Stratford Peer Reviewed Journals and Books
Not a member yet
2323 research outputs found
Sort by
Effect of Procurement Contract Management on Performance of Public Institutions in Rwanda. A Case of Gicumbi District-Rwanda
No full textThe general objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of procurement contract management on performance of Gicumbi District. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of procurement contract planning, negotiation and execution on the performance of Gicumbi District. The population of this study was 127 staff of Gicumbi District. The study used a census inquiry method instead of sampling. This decision is based on the small size of the target population. The following instruments were utilized to gather data for the research: The researcher relied on document analysis, questionnaires, and interviews to collect data. The statistical analysis of the collected data was conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) which is a widely used tool for statistical computation in research. The researcher employed descriptive and correlational analysis in this approach. Descriptive and correlational research design were used. The coefficient for procurement contract planning is 0.237, indicating that for each unit increase in procurement contract planning, the performance of public institutions is expected to increase by 0.237, and this relationship is statistically significant (β = 0.237, Sig. = 0.000). This demonstrates that effective planning significantly enhances institutional performance. The procurement contract negotiation coefficient is 0.201, indicating a similar effect; a one-unit increase in effective negotiation is associated with an increase in performance of 0.201, and it is also statistically significant (β = 0.201, Sig. = 0.003). Additionally, the coefficient for procurement contract execution is 0.559, indicating that effective execution contributes substantially to performance (β = 0.559, Sig. = 0.003). The study recommends that Gicumbi District should enhance the capacity of its procurement personnel through targeted training, implement standardized templates for contract planning and adopt a collaborative negotiation framework
SME Participation Barriers in European Union Public Procurement Markets
No full textThis study examined the barriers faced by Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in accessing public procurement markets within the European Union (EU), despite their significant economic contributions and the EU's attempts to foster an inclusive procurement environment. The analysis explored key challenges, including administrative complexity, financial constraints, limited accessibility, and competition with larger firms. Existing EU policies, such as the Small Business Act and Directive 2014/24/EU, aimed to support SME participation by simplifying procedures and mandating contract segmentation; however, these policies were found to have inconsistent impacts across member states due to varying levels of enforcement and implementation. Through case studies of successful SME integration in countries like France, Italy, Poland, and the United Kingdom, this study highlighted effective practices, including contract segmentation, digital procurement platforms, capacity-building programs, and set spending targets. These case studies provided practical insights into how targeted policies and support mechanisms can increase SME participation in public procurement. Recommendations included enforcing contract segmentation, enhancing digital procurement accessibility, expanding SME training programs, and establishing participation targets to improve consistency across the EU. Findings underscored that, while EU policy initiatives made strides, further coordinated efforts are essential to address remaining barriers and promote a fairer, more accessible procurement landscape for SMEs across member states.
Keywords: SME participation, EU public procurement, procurement barriers, SME polic
Education Corporate Social Responsibility and Financial Performance of Telecommunication Companies in Kenya
No full textThe financial performance of telecommunication companies has witnessed a decline in recent years. Safaricom for instance reported a decrease in profit from 68,676.2 million in 2021 to 67,496.1 million in 2022. Additionally, Airtel Networks Kenya Limited reported losses of 24,822,606,000 in 2020 and 30,662,525,000 in 2021. Furthermore, in 2019, Telkom's market share significantly reduced after losing 600,000 customers, and its voice market share declined by 0.9 percent to 3.1 percent. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the influence of education Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) on financial performance of telecommunication companies in Kenya. The population scope encompassed a total of 6,597 employees from the three major telecommunication companies in Kenya: Safaricom with 3,859 employees, Airtel Kenya with 1,694, and Telkom Kenya with 1,044. The unit of observation was employees in top and middle-level management positions due to their pivotal roles in strategic decision-making processes within organizations. The sample size was determined using Yamane's formula, resulting in 353 employees from top and middle-level management. Data collection employed semi-structured questionnaires. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 29 software. The correlation analysis found a positive and significant association between education CSR programs and financial performance (r=0.772, p=0.000). The regression analysis found a positive and significant relationship between education CSR programs and financial performance (β = 0.748, t (324) = 21.794, p<.05). The study concludes that education CSR programs can include scholarship initiatives, educational infrastructure, and skills development. Scholarship initiatives can include providing financial assistance to students who are unable to afford tuition, books, or other educational expenses. The study recommends that companies operating in the telecommunications industry should allocate resources towards providing scholarships and financial assistance to students who are in financial need. It is recommended that companies in the telecommunications industry leverage their capacity to contribute to the development of educational infrastructure. This can be achieved through various means, including providing support to existing schools or initiating the construction of new educational institutions.
