Stratford Peer Reviewed Journals and Books
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Natural Hazards and Their Effects on the Tourism and Hospitality Sector in Philippines
No full textThe Philippines is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. This sector is among the most vulnerable industries to the impacts of natural hazards. It is heavily reliant on natural resources, such as beaches, mountains, and forests, which are often the primary attractions for tourists. Natural hazards can lead to job losses, reduced incomes, and displacement, particularly for those working in low-skilled or informal jobs in the sector. Damage to natural resources and ecosystems can have negative impacts on the tourism experience and reduce the attractiveness of a destination. It is crucial to enhance the resilience of tourism-related infrastructure and businesses, through measures such as diversifying tourism offerings, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and improving insurance coverage. The study found that Philippines is highly vulnerable to a range of natural hazards, including typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and floods. These hazards not only cause significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure but also have a significant impact on the country's tourism industry. The study also found that the impact of natural disasters was more significant in regions that were heavily reliant on tourism. Natural disasters result in a significant decrease in tourist arrivals and income for businesses in the sector. The COVID-19 is an example of how natural disasters can affect the tourism industry and local communities, leading to massive job losses and economic downturns. It is crucial to create and implement effective disaster risk reduction and management strategies. It was concluded that natural hazards can affect the industry in different ways, such as decreasing tourist arrivals, closing tourist attractions, and damaging accommodation and transportation facilities. Tourists may choose to cancel their trips or opt to travel to safer destinations, resulting in lost revenue for hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses. The study recommended that the tourism industry in the Philippines should diversify its products and destinations to reduce the impact of natural hazards on the sector. The government and private sector should strengthen public-private partnerships to improve disaster management and promote sustainable tourism development.
Keywords: Natural Hazards, Tourism, Hospitality, Philippine
Linen Quantity and Customer Satisfaction in Star-Rated Hotels in Upper East Region of Ghana
No full textThe universally accepted minimum recommended par of three for a bed enables linen not to be overstretched, which guarantees comfort. The purpose of the study was to investigate the quantity of linen used by star-rated hotels in the Upper East Region of Ghana, its relationship with customer satisfaction, and to test the existence of the association. A descriptive survey research design was employed using quantitative and qualitative approaches. A sample size of 381 comprising 52 hotel staff, 327 guests drawn from 24 star-rated hotels, and two key informants (the director of the Ghana Tourism Authority and the president of the Hoteliers Association), all of the Upper East Region, were used. Data collection was through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Means and standard deviation were used for the descriptive statistics. To test the hypothesis at a 5% significance level, simple linear regression was used. The findings indicated that the minimum par level of three for a bed was difficult to provide if hotels were fully booked, but not with the provision of two bath towels for each room. The hypothesis testing showed that linen quantity significantly predicted customer satisfaction (β = .08, p = .036). Consequently, linen quantity use had a significant relationship with customers' satisfaction (R2 = 0.017, F(2, 324) = 2.89, p = 0.036). The hypothesis that no significant association existed between linen quantity used and customer satisfaction was rejected (P = 0.036< 0.05). The study recommended that the Ghana Tourism Authority should educate and monitor par levels in hotel operations and stress the importance of par levels to improve linen quality.
