation technology for greater acceptance and adoption by the farmer. Keywords: Sustainable Land Management Practices, Adoption, Smallholder Farmers’

Environmental Kuznets Curve and the Relationship between Energy Consumption, Economic Growth and CO2 Emissions in Malaysia

Abstract: The paper examines the impact of energy consumption and economic growth on CO 2 emissions in Malaysia, covering 1965-2015 period. Simple ordinary least squares technique was employed to achieve the objective. The result indicated that CO 2 emission decreases with an increase in income and increases with an increase in trade openness. While environmental Kuznets curve is nonexistent. We therefore recommended that CO 2 mitigation policies should be prioritized. Keywords : CO 2 emissions, energy consumption, economic growth, OLS

The Determinants of Commercial Bank Profitability in Zimbabwe: A Dynamic Panel Data Model

Abstract: This study examined profitability of 15 commercial banks in Zimbabwe that survived the economic crisis experienced in Zimbabwe from 2003 to 2008. The first objective of the study was to determine whether the profitability of these banks significantly changed over the post crisis period. Using annual financial accounts data, from 2011 to 2014, the results from the one-way repeated measures ANOVA show that the mean profit ratios significantly changed over the four year period. The second objective was to determine factors influencing bank profitability under a multicurrency regime and the results from a dynamic panel data model show that diversification, funding cost and market share significantly affected profitability of commercial banks in Zimbabwe during the period under study. Keywords: bank profitability, dynamic panel data, diversification, funding cost, market share.

Determinants of Foreign Reserve in Nigeria

Abstract: This study analyzed the determinants of foreign reserve in Nigeria for the period 1970-2013. Data were sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin while Ordinary Least Square technique was employed for the analysis. The result revealed that oil price and domestic credit are the major determinants of foreign reserve. Other variables such as domestic income, price level, interest rate and exchange rate can also be considered as determinants of foreign reserve but only in the long run. Furthermore, the granger causality test revealed a unidirectional relationship between oil price and foreign reserve. Among others we recommend that Nigerian government should encourage other sources of foreign reserve apart from oil to minimize the effect of oil price volatility on the foreign reserve as well as the economy. Keywords : foreign reserve, oil price, domestic credit, Nigeria

Households’ Preferences and Willingness to Pay for Improved Solid Waste Management Interventions Using Choice Experiment Approach: Debre Tabor Town, Northwest Ethiopia

Abstract: Good Solid Waste Managemnt (SWM) practices are indispensable for maintaining quality environment and the health of urban dwellers in most developing countries, like Ethiopia. However, for successful implementation of adequate SWM options, households’ preferences and their Willingness to Pay (WTP) should be taken in to consideration. The main aim of this study was to analyse the preferences of households’ and estimate the WTP for improved SWM service attributes in the form of money income and labor effort using choice experiment approach. Multi-stage stratified random sampling design was used to draw sample households and primary data was collected from 220 households living in Debre Tabor town. In addition to the standard conditional logit model, the Random Parameter Logit Model (RPLM) and the Latent Class Models (LCM) were estimated to relax the independent of the irrelevant alternatives assumption and account preferences heterogeneity for various SWM attributes. The RPL results indicated that preferences for all attributes were heterogonous among households, a conclusion that was supported by the wide variation in LCM estimates between classes. Based on the implicit price,mode of transportation was the foremost attribute followed by solid waste disposal method, and service delivery institute and sorting of solid waste was the least important attributes. The welfare measure result showed that households were WTP a considerable amount of money for the improved SWM interventions scenario. The result further revealed that respondents with higher level of income, higher level of education and female headed households preferred the upswing SWM interventions. The finding showed that analyzing households’ preferences is very important to prioritize among alternatives for the implementation of good SWM. Therefore, studying this aspect can contribute to the successful implementation of sound SWM practices. In order to achieve adequate SWM options, it is also recommended that the urban planner or concerned body need to take account households’ preferences for improved SWM interventions. Keywords: Choice Experiment Approach, Debre Tabor, Solid Waste Management , Willingness to Pay

Impact of Change in Exchange Rate on Foreign Direct Investment: Evidence from Somalia

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of exchange rate on foreign direct investment in Somali. The study used location theory to analyze the data by applying multiple regression models under OLS method. The results show that the overall model is significant. There is a negative and significant relationship found between exchange rate and FDI, while, a positive and significant relationship is observed between inflation and domestic investment on FDI, and a negative but insignificant relationship is observed between lack of government and FDI.The strength of this research lies in its time limit. The scope of this research was for the less than 50 years ending and including the year 2010. It is not known whether the results would hold if a longer period would have been researched upon. Further it is not possible to tell whether the same findings will hold for the period after 2010. There is need for the government to retain tight monetary and fiscal policies in order to stable exchange rate in the Somalia. Central bank should promote monetary authorities at managing exchange rate effectively to attract foreign direct investors. while utilization location theory, this study contribute significant to the literature by adding new variable to the model lack of government. Keywords- exchange rate, foreign direct investment and Somalia.

