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Effect of Foreign Direct Investment on Economic Growth in Rwanda
No full textThe research study aimed to examine the effects of foreign direct investment (FDI) on the economic growth of Rwanda, with a specific focus on Rwanda. The study sought to explore the relationship between FDI and key economic indicators such as the inflation rate, exchange rate fluctuations, and balance of trade, to gain insights into the overall impact of FDI on Rwanda's economic development. The research adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. Data were collected through questionnaires and documentary research. Documentary research involved analyzing archival data from the BNR to obtain historical information and supporting evidence on FDI and its impact on economic growth in Rwanda. Quantitative data were analyzed using python 3, employing statistical techniques, including descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. These analyses explored the relationships between FDI and economic growth indicators, such as the inflation rate, exchange rate fluctuations, and balance of trade. Qualitative data obtained from documentary research were thematically analyzed to gain a deeper understanding of the stakeholders' perspectives on the consequences of FDI in Rwanda. The research findings confirm that Rwanda Both inflation and economic growth rates in Rwanda have shown upward trends. Inflation started relatively low at 2.3% in 2017-2018 and gradually increased to 4.6% in 2021-2022. Economic growth also began at 3.4% in 2017-2018 and rose to 4.6% during the same period. Rwanda has demonstrated a noteworthy relationship between exchange rate stability and economic growth. The exchange rates remained consistently stable, fluctuating between 4.3% and 4.6%, indicating a favorable environment for international trade and investments. Simultaneously, Rwanda's economic growth rates steadily climbed from 3.4% to 4.6%, reflecting effective economic policies and investments. Rwanda's economic landscape is characterized by a consistent trade deficit in its Balance of Trade (BOT), ranging from -US2,000.40 million. Simultaneously, Rwanda experienced steady economic growth, with growth rates climbing from 3.4% to 4.6%. The research recommends to ensure economic stability in Rwanda, it is crucial to maintain inflation control through prudent fiscal and monetary policies. Additionally, diversifying the export portfolio, especially in agriculture and manufacturing, can reduce the trade deficit. Investment in export infrastructure, such as transportation and logistics, will boost competitiveness globally. Promoting both domestic and foreign investment, particularly in export-oriented sectors, will stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and address the trade deficit issue.
Keywords: Foreign Direct Investment, Economic Growth, Rwand
Navigating the Complex Landscape of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in Asia: Identifying Key Determinants and Strategies for Improvement
No full textMost LMICs have been slow to receive and distribute vaccines, which are much more available in high-income countries, prompting critiques of global vaccine inequity, which were exacerbated with the distribution of so-called booster shots in high-income countries in the autumn of 2021. Access issues, coupled with vaccine hesitancy, can have catastrophic effects. Vaccination against the novel coronavirus is one of the most effective strategies for combating the global Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. However, vaccine hesitancy has emerged as a major obstacle in several regions of the world, including Asia. The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated the rapid development and distribution of vaccines worldwide. However, vaccine hesitancy, particularly in Asia, poses a significant challenge to achieving herd immunity and controlling the pandemic. This study aims to identify the key determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Asian populations and develop targeted strategies to improve vaccination uptake. A comprehensive review of literature from 2019 to 2020 was conducted, focusing on sociocultural, political, and healthcare system factors that contribute to vaccine hesitancy in the region. Findings reveal that cultural and religious beliefs, misinformation and distrust in government and healthcare systems, and logistical and accessibility issues significantly impact vaccine uptake. To address these challenges, the study proposes strategies such as engaging with community leaders, improving communication, building public trust, and addressing logistical and accessibility barriers. By comprehensively understanding and addressing the determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Asia, the public health community can navigate the complex landscape and facilitate higher vaccination rates, ultimately contributing to the global control of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Keywords: COVID-19 vaccine, Vaccine hesitancy, Determinants, Strategies for improvement, Asi
Prevalence and Determinants of Elevated Blood Pressure among Children in Rural Kayonza District, Rwanda
No full textChildhood elevated blood pressure (BP) has emerged as a concern for global public health. In Sub-Saharan African countries, where Rwanda is located, there is a scarcity of BP data for both children and adolescents. Elevated blood pressure (EBP) is a neglected issue in children, it can develop in young age and can last into adulthood. This community-based cross-sectional study in rural Kayonza, Rwanda investigated the prevalence and determinants of elevated blood pressure (EBP) in children aged 36 months. Measurements of blood pressure and height were converted to percentiles using World Health Organization standards. