International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy (2687-2293)
Not a member yet
466 research outputs found
Sort by
Optimizing rainfall prediction in coastal and inland areas: a comparative analysis of forecasting models in eThekwini district, South Africa
Get PDFWhile floods and droughts are natural occurrences in the earth’s hydrological cycle, their escalating frequency and intensity have become a major concern for governments throughout the globe. Developing nations, such as South Africa, are weary of these extreme weather events because they understand they lack the necessary resources and infrastructure to deal with them. The eThekwini Municipality serves as a prime example of how vulnerable developing nations\u27 regions are to the devastating effects of floods and droughts, as multiple floods have devastated the area, resulting in fatalities, damaging public infrastructure, and demolishing houses. The scale of the damage from the floods reveals that significant gaps exist in disaster preparedness in the eThekwini Region. Rainfall forecasting is a vital tool that has been underutilised that can be used preemptively to manage or mitigate flooding and enhance water resource management in the region. Machine learning models in particular are very useful in rainfall forecasting; hence, the goal of this study was to evaluate the most efficient models for forecasting precipitation in the eThekwini northern and central regions, which are coastal and inland areas, respectively. Rainfall data spanning 32 years was obtained from meteorological stations in both regions, and the SARIMA, ARIMA, and ETS machine learning models were used for rainfall forecasting and evaluated based on their ability to capture seasonal patterns, handle non-stationarity, and provide accurate predictions. Model performance was analysed, and comparisons were made using the root mean squared error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and mean absolute scaled error (MASE) as evaluation metrics. The study\u27s findings indicate that the most effective models for both the northern and central regions were SARIMA (0,0,0) (2,0,0) [12] and SARIMA (1,0,0) (1,0,0) [12]. These findings provide valuable insights for meteorologists, hydrologists, and policymakers involved in regional climate modelling and water resource management
South African Pentecostalism\u27s impact on the spiritual and general well-being of MSM individuals
Get PDFThis research sought to find out how South African Pentecostalism impacted on the spiritual and overall health of MSM. With reference to this social context, it explores the ways that religious beliefs, sexual orientation and general healthy status interact. Twenty-five MSM participants of the Pentecostal faith from South Africa were interviewed for this study, and all interviews were conducted pursuant to ethics approval as afforded by their respective institutions. The research lies in the respondents’ religious inclusion and their levels of happiness, self-acceptance and self-esteem. A number of participants indicated that they had never been accepted in the Pentecostal church for who they are regarding their sexual orientation leading to low self-esteem and internalized homosexuality. These conflicts between faith and the sexual domain were the leading cause of conditions such as depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The research presented positive changes a s Regards spiritual health and overall health in MSM persons in SA Pentecostal environments. Additionally, findings underscored the importance of fostering inclusive faith-based interventions and support networks to improve MSM individuals’ spiritual and psychological well-being. The study emphasizes the need for inclusion of MSM individual within the religious South African Pentecostal assemblies in order to improve the religious and general health status of these people. Recommendations derived from the research include the use of religious rhetoric in motivational discussions with key opinion leaders, the provision of culturally appropriate psychological interventions, and increased access to health care for MSM. Furthermore, practical strategies such as structured peer support groups and faith-driven mental health initiatives are essential in fostering acceptance and reducing stigma. Thus, the present research aligns with the provisions of the Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 10 to stress the need to pay more attention to the role of spirituality and sexuality in African societies
A proposed social media adoption model for enhancing the survival and growth of rural SMMEs during the Covid-19 crisis in KwaZulu-Natal
Get PDFThis study investigates the critical factors influencing social media adoption by rural Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, with a focus on supporting business survival and growth during the Covid-19 crisis. The Covid-19 crisis intensified existing challenges such as limited digital connectivity, financial constraints, and poor market access, highlighting the need for adaptive, cost-effective solutions. Social media became a vital tool for these businesses, enabling expanded market reach, improved customer engagement, and continued product promotion during uncertain times. A quantitative research approach was employed, gathering data from 374 rural SMMEs using a structured 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. Analysis revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.779, p < 0.001) between broadband internet access, financial resources, and social media use, all critical factors for maintaining digital engagement and ensuring business continuity. The study advocates for increased public and private investment in rural broadband infrastructure to address the digital divide and emphasises capacity building programmes to enhance digital literacy and social media marketing skills among rural entrepreneurs. The findings offer actionable insights for policy and practice, supporting the long-term sustainability of rural SMMEs and promoting inclusive digital development in rural KZN. A Social Media Adoption Model is proposed to enhance the survival and growth of rural SMMEs during the Covid-19 crisis in KZN
