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.
A study exploring human resource best practices in higher learning institutions: a case study of the university of Zambia.
(The University of Zambia, 2021) Chama, Tolomeo
This study aimed at investigating the extent to which the Human Resource Management best practice model by EmpXtrack is applied by the University of Zambia in order to understand the human resource management challenges at the institution. It was a case study of the University of Zambia. Primary data was obtained from 163 employees and 7 management employees using self-administered questionnaires and interviews, respectively. The quantitative data was analyzed using the relative important index (RII), while the qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings show that on average the collective response from the respondents is ‘neutral’ (0.519). A few practices like knowledge sharing, fair evaluation of employees, had the response ‘agree’ with an index of 0.627. The majority of the seven (7) remaining management practices had the response ‘neutral’ (0.474) and only one (1) of the mechanisms; delighting employees with the unexpected recorded the response ‘disagree’ with an index of 0.347. This implies that the human resource department at UNZA was only successful with 3 human resource management practices out of the best 10 suggested by EmpXtrack. This entails that the inadequacy in implementing these management practices could be the cause of the human resource management challenges UNZA is facing.
A study of the factors affecting profitability of Zambian commercial banks: a case of ZANACO.
(The University of Zambia, 2024) Mumba, Prudence
All businesses regardless of the nature require profitability for them to progress. Therefore, this thesis aimed at assessing Zanaco’s profitability using ratio analysis, through three major objectives (i) To ascertain Zambia National Commercial Bank’s ability to generate return to its shareholders during the period 2016-2021. (ii) To determine Zambia National Commercial Bank’s ability to convert sales into profit during the period 2016-2021. (iii) To identify internal factors influencing Zambia National Commercial Bank’s ability to generate profit and returns to its shareholders during the period 2016-2021. The study used both primary and secondary information. Primary information was collected through structured questionnaires. Data analysis was done through SPSS V26 for primary data and excel for secondary data for the period 2016 - 2021, the response rate of primary data collection which was physically administered to Zanaco employees was 35 respondents indicating a 65%. Secondary data was collected through the analysis of Zanaco’s financial statements for the period 2016-2021. The findings review that the profitability ratios show that the bank has a stable ROA, and ROE, but low EPS and ROCE. The Low NPM below 30% for the years under review thus implying that Zanaco is minimally profitable, because of Zanaco’s high Expense operational ratios EOR. Zanaco bank is liquid as it is able to convert its assets to cash easily, but does not have enough cash flow. Additionally, the bank is affected, by inflation and macro-economic factors, however due to the bank size, capital, asset quality, credit rating and effective cost management strategies the bank is able to withstand turbulent economic impacts.
A study of the factors affecting the collection of withholding tax on rental income from the informal sector: a case of Zambia Revenue Authority.
(The University of Zambia, 2021) Lwanga, Celine Chanda
Taxation is the pillar of public sector finance and is therefore critical to the short-term performance and long-term growth of the economy. However, the challenges of collecting taxes in less advanced economies such as Zambia is well documented in the empirical literature, particularly in relation to taxing forms of income directly. These challenges are compounded by the large informal sectors in such countries. The World Bank estimates that 90% of adults in Zambia earn their income from the informal economy for example. This study involved empirical investigation of the factors that affect the collection of withholding tax (WHT) on rental income from the informal sector in Zambia. It involved a case study of the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA). It was motivated by evidence that WHT on rental income remitted to the ZRA had been falling despite countrywide exponential growth in rental properties over the past decade. The study examined the relationship between informal sector compliance with rental income tax and the tax rate, aspects of tax administration, and individual characteristics such as age, gender, Income of individual tax payer and level of education. Specifically, the relationship between the perceptions of the tax rate on rental income, administration, individual characteristics of respondents(regressors) and likelihood of potential taxpayers making full disclosures relating to their liabilities (response variable) was examined using logistic linear regression. Data was collected by self-administered questionnaire interviews from a nonprobability sample of 139 respondents. Logistic regression results showed that perceptions of the tax rate being high lowered the probability of compliance with the tax as did aggressive reminders of obligations to taxpayers by authorities. On the other hand, results suggested that taxpayer engagement by authorities, taxpayer education, as well as the development of a comprehensive database of eligible taxpayers as part of tax administration would enhance likelihood of compliance. positive coefficients implying that they increased the likelihood of compliance. However, all results were not statistically significant. From results of the study, policy recommendations are that authorities should consider revising the tax rate or creating banded rates to boost collections amongst taxpayers with different levels of rental income. The Authority to consider collecting rental income from Landlords rather than tenants. Further, engagement with taxpayers and creation of comprehensive taxpayer database should be used by authorities to improve compliance with the tax in sections of Zambia’s informal sector.