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews with a digital questionnaire. OMRON HBP-1320 blood pressure monitor and SECA 213 stadiometer were used. The mean systolic blood pressure was 90.60 mmHg and 58.75 mmHg and standard deviation of 7.60mHg for diastolic blood pressure. Most child's mothers (76%) were farmers, more than half (62.7%) of child mothers attended primary school, and 36.60% were between the ages of 31 and 35. (Mean age: 30.4 years, Stand. Dev.: 4.4, Minimum age: 21 years and Maximum age: 39 years), (53%) of children were males, 38 % were 36 months old (Mean age: 36.9 months, Stand. Dev.: 1.0, Minimum age: 35 months, and Maximum age: 39 months). Elevated BP for children is defined as being prehypertensive and hypertensive; all children with systolic or diastolic blood pressure percentiles of ≥90th to <95th were prehypertensive, while those with systolic or diastolic blood pressure percentiles of ≥95th to 99th and above were hypertensive. The prevalence of elevated BP was 40.4% with 18.6% being prehypertension and 21.8% being hypertension among 3-year-old children in the rural Kayonza district. Of them 72 (97%) children who had elevated blood pressure, their family were using biomass fuel and 71(36.60%) of study children were below the 5th percentile of height which an indicator of short stature, 27(40.91%) among them had elevated blood pressure. Factors like difficulty getting food on daily basis (food insecurity) (AOR=3.75; 95% CI: [1.70-8.27]; p=0.001) and medium monthly family income (AOR= 2.38; 95% CI: [1.07-5.31]; p=0.033) were associated with increased prevalence of elevated BP. No statistically significant was found between elevated blood pressure and prenatal factors. Mobilization and increase community’s awareness on the procedure for measuring children’s BP during routine health visits from 3 years old should be done to prevent this increasingly common health condition which is ignored and in asymptomatic nature.
Keywords: Elevated Blood Pressure, Prehypertension, Hypertension, Prenatal Factors, Environmental Factors, Behavioural Factors, Kayonza District, Rwanda
The Impact of Sustainability Model on the Sustainable Production during the Covid-19 Pandemic
No full textPurpose: This research aims to give managers and organizations with the best means and practices for maintaining sustainable production with the use of SSCM practices during challenging periods, such as global crises, pandemics, or any other circumstance that impacts the business.
Design/Methodology: The research sample comprised of managers and department heads employed by enterprises in the Industrial area of Jeddah who were situated in various industries. This research used a non-probability sampling approach with roughly 260 responses from diverse industries.
Findings: Each of the variables of the sustainability model have a positive impact on sustainability production during the pandemic with organizational culture, as an exception. Based on the findings, it was found that organizational culture did not affect the sustainability production.
Research Implications: In terms of profitability, sustainable enterprises with a networked structure and strong virtuality outperform hierarchical organizations. In difficult situations, shared leadership should be utilized to quickly gather information from all functional areas. People-driven companies are better positioned to endure COVID-19 and future viral outbreaks. Before and after crises, successful organizations utilize ICT to build trust and relationships with employees, stakeholders, and customers. Finally, balancing resource hoarding with resilience is crucial. Continuous functioning of companies requires equipment, cognitive, and human capital. After a pandemic, an organization's capacity to analyze financial sustainability and find other funding sources is critical to survival. Companies with financial contingency plans allowed operations to flourish.
Originality/value: This study focuses on the impact of network structure, resilience, organizational culture, distributed leadership, ICT and financial contingency on production sustainability during the pandemic. This study provided a channel for further research on distributive leadership and organizational culture to understand the different aspects of crisis management, especially with respect to Saudi Arabia and the effect of the pandemic on sustainable production
Keywords: Sustainability, Production, Resilience, Network, ICT, pandemic, COVID-19, Crisis management
Paper type: Research pape
Stakeholder Management Practices and Customer Satisfaction in the Public Sector in Rwanda: A Case of Rwanda Water and Sanitation Corporation
No full textStakeholder management plays an important role in organizational management. The study examined the influence of stakeholder management practices on customer satisfaction in the public sector in Rwanda. The specific objectives included to establish the influence of stakeholder mapping on customer satisfaction, to examine the influence of defensive stakeholder management practice on customer satisfaction and lastly to ascertain the influence of offensive stakeholder management practice on customer satisfaction in public sector in Rwanda case of WASAC. This study employed a case study and descriptive research design to explore issues of stakeholder management and how it influences customer satisfaction. The population size was 172,184 people constituting of external customers and internal customers of WASAC mainly employees, heads of directorates and board of Directors. A sample size of 399 respondents was computed using Yamane’s formula though 324 respondents are the ones who returned questionnaires. The sampling technique used in identifying respondents was stratified, purposive and simple random sampling. Data was collected through interviews and structured questionnaires and analysed using IBM SPSS Version 22. The data was presented in tables. Descriptive statistics findings did indicate 55%-100% of respondents in support of implementation of stakeholder mapping and defensive stakeholder management practices at WASAC. However, 20% and below supported the implementation of offensive stakeholder management practice at WASAC. Pearson correlation coefficient was found to be 0.560, 0.685 and -0.620 for stakeholder mapping, defensive stakeholder management practice and offensive stakeholder management practice respectively. Additionally, beta coefficients were 0.132, 0.235 and -0.211 with corresponding p values of 0.038, 0.001 and 0.024. The study therefore concluded that stakeholder mapping and defensive stakeholder management practices positively and significantly influence customer satisfaction while offensive stakeholder management practice negatively and significantly influence customer satisfaction. The study recommended managers of WASAC to conduct stakeholder analysis to identify all stakeholders, their characteristics and how they relate with the company, companies to adopt transparency and fairness in decision making process involving selection and recruitment, and lastly democracy and inclusivity should be practiced by companies and avoid any form of corrupt deals and practices for better performance and customer satisfaction.