Keywords: Education CSR programs, Financial Performance, Telecommunication Companies, Keny
The Effect of Liquidity Management on the Financial Sustainability of Financial Institutions in Rwanda
No full textThis study examined the effect of liquidity management on the financial sustainability of financial institutions in Rwanda using the case of Bank of Kigali and Banque Populaire du Rwanda. The trade-off theory, financial intermediation theory, cash flow theory and the Basel framework for bank liquidity form the theoretical foundations of this research. The researcher used correlation and case study designs with a quantitative approach. The sample size was 333 people who included top level, middle level, and entry level staffs of the 2 selected commercial banks. However, the survey yielded a response rate of 66.4%, with 221 individuals successfully completing the questionnaire. Purposive sampling and convenience sampling techniques were used to select this sample. Data was collected using the questionnaire and it was analyzed using descriptive and inferential analysis (correlation and regression analysis). Findings show that asset securitization has no statistically significant effect on the financial sustainability of selected commercial banks in Rwanda (β=.122, p>.05). However, inter-bank borrowing/lending has a statistically significant effect on financial sustainability of selected commercial banks in Rwanda (β=.565, p<.05). Similarly, loan maturity management has a statistically significant effect on financial sustainability of selected commercial banks in Rwanda (β=.297, p<.05). The study recommends that the banks refine capital allocation strategies, that regulatory authorities collaborate with industry stakeholders, that risk management departments focus on capital adequacy, and that the banks' leadership diversify external funding to ensure long-term financial sustainability. There is need to conduct the research on the entire banking sector to determine the extent to which liquidity management influences financial sustainability as a whole. It is hoped that the above study findings will stimulate the management to prioritize liquidity management as a key driver for sustaining their financial growth
Effect of Financial Literacy on Investment Decisions of Small Medium Enterprises in Rwanda: A Case of Coffee Shops in the City of Kigali
No full textFinancial literacy encompasses the possession of awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and skills essential for effective money management. It plays a pivotal role in fostering financial development and driving economic growth within a country. With these considerations in mind, it becomes imperative to evaluate the financial knowledge of the younger generation, particularly undergraduate students, who are envisioned as the future investors and catalysts for economic transformation. This research aimed to assess the impact of financial literacy on investment decisions among Small and Medium Enterprises. The study population comprises 120 coffee shop managers and owners, was selected through random sampling. The first objective was to assess the effect of financial awareness on investment decisions among coffee shops in the City of Kigali. The Second objective was to assess the effect of financial knowledge on Investment Decisions among Coffee shops in the City of Kigali. The third objective was to assess the effect of financial skills on investment decisions among Coffee shops in the City of Kigali. The fourth objective was to assess the effect of financial attitude on investment decisions among Coffee shops in the City of Kigali. The study adopted Inferential statistics Analysis design in order to interpret data. Therefore, both quantitative (questionnaire) and qualitative (interview) research techniques were used by the researcher in order to collect data (information) related to the objectives of the study and for data analysis. The findings showed that the coefficient of correlation (R-value)=0.678. This indicates that there is a moderate and positive relationship between the financial literacy and investment decisions among coffee owners and/or managers in the city of Kigali. Findings revealed that the financial awareness had a positive coefficient of the estimate which was significant (β= 0.212, p<0.05) at 5% level of significance. Furthermore, financial knowledge had a positive coefficient of the estimate which was significant (β=0.243, p< 0.05). Also, skills had a positive coefficient of the estimate which was significant (β= 0.232, p<0.05). Moreover, financial attitude had a positive coefficient of the estimate which was significant (β=0.313, p<0.05). Coffee shop owners should invest in ongoing financial education and training to enhance their financial knowledge and skills. This can include courses, workshops, and access to financial experts to ensure they stay updated with industry trends. Coffee shop owners should seek guidance on ROI calculation methods and tools to make more informed growth decisions. Improving the ability to assess the return on investment (ROI) for various business expansion strategies is crucial.
