International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy (2687-2293)
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An empirical analysis of challenges of implementing AfCFTA on South Africa’s trade in the SADC region: evidence using the PPML Estimation Technique
Get PDFIntra-SADC trade has not met the target that was set by the African Continental Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) of achieving 22% by the year 2022 due to a myriad of various trade-related challenges. This present study aims to compare the results of using a Poisson Maximum Likelihood Estimator (PPML) with Random Effects (RE), Fixed Effects (FE), and an Ordinary Least Squares (POLS) model on a balanced panel of select eight Southern African Development Community (SADC) members that trade with South Africa over the period 2010-2022. The paper empirically examines how South Africa’s overlapping Regional Economic Community (REC) membership affects bilateral trade. Also, the examination of how the impact of distance between South Africa and its trading partners impacts bilateral trade. The study findings are that PPML provides more robust results than other estimation techniques in estimating the gravity model for a balanced micro panel. From the PPML results, distance has a significant negative impact at a 5% level on bilateral exports from South Africa which implies that SADC countries that are relatively far in terms of distance from South Africa and landlocked tend to experience a relative fall in exports from South Africa. However, multiple REC membership has a positive and significant impact of 1% level of significance on bilateral trade contrary to the negative relationship that was expected. The study recommends the speedy conclusion of outstanding AfCFTA issues for member states to effectively benefit from the economies that economic geography presents
Technology as a driving force of service delivery in the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality
Get PDFThe emergence of the fourth industrial revolution has seen governments around the world seeking new ways of delivering services to the people. The infusion of technological aspects in governance seeks to enhance service delivery in the public sector. This paper sought to investigate the role played by technology in facilitating service delivery to the people. To showcase the impact played by technology on issues of local government, the diffusion of innovation theory was utilised as a theoretical foundation of this paper. The literature indicated that technology plays a fundamental role in the service delivery process. Studies conducted in this research area revealed that technology plays a pivotal role in the dissemination of public services to the residents by municipalities. This paper adopted a mixed method approach and a case study research design. The quantitative data was collected through closed ended questionnaires while the qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews. This paper sampled a total of 36 participants in the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality through simple random sampling technique in the few selected different wards of the municipality. The closed ended questionnaires were distributed to 30 participants while 6 municipal officials were interviewed. The quantitative data was analysed using SPSS while the qualitative data was analysed through a thematic approach. The findings of this paper revealed that King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality appreciates and embraces the technological reforms. A significant percentage of the respondents further indicated that King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality is average in terms of utilising technology in terms of service delivery. The study further concluded that municipalities must improve and adopt the technological advancements that are present in the public sector. The study also concluded that municipalities cannot turn a blind eye to the ever-changing environment and thus need to improve service delivery through the introduction of technology. This paper thus recommends that technological changes be adopted to improve service delivery within local government. It further recommends that technology should be exploited to fast-track service delivery
Corruption in South Africa: an ongoing challenge to good governance
Get PDFThe article seeks to examine the phenomenon of corruption within the specific context of South Africa. The primary inquiry posed in the study is, \u27What are the instances and underlying factors contributing to corruption in South Africa?\u27 Corruption arises from a multitude of factors, including avarice, the pursuit of authority, and the dynamics of elite networking, among others. The presence of these factors within the nation fosters an atmosphere of impropriety at both the political and bureaucratic tiers of governance. The nation has instituted a range of anti-corruption bodies and strategies; however, the existing gaps in implementation pose significant obstacles to the effective realisation of these initiatives, thereby hindering efforts to combat or mitigate the prevalence of corruption. The research adopts a qualitative methodology and employs desktop analysis to gather information. The information was obtained through a thorough examination of existing literature and document analyses. The information underwent evaluation through conceptual and documentary content analysis. The findings indicate that cultural and normative frameworks that undermine democracy and the Bill of Rights are perpetuated by corruption. The ethical frameworks that dictate institutional ethics stand in contrast to the principles of public administration. The populace may experience a decline in trust towards governmental institutions and their operations due to the capacity to question the integrity of their elected officials. The article culminates in a proposal for the establishment of codes, strategies, and a culture governed by ethical principles, aimed at fostering ethical values among both employees and employers. It is of paramount significance that individuals embrace personal responsibility and accountability to engage ethically within the workplace, thereby contributing to the overarching organisational culture and values. This research enhances the understanding of public governance, human resource management, organisational development, and leadership studies