Keywords: Stakeholder management practices, customer satisfaction, public sector, stakeholder mapping, defensive stakeholder management, offensive stakeholder managemen
Corporate Governance and Net Profit Before Tax of Quoted Food and Beverage Firms in Nigeria
No full textThe food and beverage industry is crucial to human existence as it provides sustenance and nutrition necessary for survival. The industry encompasses a wide range of activities, including the production, processing, packaging, distribution, and consumption of food and beverages. Despite its importance, studies have shown that quoted food and beverage firms are faced with the struggle to maintain substantial level of net profit before tax which are likely due to weak corporate governance (ownership structure, board composition, board diversity, CEO tenure, and board size). This study therefore, investigated the effect of corporate governance on earning per share of quoted food and beverage firms in Nigeria. The study adopted ex-post facto research design. The population of the study was 21 food and beverage firms quoted on Nigerian Exchange as at December 31st, 2021. The study used purposive sampling technique to choose the sample size of 14 quoted food and beverage firms based on the years of listing and data availability. The data used for the study were extracted from the audited annual financial statement of the sampled firms from 2014 to 2021. Descriptive and inferential (multiple regression) statistics were used to analyse the data at 10% significance level. Findings revealed that corporate governance had significant effect on net profit before tax (Adj.R2 = 0.23, F (5, 106) = 6.54, p < 0.10). The study concluded that corporate governance enhanced return on asset of quoted food and beverage firms in Nigeria. The study recommended that food and beverage firms should ensure the independence of the board is embraced and enhanced at all times to ensure improved financial performance and ensure returns on asset.
Key words: Corporate Governance, Net Profit before Tax, Food and Beverage Firm
Resilient Supply Chains in the Face of Disruptions: An In-Depth Study of Strategies Employed by U.S. Companies to Ensure Business Continuity
No full textThis study retrospectively explores the strategies employed by U.S. companies to ensure business continuity in the face of disruptions within their supply chains. The purpose of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of various resilience strategies adopted by American businesses and to derive insights that can inform future supply chain management practices. The problem addressed in this study was the increasing vulnerability of supply chains to disruptions, including natural disasters, global pandemics, and geopolitical tensions. These disruptions could result in significant economic losses and operational challenges for businesses. Understanding how U.S. companies tackled these challenges in the past provides valuable lessons for enhancing supply chain resilience. To achieve these objectives, a mixed-methods research approach was employed. Quantitative data were collected through surveys distributed to a diverse sample of U.S. companies across different industries. Qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews with supply chain and operations managers from a subset of these companies. The study analyzed historical cases of supply chain disruptions and the corresponding strategies used to mitigate their impact. Findings from this research indicate that U.S. companies employed a combination of strategies to enhance supply chain resilience, including diversifying suppliers, leveraging technology for real-time visibility, and implementing risk management frameworks. Companies that had robust business continuity plans in place were better equipped to respond to disruptions effectively. In conclusion, this study highlights the critical importance of proactive supply chain resilience strategies in mitigating the impact of disruptions. The lessons learned from past disruptions provide valuable insights for companies seeking to build more resilient supply chains in the future. Recommendations include the development and regular testing of robust business continuity plans, the adoption of digital technologies for enhanced visibility, and a proactive approach to risk management. By drawing from past experiences, U.S. companies can better prepare for and respond to future disruptions, ultimately ensuring the continuity of their operations and safeguarding their competitiveness in an ever-changing business landscape.