Key words: Financial Literacy, Small and Medium Enterprise, Financial Awareness, Financial Knowledge, Financial Skills, Financial Attitude, and Investment Decisions
Modeling Financial Performance of Manufacturing Firms on Capital Structure. Does The Panel Data Model Used Matter? Evidence From the Nairobi Securities Exchange
No full textManufacturing firms contribute a significant proportion to Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), putting them at the center of its development. To optimize production, most manufacturing stakeholders have taken cognizance of the capability of econometric panel data models to maximize output on minimal input. Yet, a gap exists on whether the panel data used in modeling financial performance on capital structure matters. Therefore, this research used the financial performance-capital structure nexus in listed manufacturing firms trading at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) to establish whether the panel data model in use mattered. Using 85 observations drawn from 14 firms, and covering the period 2016 to 2022 inclusive, the study compared the pooled Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), the random effects (RE), and the fixed effects (FE) models. The study revealed that parameters such as model restrictiveness, estimation consistency and efficiency, and temporal variations dictate the model to be used, confirming that the panel data model indeed matters. Retrospectively, the pooled OLS model suits situations without unobservable entity-specific effects, the RE model suits situations where differences across firms do not correlate with the predictors, and the FE model is preferred when some time-invariant characteristics such as company culture are omitted. The significance of this finding to manufacturers is that robust decision making regarding leveraging financial performance of manufacturing firms on capital structure is a function of careful consideration of available panel data models as defined by existing parameters. Future studies can strengthen this finding by including dynamic panel data models.
Keywords: Manufacturing firms, panel data, financial performance, capital structure, model restrictiveness, temporal variation
Socio- Psychological Determinants, Compliance Cost and Value Added Tax Compliance
No full textPurpose: We tested the moderating effect of compliance cost on the relationship between socio-psychological determinants and Value Added Tax compliance among commercial building owners in Kenya.
Design/Methodology/Approach: We employed hierarchical regression model to test the hypotheses using a cross-sectional survey data drawn from 255 registered commercial building owners in Kenya.
Findings: The empirical findings indicate that taxpayer knowledge, religiosity and patriotism significantly and positively influence tax compliance while the effect of egoism is negative. In addition, when the compliance cost is high, the effect of taxpayer knowledge, religiosity and patriotism on VAT tax compliance weakens, whereas the influence of taxpayer egoism on VAT compliance is stronger.
Research Implications: Overall, the analyses suggest that the when taxpayers are knowledgeable, religious and patriotic they are more likely to be VAT compliant as opposed to when they egoistic. Further, compliance cost is a crucial catalyst that ought to be considered when assessing for tax compliance among taxpayers.
Originality/value: This work highlights the value of the taxpayers attributes in pursuit of VAT compliance. Significantly, the study reveals that taxpayer’s knowledge, religiosity and patriotism can enhance VAT compliance while egoism does not. However, their effect is contingent on compliance cost. This contributes to the socio-psychological determinants-tax compliance literature by clarifying how specific taxpayer attributes influence VAT compliance under different levels of compliance cost.
Keywords: Taxpayer Knowledge, Religiosity, Patriotism, Egoism, Compliance Cost, VAT complianc
Camel Financial Indicators and Performance of Tier Three Commercial Banks in Kenya
No full textTier three banks are vital to the Kenyan economy by promoting competition and ensuring efficiency in the banking sector. Despite their importance, recent statistics indicate poor performance among these banks, possibly due to their financial practices. However, limited research exists on how the CAMEL approach affects their financial performance. This study addressed this gap by analyzing the financial performance of Kenya’s tier three commercial banks through CAMEL factors, namely; capital adequacy, asset quality, management, earning ability, and liquidity. The study was guided by the Free Banking Theory, Agency Theory, Capital Buffer Theory, and Transactional Cost Theory. An explanatory research design was adopted, with a focus on 18 tier three commercial banks. Secondary panel data were collected from the banks' records over a period of ten years (2014-2021). The regression results revealed a coefficient of determination (R-squared) of 0.6918, indicating that 69.18% of the variance in financial performance (ROA) is explained by the CAMEL variables. The analysis identified that Capital Adequacy, Asset Quality, Management Quality, and Liquidity significantly affect the financial performance of tier-three commercial banks, while Earnings Ability did not show a statistically significant effect. The study further examined the moderating effect of Ownership Identity on the CAMEL-ROA relationship, but the findings indicated that it does not enhance the predictive power of the model. Consequently, Ownership Identity was ruled out as a significant moderator. The study concludes that the CAMEL framework is essential for assessing the financial health of tier-three commercial banks in Kenya, emphasizing the importance of strong capital adequacy, liquidity, and management quality for profitability. The study recommends that bank management prioritize these CAMEL components while policymakers should create supportive regulatory frameworks and further research should explore additional performance indicators and potential moderators affecting financial performance.
