East African Journal of Business and Economics

Factors Contributing to Valuation Inaccuracies and Variances in Kenya’s Real Estate Sector

Brian Nabutola Wanjala — 2025-06-18

Real estate valuation inaccuracies and variances pose a significant challenge globally, particularly in regions characterized by inadequate and unreliable market data. This study investigates the key factors contributing to valuation discrepancies in Kenya, identifying valuers’ misconduct, client influence, inappropriate application of heuristics, valuation task complexity, and the unavailability of trustworthy data as primary contributors. A survey research design was adopted, utilizing structured interviews and self-administered questionnaires distributed via Google Forms to collect data. Quantitative data was analyzed using IBM SPSS Version 26, with findings presented through frequency distribution tables, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Qualitative data was thematically analyzed and presented in narrative and verbatim form. The study’s respondents included practising valuers in Kenya, financial institutions, the Valuers Registration Board, and the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya. Findings indicate that inadequate and unreliable real estate data remains the most significant factor driving valuation inaccuracies and variances in Kenya, aligning with previous studies conducted in Kenya and other Sub-Saharan African countries. Additionally, client influence and valuers’ misconduct were found to have a comparable impact on valuation discrepancies, as statistical analysis showed no significant difference between these factors. The study further highlights that while the margin of error concept is widely acknowledged among valuation practitioners, there is no consensus on an acceptable percentage threshold between valuers and the regulatory authority. To enhance valuation accuracy, the study recommends stronger collaboration between the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya and the Valuers Registration Board in regulating valuation practices. Furthermore, it advocates for stronger partnerships between universities and industry professionals to ensure that valuation training aligns with industry needs, equipping practitioners with the necessary expertise to improve accuracy levels in real estate valuation.

Influence of Marketing Agility on Marketing Performance of Commercial Banks in Kenya

Evans Ojiambo Onditi, PhD — 2025-06-20

This study aimed to establish the influence of marketing agility on the marketing performance of commercial banks in Kenya. The study was founded on the Dynamic Capabilities Theory, and the target population was the 39 commercial banks licensed to operate in Kenya by the Central Bank of Kenya. A census of the target population was done because it was relatively small. A cross-sectional research design was adopted, and data was collected using the key informant method from marketing managers using a semi-structured questionnaire. 37 commercial banks responded, and this led to a 95% response rate. Data analysis was done using simple regression analysis, and the regression results indicated that marketing agility explained 51.1 % of the variation in the marketing performance of commercial banks in Kenya. The regression coefficients also revealed that marketing agility had a positive and significant effect on Marketing performance (β = 0.668, t = 6.043, p = 0.000). These results led to the rejection of the study’s null hypothesis, which stated that marketing agility has no significant effect on the marketing performance of commercial banks in Kenya. Based on the results of the regression analysis, the study concluded that marketing agility has a positive and significant influence on the marketing performance of commercial banks in Kenya. The study recommended that marketing managers ensure that business firms have simplified organizational structures and processes that have short learning cycles as well as breaking down departmental barriers to enhance the firms’ ability to act faster and be more flexible in response to market changes. Management should also ensure that organizational resources are tied to overarching objectives instead of pre-planned activities. Management should develop a system that will ensure that it is possible to reallocate resources quickly within the firm so that they can move with speed in exploiting a marketing opportunity or avoiding a business threat

Nexus Between Public Debt and Uganda’s Economic Growth

Victoria Chebet — 2025-06-23

Economic growth and public debt are intricately linked, with public debt influencing growth in both beneficial and detrimental ways, depending on its size, structure, and the overall state of the economy. In growing countries like Uganda, public debt has the potential to finance crucial public investments, which can also lead to instability and reduce private investment. This study examined the impact of public debt on economic growth and evaluated its effects. A comprehensive evaluation of theories regarding the correlation between public debt and economic growth was carried out, focusing on both positive and negative effects. An Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach was utilized using time series data from 1992 to 2022. The research revealed that while foreign debt had a positive impact on GDP per capita in the short term, domestic debt did not exhibit significant effects. Long-run results indicated that the correlations between these variables and economic growth were statistically not significant. The ARDL model provided a good fit for explaining the variation in GDP per capita. As per the findings, the research recommended that policies aimed at reducing trade barriers, improving export competitiveness, and negotiating favourable trade agreements should be prioritized to maximize the benefits of trade openness. The government should focus on creating policies that channel domestic savings into productive investments rather than allowing them to hinder growth

