Graduate School of Business

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A protocol for secure distributed spatial searching using homomorphic encryption.
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Katambo, Jimmy
Privacy of a person doing a spatial search as well as security of data being provided by a data provider can be of great concern in collecting statistical data. This has led to those who engage in searching for data to ask questions on whether they are anonymous to the one who is providing the data and also whether the one who is providing the data is anonymous to those who are doing the searching. However, such questions have provided an opportunity to the computer science community (researchers) to seek for solutions that can be used to deal with this problem of lack of anonymity of data and confidentiality. This study therefore aimed to propose a protocol by putting into application Homomorphic Encryption and a Distributed Ring Algorithm, to ensure anonymity of data of both parties involved in a spatial search, that is, a data provider and a searcher. To achieve this aim, three objectives were set. The first objective was to identify a Homomorphic Encryption technique that can support a spatial search. This was achieved by reviewing literature on Homomorphic Encryption techniques. Paillier Homomorphic Encryption technique was identified as the best approach that can support a spatial search. The second objective was to develop a protocol for distributed spatial searching based on the best Homomorphic Encryption technique which was identified. After analysing how Pallier Encryption works, a protocol was then designed based on distributed system principles. The third objective was to develop a proof of concept using the proposed protocol. A prototype implemented as distributed application was written in Java using the proposed protocol. The study implemented an application from the protocol developed which proved useful for collecting statistical data with guaranteed confidentiality. It also proved that, by putting into application Homomorphic Encryption, the person who was doing the search became anonymous to the providers of the data and the data provided by the providers became anonymous to the person who was doing the searching.
An explanation of the levels of compliance in filing company returns--theory of planned behavior approach:a case for Zambia
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Mweetwa, Chimuka
Company registers are increasingly becoming a crucial source of business information for many stakeholders. While most company registers have concentrated on simplifying business registrations, reducing the number of procedures, time and cost for small entities to be formed, compliance remains a big challenge for many Company Registers. Compliance is not just influenced by economic variables of enforcement and penalties but should be understood in the context of behaviour as influenced by demographic, socio-economic and Institutional factors. The aim of this study was to identify and explain the factors influencing compliance behaviour in filing company annual returns based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour in Zambia. The study used a mixed research approach. A sample of 165 registered companies was randomly selected from the population of 68,049 active companies on the PACRA register. Nine PACRA officers were selected using judgment sampling and in-depth interviews were used. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires. The secondary data were also collected by reviewing related published and unpublished materials. Statistical tests of independence (chi-square tests) formed the basis of analysis. The results of this study showed that annual return filings are influenced both by demographic and external factors. The demographic factors like employment status, Age and education were found to positively influence compliance. Further, compliance was highest (68%) among those with tertiary education compared with (47%) among those with no form of schooling. The study also revealed that those in formal employment were more compliant (64%) than those without employment (47%). Gender was found to be an insignificant factor and such it has no influence on compliance. On external factors, cultural norms, government policies and compliance fees were identified in the study and were found to have an influence on compliance (save for compliance fees). Finally, the findings of the study may guide government institutions that spend huge costs on enforcement year in year out but it is not so effective and that low penalty fees do not all the time cause voluntary compliance. Further, before Institutions implement costly sensitization campaigns and educational clinics, they need to understand variables that cause compliance behaviour. The study findings can help Policy makers and PACRA meeting its strategic goals of raising compliance levels which currently stand at 40% to about 70%. KEY WORDS: Compliance, Annual Returns, Company Register, Theory of Planned Behaviour, Demographic factors, external factors
An evaluation of the effectiveness of results based financing on use of maternal and child health services. a case of Mafinga district of Zambia between 2015 – 2018
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Lubumbashi, Emmanuel Chileshe
Result-based financing (RBF) is a pay-for-performance model where money or material goods are transferred on conditional to achieving a predetermined performance target. In healthcare RBF is an economic and financial incentive targeting increased use of health services and professional practice. Under the Zambia Health Systems Improvement Project, Mafinga district has been implementing RBF from 2016 to date (2018) in order to address challenges of health service delivery and supplement government’s traditional input-based funding. This study sought to assess the effectiveness of RBF intervention on use of health services and quality of health care in all Mafinga district. The study was conducted in Mafinga district on five (5) RBF implementing health facilities. A retrospective longitudinal study using quantitative methods was employed. Data was collected from the DHIMS from 1st quarter 2015 to 3nd quarter, 2018 using data collection forms on service indicators and