Measuring the Impact of China Pakistan Economic Corridor on the Socio-Economic Aspects of Pakistan: A Quantitative Research Highlighting the Public Opinion

Abstract: China Pakistan Economic Corridor is the project which is treated as the major opportunity for Pakistan and future game changers for its economy. Pakistan as well as China both are depending upon the success of this project and there are several benefits which might be gained through the proper implementation of the project. But other than this there are some rumors that in reality CPEC is the game finisher for Pakistan and this will destroy our culture, ethnicity as well as economy, therefore there is need of proper research which will demonstrate the impact of the project in a real sense. Though CPEC is already completed its initial phases, but as there is lack of authentic Data regarding the impact of this mega project. Hence public opinion regarding this burning issue might be the most important and significant tool to gauge the impact of this Mega Project in order to highlight the upcoming impact of CPEC on Pakistan’s economical as well as social aspects of Pakistan . Moreovere, there was no research work based on public opinion since the CPEC came near to the compilation of initial part thus there is ample requirement of research in order to explore the impacts through public opinion in order to provide base to policy makers to assess the opinion which is the centre of belive for the residents of Pakistan Keywords : CPEC, Socio-Economic Aspects, Public Opinion, Quantitative Research

Effect of Working Capital Management on Firm’ Financial Performance: A Survey of Water Processing Firms in Puntland

Abstract: The study aimed to establish the effect of working capital management on financial performance of water processing firms in Puntland state of Somalia. The study period of 2011 to 2015 was divided into financial quarters with working capital and financial performance variables determined for each of these quarters. There were four specific objectives for the study relating to the effect of firstly cash management, secondly inventory management, thirdly receivables management and lastly payables management on financial performance of the water processing firms. Three theories used in the study are the agency theory, transactional cost theory and working capital management cycle theory. The study used descriptive survey to accomplish the objectives. The study focused on a convenient sample of four companies located in Garowe. It used multiple linear regression of return on assets (ROA) on the four independent variables of cash conversion cycle ratio (CCR), stock turnover ratio (STR), receivables turnover ratio (RTR) and payables turnover ratio (PTR). The findings from descriptive statistics indicated that all the variables are very volatile given the high values of coefficient of variation for each of the variables. From inferential statistics, the study found out that CCR and STR have a positive effect on return on assets of the water companies in Garowe. Receivables turnover, the indicator of receivables management had however a negative effect of ROA. The last working capital variable, payables turnover ratio had no effect on financial performance of water companies as indicated by ROA. The study concludes that the findings which in some cases are not similar to findings from elsewhere could be because of the unstable nature of the business environment in Puntland state of Somalia and Somalia in general. Because of the study limitations, the study makes two recommendations for further study that is there should be studies to cover a wider population of water companies in Somalia to check the effect of working capital on financial performance will remain the same after adjusting for the increased population. A similar study could be done for other types of companies outside of the water processing firms in Puntland. Keywords: Cash management, Inventory management, Receivables management, Payables management & financial performance.

Economic Implications of a Changing Climate on Smallholder Pineapple Production in Ghana

Abstract: Pineapple production in Ghana plays a major role in developing the economy through socioeconomic impacts and export. Climatic variations contribute to variable yield and subsequently affect pineapple productivity. Direct dependence on climate for pineapple production could have significant economic implications. This study examined the economic impact of a changing climate on smallholder pineapple farming in Ghana. Data from 400 pineapple farmers was obtained from four pineapple growing districts using a two-stage sampling technique. Ricardian regression approach was used to estimate the relationship between farmer’s net farm revenue per hectare, climate and other control variables such as soil and socio economic characteristics. The results revealed negative economic effect between rainfall and net revenue during vegetative stage of pineapple production as well as temperature and net revenue during the flowering stage. A positive effect between net revenue and temperature during yield formation stage was also observed. The study again discovered a fall in net revenue if temperature increases by 1°C and a rise in net revenue if rainfall increases by 1mm during production. The other variables that were key to net revenue were production on Dystric Planosols soil type, access to credit and membership of farmer-based associations. Given the role of pineapple production in the Ghanaian economy, supporting and promoting adaptation options to address issues of climate variability and change is recommended for improved productivity to sustain the pineapple industry economically. Keywords: Net revenue, temperature, rainfall, pineapple production, Ghana