A study of the factors preventing SMEs participation in alternative stock market in Zambia.
(The University of Zambia, 2020) Lungu, George
The lack of SME financing has prompted the need to provide an alternative way to raise funds from the sale of shares through the Alternative Security Markets (ASM). Thus SMEs need to be allowed to register on the stock exchange market. This paper was inspired by the lack of research on this trend in Zambia as it tried to examine factors that could encourage SMEs to register on the ASM. To achieve this goal, the research adopted a quantitative method, while the research strategy used a survey. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The design was considered appropriate in determining factors that prevents SMEs businesses from raising finance on the ASM. The study used a Stratified sampling technique where random sampled quotas were chosen. The size of the sample was determined using Yamen’s formula that derived 65 companies. Questionnaires were used to obtain primary data in this study. Data were obtained from a sample size of sixty five (65) respondents drawn from the population of 4,058 SMEs. Four factors were considered that prevents SMEs from listing on ASM and these are 1) (information accessibility), factor 2) (regulatory requirements), factor 3) (corporate governance) and factor 4) (Transaction cost). Research findings indicated that information access, regulatory requirements, corporate governance, and transaction cost for SMEs are critical in deciding SMEs participation on the ASM. The study concluded that information accessibility, regulatory requirements, corporate governance, as well as transaction cost are important in determining SMEs listing on the ASM. The research findings confirm the previous studies carried out in Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria and London that availability of information, regulatory requirements, corporate governance, and cost of the transaction were key factors in the listing of SMEs. The study recommended that if Lusaka stock exchange is to establish an effective ASM for SMEs they should factor in information accessibility, regulatory requirements, corporate governance, and transaction cost. Keywords: SMEs, alternative, stock, market.
A study of the factors that affect agribusiness financing in Zambia: a case study of smallholder farmers in Chibombo district.
(The University of Zambia, 2024) Chanda, Richard
Limited access to agricultural financing is a constraint to the development of the Smallholder Farmers (SHFs) of the agriculture sector. The formal financial institutions face a challenge to provide agricultural credit that meets the unique demands of SHFs in the agricultural. Although SHFs face several challenges, lack of capital for investment contribute significantly to reduced production, increased food insecurity, and persistent poverty, especially in rural areas of the country. The research aimed to address three fundamental inquiries: the extent of financial inclusivity, the factors influencing access to finance, and the exploration of alternative financing models. Through a comprehensive study involving data collection, analysis, and interpretation, this research sheds light on the financial landscape for these farmers. A descriptive research design was employed which led to the adoption of a mixed-methods approach. The target population for investigation was drawn from 48,000 SHFs in Chibombo district. The sample size was 100 to whom semi structured questionnaires was administered for data collection based on a two-stage sampling procedure (purposive and saturation). The reliability of instrument was accessed using a half- split technique. The data was analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. A multiple logistic regression was conducted to determine the relationship between dependent and independent variable variables. The findings reveal a stark reality of exclusion, with only 19% of SHFs surveyed reported having accessed credit and only 8% of rural SHFs were utilizing formal banking services. These statistics reveals a considerable hurdle in their efforts to secure financial resources for enhancing agricultural activities and livelihoods. The study delved into credit access challenges, both on the demand and supply sides, and identified variables such as gender, age, and income that impacted credit availability. Logistic regression analysis further explored the influence of these variables on credit access. In response to these challenges, the research proposed innovative financing models tailored to the unique needs of SHFs. These models include mobile money lending, peer-to-peer lending, guarantee schemes, collateral substitutes, and group lending. Each model offers an avenue to empower farmers economically and overcome barriers to financial access. The study recommended that the Government initiatives should focus on improving rural infrastructure, including road networks and transportation systems. Further, incentivize institutions or partnerships that actively participate in community-based financing initiatives by offering tax breaks or grants to them. Lastly, regulatory bodies should collaborate with financial institutions to develop a regulatory framework that supports and governs mobile money lending to ensure consumer protection and fair competition. In conclusion, this research contributes to the discourse on agriculture financing by providing insights into the financial realities of rural SHFs in Zambia. The proposed models present actionable pathways to uplift these farmers, foster sustainable development, and promote financial literacy. As Zambia seeks to enhance its economic landscape and empower its agricultural sector, the findings of this study offer valuable guidance for shaping policies and interventions that can drive lasting positive change.