The Socioeconomic determinants of foreign capital inflows in selected Sub-Saharan African Countries
Get PDFForeign capital inflows (FCI) are essential for economic growth in developing countries. This study examines the socioeconomic factors affecting FCI in 31 Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries, utilizing panel data from 1985 to 2019 and employing the System GMM dynamic modeling approach. The findings indicate that when foreign direct investment (FDI) is treated as an endogenous variable, real interest rate (RIR), life expectancy (LEX), GDP growth rate, and food security (foodsec) have significant positive impacts. Conversely, the real exchange rate (RER) and inflation (INF) negatively correlate with FDI. Human capital investment is not statistically significant while the relationship between lagged FDI and current FDI is positive but nonsignificant. When foreign portfolio investment (FPI) is considered an endogenous variable, only food security exhibits a positive and statistically significant factor, suggesting that food security can enhance FPI flows. The study recommends that SSA countries aiming to attract more FCI should focus on improving healthcare, food security, and education. It is also suggested that countries should develop highly skilled R&D employees, public and private scientific research institutions, and industrial concentration in a country because they fundamentally drive the development and success of foreign capital flow levels. Central banks should also implement effective strategies to optimize capital flows by advancing financial institutions
Strategic communication and foreign direct investment (FDI) in the post-Mugabe era: A review of government campaigns and economic impact
Get PDFThis paper explores the role of strategic government communication in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to Zimbabwe in the post-Mugabe era, using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology. The study investigates how government communication strategies, including diplomatic engagement, national branding, and media outreach, influence investor perceptions and contribute to economic growth. The review identifies key insights, noting that Zimbabwe’s efforts to rebrand itself through campaigns like "Zimbabwe is Open for Business" have enhanced its image internationally and attracted investments, particularly in the mining and infrastructure sectors. However, the study highlights several challenges, including political instability, inconsistent policies, and competition from other African nations, which continue to hinder Zimbabwe\u27s full potential in attracting FDI. The findings suggest that while strategic communication has been effective in improving Zimbabwe’s image, further steps are needed to ensure consistent policy frameworks and address investor concerns regarding security and economic stability. The paper concludes that sustained efforts in refining communication strategies, alongside policy consistency, are essential for Zimbabwe to become a more competitive investment destination. Additionally, future research directions are proposed, including comparative studies with other African nations and an exploration of the role of non-governmental actors and digital platforms in enhancing FDI attraction.
 
Application of the fraud triangle model in mitigating tax evasion in developing countries: a conceptual framework
Get PDFSince the seminal work of Allingham and Sandmo in 1972, tax evasion has been firmly established as a complex and multifaceted global issue. This study posits that one practical approach to mitigate tax evasion in developing countries is to utilise Cressey’s (1953) fraud triangle model as a framework for analysing taxpayers’ decisions. The theory explains why individuals commit fraud, including tax evasion, through three key factors: pressure, opportunity, and rationalisation. The study used the theoretical research method (literature review) as postulated by Alm (2011) to examine and explain the tax evasion phenomenon. The findings suggest that utilising the fraud triangle model (in the context of new technology such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data mining and deep learning) will be beneficial to policymakers. First, it will assist tax authorities in profiling taxpayers by focusing on behaviours and other factors (economic and non-economic) that influence tax evasion. Next, with this framework, tax authorities can formulate advanced risk management strategies that directly tackle the fundamental elements of the Fraud Triangle, thereby improving their efforts against tax evasion. Furthermore, it offers invaluable guidance to lawmakers and policymakers, preparing them to develop strong legislation aimed at narrowing the tax gap from aggressive tax avoidance and evasion schemes. Finally, the framework can illuminate broader economic or industry-wide circumstances that increase the overall risk of tax evasion, facilitating proactive measures before difficulties arise. Thus, integrating the fraud triangle framework into the tax administration process can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of tax authorities and contribute to fairer tax systems in developing countries