Functions of Governing Boards in Catholic Institutions: A Multi-Dimensional Analysis of Strategic Planning, Regulatory Compliance, and Resource Mobilisation in Uganda

Charles Oyo — 2025-06-30

This qualitative study examined governing board functions in Catholic institutions across Uganda through three core dimensions: strategic planning, regulatory compliance, and resource mobilisation. Using interpretive phenomenological design, the study involved 78 participants, including board members, managers, and staff across Catholic schools and health facilities in four ecclesiastical provinces. Data collection utilised semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, analysed using MAXQDA software with thematic analysis techniques grounded in integrated agency, resource dependence, and stakeholder theories. Findings revealed significant theory-practice disconnections with 68% of boards demonstrating reactive strategic planning approaches, 73% showing reactive compliance management, and 75% exhibiting over-reliance on external funding sources. The study uncovered "ceremonial governance" patterns where boards functioned as validation rather than strategic creation bodies, operating primarily through procedural compliance rather than functional effectiveness. These findings contribute empirical evidence on governance challenges in African Catholic contexts, offering practical implications for enhancing board functionality through integrated governance standards, systematic accountability frameworks, and balanced professional-mission excellence approaches. The research addresses critical gaps in governance literature by investigating board functions beyond financial metrics in mission-driven organisations, providing insights applicable to faith-based institutions globally while recognising the unique canonical-secular accountability tensions inherent in Catholic institutional governance

Social Accountability and Public Service Delivery in Kenya: A Case Study of Baringo County, Kenya

Amos Kiptui Kibet — 2025-06-30

Social accountability is one of the corporate governance practices that is expected to be undertaken by organisations. Within the public sector, social accountability is an emerging phenomenon that involves citizens’ involvement in advocating for their rights, good governance, prudent use of public resources and transparency in all public projects. This paper examines the linkages between social accountability and the delivery of public services with specific reference to Baringo County, Kenya. The study was anchored on agency theory. A concurrent triangulation research design was used, which targeted a total of 666,763 residents from Baringo County and 6 sub-county administrators. A sample size of 384 respondents was selected through stratified and simple random sampling techniques. The six sub-county administrators were chosen through purposive sampling methods. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. Analysis of data was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the help of SPSS Version 24.0. The research established that social accountability had a weak positive relationship with service delivery at Baringo County (r=0.403, p<0.05). It was concluded that social accountability practices influenced the delivery of public services by the County Government of Baringo to a lower level. It is therefore recommended that members of the public need to be fully educated on conducting social audits. The county government of Baringo should develop a public participation and social accountability framework to enable residents to check and assess various developmental programmes being undertaken in their county

Financial Adequacy and Performance of Education Projects Implemented by Non-Profit Organisations in Dadaab Refugee Complex, Kenya

Stanley Khaemba Kasembeli — 2025-07-02

Access to quality education is a fundamental component of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4), especially for refugees experiencing long-term displacement, such as those in the Dadaab Refugee Complex in Kenya. While education projects are vital in promoting inclusive and equitable learning opportunities in emergency settings, many face persistent challenges, often attributed to management issues. However, limited research has explored the impact of financial adequacy on the success and sustainability of such initiatives. This study addresses this gap by examining the influence of financial adequacy on the performance of non-profit-led education projects in Dadaab, contributing to the evidence base for achieving SDG 4 in refugee contexts. Myers’ tradeoff theory anchors this study as it guides the analysis of funding choices. The tradeoff theory argues that organisations balance the costs and benefits of various funding sources. Recognising persistent gaps in the existing literature regarding financial resources in emergency education contexts, this research employs a descriptive survey design, encompassing all 20 education projects in Dadaab. Data were gathered through questionnaires completed by key stakeholders, including school principals (6), head teachers (22), learning centre heads (20), boards of management (36), education officers/coordinators (20), program managers (15), and education directors (2). Analytical methods included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and regression analysis to assess the association between financial sufficiency and project outcomes. Results reveal a strong, statistically significant positive relationship between financial adequacy and project performance (r = 0.978; β = 0.265, p < 0.05). The findings underscore the necessity for robust financial planning, transparent governance, and active stakeholder participation to ensure sustainable and high-quality educational services for refugee populations.

