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An Assessment of the Level of Impacts of Corruption as Risk on Public Procurement Performance: A Case Study of Selected Record Systems in Nigeria
Many researchers have revealed that corruption is associated with adverse effects on the sustainable development of the country. However, the rapid increase in measures to combat corruption globally portrays a picture of the losses due to corruption. Corruption, especially in developing countries, mainly manifests in the public procurement sectors due to a large amount of money involved. The emergence of covid-19 has also amplified corruption cases in the procurement of medical supplies in West Africa and the world. This conference paper examined the extent of corruption in public procurement in Nigeria, particularly the record systems. The paper was guided by various research questions, including; To what extent does corruption affect the performance of public procurement in Nigeria? What are the various ways in which corruption affects the public procurement record systems in Nigeria? What are the most effective methods of combating corruption in the public procurement systems in Nigeria? The study employed a qualitative research method using a systematic review of the literature to answer these research questions. The study revealed that the systemic corruption in Nigeria could be combated using non-state approaches as compliments to the state-based plans. It also provides the reasons why corruption has persisted in Nigeria.
Keywords: Corruption, Public Procurement, Performance
 
Role of Technology in Enhancing Procurement Processes and Efficiency in Firms in Odense, Denmark.
Procurement is a critical function in any organization, responsible for sourcing and acquiring the goods and services needed to run the business. Technology enhances procurement processes and efficiency by providing greater automation, visibility, and control, and by enabling data-driven decision making. Technology has the potential to transform procurement, making it more efficient, effective, and collaborative. Research noted that technology plays a vital role in enhancing procurement processes and increasing efficiency. The study discovered that organizations that implemented e-procurement systems saw significant improvements in procurement efficiency. Technology has greatly improved the efficiency of the procurement process by automating many of the manual and repetitive tasks, such as data entry and purchase order generation. Technology has also improved the visibility and transparency of the procurement process. The study concluded that technology has transformed procurement by streamlining processes, increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and improving collaboration with suppliers. Organizations that embrace technology to enhance their procurement processes can realize significant benefits, such as increased accuracy, faster turnaround times, and improved visibility and control. Technology has improved collaboration between procurement teams and suppliers. Digital tools and platforms enable better communication and collaboration between procurement teams and suppliers, which help to build stronger relationships and improve supplier performance. In the rapidly evolving business landscape, organizations that fail to adopt technology to enhance their procurement processes may find themselves falling behind the competition. The study recommended that it is important to create/adopt a technology strategy that aligns with the firm's procurement goals. As procurement processes become more digitized, it's important to prioritize data security. There should be appropriate cybersecurity measures, such as firewalls, encryption, and user authentication, to protect sensitive procurement data.
Keywords: Technology, Procurement, Denmar
The Influence of Information Risk on the Procurement Performance of Public Universities in Kenya
Procurement performance remains an imperative aspect of consideration in modern organizations. Public and private organizations are increasingly emphasizing procurement performance because it ensures efficiency and effectiveness of operations. However, most organizations are grappling with procurement performance due to contextual risks that deter the best outcomes from procurement operations. This study aimed to investigate the influence of information risk on the procurement performance of public universities in Kenya. The study was anchored by the resource dependence theory and the transaction cost theory. Achieving the study aim involved collecting primary data from a census of 31 public universities in Kenya using a closed-ended-questionnaire. Data collected was analyzed using Statistical Software for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 and presented using tables and graphs generated by the software. Reliability of the questionnaire was determined using Cronbach’s alpha (alpha>0.7) while reliability was determined based on the expert views. The findings confirmed that information risk has a significant negative impact (-1.859; p=0.013) on the procurement performance of public universities in Kenya. The study recommended on the need for conducting prior risk assessment before undertaking an outsourcing project to ensure that available information is accurate and suitable to inform the process.
Keywords: Procurement Performance, Information Risk, Public Universities, Kenya
Supply Chain Management Practices and Quality Performance of Butaro Level II Teaching Hospital
This study aimed to evaluate Butaro Hospital's supply chain management practices and quality performance. Study's goals were to evaluate the impact of procurement of health commodities processes on quality performance, to assess the effects of storage and distribution of health commodities processes on quality performance and to determine the role of electronic logistics management information system (e-LMIS) on quality performance of Butaro Hospital. A descriptive research design carried out, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data, study's design directed the data collection, analysis, and interpretation processes. Sample size of the study made up with 62 respondents were selected by using a census sampling method from the five different departments which are concerned with hospital supply chain management practices and quality performance of Butaro Hospital. Collected data were analyzed by SPSS version 22.0 for descriptive analysis and inferential statistics analysis, thematic analysis was applied to data captured from interviews. Findings shows that procurement of health commodities and quality performance are positively correlated, as shown by a positive coefficient; this relationship is statistically significant (p=0.0220.05). One-unit increase in the procurement of health commodities will result in a quality performance score of (0.119). Probability is (p=0.440.05), which indicated that there is a positive correlation between distribution and storage of health commodities on quality performance. (e-LMIS) has a statistically significant positive correlation on quality performance, with a probability of (p=0.0000.05) and a contribution to quality performance of (0.807). Quality performance of Butaro Hospital changes by 0.109 due to an increase of one unit. Study concluded that supply chain management practices have a positive impact on quality performance of Butaro hospital, by ensuring the availability of medicines at the dispensing points, ensuring the effective services delivery and promotes Hospital’s performance in general. It recommended that Butaro Hospital should improve internet connectivity availability in order to provide better services delivery and to be able to navigate and efficiently use (e-LMIS) system in health supply chain cycle. And that the Hospital should invest in the storage facilities and have a required enough storage space together with required materials and equipment to promote a good storage practice (GSP).