Industry 4.0 technologies revolutionizing the civil aviation sector: e-services technology adoption in aviation industry
Get PDFIndustry 4.0 technologies have optimized efficiency and effectiveness through the manufacture of sophisticated products and services, which result in enhancement of operations, improvement in safety, time, and cost-saving, and have revolutionized operations in almost all industries and have tremendously transformed the aviation sector. This study aims to examine the passenger travel experience with the implementation of e-services before, during, and after trips, from ticket bookings, self-check-in, smart boarding, in-flight services to baggage tracking after flight. Furthermore, the study seeks to identify the modern technologies with which air passengers are familiar or actively use, and to analyze the factors that influence their acceptance of these e-services. A research model was developed based on the extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) and modified to suit the objectives of this study. The study objectives were achieved through a survey, a self-administered online questionnaire from 253 air passengers was obtained, and data was analyzed using SPSS 25 software. The results reveal that performance expectancy, price-value, hedonic motivations, perceived benefits and habit have a positive significant influence on behavioral intention, while social influence, perceived challenges, facilitating conditions and effort expectancy were not supported. The results of the study give insights into how different passengers, different age groups, different geographical locations, and different technological maturity perceive such implementations. This will provide policymakers ideas on how to better manage and enhance e-services
Unpacking the challenge of consultocracy in South African local government
Get PDFThis study aimed to analyze the challenge of consultocracy in the administration of local government in South Africa, and to further identify its triggering factors and related consequences. Data collection was guided by qualitative research approach whereby 20 officials responsible for the management of different municipal internal units were interviewed. The data were thematically analysed. Among other things, the study identified skills deficit, corruption and absolute or geographical impossibility as key triggering factors behind consultocracy in municipal governments. Firstly, the study raises alarm to the emerging practices of consultocratic managerialism in the administration of local government. Secondly, it adds to the body of literature ways in which consultocracy manifests and the municipal vulnerabilities, as well as practical ways to overcome this problem.  
Internal challenges of strategy implementation at a South Africa Bank
Get PDFThe purpose of this study was to identify the internal implementation strategy issues encountered by a bank in South Africa. Challenges are phased in by South African banks during the fourth stage of the strategic planning process. Banks must be aware of the internal issues affecting the implementation stage. The banking industry in South Africa plays a significant role in the regional economy and market. The article\u27s underlying contingency theory highlights how crucial it is for South African banks to use a range of approaches to address problems that can prevent them from implementing their strategies. Data were mostly gathered through semi-structured interviews with 25 workers of a bank in South Africa. Atlas.ti version 23 software was used to analyse the participant data gathering. The findings show that the South African bank is facing internal issues as a result of senior managers\u27 decision to exclude junior and middle management\u27s participation from the overall plan. This will demotivate those involved and result in a lack of support for the plan. Inadequate support from the change management team and communication from the management team regarding the new plan
The impact of skills development on construction claims management effectiveness and resolution
Get PDFThe study investigates the impact of skills and concomitant competencies in enhancing claims management in order to ameliorate disputes in the South African construction industry. By evaluating the role of various skills and abilities, the study provided significant insights for optimizing claims management methods and enhancing project outcomes. The study adopted a mixed-method approach, combining a content analysis of industry reports, and legal precedents relating to construction claims management and skills development. Additionally, structured interviews and surveys were undertaken with key stakeholders in the construction sector. A total of eleven interviews and ninety-three (93) complete responses were retrieved from respondents including contractors, subcontractors, project managers, legal experts, and industry associations. These interviews and surveys attempt to obtain qualitative and quantitative data on the impact of skills on claims management procedures, including competency levels, training experiences, problems faced, and perceived outcomes. study underlines the need for investing in training and development programs to alleviate skills shortages and build a culture of competence among construction professionals. The conversation discussed the possible role of technology in complementing abilities and improving claims management efficiency. It is recommended that recognizing the crucial link between skills and claims management effectiveness, stakeholders may apply measures to limit risks, improve procedures, and ultimately increase successful project outcomes in the construction industry