checklist on quality improvement indicators. Microsoft excel and statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) were used for analysis. Further, data was summarised using frequencies and proportions and Chi square test for trends was used to determine significance in trends before and after the RBF interventions. Measure of effectiveness in the study was adopted as the number of maternal and child health indicators showing positive and significant change upon inception of the RBF intervention. Also, positive improvement in quality of health services was used to measure effectiveness Study revealed that on average, use of MCH services declined from 50.6% in 2015 to 46.5% in 2016 before the intervention. However, after the intervention in 2017 average total use of MCH services increased to 60.9% and continued to increase to 70.6% in 2018. Study established positive maternal and child health increase after the intervention by 24.1%. However, the study found that the gains were not statistically significant at P-value of 0.78. Further the study compared the total average quality of health services before and after the intervention in 2016 and 2018 and found that in 2016 the average level of quality was at 71% and by 2018 increased to 84.9%. This marked a positive increase of 13.9% after RBF intervention. However, despite increase in quality of service after the intervention, the increase was not statistically significant at P-value of 0.87. Findings of the study showed that RBF made positive improvements on use of services and quality of health care in all health centres and hence the intervention was effective despite their not being statistical significance on positive improvements. In all, RBF advances for results and hence a better model to traditional financing subject to revision of operational modalities. Key terms: Results-based financing, Effectiveness of Intervention, Mother and Child health services, Quality of health services, Traditional Input-based financing.
The impact of microfinance on agriculture productivity: a case study of smallholder maize farmers of Namwala district in Zambia.
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Chabala, Adam
The focus of this study was to explore the impact of microcredit on agriculture productivity based on the setup of smallholder maize farmers of Namwala district. The paper employed a mixed method approach. The sample size that was used in the study was hundred (141) respondents comprising of 70 farmers who had accessed microcredit as the treatment group and 71 farmers who didn’t benefit from credit as the control group, for a 5 year time frame. The Findings show that there is a significant relationship between access to credit and maize production. Also, consistent with the perceptive views of the respondents on the impact of microcredit on maize production, the results showed that an increase in microcredit to the farmers would increase maize production by more than 27% of the initial production. This shows that microcredit has significant impact on maize production. The output levels of the treatment and control group were both analyzed and tested, thereby showing that the amount of inputs acquired through credit had varying impact on productivity with technology having the major influence on agriculture credit with an increase of about 6.914 fold per increase in credit finance directed towards technology. This renders technology advancement as a major component of productivity.Fertiliser and improved seed had 1.419 and 0.385 multiplier impact on productivity respectively. A further quantification of the output of the respondents revealed that credit beneficiaries produced about 4300Kgs of maize after access to credit as compared to 2615Kgs for non-credit beneficiaries. These findings suggest that access to credit has a positive impact on agriculture productivity. In conclusion recommendations were made surrounding the need for easing the access to agricultural credit, reducing the credit interest rate and extending the formal financial intermediation in the rural areas of the district. Easier access to credit will ultimately contribute to higher productivity of the farmers enabling them to attain higher technical efficiency. Keywords: Credit, Impact, Maize, Productivity, Farmers, Namwala
The impact of e-marketing on tourism growth: the case of Zambia
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Tembo, Norbert Jay Marbin
Tourism has been identified as one of the major socio and economic activity that has contributed to the development of national economies. The advancement of technology in doing business has changed the dynamics of tourism marketing. ICTs have changed the way tourism business is conducted. The use of different ICTs platforms such as E-marketing has impacted positively on the tourism industry. Tourism marketers are using E-marketing to market their products and services using modern technology. The aim of this paper therefore is to examine the impact of E-marketing on the growth of the Tourism sector in Zambia. Emarketing has been defined as the marketing of products and services using the internet. EMarketing therefore refers to the application of marketing principles and techniques via electronic media. The research adopted the survey to gathering data using the questionnaire and in-depth interview as instruments for data collection. The survey targeted population of 100 tour operators in Lusaka and Livingstone. The researcher managed to secure 80% of the responses from the 100 questionnaires given out. The SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Scientists) was used to analyse the data. Measures of central tendency, Pearson Correlation, Multiple regression and Cronbach alpha were the tools that the research used. The research revealed that most tour operators use E-marketing tools in the marketing of tour products and services and that there has been a positive impact on the growth of their businesses because of applying E-marketing tools. Further the research revealed that there is a positive correlation relationship between E-marketing and Tourism Growth. However, the research also revealed other constraining factors that the tourism industry in Zambia is suffering from,among these factors includes; policy inconsistency by the Government offices charged with the regulating of the Tourism industry in the Country, lack of proper marketing strategies of the tourism industry in Zambia. A comparison was mainly given in relation to the Zimbabwe Tourism industry which has seen tremendous growth over the years due to vigorous marketing strategies and Government prioritisation of the sector as a foreign exchange earner. In conclusion, the research revealed that E-marketing has become the modern marketing tool of tourism across the global. This therefore means that tourism operators or destination markers need to adopt E-marketing as a strategic tool in the marketing of tourism. Key words: E-marketing, Social Media, E-business, E-commerce, Culture, Tourism,