Keywords: Supply chain management, Quality performance, Butaro Level II Teaching Hospital, Healthcare logistics, Inventory management
Technology in Supply Chain Management and Logistics Current Practice and Future Applications By Anthony M. Pagano, Matthew Liotine
Technology in Supply Chain Management and Logistics: Current Practice and Future Applications by Anthony M. Pagano and Matthew Liotine offers a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between technology and the intricate world of supply chain management and logistics, all presented in a clear and accessible language without jargon. The book delves into the contemporary landscape of supply chain operations, detailing how technological advancements have revolutionized the field, from automation and data analytics to the Internet of Things (IoT) and block chain. It provides valuable insights into how businesses can harness these innovations to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize their supply chain processes. Moreover, the authors look ahead, offering a forward-thinking perspective on the potential future applications of emerging technologies in supply chain management. Whether you're a seasoned professional in the field or a newcomer seeking a practical understanding of the role of technology in logistics, this book serves as an invaluable resource, bridging the gap between theory and real-world implementation without resorting to jargon, making it accessible to a wide range of readers
Loan Remodelling and Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Kenya
The implementation of loan remodelling for a bank particularly during a pandemic is aimed at providing favourable terms that allow borrowers to repay and enable the banks to avoid high rates of non-performing loans. This study’s general objective was to examine the effect of loan remodelling on the financial performance of commercial banks in Kenya. The theories underpinning the study included Financial Intermediation, Innovation Diffusion, Credit Risk, Modern Portfolio, and Modern Monetary Theory. An explanatory research design was espoused in the study. The 36 commercial banks operating in Kenya constituted the target population. The study used a census approach by collecting data from all the banks operating in Kenya. The study used secondary data from the 2016 to 2021 period drawn from the financial statements of the banks. Data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. A panel linear regression model was developed and analysed using STATA. The study findings from the regression analysis showed that digital lending had a positive and significant effect on financial performance (β = 0.0822, p-value = 0.003), loan loss provision had a negative but non-significant effect on banks' profitability (β = -0.0255, p-value = 0.301) while business model adjustment had a positive but a non-significant effect on the financial performance of the banks in Kenya (β = 0.0915, p-value = 0.415) during the period under study. Based on these findings, commercial banks should employ technology and innovate more digital products, especially those that facilitate digital lending to enhance their profitability. Banks should continue provisioning for loan loss in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards and caution against non-performing loans for the sustainability of their business operation. Banks should continue diversifying their investment portfolio and adjust their business model to a point that it would significantly impact their profitability, by creating more non-interest income opportunities. Finally, the Central Bank of Kenya should continue providing a regulatory framework geared towards facilitating lending and improving the profitability of banks.
Keywords: Loan Remodeling, Digital Lending, Loan Loss Provision, Business Model Adjustment, Financial Performance
 
Effect of Bank Ownership on the Relationship between Credit Risk and Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Kenya
Commercial banks in Kenya have faced daunting challenges that touch on various key financial performance indicators and therefore impacting on performance. Credit risk affects the key financial indicators that are likely to impact performance of any lending institution. The main goal of this study was to ascertain the moderating effect of ownership structure on the relationship between credit risk and financial performance of Commercial banks in Kenya. Longitudinal research design was utilized on data from 41 licensed banks in the country. The study relied on secondary panel data and multiple regression was used and analysis was through STATA analytical tool. The study established that bank ownership has a significant effect on the financial performance. The outcome of the study demonstrates that a more diversified ownership structure is helpful in improving bank’s financial performance. Introduction of ownership structure has added knowledge by demonstrating that the link between credit risk and financial performance cannot be studied in isolation.