A study of the macro economic factors affecting the value of the Zambian Kwacha.
(The University of Zambia, 2020) Mwansa, Derick C.
This study was aimed at determining the influence of macroeconomic factors on foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations and the value of the Zambian Kwacha. Macroeconomic factors include inflation rates, interest rates, Gross Domestic Product growth rate (GDP) and Balance of Payments which constituted independent variables whilst the dependent variable in the study was the value of the Kwacha against the United States Dollar ($). Secondary data representing annual average covering the period 1993 to 2018 was extracted from various Bank of Zambia and Central Statistical Office reports for the study. The study used regression model, E.Views software version 22 to analyse the data set. The study established that, based on the error correction model, R-squared was 0.6 meaning that 36% of variations in the performance of the kwacha against the US dollar is caused by the four independent variables in the developed model. The results also showed that interest rates and Gross Domestic Product growth rate were negatively related to the performance of the kwacha, while inflation and Balance of Payment rates were positively related to the value of the kwacha at 0.05% level of significance. However, the response of the kwacha with respect to all independent variables was not very responsive as all the variables were inelastic. In addition, the F.Test based on the ANOVA showed that there was no significance between the dependent variable and independent variables. The study, therefore, recommends that both contractionary monetary policy and expansionary fiscal policy can greatly improve the performance of the kwacha against the US dollar in times of economic recession.
A study of the macro economic factors affecting the value of the Zambian kwacha.
(The University of Zambia, 2020) Mwansa, Derick C.
This study was aimed at determining the influence of macroeconomic factors on foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations and the value of the Zambian Kwacha. Macroeconomic factors include inflation rates, interest rates, Gross Domestic Product growth rate (GDP) and Balance of Payments which constituted independent variables whilst the dependent variable in the study was the value of the Kwacha against the United States Dollar ($). Secondary data representing annual average covering the period 1993 to 2018 was extracted from various Bank of Zambia and Central Statistical Office reports for the study. The study used regression model, E.Views software version 22 to analyse the data set. The study established that, based on the error correction model, R-squared was 0.6 meaning that 36% of variations in the performance of the kwacha against the US dollar is caused by the four independent variables in the developed model. The results also showed that interest rates and Gross Domestic Product growth rate were negatively related to the performance of the kwacha, while inflation and Balance of Payment rates were positively related to the value of the kwacha at 0.05% level of significance. However, the response of the kwacha with respect to all independent variables was not very responsive as all the variables were inelastic. In addition, the F.Test based on the ANOVA showed that there was no significance between the dependent variable and independent variables. The study, therefore, recommends that both contractionary monetary policy and expansionary fiscal policy can greatly improve the performance of the kwacha against the US dollar in times of economic recession.
A study of the viability of Zambia co-operative federation (ZCF) installed solar milling plants in Zambia.