A study of the factors that lead to the non-notification of notiafiable mergers in Zambia
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Ilukena, Maikisa
It has been recognized that in the absence of merger control regulation, society would see harm to business as suppliers become uncompetitive, inefficient, costly and not responsive to their competitive environment as well as harm consumers. The purpose of the study was to investigate the factors that lead to the non-notification of notifiable mergers. The research design used was that of a cross sectional survey. The researcher adopted both the qualitative (interview guide) and quantitative (closed ended questionnaire) research approaches. Quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0 whereas qualitative data was analysed using Content Analysis. The sampling technique was purposive sampling, due to the fact that many companies fall below the notification threshold and the fact that only the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission is tasked by law to review and authorize mergers. The sample size for this study, in particular the administration of questionnaires was 60 whereas the sample size for the interviews was 14. The samples comprised of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, Private Companies, Law Firms and Accounting firms. The findings of the research show that the myriad of factors that lead to the non-notification of notifiable mergers in Zambia are high notification fees, longer merger review process, negligence of the law, ignorance of the law, notification process not being digital and lack of adequate sensitizations on mergers. The results show that the merger review process to a larger extent leads to the non-notification of notifiable mergers in Zambia particularly its duration. In conclusion, the research concludes legal, financial and informational factors have lead to the non-notification of notifiable mergers in Zambia. The findings of the research fills in the gaps in knowledge of the factors that lead to the non-notification of notifiable mergers in Zambia and provides a basis upon which to make recommendations. The research recommends that the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry should come up with a Statutory Instrument (SI) that viii aims at reducing the merger notification fees. A set of recommendations to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission include the review the Competition and Consumer Protection Act ( the “Act”)with the aim of reducing the number of days it takes to review a merger; stiffening the penalties for implementing a notifiable merger without authority; increase sensitizations on mergers; make the merger notification process digital; decentralise the mergers department to other provinces and lastly work hand in hand with other regulators such so as to track notifiable mergers that have not been notified.
Developing an ideal turn around time – a case of the Zambia public procurement authority
(University of Zambia, 2019) Maposa, Eunice
This study is aimed at developing processes that could mitigate bottlenecks and develop ideal lead times for the public sector procurement system. This was a cross-sectional functional pragmatic study design employing a concurrent mixed methods design. Thirty five participants from six public procurement entities (Government Ministries and quasi-Government departments) were enlisted using expert availability sampling. A short survey questionnaire and key informant interviews were employed. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS and qualitative data was analysed using content analysis with the help of N VIVO software. The phases with the most delays where those which were those whose lead times were unspecified in the Act and these included the evaluation phase, which took 5 to 10 weeks, the Ministry Procurement Committee approving of order/contract phase which took 4 – 8 weeks, Clearance of the contract by the Ministry of Justice which took 2 to 12 weeks and the signing of the contract which took 3 to 30 days. The ideal mean lead times were as follows: Tender Floatation 3.4 days, Tender closing/ Bid opening 1 day, Evaluation 7 days, Ministry Procurement Committee approval of order/contract 6 days, Tender award notification 2 days, Clearance of the Contract by the Ministry of Justice less than 13weeks and signing of contract less than 13 days following clearance by the Ministry of Justice. The reasons for delay were multifarious and the following were key, failure to start the procurement process on time due to end users failing to provide technical specifications on time, complex scope of work or terms of reference, mental models in people, unwritten policy, or Act and delay in contract negotiations if there are any negotiations to be made. The findings revealed undue delays in the procurement process. There is need to apply the lead times proposed in this study. This study suggests that special attention paid to factors identified in this study will help industry practitioners in minimising the risk of delays in projects. Some of the causes could have been mitigated with extensive and careful planning and control processes while some might require a systematic approach to the issues. There is need for effective Monitoring of the procurement process/workflows by supervisors and heads of Procurement Units in order to speed up the process of procuring of goods, works, and services in order to improve on service delivery. Key words: Ideal, Turn-Around Time, Zambia, Public, Procurement
E-learning:an evaluation on the implementation of the university of Zambia's graduate school of business blended programme and challenges faced by the student/administration
