Institute of Distance Education

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    An analysis of how supply chain management can help produce sales revenue for fast moving consumer goods firms in Zambia : a case study of Yalelo limited and Java foods.
    (The University of Zambia, 2023) Chaala, Mwangala
    Th Fast moving consumer good industry is one of the most vital industries in the Zambian economy, this industry is one of the main sources of employment for thousands of Zambians working in manufacturing, distribution, retail, and marketing, among other areas of the supply chain. This industry is fast paced and due to the short shelf life, high demand, and poor profit margins of FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) products, efficient supply chain management is critical in this industry’s survival. This study’s aim was to analyse how supply chain management can help produce sales revenue for FMCG firms in Zambia. The research data was obtained by means of a quantitative paradigm aided by a structured questionnaire that was administered through structured interviews. The questionnaire contained questions regarding, whether Supply chain management contributes to speed to market, overall organization performance and an organization’s competitive advantage. A total of 275 members of the target population participated in the research. The selected respondents were either employees of Yalelo Limited, Java Food or any of their supply chain partners. Prior to administering the questionnaire, it underwent a pilot study to ensure validity and reliability. The research findings revealed that supply chain management contributes to speed to market, and it also creates competitive advantage for the FMCG firms under study. However, the collected data revealed that overall organizational performance does not depend on SCM, but the hypothesis test that was conducted using a Z-test on the collected data indicated that organizational performance does depend on supply chain management. Hence, the null hypothesis was rejected. In conclusion, the researcher concluded that supply chain management is vital to the FMCG firm’s quest for revenue generation. Finally, in line with the research questions, the researcher concluded by recommending industry wide awareness on the importance of SCM, employee training, and that policy makers should ensure to take into account the importance of this industry when formulating policies that affects it. Lastly a recommendation to future researchers on the topic was also made.
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    Investigating the factors hindering the performance of cooperatives : a case of Nalolo district in the Western province of Zambia.
    (The University of Zambia, 2023) Namushi, Namushi
    Co-operative enterprises are regarded as a vehicle to fight poverty, create employment and boost economic growth in Zambia. A high number of co-operatives in the country were created through initiatives of government agencies. However, co-operative enterprises have for a long time been experiencing operational performance difficulties. The purpose of this study was to to investigate the factors hindering the performance of cooperatives in Nalolo district, located in the western province of Zambia. To achieve this aim the study was guided by three specific objectives and these are; to investigate how management of cooperatives affect performance of its members, to investigate how income levels of members affect the cooperative performance and to assess the effectiveness of education and training of the leaders of the cooperatives. The Primary data was collected from 20 co-operative organisations based in Nalolo District, using a structured questionnaire. A probability sampling method was used in this study, focusing on simple random sampling. Moreover, a quantitative approach was used for data collection and the data was analysed using the Descriptive statistical techniques. The data was presented in tabular form followed by the researcher’s interpretations thereof. The demographic findings of this study reveal that the majority of participants are middle aged adults, most of whom are women and who have attained a high-school level of education. Moreover, the findings show that the majority of co-operatives have been in operation for less than five years. In addition, the findings reveal that a larger number of cooperatives in Nalolo district are in the agricultural sector.
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    Investigating the long-term sustainability and economic contributions of village banking in Zambia : a case study in three selected areas in Lusaka.
    (The University of Zambia, 2023) Mubanga, Praxedes
    This research investigated the sustainability of village banking and its contribution to economic growth in Lusaka, Zambia. The study was conducted in three areas of Lusaka, Zambia: Chilenje (CHL), Chongwe (CHO), and Kamwala (KMS). A total of 34 participants were investigated, exceeding the original sample size of 30. Data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, observations, and secondary data, and analysed using descriptive and thematic analysis methods. The study found that village banking is a popular financial strategy among individuals with significant familial responsibilities. It also revealed several challenges faced by village banking groups, including lack of resources, lack of proper full literacy, lack of formalisation, and issues with people defaulting on loans. In terms of licensing, more licensed businesses were owned by males, suggesting potential barriers for women in formalising their businesses. On the taxation front, village banking contributes to taxation and revenue generation at various levels. The study concluded that while village banking has potential benefits, addressing the identified challenges is crucial for its long-term viability and its potential to stimulate economic growth. Recommendations include the need for robust security measures, formalisation of village banking groups, provision of larger grants and incentives to farmers, financial literacy training and skills development, simplification of the tax payment process, support for business formalisation, and addressing barriers to access. The findings contribute to our understanding of the economic implications and sustainability of village banking in Zambia.
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    Factors influencing development objectives of small to medium size enterprises : case of Kamwala market.
    (The University of Zambia, 2023) Kalima, Chongo M.
    This research investigates the multifaceted factors influencing the development objectives of Small to Medium Size Enterprises (SMEs). In recent years, SMEs have emerged as significant contributors to economic growth and job creation globally, making understanding their development dynamics imperative. Through a comprehensive literature review, this study establishes a theoretical framework encompassing internal and external factors shaping SME development objectives. Utilizing a mixedmethods approach, including surveys and interviews, data was collected from a diverse sample of SME owners and stakeholders. Statistical analysis, including regression analysis was employed to identify and interpret the significant factors affecting SME development objectives. Findings indicate that factors such as access to finance, managerial skills, market conditions, technological adoption, regulatory environment, and networking opportunities significantly influence SME development trajectories. Moreover, qualitative insights provide nuanced understanding and context to the quantitative findings. The implications of these findings for SME owners, policymakers, and other stakeholders are discussed, along with recommendations for fostering SME development. This research contributes to both academic literature and practical strategies aimed at supporting the growth and sustainability of SMEs in diverse socio-economic contexts.
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    Exploring the economic effects of student loan recovery on ex-beneficiaries : a case study of former university of Zambia students.
    (The University of Zambia, 2023) Kampamba, Mubanga
    The study aimed to explore the economic effects of student loan recovery on ex-beneficiaries of the former University of Zambia. The primary focus was on the repayment interest rate, the student loan repayment period, and the effects of student loan repayment on savings and disposable income. The research was inspired by the transition from a bursary system to a student loan scheme in Zambia. This significant shift necessitated substantial adjustments for numerous individuals, particularly those who had previously benefited from the bursary system. The obligation to repay these loans can exert a considerable financial strain on graduates, potentially influencing their financial satisfaction and overall quality of life. A comprehensive review of literature was conducted, encompassing global, regional, and local contexts. This provided a broad perspective on the issue and helped to situate the research within the larger discourse on student loans and higher education financing. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach within an interpretivism paradigm. A carefully selected sample comprised of former student loan beneficiaries who are currently repaying the student loan, a representative from the Ministry of Education, and a representative from the Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board (HELSB). Data collection methods included the distribution of questionnaires, conducting interviews, and document analysis. These diverse methods allowed for a rich and nuanced understanding of the issue. The findings revealed that while the student loan scheme has expanded access to higher education for many Zambians, the obligation to repay these loans can impose a significant financial burden on graduates. This burden can potentially impact their financial contentment and overall quality of life. The impact is multifaceted and depends on various factors, including employment status and income level. The study concludes with recommendations for policy and practice, aimed at alleviating the financial burden on graduates and improving the effectiveness of the student loan scheme in Zambia. These recommendations are based on the findings of the study.