(The University of Zambia, 2024) Nkandu, George
Zambia co-operative federation has been occupied with the desire to supply affordable and quality mealie meal to the rural communities, sustain a viable projection through loan collection while maintaining “public trust”. The aim of this study is to critically evaluate the viabilities of the Solar milling plants and thought process of cooperatives in rural areas on repaying back of loans using pragmatic action research. This thesis contributes to the empirically and theoretically based understanding of, the impact of the presidential funds in Zambia. A case study of Solar Milling plants across Zambia via ZCF. This study was a participatory in nature, hence, a cross sectional approach was undertaken in the first half of 2018, 2019 and part of 2020 to access primary, district and provincial corporative responses regarding viability of the solar milling plants in the community and to ZCF. In the results, several findings were established which tried to satisfy the objectives of the study. The correlation model revealed that there was a significant difference in between monthly target and monthly recovery fund. A weak relationship was found between the two variables that indicate differences exist between the two groups. This implies that a the viability of solar milling plant and loan recovery is low and not very feasible. This result was found to be significant with p values less than 0.05 and the entire model was significant at p-values (0.0387<0.05). Regarding the factors related to Zambia Co-operative Federation (ZCF) Debt recovery on the installed solar milling plants in Zambia were revealed to repayment history, capacity of machine, Binding cooperative contract, raw material and system of recovery, OR=0.8494, p=0.001. It was also found that despite minor difference these factors were established to directly relate to debt rectory. All in all the study established that although, the trend has been going up, the PI trend is still below 1. This means each invested dollar is generating revenue of less than 1 dollar. Since the profitability index is less than 1, the project should be rejected. Recommendations have been made to ZCF management to also provide resources for the cooperatives who are managing the milling plants with startup capital to buy maize and packaging materials for the mealie meal and also provide tools for recovery officers to use when following up loan payments from cooperatives. The need to train cooperators on corporate governance, book keeping so that there is comprehensive general accountability. There is need also to increase revenue collections for the federation through support system where co-operatives are assisted with resource base to buy raw materials needed for production, By doing that co-operatives will have products readily available for communities to come buy thereby making sales and thus revenue in a sustainable manner while maintaining “public trust”, the paper ought to improve the sports pages by restructuring the entire sport desk.
Addressing challenges in accessing finance by small and medium enterprises (SMES) in Zambia: a pragmatic approach.
(The University of Zambia, 2022) Bwembya, Jemana
The objective of the study on ‘Addressing Challenges in Accessing Finance by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kitwe District of Zambia, was to examine the constraints experienced by SME owners in their quest to access financing from financial institutions, to fund business initiatives such as startup endeavors, business operations, and business expansion. The study employed a mixed method research design. The sample for the quantitative approach for the study comprised 60 SMEs and 6 Banks while 4 institutions dealing with SMEs were included as key informants for the qualitative approach. Questionnaires were used to collect data which was subsequently analyzed using Descriptive analysis and chi square test of independence in IBM SPSS Statistics version 28. For the qualitative approach, interviews were for data collection while content analysis was used for data analysis. The findings revealed that access to finance has a significant relationship with SME capabilities of procuring new technology and improving performance for them to survive and attain sustainability and growth, hence the need to resolve the long-standing SME financing challenges like high interest rates, short term loan product offerings, and rigid requirements of collateral and audited financial statements. On the other hand, the study revealed that SME survival was not only dependent on accessibility to finance but also proper SME management, which affects operations and profitability and subsequently loan repayment capabilities. The findings also revealed that banks continued to prefer immovable assets as collateral when lending to SMEs. The study therefore recommends taking measures to resolve the challenges in SME financing through formulation of schemes to lend to groups of SMEs at relatively low rates while the group members of SMEs share default risks, implementation of Credit Guarantee Schemes, formulation of collateral registers with guidelines on valuation and disposal of securities, as well as provision of incentives to banks that lend and effectively monitor the performance of SMEs to ensure success. The implication of this study is that Government and nongovernmental organizations could make use of the research findings to reflect on the challenges, develop and implement effective intervention policies and laws in accordance with international best practices, aimed at spurring the SME sector for sustainable and inclusive growth. Key Words: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), SME Financing Challenges, SME Growth
Addressing factors affecting fire insurance uptake: a case study of Makeni residents in Zambia at household level.