Keywords: Resilient Supply Chains, Disruptions, U.S. Companies, Business Continuity, Strategie
Agriculture Insurance and Farmers Performance in Rwanda, A Case of National Agriculture Insurance Project
No full textThe general objective of the study was to investigate the effect of agriculture insurance on farmers’ performance in Rwanda, a case of National Agriculture Insurance Project (NAIP). Specifically, the study examined farm production of insured famers before and after joining NAIP, assess farm income of insured famers before and after joining NAIP and evaluate savings level of insured famers before and after joining NAIP. The researcher conducted both descriptive and correlational studies. The study population was 241 farmers as cooperatives representative in NAIP. A sample size of 150 respondents was determined by the help of Solvin formula. The study used simple random sampling in selecting the respondents in the study. The study applied the following tools of data collection; questionnaire and documentary technique. The researcher adopted the descriptive and correlation analysis computed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21. The study utilized multiple linear regression analysis to make inferences for the survey. After collecting data, the following results were obtained. Farm production correlated with farmers performance at positive strong correlation of r=0.935. Further, on farm income of insured famers before and after joining NAIP, the results showed that 18% and 29.3% showed very great extent and great extent respectively that monthly income has been increased,34.7% revealed that moderate extent. On the other hand, the person coefficient correlation showed that there is strongly positive correlation of 89.6% between farm income and farmers performance. The study concluded that farm production, income and savings level increased extremely after farmers joined NAIP. The study recommended that Agriculture agencies should encourage youths to invest in agriculture industry as the way of increasing agriculture productivity.
Keywords: Agriculture Insurance, Performance, Productivit
Entrepreneurship Education and Entrepreneurial Intention: Case Study of Business Students in Tianjin, China
No full textEntrepreneurial intentions refer to an individual's conscious and planned decision to participate in entrepreneurial activities, reflecting their desire to start a new venture or pursue opportunities. Entrepreneurial behaviors encompass the actions and activities undertaken by individuals to initiate, develop, and manage a business venture, involving aspects such as opportunity recognition, resource acquisition, innovation, risk-taking, and networking. Entrepreneurship education instills confidence and reduces the perceived barriers to entrepreneurship, motivating students to take the necessary steps to turn their entrepreneurial aspirations into tangible ventures. The research utilized the descriptive research design. The target population was 250 business students in Tianjin, China. The study did sampling of 230 respondents that were selected from the target population of 250 business students in Tianjin, China. The collection of data was conducted through stratified random sampling and questionnaires were used to gather data. The study concluded that entrepreneurship education positively affects students' intentions to become entrepreneurs and shapes their entrepreneurial behaviors. The incorporation of practical and experiential learning activities, such as business plan competitions and internships, proves to be particularly effective in enhancing entrepreneurial intentions and providing hands-on experiences for aspiring entrepreneurs. The curriculum that encompasses a wide range of entrepreneurial topics, including opportunity recognition, risk management, and innovation, plays an important role in shaping students' entrepreneurial mindset and knowledge. It was recommended that educational institutions should continue to prioritize entrepreneurship education and allocate resources to develop comprehensive and practical entrepreneurship programs. Institutions should employ rigorous assessment methods to measure the outcomes and effect of entrepreneurship education on students' intentions and behaviors. Policymakers should recognize the importance of entrepreneurship education and provide support to educational institutions in implementing and enhancing entrepreneurship programs.
Keywords: Entrepreneurship Education, Entrepreneurial Intentions and Behaviors, Business Students, Chin
Effect of Project Communication Practices on Performance of the International Non-Governmental Organizational Projects in Rwanda
No full textProject communication is one of the most important factors that contributes to the success of projects. The International Non Governmental Organizational (INGOs) in Rwanda has highlighted the significant role of communication in the management and success of its projects. This study examined the effect of project communication practices on the performance of INGOs projects in Rwanda. The specific objectives of the study were to assess the effect of participatory communication, results-driven communication, and multi-channelled communication on the performance of INGOs’projects. The study was guided by four theories: participatory communication theory, gratifications theory, goal-oriented communication theory, and implementation theory. The study used a descriptive design with a correlational regression effect, and both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study targeted 170 workers involved in the various projects implemented by INGOs project in Rwanda. Stratified sampling was used to choose the sample. The researcher collected primary data using structured questionnaires and interview guides. The data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The results of the study showed that participatory communication was significantly correlated with dialogue and consultation and project schedules. Results-driven communication was associated with feedback on cost efficiency, project schedules, and project quality. Multi-channelled communication was significantly correlated with cohesiveness and consistency of multi-voiced messages and project schedules. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher recommends that INGOs’ project managers should adopt effective project communication practices and use project communication strategies to encourage the attainment of expected goals. The researcher also suggests that further studies should gather data from project team members and stakeholders to enrich empirical literature.
Keywords: Project, Communication Practices, Performance, INGOs Projects