Trends and Determinants of Gross Domestic Saving in Ethiopia

Abstract: This study examined the trend and major determinants of gross domestic savings rate (GDS) in Ethiopia using secondary annual data for the period 1980-2014. Data collected from central statistical authority (CSA) and MOFED. The macroeconomic variables used include economic growth rate, deposit interest rate, M2, foreign aid, inflation rate and age dependency ratio. The model was estimated using co-integration and error correction models to analyze the short and long run equilibrium among the variables.Results of the study show that inflation rate, age dependency ratio and broad money to GDP ratio play a significant role in determining the gross domestic savings in Ethiopia whereas real interest rates and foreign aid was not a significant determinant of gross domestic savings.The overall findings of the study underlined the importance of adopting a strict monetary policy to maintain money supply within manageable levels and ensure stable and low inflation rates which would help improve real incomes and would also cause development in the financial sector and hence improve gross domestic savings in the economy. Further, the government should formulate policies for the improvement of health care provision. Keywords : Gross domestic savings, Age-dependency ratio, Broad money (M2), Inflation rate, Ordinary Least Squares, Ethiopia

Determinants of Poultry Market Participation Decisions: The Case of Producers in Kaffa and Bench Majji Zones, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract: Poultry products have long been a pathway for income generation for the poor. Rapidly growing and changing markets in the developing world provide real opportunities. However, there were also threats to participation of the poor in marketing of poultry products. Objective of this study is to analyze determinants of poultry market participation decision in Kaffa and Bench Majji zones of Southern Ethiopia. A total of 150 sample poultry producers was interviewed using semi structured questionnaire to collect the data required for the study. Descriptive statistics and probit regression model were used for the analysis of the data gathered. Accordingly, out of the 13 variables entered into the econometric model; household size, level of education, frequency of extension contact, family size, breed type owned and number of poultry owned positively and significantly while distance to nearest market negatively and significantly influence the poultry market participation decision in the study area. Therefore, all concerned bodies should focus on improving the infrastructure, providing capacity building by dissemination of technology through market oriented extension approach, increasing access to improved technology, access to credit to improve the skill of producing and market participation for better return. Keywords: producers, poultry, market participation, probit regression

Analysis of the Plantain Supply System of Markets in the City of Douala

Abstract: In Cameroon, the city of Douala constitutes one of the major urban centers for the consumption of plantain Due to changes in eating habits, the consumption of plantain is in net increase This study aims to gain a better understanding of the functioning of the plantain supply system in the city of Douala, as well as its current performance Surveys were carried out among 125 actors (transporters, wholesalers, retailers, collectors) in order to study its efficiency The results of the study reveal that the activity is clearly dominated by women The actors are very little organized, in associations or groups The markets are mainly supplied with plantain from the production basins of the Littoral, South-West and West regions There is strong seasonality in the supply of plantain in the markets This results in a permanent fluctuation in the price of plantain which at times attains up to 33% Thus, plantain remains expensive in the markets of Douala and the selling price is influenced by the purchase price, the cost of transport and the profit margins imposed by the stakeholders Financial analysis of the activity shows that it is very profitable, with gross monthly profit margins evaluated at CFAF 183 417 for retailers, CFAF 229 756 for wholesalers and CFAF 397 612 for collectors The profit margin of the collector is higher than those of the other actors Actors face severe constraints such as: the poor state of rural roads; costs of informal road tolls; absence of market structures; theft and insecurity, etc In view of the results obtained, the supply system is not performing well to satisfy the high demand for plantain in the city of Douala Key words: Plantain, Performance, Supply system, Markets, Douala, Cameroon

Achieving Sustainable Development and Promoting Development Cooperation in Nigeria: Way Forward