(The University of Zambia, 2021) Momba, Bervin
This study addressed factors affecting fire insurance uptake at household level among Makeni residents in Lusaka, Zambia. In carrying out this study, a survey was conducted. The target population was the residents of Makeni. The sampling technique used was simple stratified random sampling where 170 respondents were drawn from a population of the entire Makeni residents. The study collected information using a survey questionnaire. Analysis of the data was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to come up with various descriptive statistics. Finally, data was imported into STATA software where logit multivariate model regression was used to address factors affecting fire insurance uptake at household level. The study findings indicated that there were some social economic factors, diffusion factors, and customer value perceived factors and risk behaviour among Makeni Residents that affected fire uptake insurance. Further, the research concluded that there were various factors affecting fire insurance uptake among Makeni Residents differently at household level, though the fire uptake has been found to be very low at 39% visa vie less than 5% and less than 10% respectively. The study thus recommended that the government should continuously improve the country’s GDP and per capital so that fire insurance uptake increase; government should take deliberate measure by way of regulation to introduce compulsory household fire insurance; insurance firms still have a big role to market their various products to the consumers through modern innovation technics and that consumers have to seriously embrace the idea of insurance as a financing instrument to mitigate their risks in day to today life. Key Words: Factors; Fire insurance; Uptake and Insurance industry
Addressing factors that lead to money laundering in the real estate sector based on the financial action task force standards: a case study of selected real estate agents in Lusaka district.
(The University of Zambia, 2021) Chisenga, Dennis
Money Laundering is a widespread problem that has negatively impacted many countries in various parts of the world. Zambia is one of the countries in the world that is rated as having a medium high money laundering risk. One of the sectors which have contributed to this rating is the real estate sector which was rated as posing a high money laundering risk in Zambia. Money Laundering has negatively affected Zambia’s financial system and economic development because of a few individuals who earn proceeds from crime and benefit at the expense of many. Further, if left unchecked Money Laundering will allow criminals to expand their operations thereby increasing criminal activities in the society such as drug trafficking, tax evasion and corruption. The study aim was to contribute to the growing body of literature in addressing factors that lead to money laundering in the real estate sector based on the Financial Action Task Force Standards. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted and both quantitative and qualitative data was collected to better understand the money laundering in the real estate sector in a bid to address the factors that lead to money laundering. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling were used in this research and a total number of 62 respondents participated in the research. SPSS was used to analyse the quantitative data and the qualitative data was transcribed and analysed based on the recurring themes. The study results are that effective AML in the real estate sector relies on the AML training and effective internal controls by real estate agents. The results presented a p-value of 0.008 which was less than 0.05. This indicated that the model was statistically significant in explaining the impact of the independent variables on the effective AML in real estate sector in Zambia. It is therefore concluded that the independent variables had significant combined effects on effective AML in the real estate sector based on FATF Standards in Zambia. The research results signals that there is need to have more training and awareness activities in the real estate sector.