Nexus of Tax Law and Non-Profit Organizations: Incentives and challenges in compliance with tax laws by Public Benefit Organizations in South Africa: a scoping review
Get PDFThis study examines the tax incentives and challenges faced by Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) in South Africa, with a focus on those registered as Public Benefit Organisations (PBOs). NPOs play a vital role in addressing socio-economic issues, and serving vulnerable communities. While these organizations operate for non-profit purposes, the tax incentives provided by the government are crucial for their financial sustainability. Therefore, establishing a supportive tax framework is essential to promote their growth and operational capacity. A scoping review methodology was employed, analyzing literature on tax incentives and compliance challenges faced by South African NPOs from 2010 to 2023. Key provisions include income tax exemptions under Section 10(1)(cN), capital gains tax exclusions, and Section 18A tax-deductible donations. The study also explored the legal framework governing tax-exempt status and trading activities. Findings show that while tax incentives provide significant benefits, NPOs face challenges in maintaining compliance, such as complex regulations, limited financial resources, and a lack of expertise. Many struggle with differentiating between exempt and taxable activities. Strategies to address these issues include simplifying tax processes, enhancing financial management education, and improving communication between SARS and NPOs. Introducing user-friendly tax reporting systems and tailored support could further boost compliance and ensure NPOs maximize available benefits. These insights are valuable for policymakers and tax authorities seeking to strengthen the regulatory framework and support the growth of NPOs in South Africa
The role of AI, big data and predictive analytics in mitigating unemployment insurance fraud
Get PDFThe fraudulent claims for Unemployment Insurance (UI) have also risen massively in the United States especially during the onset of COVID-19 pandemic with billions of dollars that were lost. These approaches applied formerly in fraud detection and prevention have been challenged by new and advanced fraud systems. For this reason, AI, Big Data and Predictive Analytics are now crucial for improving fraud mitigation in UI programs. The aim of this research is to understand how far AI, Big Data and Predictive Analytics have been utilized, for how effective they are and the barriers they pose in tackling unemployment insurance fraud in the United States. An online quantitative self-administered questionnaire was administered where 200 participants from the unemployment insurance agencies of the U.S, covering fraud investigators, IT personnel, data analysts and policymakers, were included in the study. Data were analyzed to establish the correlation between technology adoption to application of anti-fraud measures using descriptive statistics, chi-square test and regression analysis. The survey shows that about 42.5% of agencies actively use AI and 34% of them use Big Data very often. However, difficulties like high costs, integration troubles and limited availability of specialized staff are still issues that make adoption a problem. The results of using AI and Big Data were moderate and optimistic but rather elevated, as seen through regression analysis; on the other hand, predictive analytics demonstrated large potential when applied successfully. The study’s results indicate that AI, Big Data and Predictive Analytics present enormous potential for mitigating UI fraud, although broad integration will not be possible without overcoming essential infrastructural and resource limitations
Experiences of integrating technology during teaching practice: A case of business studies student teachers in South Africa
Get PDFIn South Africa, there is a pressing need to produce teachers who can integrate technology in teaching and learning. Therefore, this qualitative study explores business studies student teachers’ experiences of integrating technology during teaching practice. This study is located within the interpretive paradigm and an exploratory case study is adopted as its research design. TPACK framework serves as the lens used to understand the experiences of six student teachers who were sampled purposefully. Data collected through focus group interviews were analysed thematically. The study revealed that student teachers found technology integration to be useful in their instructional practices. However, the study revealed that there was a lack of support from mentor teachers when student teachers were integrating technology. Despite this, they showed determination towards technology integration in their classrooms. Based on the findings, it is concluded that student teachers were determined to integrate technology during teaching practice
Innovative and disruptive policing: considering intelligence-driven community policing as a remodeled strategy for addressing crime in contemporary society
Get PDFThis article examines the necessity for implementing a more intelligent, inventive, and disruptive policing paradigm, such as intelligence-driven community policing, to address both traditional and technology-facilitated crimes. Intelligence-driven community policing is a comprehensive policing paradigm that emphasises the identification and prevention of habitual criminals, concentrating on groups that present a threat and risk to the community. It employs community intelligence alongside other intelligence-driven policing strategies and methodologies to address crime and criminal activity. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques. The data for this research was gathered in three countries: Denmark, the two South African metropolitan provinces of Gauteng and Western Cape, and three Nigerian cities: Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. The findings demonstrate that community policing has been embraced and executed in the majority of jurisdictions; yet, numerous issues hinder its efficient implementation. This encompasses a deficiency in comprehending the model\u27s conceptual framework, misinterpretations and misconceptions by those responsible for its implementation, and an incapacity among the police, stakeholders, and the general public to distinguish community policing from state and regional policing. Innovative policing has significant consequences for international law enforcement in an increasingly digitised and complicated environment. Technological advancements have obscured the distinctions between the physical and digital domains, rendering the criminal scene increasingly global and complex. National and international law enforcement authorities must use innovative approaches and remain abreast of swift digitalisation and technical progress. This study recommends shifting to intelligence-driven community policing by integrating intelligence-led police strategies, techniques, and approaches into the community policing implementation framework. Understanding the conceptual framework of community policing and contemporary implementation methods tailored to the specific demands of each jurisdiction, police agency, culture, and circumstances is essential. A comprehensive recommendation is proposed to enhance the capacity and capability development of criminal justice, law enforcement, and intelligence personnel regarding the execution of intelligence-driven community policing