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Zulu, Tikambenji.F
The University of Zambia introduced blended learning in various programmes under the Graduate School of Business in 2015. These programmes were scheduled to run for 18 months with students choosing to be either on Blended Learning or 100% Online Learning. The programme has however had challenges from inception which has seen the first four intakes going beyond the advertised 18 months. The main objective of the study was to identify challenges faced by the Graduate School of Business in administering (implementing) the e-learning blended program at the University of Zambia and come up with a suggested model solution. Additionally,the specific objectives were to identify the challenges experienced by students and the Graduate School of Business in the e-learning blended program as well as propose a model that would help mitigate these challenges. The study adopted an exploratory inductive research design. Simple random sampling was used to come up with the 100 students from both the May 2016 and November 2016 intakes while purposive sampling was used to pick the 7 GSB support staff as well as the 15 Lecturers bringing the total sample to 122. For data collection, questionnaires containing open ended and closed ended questions were used. Data was then analysed using frequency table percentages and pie charts while content/thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. The study came up with the solution of having a consistent block release model together with the hexagonal model to efficiently deliver the programmes. Results indicated that UNZA GSB has a proper functional e-learning platform powered by Astria Learning and over 90% of the respondents had a fair understanding on how to use it. In addition to the above, it was discovered that challenges were only being encountered when loading content by students within the same time. The main impediment however, is that 80% of the lecturers are not directly employed under GSB. The school also lacks dedicated customer service personnel hence the absence of a documented service level agreement in complaint and query resolution. There is need for regular review meetings and continuous refresher training on Astria Learning and this should be conducted by the Graduate School of Business. The School should also ensure yearly customer service workshops for all members of staff with a consistent block release model together with the hexagonal model running side by side. Keywords: E-learning blended program, Astria Learning, Service Level Agreement, University of Zambia’s Graduate School of Business.
Factors affecting the entrepreneurial intentions of students at Lilongwe technical college.
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Mphezu, Charles
Entrepreneurship is one of the most important factors for stimulating economic growth and development in any economy and several countries have put entrepreneurship awareness programs as part of their education system. Malawi also incorporated entrepreneurship education in the curriculum for technical colleges with a view to enhance entrepreneurial intentions among students. However, since the introduction of entrepreneurship education into the curriculum, there has never been a study to find out the entrepreneurial intentions of students to provide empirical evidence for decision making. Graduates still opt to seek employment than pursue careers in entrepreneurship. This study was based on the planned behaviours theory of behavior. It investigated the relationship between entrepreneurial intention, attitude, perceived subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control amongst students at Lilongwe Technical College in Malawi. The study was based on a sample of 130 students and findings revealed that students’ attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control greatly relate to their entrepreneurial intention. Based on these findings, this study provided a theoretical explanation of the role of attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control as antecedents of entrepreneurial intention. It has therefore provided empirical data which may facilitate rational policies on creating an enabling environment within the training system in the technical colleges to improve entrepreneurial intentions of students.
Guaranteeing regular and adequate water supply to customers in Munali catchment
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Kafwaulula, Aveless
Like in many countries, the provision of quality water has been a major concern of the Zambian government. To this effect, the government has issued a number of policies aimed at addressing water supply and management concerns. Positive outcomes from these policies have however been overshadowed by the ever increasing challenges of rapid population growth, urbanization, aging infrastructure as well as financial constraints to mention but few challenges. Funding from other governments and donor agencies with the aim of improving livelihoods has been sought and secured from time to time. However, the actual delivery of water services has generally not matched the concern, leaving gaps in effectiveness and consumer satisfaction. This research assessed guaranteeing of water supply to customers by Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company in Munali Catchment, of Lusaka District, following the 1994 Water Sector Reforms in Zambia. The study covered seven community locations of Munali Catchment namely Jesmondine, Chudleigh, PHI, Minestone, Chainama, Kaunda Square Stage I, and Kaunda Square Stage II. Purposive selection of household respondents and service providers and other institutions with a stake in water supply was used. Coverage and utilization of water supply was assessed by questionnaire based interviews and observation. Results obtained indicated that although there has been an increase in numbers of people in Townships of Munali Catchment, accessing clean water and the number of hours of supplying water to customers was still low at points of household connection. Low income communities had less access to such services because of little investments in water supply. Key words: Access, Water supply, service and delivery.