Addressing teacher demotivation in public secondary schools: a case of selected schools in Lusaka District
(University of Zambia, 2020) Mgode, Mpoli
Motivation as a concept, is an essential element, which if well executed could enhance performance and commitment among teachers, especially in public secondary schools. While teacher motivation is of paramount importance, it had been observed that, several teachers working in public secondary schools in Lusaka District were highly demotivated. In this regard the researcher sought to address factors responsible for teacher demotivation in the ten selected public secondary schools of Lusaka District and provide workable strategies to reduce demotivation among teacher. In view of this, an Applied Research Design with a mixed method approach of an equal status was sequentially employed. In addition, the research was guided by Herzberg’s Two Factor Theory of Job Satisfaction. Two instruments of data collection were used to gather primary data. A survey questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data in the first phase of the research and a Focus Group Discussion was employed to collect qualitative data in the second phase of the research. The quantitative data was analysed using the Chi-square test and the Pearson Correlation at the 5 percent confidence level and the qualitative data was analysed using Thematic Analysis. A total of 250 respondents were selected by a simple random technique to participate in the study. The findings of the study were that: female teachers, younger teachers aged between 20 and 29, Master’s Degrees holders, teachers who saved between 31 and 40 years and Section Heads were the highly demotivated teachers. In addition, the study discovered that: lack of recognition for teachers’ good performance, inadequate conditions in which teacher worked from (such as inadequate teaching and learning materials, inadequate infrastructure and high teacher pupil ratio), poor management style, poor professional status, inadequate remuneration, in adequate training and development programmes and poor interpersonal work relationships, were the factors responsible for teacher demotivation. The study therefore, recommended a number of motivation enhancing strategies to be employed in order to reduce teacher demotivation, among these strategies were that: promotions should be based on merit, improving working conditions by expanding the school infrastructure especially the classrooms to reduce the teacher pupil ratio which stood at 85 pupils to one teacher, Head teachers to be more: (democratic, friendly, objective and impartial), eliminating negative publicity to improve teachers’ professional status in society, improving teachers’ salaries, increasing funding for in-service and specialised training and decentralising decision making. The study also recommended that a similar study be conducted in other districts and provinces of Zambia in order to find a lasting solution to teacher demotivation especially in public schools. Key Words: Teacher, Teacher Demotivation and Public Secondary Schools.
Addressing the effects of procurement procedure breaches in Higher Learning Institutions: a case of the Lusaka Apex Medical University in Zambia.
(University of Zambia, 2020) Mtonga, Charlene
This study is aimed at addressing the Effects of Procurement Procedure breaches in higher learning Institution. This was a case study of Lusaka Apex Medical University in the City of Lusaka. Due to these breaches, it was discovered that the institution has suffered liquidity challenges. Some of the challenges included some of the goods and services delivered were of poor quality, wrong specifications and more expensive than the actual comparative costs which has led to the institution gradually facing financial constraints. This has affected timely delivery and quality efficiency in operations and service delivery of the Institutions core Objective. The research method used in this study was a mixed methods design and it was more of qualitative (explanatory) and this was when inference statistics was not used. The data used in this research was collected from 53 respondents from LAMU by use of structured questionnaires using both open ended and closed questions; 5 of which are procurement staff; 48 are participants in the Procurement process, which includes; Board of directors, Faculty Deans, Heads of departments and requesters/users. The data was then analyzed using Microsoft excel and statistical package for social scientists (SPSS). The findings therefore highlighted that they are indeed breaches at LAMU with 91% of the respondents in agreement. Some motives that were identified as the reason for breaching the procedures were: personal interest which was the had the highest on the list of repeated responses, abuse of authority and opportunity was also identified as a cause alongside rationalization, pressure, lengthy procurement procedure process and ignorance of the procedure. These, if left unaddressed will have a negative impact on the operational efficiency of the Organisation and future sustainable growth. Most of these challenges can be a thing of the past if the institution took practical steps in addressing the root cause to the problem. Some of the recommendations by the researcher are, top management to raise awareness on the importance of following laid down procedure and enforce it across the Organisation, assist staff in the procurement department and all the participants to implement the laid down Procurement procedure. Promote transparency in the procurement system and develop a procurement Code of Conduct. Offer incentives to those in compliance and Introduce disciplinary action to those failing to adhere to the laid down procurement procedure as outlined in the Procurement Procedure manual and code of conduct. Most importantly, introducing the E-Procurement system that will improve the spend visibility, real time institution’s expenditure and automated sequential procurement procedures. E-procurement eliminates paperwork, rework and errors. Visibility of spend. Centralized tracking of transactions enables full reporting on xiii requisitions, items purchased, orders processes, and payments made. E-procurement advantages extend to ensuring compliance with existing and established procedures and contracts resulting to better Productivity efficiency. Key words: Lusaka Apex Medical University (LAMU), Breaches, Procurement, Supply Chain Management (SCM), Effects, Suppliers, Public, Orders, Bidding, Procedure.
Addressing the factors influencing employee retention based on a causal model.