The influence of moderating factors on consumer usage of OTT platforms: using Netflix as an example
Get PDFThis study examines the relationship between technical readiness (TR) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) within the framework of Over-the-Top (OTT) media services, particularly Netflix. The study employs the UTAUT model and integrates the TR model\u27s external factors of "optimism," "innovativeness," "inadaptability," and "insecurity" to examine their moderating influences on customer utilisation of Netflix. In 2024, 475 questionnaires were disseminated in this study, of which 453 were considered valid. The study revealed that customer trust in relationships significantly influences user involvement in \u27Performance Expectancy\u27 (PE), \u27Effort Expectancy\u27 (EE), \u27Social Influence\u27 (SI), and \u27Facilitating Conditions\u27 (FC). Furthermore, consumers\u27 intention to interact with Netflix\u27s \u27Performance Expectancy\u27 (PE), \u27Effort Expectancy\u27 (EE), and \u27Social Influence\u27 (SI) considerably and positively affects their behaviour. The research employed hierarchical regression analysis to assess the impact of customer willingness to "Intention to Use" on the UTAUT regarding Netflix consumption. The findings indicate that the Trustworthiness Rating of consumers substantially affects the UTAUT dimensions of Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Social Influence, and Facilitating Conditions. Moreover, consumers\u27 inclination to use Netflix is positively influenced by the constructs of Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, and Social Influence. The results demonstrate that consumers\u27 Trustworthiness Rating substantially influences the UTAUT aspects of Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Social Influence, and Facilitating Conditions. Moreover, the constructs of performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence positively affect customers\u27 inclination to utilise Netflix. The results of this study may inform strategic approaches to improve user engagement and satisfaction in the competitive OTT market
State and non-state actors’ contribution to economic stability or instability of State-Owned Entities: a case study of South African Airways
Get PDFThe state and non-state actors have always influenced the issues arising in society, particularly concerning state-owned entities (SOEs), economic stability, and instability. From having an influence within their national borders to the international scale, these actors are very pivotal agents that often seek to bring justice and better ordinary individuals\u27 lives. Non-state actors such as multinational corporations and civil society organizations are some of those on the frontlines of fighting for economic emancipation, especially in less developed states. Yet, this is not always the case; in some instances, they can be noted as villains who would bring about the injustices themselves. Although their influence cuts across many sectors of society, the paper sought to discuss the contribution of these two actors, the state and the non-state actor, to the economic stability and/or instability of state-owned entities. From this premise, the paper adopted a qualitative method and case study approach for South African Airways (SAA) to understand the contribution of state and non-state entities to the financial stability or instability of SAA. Thus, the findings suggest that SOEs are affected by various direct and indirect interventions by both state and non-state actors, especially in their economic ambitions, which provide stability or instability in the entity. Hence, the paper concludes that the economic stability or instability of SOEs such as SAA is largely affected by the intervention of both state and non-state actors.
Mandating ethics to combat misconduct in the South African public service
Get PDFThe purpose of this study is to explore the extent of misconduct in the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) in South Africa as a case study. The article aims to answer the research question, ‘What is the extent of the misconduct in the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure?’. Systematization of the literature and responses to the wrongdoing scenario shows that in South Africa, poor quality performance and inefficient productivity in public service departments may cause financial difficulties. The institutional cause of misconduct is discussed. The decision that was made in this scientific subject matter has importance because this study intends to emphasise that the public service in general and DPWI in particular have been in the media for cases of maladministration, misconduct, and corruption, which necessitates the implementation of orgaisational ethics management OEM) takes action to promote an ethical culture and a climate that is favorable to good governance. The investigation in the article is carried out in the following order: A description of the DPWI and its procedures for combating misconduct follows, and the scope of wrongdoing inside the DPWI is explored using a contextual framework. Conceptual and document analysis were the methodological tools used in the study. Using qualitative research approach with exploratory and descriptive research designs, misconduct is contextually analyzed. The results show that when institutional factors that can combat misconduct and promote good governance are not implemented, then this situation may lead to various forms of misconduct recurring. The article\u27s conclusion makes suggestions for improvement