Keywords: Linen Quantity, Customer Satisfaction, Star-Rated Hotels, Upper East Region, Ghan
Influence of Ambient Conditions on Customer Satisfaction in Selected Universities, Nairobi Kenya
No full textAmbient conditions are employed by customer to assess the state of a food service center for convenience. This study sought to determine the influence of the ambient conditions on customer satisfaction in selected universities, Nairobi Kenya. The study adopted a mixed method research design but specifically adopted descriptive and explanatory research designs. The target populations were the universities in Nairobi County. However, the study purposively targets four universities: 2 public and 2 private universities. Purposive sampling is appropriate when the study population is always very busy and since may not be available at the time of the study. The questionnaires were distributed during meal hours; breakfast, lunch and dinner. Four questionnaires during every meal hour were administered systematically to students who were willing to fill it across the four universities with help of two research assistants. One questionnaire was distributed to a customer, skip 3 customers and issue another questionnaire until the four questionnaires were filled. Quantitative analysis comprised both descriptive and inferential statistics. Particular descriptive statistics included means and standard deviation. Inferential statistics comprised of multiple regression. A total of 305 questionnaires were distributed to consumers at the university food service facilities whereas 278 were returned. This represented 91.1% response rate. The regression analysis established that ambient conditions explained 61.7% (R2=.617) of the variance in customer satisfaction. In addition, regression results revealed that ambient conditions (β=.494, p=0.000) have a positive and significant relationship with customer satisfaction. The regression results were significant because the p values were less than 0.05. The interviews revealed that management continuously improve ambient conditions in order to remain pleasant and more so meet ever changing customer needs. The study recommends that the food service facilities at the university in regard to continuous improvement of ambient conditions features like setting up proper lighting, undertaking periodic color painting of the food service facility and rebuilding food facility floors and ceilings with aim of promoting aesthetic value.
Keywords: Ambient Conditions, Customer Satisfaction & Universitie
Role of Religion in Shaping Ethical and Moral Values Among the Youths in Athens, Greece
No full textReligion can be understood as a system of beliefs, practices, and values that relate to the nature of existence and the universe, and that often involve a belief in one or more supernatural or divine entities. Different religions have different beliefs, practices, and values, and there is often significant diversity within a particular religion as well. Many religions provide a set of moral and ethical principles that guide behavior and decision-making, helping individuals to navigate complex ethical issues and make choices that align with their values. Ethical and moral values are principles or beliefs that guide behavior and decision-making. Moral values are important for individuals to live in harmony with others and to make ethical choices. Moral values among youths are shaped by a variety of factors, including family, education, religion, and culture. It was discovered that young people who are actively involved in religious communities are more likely to exhibit prosocial behavior, such as volunteerism, empathy, and moral reasoning, than those who are not involved in religious communities. Religion provides a supportive and nurturing environment for young people, and offers guidance and support as they navigate complex ethical and moral issues. The study concluded that religion plays a significant role in shaping human history and culture, influencing art, literature, music, and philosophy, and contributing to the development of social and political institutions. The study recommended that religious institutions should strive to create welcoming and inclusive environments that foster a sense of community and belonging among young people. Religious leaders should engage with young people and encourage them to develop their own moral compass. Religious institutions should also collaborate with parents and educators to promote positive values and ethical behavior among young people.
Keywords: Religion, Ethical, Moral Values, Youths, Greec
Exploring the Impact of Green Employee Training on Employee Performance: A Case Study of Nairobi City County Government, Kenya
No full textThe aim of this study was to investigate the GHRM on Employee Performance in the department of HRM in the Nairobi City County Government. The study was a survey, which sought to make inquiries from the staff members of the department of HRM in the Nairobi City County Government on the Green HRM practices. In order to ensure that the objectives of the study are met, validity was tested by having objective questions included in the questionnaires to ensure that they measure the variables as required. The finding revealed that green employee training had a positive and significant effect on employee performance at the department of human resource management in the Nairobi City County Government (β =.367, p=.000<.05). Based on the findings, the study concludes that green employee training has positive and significant effect on employee performance. Also, the type and quality of green employee training provided can have a significant impact on its effectiveness because training that is well-designed, relevant to the employee's job role, and delivered in an engaging and interactive way is more likely to result in improved employee performance. Investing in green employee training can be a cost-effective way to improve employee performance in Nairobi City County Government. By providing employees with the knowledge and skills to carry out their job roles in a more environmentally sustainable way, organizations can contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goals while also improving their own performance. The study thus recommends that the management of Nairobi City County should develop strategies and systems for green employee training activities that are more integrated in the Human Resources management system. Companies can create programs to motivate employees to have green environmental behavior at work.