(The University of Zambia, 2020) Sishuwa, yvonne
Employee Retention is a process in which employees are encouraged to remain with an organisation for the maximum period of time or until the completion of a project. Successful organisations need to do more than just hire the right people but retain the right people for the jobs. Failure to retain employees results in the loss of knowledge, experience, customer relations and technical skills which are taken to another organisation. The main aim of this study was to identify some of the major factors that influence employee retention in the transport and logistics industry of Solwezi, in order to address the poor retention rates experienced by the industry. The Causal Model was adapted to this study with a focus on workplace structures, individual characteristics, job satisfaction, organisational commitment and intent to stay. The computed sample from the population was 171 but only 144 responded to the semi-structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews for key respondents from the selected organisations. Descriptive Statistics and Chi-Square tests of independence were used to analyse the collected quantitative while Coding and Categorisation analysis was also used to analyse the qualitative data collected. The findings established that retention was influenced by job satisfaction, job commitment and workplace structures. However, individual characteristics such as education level, contract type and marital status did not have significant influence on employee retention. The qualitative data findings indicated that the poor retention rates were because of the workplace structures. From the findings, it was recommended that employers in the transport and logistics industry should devise employee retention strategies that are focused on enhancing job satisfaction, promoting organisational commitment and create policies that improve workplace structures such as the working environment, communication, work life balance, policies to promote job security and career development.
Adoption of internet banking services by corporate customers for forex transactions based on the tra model – a case of fnb industrial branch
(The University of Zambia, 2020) Lishomwa, Lufwendo
he digital banking system provides numerous advantages to customers, however, there is still a lack of trust among some corporate customers. Absence of face-to-face interaction makes it very impersonal. Thus, customers are more comfortable dealing with people in a physical bank setting that provides personalized services as opposed to through online self-service channels. Many customers still do not trust the online mode of service especially for money related transactions. Users who are not familiar with internet banking feel very uncomfortable as they have doubts regarding the accuracy of the transactions done online. The aim of the study was to develop a model that will address challenges corporate customers face with regards to the adoption of internet banking services for Forex transactions. The study looked to identify the factors inhibiting the corporate customers of FNB Industrial Branch from adopting internet banking technologies. The data was collected through closed ended questionnaires that were administered face-to-face within First National Bank Industrial Branch. The study focused on corporate customers and was administered to 132 respondents which represented an 88% response rate. The data labelling and cleaning was done using SPSS. Cronbach’s Alpha was used for measuring the total consistency between all items of the instrument and internal consistency among items for each dimension. After reliability analysis, it was established that the key factors influencing internet banking were; performance expectancy, control factors, social influence and behavioural intention. A simple regression analysis was conducted to test the research hypotheses following the criteria established by considering use of internet for Forex transactions as the dependent variable. All of the independent variables were positive but only one was significant at the confidence level of P ≤ 0.05. Only social influence is said to have an effect on internet use for Forex transactions. The study also looked to devise a model which can be used to improve the uptake of the services. A model was devised to expand on the framework of the Theory of Reasoned Action to demonstrate that within the Zambian context, based on the study, social influence would be a stronger factor leading to adoption of internet banking for Forex transactions. KEYWORDS Internet Banking Services, Theory of Reasoned Action, Corporate Customers, Adoption
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.
An analysis of revenue management efficiency at Lusaka city council.
(The University of Zambia, 2024) Mwiinde, Zidah Dhube
This study empirically investigated the efficiency of revenue management at Lusaka City Council (LCC). Primary data was collected through individual questionnaires and in-depth interviews with LCC employees. Employing the Slovin formula, the sample size comprised 70 council workers selected through purposive and simple random sampling methods. The study used descriptive and inferential tools to conduct the analysis. The study revealed that bank deposits were identified as the most effective revenue collection practice at LCC. Interviewees expressed belief in the appropriateness of existing revenue collection strategies; however, the study found the overall extent of these strategies to be poor. The findings underscored the importance of strengthening the legal framework, continuous sensitization, and expanding collection points to enhance revenue collection, aligning with practices of entities like the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA). Assessment methods were deemed ineffective, primarily relying on open meetings within departments or sections. The study highlighted LCC's inefficiency in revenue collection, emphasizing the need for the council, as one of the oldest, to serve as a model for sustaining operational expenses independently. Dependency on legislative frameworks, measures, and remedies was evident, yet these were deemed insufficient. Respondents expressed a lack of understanding of the utility of revenue collection by LCC, questioning its necessity. The study recommends a harmonization or review of the legal framework supporting revenue collection to enable the Local Authority to realize its full potential.