Clarifying Roles, Enhancing Results: Job Descriptions and Employee Performance

Francis Twinamasiko — 2025-07-11

This study examines the influence of job descriptions on employee performance within organisational contexts, with a particular focus on how role clarity, structural design, and motivational elements contribute to individual and institutional outcomes. In an era where organisations continuously strive to enhance productivity, employee engagement, and strategic alignment, the role of clearly articulated job descriptions has become increasingly significant. Using a qualitative and descriptive research design, the study employs a systematic review of literature published between 2002 and 2022. The main objective is to synthesise theoretical perspectives and empirical findings to explore how well-structured and motivating job descriptions shape employee behaviour and drive organisational performance. The review reveals that comprehensive and clearly defined job descriptions reduce role ambiguity, improve task execution, and align employee efforts with organisational goals. Moreover, job descriptions that incorporate motivational components such as meaningful role framing, growth opportunities, performance-based rewards, and clear expectations are positively linked to higher levels of employee satisfaction, engagement, and intrinsic motivation. The evidence also highlights the role of job descriptions in strengthening accountability, supporting performance appraisal, and serving as a foundational tool across key HR functions, including recruitment, training, and career development. The study concludes that job descriptions should not be treated as static administrative tools but as dynamic, strategic instruments integral to effective human resource management. It recommends that organisations regularly review and update job descriptions to reflect evolving job demands and institutional priorities. By embedding clarity, structure, and motivational value into job descriptions, organisations can foster a high-performance culture that enhances employee commitment, innovation, and long-term organisational success.

Leveraging Digital Technology for Competitiveness: A Study of SMEs in Kenya

Benjamin Nyamai Mwongela — 2025-07-14

The proliferation of new technologies has significantly revolutionised nearly every aspect of life, including how business operations are undertaken. Notably, digital technologies are changing competitive paradigms, with the existing literature indicating that enterprises that adopt these technologies enhance their competitiveness and improve their performance. Like other entities, many SMEs around the world are integrating digital technologies into their operations to leverage these advantages. Anchored in the Resource-Based View (RBV) and Dynamic Capabilities Theory, this study investigated the impact of Digital Technology Adoption (DTA) on the competitiveness of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya. The RBV emphasises the strategic value of firm-specific assets such as digital infrastructure and skills, while the Dynamic Capabilities Theory advances this view by concentrating on a firm’s ability to adapt, reconfigure, and renew resources in response to a changing business landscape. Using an explanatory research design, cross-sectional approach, and stratified, proportional, and random sampling techniques, data were collected using a closed-ended questionnaire and analysed using descriptive analysis and regression analysis. Descriptive statistics showed moderate to high levels of digital technology adoption (mean = 3.89) and higher competitiveness levels (mean = 4.23), reflecting a strong and consistent perception of competitiveness among the SMEs. Regression analysis indicated that digital technology adoption significantly and positively predicted SME competitiveness (β = 0.578, p < 0.001), explaining 30.3% of the variance (R² = 0.303). The model was statistically significant (F = 136.617, p < 0.001), with diagnostic tests affirming the assumptions of linear regression. These findings led to the rejection of the null hypothesis, corroborating the theoretical discourse by empirically validating that digital technologies serve as both valuable strategic assets and dynamic capabilities that enhance SME competitiveness and accentuate the importance of fostering a digital culture within SMEs to sustain competitive advantage.