Taxing the informal sector: targeting music and video discs sellers at Lusaka city market
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Mwamba, Gabriel.M
The study was designed to explore the challenges and factors affecting government from taxing the informal sector. A mixed methods study design was adopted and 60 traders were enrolled in the study. A short survey questionnaire and in-depth interviews were used to collect data for this study. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS version 16 and qualitative data was analysed using content analysis. It was not expected that the traders would not be aware of any tax. In this sample, all the traders were not aware of withholding and turnover taxes. They were however aware of Domestic VAT and Base Tax. The payment of domestic tax (n = 35; 58.7%) was higher than that of Base tax (n = 14; 23.3%. N = 14 (68%) paid Base tax leaving n = 9 (32%) who were not. Regarding domestic tax, only n = 2 (8.6%) were not paying this tax as compared to n = 33 (91.4%) who did. Compliance was associated with costs of punishment. Others paid tax because they saw it as a moral obligation while others were compelled to pay tax because they had trusted in the government in terms of its manifesto and the services it was offering. As for evasion, the level of knowledge played a significant role in paying tax among these traders. Some traders opted to pay some taxes whereas other paid both. They cited unfairness in the prescription of amounts to be paid as well as persons to pay. They found it justifying to evade paying taxes or under declare taxes as they fall due. Others did not see any need to trust the government as services were not top and there was a lot of corruption. The study concludes that the high number of traders and the variability and mobility in their operations, is likely to make it difficult for even the most capable tax authorities to effectively administer these taxes. Education campaigns that raise awareness about the benefits that result from the taxes collected, and about the efforts made by tax authorities to reduce unfairness (such as introducing low but graduated tax rates according to turnover for instance), may also improve tax morale and ultimately revenue collection. Keywords: Informal Sector, Music and Video Discs sellers, Tax, Lusaka City Market
A model for improving e-tax systems adoption in Zambia: a case study of solwezi town of Zambia
(University of Zambia, 2019) Soneka, Patience Njina
The objective of this study was to assess the factors that influence the level of E-tax systems adoption in Zambia and how E-tax can be enhanced. The study focused on TaxOnline system used by domestic taxes division in Zambia. The study was conducted in Solwezi town of Zambia. In this study, the researcher used Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The sample size was purposively selected from various taxpayers who were coming through to Zambia Revenue Authority Solwezi internet bureau. 100 semi structured survey questionnaires were distributed with 100% response. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The Pearson correlation coefficient and P-values were used to determine the relationship between variables. The results showed that, E-tax system in Zambia is useful, easy to use and also secure. Based on the findings, majority of the taxpayers are filing their returns and paying taxes online. However, there are few taxpayers who still feel E-tax is not useful, easy to use and secure. Therefore, more awareness and taxpayer education must continue to bring everyone on board. E-Tax involves E-Filing and E-Payment which is the process of submitting returns over the internet using an approved E-Tax system. Adoption is the action or fact of choosing to take up or follow something. Technology Acceptance Model is an information system theory that models how users come to accept and use a technology. TaxOnline is a system used in Zambia to file returns and pay taxes online. Keywords E-Tax, Adoption, Technology Acceptance model, TaxOnline
Developing an information systems (IS) acquisition, development and implementation framework (ADIF) in Zambia
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Maka, Alex Mulumbe
The value expectations of Information Technology (IT) for socio-economic and human development in developing countries have been high, but the real benefits and the positive impacts have been somewhat disappointing. Most developing countries in Africa are at the emerging stage of e-government development and lag far behind developed nations despite having had national e-government strategies in place for a considerable period of time. The harsh socio-economic and infrastructural context makes the sustainability of an Information System (IS) a major issue. Technology transfer to Africa has been too dependent on external factors, like international donor aid, and emphasized on technology itself. Despite government and public sector entities allocating huge sums on their budgets into Information Systems implementations with an objective to ameliorate service delivery, promote accountability and transparency and improve overall operations, benefit and value realization from these investments are hardly achieved. There is a need for locally developed, appropriate information systems, which are based on local needs and structures. This research argues that the Information systems acquisition, development and implementations should be done using appropriate methods in a Zambian (African) context based on local needs and structures. The research has been done by surveying 5 public interest user companies in Zambia, literature review in information systems acquisition, development and implementations in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, India and in the context of developing and developed countries. The Information systems acquisition, development and implementations in Zambia is ambitious, and capable of providing solutions for local companies, but the resources for investments are scarce. In Zambia, low I.T Infrastructure, People, Technology and poor implementation approach are some of the identified hindrances to the growth of the sector. Human capital requirements require further nurturing and mindset change of citizens to begin to appreciate locally designed and produced products and services. Appreciating our baby steps and the need to exercise patience to nurture our talents at our budding stage in information systems development and implementation as we acquire information systems will ameliorate the growth of the sector. The study provides a model, (The Acquisition, Development and Implementation Framework; ADIF) for effective and efficient implementation of Information systems and ensure benefits realization of Information systems investments.