An analysis of the effectiveness of internal audits in government: a case study of five (05) selected government ministries in Lusaka district.
(The University of Zambia, 2021) Tembo, Gregory
Internal audit is an important part of public sector performance and enforcement of control systems. It includes among other things financial management to ensure that public funds are Used for the intended purpose whilst following the standard procedures. This research examines the sufficiency and competencies of internal auditors, evaluates the management support accorded to internal auditors and accesses the extent of the independence of internal auditors in order to analyse their effectiveness. The research employed both qualitative and quantitative review of literature. It employed the interpretivist paradigm to discuss the objectives of the research. Scrutiny of journals, reports, books, newspapers and the internet were used to collect secondary data. It also employed the inductive approach to gather data, analyse it and formulate theories to arrive at a conclusion. The research was conducted in five (5) selected ministries namely, Ministry of Finance, Health, Higher education, Community development and Social Security and Agriculture with a sample size of twenty-five (25) respondents. The research further employed the case study approach to examine and appreciate the gaps in the effectiveness of the internal audit functions in the five (5) selected ministries. The research was longitudinal in nature. The ministries were selected using non-probalistic purposive sampling. The research used semi-structured questionnaires as primary tool for data collection. Statistical package was employed to produce descriptive statistics. The findings of the research include that internal auditors have the requisite qualifications and competencies to discharge their functions. However, they lack adequate management support. Internal auditors form part of management as such evaluates their own work and suffer undue influence from management. Internal auditors require independence in order to discharge their functions without compromise. However, they lack the necessary adequate independence. The internal auditors are not sufficient in numbers in the selected ministries thereby affecting the audit coverage. The research recommends that internal auditors should be increased in numbers to expand the human resource and audit coverage, they must be separated from management to curtail the undue influence on the internal auditors and in future the research should be extended to all government ministries in order to establish whether the challenges in the selected five ministries are common to all other government ministries.
An assessment of outsourcing of offshore call centres on customer service: a case of Barclays bank Zambia.
(The University of Zambia., 2020) Nkonde, Zillah
Call Centres are important channels of communication in an organisation as they are the first point of integration between call centre agents that represent the business and customers. Therefore, by correctly seizing the opportunity of any given call, a Call Centre can bring benefits not only in terms of improved customer service (efficiency), but also in terms of increasing market share (effectiveness). The study sort to assess outsourcing of offshore call centres on customer service as most studies have not yet examined impact of offshore call centres on customer service. In order to address this gap, this study explores the different types of call centres, challenges faced by Barclays bank Zambia and discuss what would help the organisation grow in market share and at the same time deliver excellent customer service. The study was based on 125 bank customers and purposive sampling was used in the study. Descriptive statistics and correlation were used to analyse the data. The results show that the call centre is a very important aspect of customer relations as all the customers sampled indicated that they utilise the call centre line for various services. Further, the study revealed that customers experienced some challenges while using the call centre. About 57.4% of the customers experienced challenges using the call centre with connectivity failures on their MTN and Airtel, and long waiting periods. Some network providers like Zamtel were discovered that they were not toll free like the other two networks, making it expensive for some customers on the network to contact the call centre. Other major challenges experienced were language barriers and cultural differences between the call centre agents and customers. However, it was discovered that the district of residence of a customer, gender, age, level of education attained were not related to customers having challenges with call centre agents giving the country’s geographical information but a customers’ position in their company was loosely related to this challenge. On the other hand, the district of residence, gender, age and level of education attained of the customer were related to them having challenges with language barrier and cultural issues. It was therefore concluded and recommended that creating a local contact centre here in Zambia would help so much in alleviating these challenges and improve the customer experience.