Influence of ERP-DRIVEN Data Analytics on Strategic Decision-Making in Public Universities in Kenya

Joy Kibor — 2025-07-16

This study investigates the influence of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems on strategic decision-making in public universities, focusing on four key factors: ERP data accessibility, ERP data quality, ERP analytical capabilities, and user competency in ERP data analytics. Using a sample of 167 respondents from public universities in Nairobi County, Kenya, the study employed a quantitative research design with correlational and regression analyses to explore the relationships between these variables and their impact on strategic decision-making. The findings reveal that ERP data quality, user competency, and ERP analytical capabilities significantly influence strategic decision-making, while ERP data accessibility showed a weaker effect. The study concludes that improving ERP data quality, enhancing user competency, and investing in advanced ERP analytical capabilities are crucial for better strategic decision-making. Recommendations are provided for university administrators to optimise ERP usage and improve decision-making processes for long-term institutional success

Effect of Tourists' Perceptions on Destination Loyalty, an Indicator of Destination Competitiveness in the Lake Victoria Region Tourism Circuit, Kenya

Stephen Kamau Nguthi, PhD — 2025-07-18

To enhance competitiveness, destination managers need to understand the link between tourists’ perceptions and destination loyalty. This study sought to evaluate the effect of tourists’ perceptions on destination loyalty, an indicator of destination competitiveness. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design using a self-administered questionnaire to collect quantitative data from 299 tourists in 26 classified hotels. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) in SmartPLS 3.2.7 was used in data analysis and hypotheses testing. The majority of the hypotheses tested are accepted at P < .001, with exogenous variables adequately predicting their corresponding endogenous variables. Destination awareness [DA] (β = .49), destination image [DI] (β = .32), and destination perceived value [DPV] (β = .19), significantly predict Destination loyalty in Lake Victoria region tourism circuit [DCL] (R2 = .76) while destination perceived quality [DPQ] (β = .10, P=.0.08) does not. The findings of this study provide insights for destination managers in the Lake Victoria region tourism circuit, Kenya, on monitoring and enhancing the destination’s competitiveness.

Nexus between Career Planning and Employee Performance in Murang’a Water and Sanitation Company Limited in Kenya

Christine Syombua Kathukya — 2025-07-22

Organisations providing essential services are crucial for job creation and significantly contribute to economic growth in developing countries like Kenya. However, many of these organisations face challenges in meeting customer needs and maintaining employee performance standards. This study examined the effect of career planning on employee performance at Murang’a Water and Sanitation Company Limited (MUWASCO) in Kenya. Using a descriptive research survey design, the study employed a census sampling technique, resulting in a sample of 150 respondents. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires. Data analysis was conducted with the aid of SPSS as a research tool and included both descriptive and inferential statistics. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to assess the significant differences in the effect of career planning on employee performance. The findings established that career planning has a significant impact on employee performance, with regression analysis showing that changes in career planning directly affect performance outcomes. The study concluded that there is a positive and statistically significant relationship between career planning and employee performance. Based on these findings, it is recommended that MUWASCO should allocate more resources to skills development, provide incentives to encourage employee participation in development programs, establish a clear career guidance policy, and organise regular seminars, mentorship programs, and conferences to further enhance employee performance

Marketing Agility: A Critical Review of Literature

Evans Ojiambo Onditi, PhD — 2025-07-30

The current business environment is highly dynamic, with frequent changes in customer needs and technology. The success of business firms in such a scenario depends on their ability to adopt and engage in agile marketing practices. This article offers a critical review of existing literature on the concept of marketing agility, beginning with definitions, the various dimensions of marketing agility, as well as the antecedents and market factors that influence the need for marketing agility. The article also reviewed the various obstacles to marketing agility that exist in business firms as well as the benefits of agile marketing practices. In terms of theoretical perspectives, the Resource-Based Theory and the Dynamic Capabilities Theory were examined in detail to help explain how marketing agility can be a source of competitive advantage for business firms. The article concluded that marketing agility is directly linked to digital transformation since the business environment is characterised by a high rate of technological advancement, which includes the use of Artificial Intelligence in business activities. Marketing agility enables firms to rapidly make adjustments to their marketing strategies in anticipation of or in response to market changes. The article provided relevant recommendations for managers of business firms, such as investing in the training of employees in agile marketing practices and the use of digital tools like cloud computing and data analytics

Leveraging Social Media Marketing for Brand Performance among Ugandan Universities