A framework of factors affecting employee job satisfaction in non-governmental organizations in Zambia
(University of Zambia, 2019) Banda, Patrick
Human capital is the most precious and important asset of any organization and as such, employee job satisfaction has now become one of the top priority areas in every industry. Most NGOs in Zambia are being rendered less effective in-service delivery because there has been high prevalence of employee turnover. This has been attributed to the general perception that employees in non-governmental organizations in Zambia are not satisfied with their jobs. The purpose of this study was to identify the main factors affecting employee job satisfaction in the non-governmental organizations sector in Zambia using Herzberg two-factor theory. The study was conducted using a descriptive survey research design. The target population consisted of all the 64 fixed term employees of IITA, MCA-Zambia and PATH. These institutions were selected purposively based on their willingness to be part of the study and ease of accessibility. This study collected primary data using a thirty-seven (37) item questionnaire which included both open and close ended questions in line with the research objectives. A total of Fifty-five (55) questionnaires were distributed to the three (3) organizations, and a total of 51 questionnaires were filled and returned representing a response rate of 92.7%. Tables and other graphical presentations were used to present the research data. The findings of this study indicate that among the six (6) job facets identified by Herzberg, only promotion and growth, job security, pay and allowances and recognition were the four main factors affecting employee job satisfaction in the NGOs sector in Zambia. It was found that most of the respondents (21) representing 41.2% of the total respondents said that, they would leave their current job in search of promotion and growth. This was further followed by 12 respondents representing 23.5% of the total respondents who indicated that they would leave their current job in search of job security. In addition, 6 respondents representing 11.8% of the total respondents said they would leave the current job because of recognition and finally 5 respondents representing 9.8% of the respondents cited pay and allowances as the reason they would leave their current employer. The study recommended that NGOs must take deliberate measures to put in place HR strategies that would encourage promotion and growth and to look for projects with longer life span that can provide job security to employees. Further, the study recommended that NGOs should provide more financial benefits to employees and give the right amount of recognition to employees for any work accomplished. Key Words: Job Satisfaction, Factors affecting employee job satisfaction
Strategies to enhance electronic health record (EHR) improvement in data quality help in patient quality of care and decision-making: a case study of Smartcare.
(University of Zambia, 2019) Chizoma, Dale Nchimweta
The Electronic Health Record (EHR) system has had the potential to revolutionize medical documentation and patient management. With a focus on improving the patient quality of care and decision-making, the Ministry of Health (MOH) is spearheading the use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) to transition from a paper based health system to a national integrated electronic health system. This EHR system is called SmartCare, and is for implementation and use in all Health Centres offering antiretroviral services as this will ease provision of continuity of care, patient safety, cooperation of clinicians, collection and aggregating of reports and securing patient data among other services. However, in its current use, the system has shown inconsistence in reports generated and erroneous data that include incomplete records, missing or inaccurate information which may cause unintended consequences to patients, providers and erode promises of the EHR system. The objective of the study is to develop strategies using Diffusion of Innovations Theory (DOI) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) in a cross sectional case study that determine the individual’s characteristics, social and technical factors that may be used to reduce the likelihood of introducing errors in the EHR system. The significance of this study is having a framework based on the study findings that may aid in developing a positive influence with the end users to curb errors while using EHR systems hence improving data quality and bettering the quality of health care and decision making. Key words: Diffusion of Innovation (DOI), Electronic Health Record (EHR), Errors, Information Communication Technology (ICT), Technology Acceptance Model (TAM).