Key Words: Ownership Structure, Credit Risk, Financial Performance
Credit Management Practices and Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Rwanda: A Case of Access Bank Plc
This paper examined the effect of credit management practices on financial performance of commercial banks in Rwanda with reference of Access Bank Plc. The specific objectives are to assess the effect of credit rating on performance of Access Bank Plc, to determine the effect of credit monitoring on performance of Access Bank Plc and to examine the effect of credit recovery on performance of Access Bank Plc. The researcher used liquidity theory of credit and the information theory of credit. The study used descriptive and correlational research design. The target population was 164 employees of Access Bank Plc. The study collected data from a sample size of 116 employees of Access Bank Plc at Head office in Kigali City. It used questionnaire and financial statements of Access Bank Plc to collect data and descriptive statistics and multiple regression model to analyse data. Descriptive statistics such as mean, frequency and standard deviation was used. The multiple regression analysis was use to assess the effects of multiple predictor variables on the dependent measure. Results from the first objective show that that access bank assessment of the capacity to pay loan was strongly agreed by 44.7% was used as a credit rating component at Access Bank Plc. Access Bank has used credit reference report as strongly agreed by 30.1% .Results from the second objective indicated that credit term was adopted as strongly agreed by 54.4%, credit standards as strongly agreed by 36.9 %, 40.8%, credit limits, 30.1% strongly agreed. Results to the third objective show models of loan repayment platform demonstrated that 53.4% of respondents strongly agreed with the statements. Therefore, 44.7 strongly agreed that the Access bank is continually assessment as 33.0%. Results 54.9% strongly agreed with legal enforcements. The study recommended that researcher’s asses this factors impact on credit management practices, its execution and financial performance.
Keywords: Credit management, Credit Policies, Credit monitoring, debt recovery, financial performance
The Interplay between U.S. Economic Indicators and Insurance Firm Financial Health
This study examined the relationship between U.S. economic indicators and the financial health of insurance firms over a decade, from 2010 to 2020. Utilizing a quantitative research approach, data was collected from top insurance companies, juxtaposed against macroeconomic indicators like GDP growth, inflation rate, interest rate, and unemployment rate. Through regression analysis, the study revealed significant correlations between these macroeconomic variables and insurance firms' profitability, solvency, and liquidity metrics. The results indicated that GDP growth was positively correlated with insurance firms' profitability, suggesting that in periods of economic expansion, insurance firms tend to be more profitable. In contrast, inflation rate showed a negative relationship with solvency ratios, pointing to the strain of rising costs on the firms' ability to meet long-term obligations. Interest rates were found to significantly affect the liquidity of insurance firms, where higher rates led to decreased liquidity, likely due to increased costs of borrowing and alterations in the value of rate-sensitive assets and liabilities. Lastly, unemployment rates were negatively correlated with insurance firms' premium collections, implying lower policy underwriting during times of higher joblessness. Moreover, while the interrelationships were evident, the degree of sensitivity varied across firms, with larger insurance providers appearing to be more resilient to macroeconomic fluctuations than their smaller counterparts. The study concluded that while insurance companies are inherently influenced by broader economic trends, the extent of their vulnerability or resilience is also determined by firm-specific factors like size, asset management strategies, and product diversification. The findings underscore the need for proactive management strategies for insurance firms in navigating the ever-shifting economic landscape.
Keywords: U.S. Economic Indicators, Insurance Firm Profitability, Macroeconomic Fluctuations, Financial Health, Solvency Ratio
Exchange Rate Effects and Performance of Financial Institutions in South Sudan
The different financial institutions, including those in South Sudan, have continued to have an uncertain future due to the changes in the macroeconomic environment and the political state of the country. The argument for financial reforms and arrangements requires South Sudan's authorities to devise informed decisions on how to critically match money supply and fulfillment of demand for money to a fairly standardized financial system. The objectives that underpinned the study were to examine the impact of foreign exchange rates on the performance of financial institutions in South Sudan. The study was based on the positivist philosophy because the researchers collected data from the field and used it to arrive at a conclusion. The target population was composed of the 30 registered financial institutions of the CBSS, which was used as the sample. The researcher used secondary data to obtain the findings of the study. In addition to descriptive statistics and diagnostic tests, the researcher also performed regression and correlation analysis to test the effects of independent variables on the dependent variable and the linear relationship between the variables, respectively. The different financial institutions that were considered in the study were selected using systematic random sampling. The researcher collected data from various sources, including the leading financial institutions in South Sudan. The Econometric Views (EViews) software was used for data analysis and management. The correlation matrix was estimated to check for severe correlation and the possibility of multicollinearity in the estimated model. The results showed that there was an inverse and statistically significant relationship between foreign exchange rate and the performance of financial institutions in South Sudan. In conclusion, the government can use macroeconomic variables to influence the performance of financial institutions and improve policy formulation and implementation.
Keywords: Exchange Rate, Performance, Financial Institutions, South Sudan