Arinaitwe Deo Rugyendo — 2025-07-30

This study examines the role of social media in enhancing brand performance through social media marketing among Universities in Uganda. The specific objectives of the study were; to critically examine the effect of text posts by universities and interactivity on the number of likes, shares and type of comments in Uganda; to examine the relationship between social media photo vividness of universities on the number of shares, comments and likes and to analyse the interactive effect of social media perceived brand valence on the number of likes, shares and comments. This study adopted the mixed methods critical realism research philosophy to collect data. The findings from this study indicate that there is a significant positive correlation between social media interactivity, valence, and vividness with brand performance in terms of likes, shares, and comments of universities in Uganda. The study offers potential strategies to facilitate social media engagement by universities through which real-time feedback about the services of the universities can be sought. Another important outcome from this study is the contribution to the scholarly debate about social media engagement by universities in trying to further reach out to their communities. The study concludes by throwing light on the role of social media in promoting university brands. While there are limitations associated with the proposed methodology, such as a lack of inclusion of other lower-level institutions, the study concludes that social media carries with it a strong opportunity to increase access to the masses from where university programmes can be advertised, alumni are kept in the network and university research is disseminated to the public

The Effect of Artificial Intelligence on Organisational Performance: A Case of Mega Market Zimbabwe

Samuel Mwenje — 2025-08-04

Mega Market Zimbabwe, a leading retail company, however, has taken steps towards modernising its operations by using transformative modern technologies and has increasingly been adopting Artificial Intelligence to streamline its operations, improve customer experience, and revolutionise supply chain management and data analytics. However, the adoption of AI in the retail industry, especially within the context of a developing economy like Zimbabwe, comes with unique challenges and opportunities. Research indicates that personalised recommendations and customer service chatbots can increase sales by 20-25%, yet the implementation of such tools in Mega Market Zimbabwe remains underexplored. AI-driven automation could result in job displacement, although research shows that, in some retail sectors, AI has led to a 25% decrease in low-skill positions but an increase in demand for data scientists and AI specialists. There is a need for a comprehensive study to evaluate the impact of AI on Mega Market Zimbabwe, understanding how AI influences operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, profitability, and the workforce will allow Mega Market to refine its strategies, mitigate potential risks, and harness AI's full potential. Employing a robust descriptive research design, we gathered insightful data through a structured questionnaire distributed to 64 employees, yielding 54 valid responses. The participants were carefully selected from various levels within the organisation, including operations, management, and technical departments, ensuring a comprehensive perspective. The findings are compelling that the manufacturing company is quite sceptical of and resistant to implementing AI. It will be essential to address these issues through training, engagement, and good communication in order to promote a favourable view of AI and improve overall organisational performance. In conclusion, this study suggested proactive management of resistance to change by involving employees in decision-making, communicating pros and cons in order to give room for suggestions and unanimous decision-making. This dissertation recommends that organisations be socially sustainable and consider ethical standards by providing retrenchment packages to the staff who can no longer add to the productivity of the business at the very least.

The Effect of Village Savings and Loan Association Services on Socioeconomic Wellbeing of Members in Mitooma Town Council, Mitooma District

Primah Nasasiira — 2025-08-11

The study focused on examining the effect of village savings and loan association services on the socioeconomic wellbeing of members in Mitooma town council, Mitooma district. Specifically, to explore the effect of financial training on socioeconomic wellbeing of members, to examine the impact of credit extension on socioeconomic wellbeing of members and to examine the effect of saving services on socioeconomic wellbeing of members in Mitooma town council, Mitooma district. A cross-sectional design was employed using both quantitative and qualitative approaches to allow triangulation. Both simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were applied to select the 241 respondents. Data collection methods such as questionnaire surveys and interview methods. Quantitative data was analysed with descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient and linear regression, while qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. The study found that financial training had a positive and significant contribution towards socioeconomic wellbeing since p-value was 0.004, which was less than 0.05 and r=.952. The study also shows that results show that credit extension had a positive significant contribution to socioeconomic wellbeing since the p-value of 0.647 is greater than 0.05; Pearson correlation coefficient (r=.647). Lastly, the study concluded that saving services had a positive significant contribution to socioeconomic wellbeing since the p-value of 0.0000 is less than 0.05 and the Pearson correlation coefficient (r=.546). The study concluded that financial training had a positive significant contribution to socioeconomic wellbeing. The Pearson correlation coefficient indicated that there is a strong positive significant contribution of financial training to social wellbeing. The study also concluded that credit extension had a positive significant contribution to socioeconomic wellbeing. Furthermore, the study concluded that saving services had a positive significant contribution to socioeconomic wellbeing. The study recommended that VSLAs should offer training on starting and managing small businesses, including business planning, marketing, and financial management. The study also recommends that VSLAs should establish clear and transparent credit terms, including interest rates, repayment schedules, and consequences of default. Ensure that terms are fair and manageable within members' financial capacities. Lastly, the study recommends that VSLA should educate members on the importance of saving regularly and setting financial goals.