Keywords: Green employee training, Employee performance, County Government, Human resource practice
Impact of Climate Change on Water Resources in Rwanda: A Case of Muvumba Catchment
No full textClimate change profoundly impacts water resources, affecting people's well-being, agriculture, industry, and urban development due to altered weather patterns. This study focuses on Rwanda's Muvumba catchment, aiming to assess climate change effects. Analyzing global (World Clim, GCMs, CMIP6) and national data sets, remote sensing (SRTM elevation data, DEM) generated insights on precipitation, evaporation, and temperature changes during 2012-2021 and projected 2021-2040. Employing GIS, HEC-HMS model, and remote sensing, a hydrological model evaluates Muvumba catchment's river discharge, informing effective implementation of mitigation and adaptation strategies. Analysis indicated fluctuating minimum temperatures (14°C to 17°C) and maximum annual temperatures (27°C to 28.3°C) in 2012-2021, with a 0.4°C rise in maximum temperature over the decade. Averaging 21.6°C to 22.5°C, increased evaporation heightened water body depletion, impacting Muvumba catchment's water availability, exacerbating drought and scarcity. Projections for 2021-2040 anticipate March at 15.01°C as the coldest month, while July hits 28.7°C. Mean temperature may range from 21°C to 23.3°C, with a projected 0.82°C increase. Notably, annual precipitation peaked in 2020 at 1176.31 mm and hit a low in 2017 with 628.77 mm, emphasizing the water stress issue. It was found that the impacted location was the Mulindi sub-catchment, which is susceptible to floods and soil erosion, with the silt end up as sediments in rivers and streams. Research indicated the prediction of 1033.68mm annual rainfall in 2012-2040. Over 20 years it is predicted the reduction of 18.76 mm of precipitation, the highest annual evaporation rate was 2013, indicated 3.83mm which led to more water lost from water bodies. From2012 to 2021 water quality level was varied between 7.6 pH and 7.35 pH which facilitated the release of toxic substances from sediments into water further impacting water quality. Future water demand and use scenarios show that water stress in Muvumba will gradually increase, river discharges reduced by 2019 and 2020 due to decreased precipitation, LULCCD showed reduction of 17% of forests which lead to high rises of temperature .The average monthly discharge is projected to decrease from June to August (Long dry season) by variation of 4.7 and 7.8%by 2021-2040. Large increase of stream flow is projected to occur in April and May by variation of 13 and 14.7%. The research recommended the upgrading and maintaining existing stations and calibrating meteorological instruments, including weather radar, to give all climate information required for future observing, climate trend detection, climate variability management, afforestation, early warning, and disaster management.
Keyword: Climate change, Hydrological Modeling, Temperature, Precipitation, Evaporation and Water resources, Rwand
E-commerce Boom and its Effects on European Supply Chain Networks
No full textThe rapid growth of e-commerce has revolutionized the retail landscape in Europe, significantly impacting traditional supply chain networks. This article explores the effects of the e-commerce boom on European supply chains, identifying the challenges faced by businesses in adapting to the changing market dynamics. It delves into the key drivers behind the e-commerce surge, the resulting shifts in consumer behavior, and the consequent alterations required in supply chain strategies. The study also presents case examples of successful adaptation strategies implemented by European companies to thrive in the e-commerce era. By analyzing these trends and case studies, the article provides insights into the transformative potential of e-commerce on European supply chains and offers valuable recommendations for companies seeking to remain competitive in this dynamic environment.
Keywords: E-commerce, European supply chain networks, retail, consumer behavior, supply chain adaptation, logistics, online shopping, digitalization, market disruption
Insurance Risks and Financial Performance of Insurance Companies in Kenya
No full textThe insurance industry is instrumental in economic growth through enabling protection, capital creation and promoting commerce. However, there has been a decline in the insurance industry's profitability in Kenya. Hence, the study assessed the effect of insurance risks on the financial performance of insurance companies in Kenya. Specifically, the study examined the effects of credit risk, liquidity risk, solvency risk, reinsurance risk and underwriting risk on financial performance of insurance companies in Kenya. GDP was used as a moderating variable. The study was anchored on agency theory, credit risk theory, liquidity preference theory and collective risk theory. The target population included all the 53 licensed insurance companies operating in Kenya since 2015. A census approach was used. Explanatory research design and positivism research philosophy were utilized. Secondary data was gathered from audited financial statements submitted to Insurance Regulatory Authority for the period between 2015 and 2020. With the aid of STATA, panel data was analysed through descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analyses. The multiple regression results revealed that credit risk had a negative significant effect on financial performance, liquidity risk had a negative significant effect on financial performance, solvency risk had a negative significant effect on financial performance and underwriting risk had a negative significant effect on financial performance. But reinsurance risk had a positive insignificant effect on financial performance. GDP growth rate significantly moderates the relationship between the insurance risks and the financial performance of insurance companies in Kenya. The study recommended that insurance companies should have good credit risk management frameworks to minimize credit risks, implement proper investment portfolio management to guard against liquidity risks, in cases of negative asset base, increase the share capital, cover most of their claims themselves but ensure they have adequate reinsurance where high risk investment is involved and put in place proper policy estimation and valuation techniques.