Abstract: The world today witnesses emerging new challenges, aggravated by multiple financial, economic, food and energy crises, which have threatened the ability of all countries to achieve sustainable development The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development reaffirmed the political commitments of the international community to pursue sustainable development, under the principles of Agenda 21, including the principle of common but differentiated responsibility, this is inline with the Millennium Development Goals objectives which focused attention on selected social and human development priorities The main objective of the paper, is to evaluate the possible ways of achieving sustainable development and development cooperation in Nigeria To achieved the above objective the researchers make use of questionnaires, Hypothesis are formulated which were analyzed using SPSS Pearson Correlation Test were equally conducted to determine the correlation between economic development cooperation and sustainable development in Nigeria Empirical economic modeling were established with the prior expectation to construct multiple regression The paper recommended that, government should take steps to introduce price control on essential items to avoid persistence increase in price level, adequate measures should be put in place to cope with the effect of climate change, government as well should come up with policies that will encourage production and consumption of locally produce goods and services and discourage importation of essential items, Nigerian populace should take a drastic measure to ensure that those to be elected as policies makers are of credible character and patriot that are capable of protecting the interest of the generality of the entire populace and finally the governments at all level should come up with economic recovery plans that is capable of salvaging the financial system and entire economy at large Keywords : Economy, Cooperation, Development, Strategy, Sustainability, Transformation

Determinants of Saving Behavior of Households in Ethiopia: The Case Benishangul Gumuz Regional State

Abstract: This study examined the factors that affect saving behavior of rural households in Benishangul Gumuz Regional Sate. It employed descriptive statistics and double hurdle model to analyze the data collected from a sample of 325 rural households in the study area. The descriptive result showed that about 83.4 percent of sampled households involved in saving of which 68 percent use formal financial institutions and the remaining opt for alternative saving options. The result of double hurdle model provided empirical evidence on a positive significant effect of age, income and level of education of the head on a decision of households to save; whereas household size, distance to formal financial institutions and employment status have negative influences on household’s decision to save. With regards to the extent of saving; income of household head, level of education, landholding size and involvement in petty trade has a positive significant impact on amount of saving; whereas household size, employment status and distance to formal financial institutions significantly reduced the amount of saving by households. The findings implied the need for designing strategies that could improve the saving behavior, mobilization and diversification of saving by rural households. Moreover, the need for government involvement in building the capacity of rural households in terms of education and information systems with regards to savings as well as encouraging financial institutions to implement door-to-door service provisions so as to enhance saving behavior of households are desirable. Key w ords: Household, Savings, Double hurdle, Assosa

Green Awareness and Consumer Purchase Intention of Environmentally-Friendly Electrical Products in Anambra, Nigeria

Abstract: The tremendous increase in demand for consumer goods and services across the world in the last decade has resulted to depletion of natural resources and damage of the environment severely. Evidence in the extant literature have shown relationship between green awareness and green purchase intention but studies on how green awareness influences purchase intention of environmentally-friendly electrical products in a typical developing country context are still lacking. The main objective of this study is to empirically investigate the effect of green awareness on consumers’ purchase intention of environmentally-friendly electrical products. In order to achieve this objective, survey research design was adopted and the population of study comprises post-graduate students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria. A sample size of 345 respondents was statistically drawn out from the population size of 2499 students using Taro Yamane’s formula. Stratified random sampling was adopted and the research instrument was a questionnaire. The reliability of the research instrument was tested using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Hypotheses were tested using multiple regressions. It was found out that environmental concerns, green social influence and brand strength have positive and statistically significant effect on consumers’ purchase intention of environmentally-friendly electrical products. We conclude that this study provides empirical evidence that green awareness has a positive and significant effect on consumers’ purchase intention of environmentally-friendly electrical products. We recommend that government through her regulatory agencies should enforce laws and guidelines that will educate and influence public awareness on the need to act pro-environmentally, also marketers should promote environmentally-friendly products by encouraging consumers to prefer products that safeguard their environment through the use of peer groups, reference groups and social media. Keywords: * Green Awareness, *Consumer Purchase Intention, *Environmentally-Friendly Electrical Products, *Environmental Concern, *Green Social Influence, *Brand Strength, *Green Regulations and Guidelines, *Post-graduate Students, *Awka, Nigeria.