The Impact of Market Efficiency on Spice Production among Smallholder Farmers in Zanzibar

Erick Kwesigabo — 2025-08-18

This study aimed to examine the impact of market efficiency factors on spice production within the smallholder farming community in Zanzibar. An explanatory research design was used, involving a stratified random sample of 269 smallholder farmers, whereas Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) using IBM SPSS Amos 28 was used to test the hypotheses. Structured closed-ended questionnaires were administered randomly to the selected strata of respondents. The results revealed that access to market information and returns has a significant positive impact on spices production, whereas price fluctuations have a significant negative impact on production. The study concluded by affirming that access to market information and returns positively impacted spice production, whereas price fluctuations had a detrimental effect on it. The study therefore recommended that Governments and Policymakers assist in seeking platforms and channels that provide timely insights regarding market conditions, to enhance decision-making among smallholder farmers

Absorptive Capacity of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Accessing and Utilising Business Development Services in Arusha City and Moshi Municipality, Tanzania

Anande Erasto Kweka — 2025-08-18

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) absorptive capacity to acquire and use Business Development Services (BDS) is critical for their survival, growth and ability to compete in the market. The objective of this paper was to examine MSMEs' absorptive capacity to access and use BDS in Moshi Municipality and Arusha City. A total of 254 MSMEs were sampled using random sampling for the study. A Cross-section design was used for this study. Respondents were sampled using simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, focus group discussions, and observation. Content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data, and quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results indicated that most MSMEs were aware of available Business Development Service Providers (BDSPs) and had used their services. The main sources of BDS for MSMEs were private business development providers. MSMEs have various potential in terms of human and financial capital to access and use the BDS provided by available BDS providers. Medium-sized enterprises showed high knowledge-sharing potential, mostly supported by high capacity of human and financial capital, while micro-enterprises had low potential for applying new knowledge, which was influenced by the low level of financial and human capital. The paper recommends that MSMEs should develop internal capacities through training and networking activities to acquire the capacity to identify new knowledge and productive BDS. The government should also provide subsidies to private service providers to invest and bring appropriate technology to MSMEs. Policies with minimum local content should be enacted to ensure that BDS providers provide services to micro and small enterprises. Furthermore, efforts should be made by BDS providers to effectively make use of media, formal and informal organisations, and the Ministry of Industry and Trade in raising awareness about BDS providers’ functions and expertise in business development.

Breaking Barriers: Understanding the Factors Behind Low Agricultural Insurance Uptake in Zhombe District

Arnold Maviya — 2025-08-18

The study "Breaking Barriers: Understanding the Factors behind Low Agricultural Insurance Uptake in Zhombe District" looks at the main problems that smallholder farmers in Zhombe North District have when they want to acquire agricultural insurance. The main goal is to find out what these farmers think and believe about crop insurance. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, which combines qualitative and quantitative methods, because it is based on a practical research philosophy. The study chose 279 people from a group of 1,014 farmers in wards six to eight. This group included 20 non-life insurance companies and 259 smallholder farmers. The study employed structured surveys to collect quantitative data and thematic analysis to gather qualitative insights. The results show that people don't purchase insurance for three main reasons: they don't trust it, they can't afford it, or they don't know enough about it. Many farmers are unaware of how insurance can benefit them and believe it is a waste of money. The study makes it obvious that there is a need to quickly come up with affordable insurance options and focused training programs. It also shows how vital it is for the government to help people get insurance. The study hopes to improve sustainable farming methods and farmers' ability to bounce back from setbacks in Zhombe District and other parts of Zimbabwe by addressing these issues. The study provides crucial information that can assist policymakers in making decisions to enhance agricultural insurance systems and promote economic growth in rural areas. Such actions will make both local and national food security and resilience stronger