Aircraft spares supply chain management for the aviation industry in Zambia based on the CIPS purchasing and supply management (p and sm) model
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Milambo, Danny
The overall objective of the study was to identify the challenges faced by the aviation industry in procurement of the aircraft spares and come up with possible solutions based on the CIPS Purchasing and Supply Management Model. Using data collected from 100 respondents from the various institutions in the Aviation sector which was analysed using SPSS version 2.0 and Microsoft excel, it was established that some of the challenges faced in SC were due to unreliable lead times, non-adherence to service level agreements between buyers and suppliers and the unavailability of local players in the industry among others. Adoption of an integrated supply chain management system appeared to provide a solution to the delays in delivery of aircraft spares in the aviation sector. Accordingly, the CIPS P&SM Model was found to be a good tool in improving the SCM of aviation spare parts in Zambia; since, it encompasses step by step procedures with regards to procurement, delivery and utilization of spares. The Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) Model was compared with the CIPS P&SM Model. SCOR Model was also established eliminate delays in the entire SC. These challenges would be eliminated using the SCOR Model`s five management practices of plan, source, make, deliver and return, that were found to ensure a smooth supply chain for spare parts as they incorporate demand, inventory; and freight management among others which the CIPS P &SM Model elaborates. The study recommended the need to employ ERP for supplier-vendor management and the need to adhere to service level agreements. Furthermore, it stressed on the need to use supply chain techniques in improving efficiency in the SCM function as a mode of cost reduction. Key words: Aircraft spares, Enterprise Resource Planning, Aviation Industry, Supply Chain Management, and Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) Model.
Factors affecting access to finance for small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) in Zambia: a case study of Chilanga district’s central business district (CBD).
(The University of Zambia., 2019) Zulu, Francis
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMES) are hailed for their pivotal role in promoting grassroots economic growth and equitable sustainable development. They contribute substantially to the Gross Domestic (GDP), export earnings and employment creation in many countries and have been widely acknowledged as the springboard for sustainable economic development. While SMEs constitute an important component of the private sector in the developing world (mostly), they report significantly higher obstacles to their operations and growth than large enterprises. Among the many obstacles, the lack of access to appropriate financial services, especially lending services, looms large. The main objective of this study, therefore, was to analyse the factors affecting access to finance by small and medium (SMEs) businesses operating in Zambia, focusing on the Central Business District of Chilanga District as a case study. The study revealed notable constraints from both the demand and supply side of access to finance due to a number of factors like lack of collateral, higher risk of small and medium enterprise business failure, poor debt repayment culture, poor record keeping by small businesses and lack of succession planning among other things. Other factors included high interest rates by financial institutions, lack of understanding of small and medium business needs and lack of trust in the management of small business by financial institutions as small firms were known to divert borrowed funds from the business thereby resulting in high default rates. The demand side factors of access to finance were also affected by volume of required documentation in credit applications, banking policies, regulatory environment and scanty credit information.
Factors that influence commercial customer’s choice of petroleum fuel supplier in Zambia: a case of spectra oil in Lusaka.
(The University of Zambia, 2019) Chisala, Mulenga
Oil Marketing Companies (OMC) uplift the refined products petroleum fuels from TAZAMA fuel Terminals dotted around the country and distribute them for sale to the service stations and commercial customer. Since 2013, Zambia’s petroleum sector has experienced a significant increase (from 21 licensed Oil Marketing Companies to over 55 in 2018). This has resulted in fierce competition among OMCs when it comes to serving commercial customers. Unlike service stations customers who are subjected to Uniform Pump Pricing (UPP), Commercial customers are bulk buying customers, product get delivered to their site and are able to negotiate price. Furthermore, all OMCs draw fuel from TAZAMA and this has limited the avenue of differentiating of one OMC offering from the other. Against this background, most OMCs have found it very challenging to create brand loyalty among their commercial customers. This deemed it imperative to investigate what influences choice of petroleum fuel supplier among commercial customers in Zambia. The target sample was 150 commercial customers of Spectra. The study employed purposive sampling techniques to select respondents. Both qualitative and quantitative data analysis methods were used as regards sources of data. The study utilized a descriptive, correlational methods, and cross sectional study. Primary data was analyzed with the use of SPSS version 21. It was concluded from the findings that choice of Petroleum fuel supplier is affected by Time and Territory Management, brand preference, service quality and advertising. All these variables were found to be positively related to commercial customer’s choice of petroleum fuel supplier and the relationships were also significant. The study recommended that management should allocate or rather invest more in customer service excellence training of its staff and advertising in order to improve its brand loyalty and raise brand awareness among commercial customers Keywords: oil marketing company, commercial customer, brand preference, advertising, service quality, time and territory management.