Keywords: CAMEL model, financial performance, tier-three commercial banks, Kenya, ownership identit
The Association between Male Circumcision and Physical Intimate Partner/Spouse Violence in Kenya
No full textIntimate partner violence against women is a global public health problem with many short-term and long-term effects on the physical and mental health of women and their children. Intimate partner/spouse violence is predominantly perpetrated by men against women victims. Sustainable Development Goal 5.2 aims to eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls. This study sought to determine the association between of male circumcision and physical intimate partner/spouse violence in Kenya. Data from the nationwide and representative Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, conducted in 2014, were further analyzed. The Demographic and Health Survey utilizes a two stage stratified sampling technique. This study found that Male circumcision is very popular in Kenya (92.4%, n=12819). This study establishes that physical intimate partner/ spouse violence is rife in Kenya (34.5%, n=3265). A Pearson Chi Square test of independence found that there was a significant association between male circumcision status and physical intimate partner/spouse violence (x2(1) =44.51a, p<0.000). Binary Logistic regression predicted that the males who were uncircumcised had over two-fold higher odds of executing physical intimate partner/spouse violence compared to those were circumcised (OR 2.44, CI 1.86-3.19). This study concludes that male circumcision is beneficial in the long-term and adds to the holistic value of men beyond the physical removal of prepuce for health reasons. This study recommends male circumcision especially with a period of seclusion. This study recommends that programs should focus on initiatives or interventions that encourage male circumcision accompanied by structured learning programs during the period of initiates’ seclusion.
Keywords: Male Circumcision, Intimate Partner/Spouse Violence, Social Cognitive Theor
Knowledge Assessment of Local People on Solid Waste Management in Rwanda; A Case study, Nyamata City in Bugesera District
No full textThis study assessed the knowledge of local people in Nyamata City on solid waste management, with three specific objectives: to evaluate the level of knowledge on solid waste management among residents, to examine current practices, and to explore the relationship between knowledge and practices in waste management. The research employed a sample size of 393 respondents, selected using simple random sampling. Data collection was conducted through questionnaires, and data analysis involved descriptive statistics and correlation coefficient methods. The first objective focused on the level of knowledge among local residents. Findings indicated a high level of education and awareness regarding solid waste management, with a mean score of 4.21 for household training on waste management and 4.10 for the recognition of its importance to urban health and well-being. The overall mean score of 4.20 suggests that most respondents acknowledge the increasing educational efforts on waste management and its contributions to social and environmental protection. Additionally, access to information through mass media was rated highly effective, with a mean score of 4.21, leading to an overall mean of 4.18 for the role of solid waste management in community sanitation. Capacity building also showed a significant contribution, with an overall mean score of 4.16. The second objective assessed existing practices. Results showed moderate to low levels of waste segregation, with mean scores of 2.87 for excluding solid from liquid wastes, 2.54 for having different bins for each waste type, 2.34 for segregating waste to facilitate collection, and 1.98 for separating biodegradable from non-biodegradable waste. These low scores resulted in a grand mean of 3.93, indicating moderate efficiency in waste collection practices, with a score of 3.74 suggesting inefficiency. Waste disposal practices were rated more positively, with a mean score of 3.89. Regarding waste recycling, the presence of sufficient facilities was rated high, with a mean score of 4.13, and the adequacy of the reuse and recycling system was also rated highly, with a mean score of 4.11. Transport of waste received a moderate rating, with a grand mean of 3.38. The third objective explored the relationship between knowledge and practices, revealing a high positive correlation (correlation coefficient of 0.713, p-value of 0.006), indicating that higher knowledge levels significantly contribute to better solid waste management practices. In conclusion, the study found that while there is a high level of knowledge and awareness about solid waste management among Nyamata City residents, practical implementation of waste segregation and collection practices needs improvement. There is a significant positive relationship between the level of knowledge and effective solid waste management practices, underscoring the importance of continuous education and capacity building in enhancing waste management practices.Top of Form
Keywords: Bugesera District; Local People; Knowledge Assessment; Practices in Waste Management; Solid Waste management