Enhancing Millennial Workforce Motivation Through Flexible Work Arrangements: A Systematic Review

Richard Turyatunga — 2025-08-21

This systematic review investigates whether flexible work arrangements (FWAs) serve as effective motivators for millennial employees in contemporary workplaces. Millennials, born between 1980 and 2000, now constitute a significant proportion of the global workforce and exhibit distinct work preferences, particularly regarding autonomy, flexibility and work-life balance. The review is anchored in the Self-Determination Theory and Generational Theory to understand the psychological and generational underpinnings of motivation among millennials. The study employed a qualitative design, utilising systematic review methodology to analyse peer-reviewed articles. These studies were selected from Google Scholar using inclusion criteria that prioritised research-based articles addressing both flexible work arrangements and millennial motivation. Findings consistently demonstrated a positive impact between FWAs such as flex-time, remote working, telecommuting, compressed hours and job sharing and heightened motivation among millennials. Millennials were found to value flexibility in determining where, when and how they work, which in turn fostered a greater sense of autonomy, competence and relatedness to the core tenets of Self-Determination Theory. The study revealed that while flexible work arrangements are strong motivational factors, other elements like compensation, career development, recognition and inclusive organisational culture also contribute to overall engagement and retention of millennials. Based on the findings, the study recommends that organisations should institutionalise clear, inclusive and well-communicated FWA policies, invest in supportive technology infrastructure and train managers in remote supervision and trust-based leadership. Such strategic implementations will not only boost millennial motivation but also contribute to sustainable organisational performance in the digital era.

Validating the Measures of Schein’s Theory of Organisational Culture in the Context of Lecturers at Kyambogo University

Shallon Atuhaire — 2025-08-21

The present study validated the measures of Schein’s Theory of Organisational Culture (TOC) within the context of full-time academic staff at Kyambogo University. Drawing on Schein’s (1980) conceptual framework, organisational culture was operationalised in terms of three core dimensions: artefacts, espoused beliefs and values, and basic underlying assumptions. This cross-sectional study employed a sample of 192 full-time academic staff from Kyambogo University. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and structural equation modelling (SEM), specifically partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS software, were employed to examine the presence and structure of the three constructs outlined in Schein’s TOC. Descriptive results indicated that artefacts, espoused beliefs and values, and basic underlying assumptions were prominently exhibited among the academic staff. Furthermore, the PLS-SEM analysis confirmed that the indicators used to measure these constructs were valid and reliable representations of the underlying theoretical dimensions. The study concluded that the indicators utilised to measure the three constructs of organisational culture, as theorised by Schein, are both valid and reliable within the context examined. It is recommended that future researchers adopt these indicators when operationalising the constructs of TOC in similar academic or organisational settings

Board Diversity as a Driver of Governance Functionality in Catholic Institutions: Evidence from Uganda's Education and Health Sectors

Charles Oyo — 2025-08-21

This study examines how board diversity functions as a critical driver of governance functionality in Catholic education and health institutions in Uganda, addressing significant gaps in understanding diversity's role in mission-driven organisations operating in developing contexts. A qualitative phenomenological study involving 135 participants across multiple stakeholder groups was conducted in Catholic institutions within two ecclesiastical provinces in Uganda. Data collection employed semi-structured individual interviews with senior governance figures and focus group discussions with board members, managers, and staff. The research reveals a fundamental diversity paradox: while professional expertise serves as a strategic governance asset, enhancing institutional capacity, educational disparities, relational appointments, and gender imbalances create significant barriers to effective oversight. Professional diversity demonstrates clear benefits when boards include complementary expertise; however, educational gaps among members undermine participation and create information asymmetries. Political appointments consistently show engagement deficits, while relational appointments compromise independence and accountability. Gender representation remains severely limited, with women comprising the minority of board members. The findings establish foundations for "contextual diversity theory," recognising that diversity benefits depend on cultural, structural, and capacity conditions rather than composition alone. The research provides actionable guidance for Catholic institutional leaders on optimising board composition through structured appointment processes, capacity development programs addressing educational disparities, and cultural transformation initiatives that balance representation with functionality while maintaining religious identity and community accountability.