An explanation of the levels of compliance in filing company annual returns – theory of planned behavior approach “a case for Zambia
(University of Zambia, 2019) Mweetwa, Chimuka
Company registers are increasingly becoming a crucial source of business information for many stakeholders. While most company registers have concentrated on simplifying business registrations, reducing the number of procedures, time and cost for small entities to be formed, compliance remains a big challenge for many Company Registers. Compliance is not just influenced by economic variables of enforcement and penalties but should be understood in the context of behaviour as influenced by demographic, socio-economic and Institutional factors. The aim of this study was to identify and explain the factors influencing compliance behaviour in filing company annual returns based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour in Zambia. The study used a mixed research approach. A sample of 165 registered companies was randomly selected from the population of 68,049 active companies on the PACRA register. Nine PACRA officers were selected using judgment sampling and in-depth interviews were used. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires. The secondary data were also collected by reviewing related published and unpublished materials. Statistical tests of independence (chi-square tests) formed the basis of analysis. The results of this study showed that annual return filings are influenced both by demographic and external factors. The demographic factors like employment status, Age and education were found to positively influence compliance. Further, compliance was highest (68%) among those with tertiary education compared with (47%) among those with no form of schooling. The study also revealed that those in formal employment were more compliant (64%) than those without employment (47%). Gender was found to be an insignificant factor and such it has no influence on compliance. On external factors, cultural norms, government policies and compliance fees were identified in the study and were found to have an influence on compliance (save for compliance fees). Finally, the findings of the study may guide government institutions that spend huge costs on enforcement year in year out but it is not so effective and that low penalty fees do not all the time cause voluntary compliance. Further, before Institutions implement costly sensitization campaigns and educational clinics, they need to understand variables that cause compliance behaviour. The study findings can help Policy makers and PACRA meeting its strategic goals of raising compliance levels which currently stand at 40% to about 70%. KEY WORDS: Compliance, Annual Returns, Company Register, Theory of Planned Behaviour, Demographic factors, external factors
Assessment on the impact of IFMIS on the Procurement process in the public sector (A survey of ministry of finance, works and supply and anticorruption Commission)
(University of Zambia, 2019) Muwema, Timothy
Progressive governments around the world aim at having efficient Public Finance Management in order to efficiently manage resources and maximize on opportunity costs associated with Public Procurement. The Government of Zambia has introduced IFMIS to monitor how ministries, departments and other state agencies spend funds on a real-time basis in order to improve budget implementation. The objectives of IFMIS are to attain transparency, reduce financial leakages and accountability in the way Government resources are being spend. This research thus seeks to find out how the implementation of IFMIS has impacted Public procurement in promoting Transparency, Efficiency, Speed, less financial leakages as a means of paying vendors/customers on behalf of Ministries, departments and other state agencies. Data was collected from seventy-five (75) respondents from the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Works and Supply and the Anti-Corruption Commission. Data was analysed using Social Package and Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 and Microsoft excel. The study concluded that IFMIS has not enhanced transparency in the public procurement processes because citizens, vendors do not have access to the system. In addition, the information on IFMIS can only be accessed through SAP to those authorised using passwords and usernames. The study also concluded that IFMIS has not reduced financial leakages because procurement processes are still being carried outside the system and are only loaded on the system afterwards. This has made the system reactive rather than proactive in reducing the financial leakages. The study further concluded that IFMIS has not increased efficiency and speed, this is because the system has increased the cost of performing procurement processes twice, that is on the system and on paper. Performing the activities twice has ultimately reduced speed and increased the lead time of fulfilling needs identified by different users. The study recommended that vendors and citizens should have access to the system to enhance transparency. Furthermore, the study recommended for code restructuring of the system to make it more proactive rather than reactive in order to improve budget adherence, reduce misappropriation and misapplication of funds. In conclusion, the study further recommended procurement processes be carried on the system only and eliminate the duplication of work on paper.

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