Challenges and Optimism for Sustainable Research Capacity in Sierra Leone

Abstract: This article has provided a non-empirical approach in addressing the potential for sustainable research at all levels in Sierra Leone. It is an indisputable fact that remnants of the civil crisis and more lately, the Ebola crisis have contributed to the country’s under-developed research potential, more so at higher education level where the pace seemed to be slow in comparison to other countries in the West African sub-region. The country is making some strides in forging ahead with efforts being placed by individuals / institutions to improve opportunities for high level research in the country, but such a venture is faced with serious challenges. Highlights of some of the challenges include development of institutional capacity, strong strategic management capacity, and development in human capacity. Recommendations have also suggested attention focused on the building of strong institutional capacity and investment as the way forward in the sustained pathway of the country’s development.

The Demand for Fish Products in Malawi: An Almost Ideal Demand System Estimation

Abstract: The study analyzed the demand for fish products and the factors that affect the consumption of various fish products in Malawi. Considering four fish products, namely dried fish, smoked fish, fresh fish and tinned fish, the study employed a multivariate probit model and an Almost Ideal Demand System (AIDS) model to analyze factors affecting consumption and demand for fish products respectively. Results indicate that consumption of various fish products in Malawi is affected by age, education, gender, marital status, area of residence (Urban versus rural), distance to nearest market, household annual expenditure and occupation of the household head. With regard to demand for fish products, the study found that the demand for dried fish, smoked fish, fresh fish and tinned fish is inelastic and the various fish products were found to be substitutes. It was also noticed that households would increase their expenditure on fish products if their income increases. The results are an important step in designing policies that will increase fish production and ultimately increase fish consumption. The results also show the importance of value chain development by, among others, building the capacity of the fish processors in order to help them better respond to the market and consumer needs. Keywords: Multivariate probit, Fish, Consumption, AIDS model, Demand

European Union and Sustainable Development Indicators

Abstract: Assessment of sustainable position of selected countries is the important challenge in the last years. The sustainable theory has changed from the years of Rio conference and the availability of statistical resources is becoming better. Sustainable development is an important objective for each country. Enlargement of the EU has brought the current priorities and future direction of EU environmental policy sharply into focus. Enlargement process has increased the standards of environmental protection and social development. Significant environmental investments are necessary and the new members need to speed up their preparation for implementing the Gothenburg strategy “sustainable strategy”.

Determinants of Inflation in Ethiopia: A Time-Series Analysis

Abstract: The objective of this study was to examine the major determinants of inflation in Ethiopia using data for the period from 1975 to 2014. The study employed the ordinary least square method to test for the existence of a short-run and long-run relationship between inflation and its determinant variables. The co-integrating regression considers only the long-run property of the model, and does not deal with the short-run dynamics explicitly. For this, the error correction from the long run determinants of inflation is then used as a dynamic model to estimate the short run determinants of inflation. The exceptional empirical result of this study is that the GDP is significantly and positively affect inflation rate both in the short and long-run. The explanatory variables accounted for 98 percent of the variation of inflation during the study period. This study suggests that broad money supply is to be controlled and gross national saving is to be encouraged to reduce inflation in the country.

Analysis of Energy System in Norway with Focus on Energy Consumption Prediction

Abstract: Today, the fossil fuels have dominant share of energy supply in order to respond to the high energy demand in the world. Norway is one of the countries with rich sources of fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. The current work is to investigate on the status of energy demand in Norway. First, energy and electricity consumption in various sectors, including industrial, residential are calculated. Then, energy demand in Norway is forecasted by using available tools. After that, the relationship between energy consumption in Norway with Basic economics parameters such as GDP, population and industry growth rate has determined by using linear regression model. Finally, the regression result shows a low correlation between variables.

Sustainability Status of Biology Dimension of Local Beef Cattle Development in the Dryland Region, Indonesia

Abstract: The study examined the sustainability of local beef cattle production the dryland area of Kupang Regency. The aims of the study were (1) to determine the sustainability status of Biology Dimension, (2) to determine sensitive attributes influencing the index value and status of biological Dimension Sustainability and, (3) to formulate policy priority that can be implemented to development of local beef cattle in the dryland environment of Kupang Regency Indonesia. To obtain data, several steps were done i.e. interviewed respondents using questionnaires, focus group discussion and observations. The Rap-UTSP-Laker was used to examine the sustainability status of the local beef cattle development system both in lowland and upland farming systems. Results of the study revealed that the Biological Dimension is in less sustainability category with the sustainability index of 40.77 % for upland and 40.40% for lowland systems. The result also indicated that among 10 attributes, 5 attributes were considered to be very sensitive and the most critical attribute was number of trade out cattle. Keywords: beef cattle, biology dimension, farming systems, lowland, upland, dryland, sustainability