Keywords: Credit risk, liquidity risk, solvency risk, reinsurance risk, underwriting risk, GDP, financial performance, insurance companies, Keny
Interest Rate and Sustainability of Basler Kantonalbank (BKB) in Basel, Switzerland
No full textEnsuring financial sustainability is crucial for banks, and they should carefully manage credit risk, adjust rates based on market conditions, and maintain a healthy loan portfolio to support long-term profitability and stability. Transparent communication and collaboration with stakeholders are essential for banks to foster trust, share best practices, and drive collective efforts towards sustainability in the financial sector. The findings suggest that Basler Kantonalbank (BKB) has successfully integrated sustainability into its interest rate policies. The bank offers preferential rates for sustainable projects, aligning with environmental and social goals in Basel, Switzerland. BKB's interest rate policy contributes to its financial sustainability by carefully managing credit risk and maintaining a healthy loan portfolio. The bank's transparent communication and commitment to financial education further foster trust and responsible financial decision-making. BKB's has put on proactive efforts to reduce its own environmental footprint, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to sustainability. By implementing energy-efficient measures and promoting responsible consumption, BKB sets an example for other financial institutions and contributes to a more sustainable future. In conclusion, Basler Kantonalbank (BKB) has effectively demonstrated that interest rate policies can be aligned with sustainability objectives. The bank's commitment to offering preferential rates for sustainable projects, financial stability, and responsible banking practices positions it as a leader in promoting sustainability in Basel, Switzerland. Basler Kantonalbank (BKB) should continue to expand its sustainability criteria for determining preferential interest rates, ensuring they encompass emerging sustainable sectors and projects that have significant environmental and social impact. BKB should strengthen its impact measurement and reporting practices to provide transparent information on the positive environmental and social outcomes of its interest rate policies, enhancing accountability and enabling stakeholders to assess the bank's progress in driving sustainability.
Keywords: Interest Rate, Sustainability, Basler Kantonalbank, Switzerlan
Financial Technology and Financial Inclusion of Small and Medium Enterprises in Kenya: Do Government Regulations Really Matter?
No full textThe study sought to evaluate the significance of government regulations on the relationship between financial technology and financial inclusion of Small and Medium Enterprises in Kenya. This study emanates from the Doctoral dissertation of the first author where the co-authors served as supervisors. Technology, Organization and Environment Theory and Financial Intermediation Theory were utilized. The study adopted explanatory research design. The top 100 Small Medium Enterprises in Kenya constitute the target population and the sample size was 200 based on purposive sampling technique and simple random sampling where two respondents were picked from each Small Medium Enterprises of interest. A response rate of 81.5 percent was achieved. The study used multiple regression analysis and it was established that government regulations had significant moderation effect on the relationship between financial technology and financial inclusion of small and medium enterprises in Kenya. The study recommends that the existing transaction limits should be reviewed in line with economic conditions of the country. Government should ensure that favorable lending rates are put in place so as to further enhance the level of financial inclusion of small and medium enterprises in Kenya. Government guidelines on screening of customers should be favorable to business owners and stringent requirements should be discouraged.
Keywords: Government Regulations, Financial Technology, Financial Inclusion, Small and Medium Enterprise