ZEGU Journals Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University
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Digital Footprint: Modelling Pathways Between Customer Data Strategic Insights And Sustainability Performance In Zimbabwe\u27s Telecommunications Sector
No full textThis study examines relationships between customer data analytics (CDA) dimensions and sustainability strategy development (SSD) in Zimbabwe\u27s telecommunications sector. A survey of 71 stakeholders from two major telecommunications companies (telcos measured perceptions of five CDA dimensions: customer acquisition, satisfaction, retention, lifetime value and engagement analytics. Structural equation modelling evaluated the influence of these CDA dimensions on SSD. Results indicate customer acquisition and engagement analytics positively influences SSD (standardised regression weights of 0.213 and 0.214
Evaluation of Strategic Business Architecture Implementation for Augmenting Performance of Small to Medium Enterprises in Manicaland Metropolitan Province, Zimbabwe
No full textThe main aim of this study is to assess the effect of strategic business architecture implementation on performance of Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the Manicaland Metropolitan Province in Zimbabwe. The quantitative study used random sampling to select 20 SMEs owners registered in the manufacturing and service delivery sectors and been in operation for the past 10years. Structured questionnaires are used to solicit data which were analysed using descriptive statistics and correlations. Study findings are presented in numbers, tables and graphs. Ethical considerations were done during the data generation and analysis procedure. The study results indicate that SMEs adopt strategic processes to pave way for formulation and implementation of favourable business policies to harness business sustainability. Study results show that strategic architecture allows rapid economic and technical change for SMEs and also allows them to provide quality service, total quality management as well as customerhandling to retain customer base. In addition, research findings show that that strategic architecture had been impinged by lack of technical strategic tools, lack of human resources expertise, prohibitive legal systems and infrastructural challenges. As a result, the findings of this study are pertinent because they inform policy and practice on the effectiveness of integrating human capital to augment sustainable performance of SMEs in regards to strategic architecture and performance of SMEs. The results of the study further strengthen the existing body of literature in that strategic management is a critical aspect of the organisation affecting the organisation‘s performance. SMEs are also urged to pay attention to their systems, processes, communication channels and policies since these have a serious bearing on the effectiveness of the organisation. As such, it is recommended that future research be done in several other SMEs sector in Zimbabwe in order to make meaningful generalisations
Dam Infrastructure Provision in Rural Africa: Some Selected Country Case Studies
No full textThe study examines the provision of dam infrastructure in rural Africa through case studies from selected countries, aiming to assess challenges, opportunities and impacts on water resources and economic development. By reviewing literature and empirical data, it offers insights into dam infrastructure\u27s effectiveness in addressing rural communities\u27 water and energy needs. Through case study analysis, the study identifies lessons for future development efforts. It argues that dam infrastructure has potential to address water scarcity, promote agriculture and enhance energy security, contingent on factors like funding, governance and community involvement. The major objective is to assess dam projects\u27 impacts on water access, agriculture and energy security in rural Africa and to identify lessons for future efforts. Key questions addressed are the challenges and opportunities of dam provision, their impacts on rural communities and lessons learned from case studies. Methodologically, the study employs desk-based research and case study analysis, drawing data from academic journals, government reports and non-governmental organisation (NGO) publications. For data analysis, the study utilises textual analysis to examine and interpret the qualitative information gathered from the selected case studies and other relevant sources. The study recommends careful planning, stakeholder engagement and environmental stewardship to ensure dam infrastructure sustainability and success in rural Africa
Economic Shocks as Reference Point to the Quest to Curbing Rural Crimes
No full textThe article explores the intersection of economic challenges, rural wellbeing and criminal behaviour in Zimbabwe. The study focuses on the lived experiences and perceptions of people in Chikomba and Buhera rural districts of Zimbabwe on the criminal dynamics in the face of economic challenges. A qualitative methodology is adopted where indepth and key informant interviews were used to explore the extent to that poverty, unemployment and declining agricultural productivity contribute to criminal activities. The Strain Theory and the Rational Choice Theory are employed to analyse the criminal tendencies shown by people and understand the meaning behind such behaviour. The findings show that economic shocks tear apart traditional livelihoods, resulting in the breakdown of the social fabric, where due to desperation, some engage in criminal activities. Furthermore, the gendered impacts of economic shocks are highlighted as women are disproportionately affected. The article highlights the need for community-driven solutions. These include local governance strengthening, livelihood diversification and fostering resilience via sustainable rural development. The study submits that mitigating the economic causes of rural crime requires holistic and participatory methods to prioritise empowerment initiatives instead of punitive measures
Sustainable Construction of Rural Building Structures under the Impact of Increased Tropical Cyclonic Events
No full textThe increasing frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones in Zimbabwe, driven by climate change, have highlighted the need for sustainable construction practices. While modern construction techniques and advanced materials are becoming more prevalent, traditional building methods remain widely used, particularly in rural areas, due to economic constraints and cultural perceptions. Using secondary data sources, the study examines the interplay between traditional and modern construction approaches. There is need for strategies, materials and practices which contribute to environmental sustainability and social cohesion in rural communities. The findings indicate that while advanced materials and technologies enhance resilience, traditional practices also offer valuable, sustainable solutions. Achieving a balance between these approaches is crucial for promoting environmental sustainability, reducing construction costs and improving access to financing. The study highlights the need for well-defined strategies that integrate both traditional and modern construction methods to enhance resilience in rural communities
The Impact of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict on Farmer Input Supply in Small-scale Maize Production in Mashonaland East Province Zimbabwe
No full textThe conflict between Russia and Ukraine created economic impacts felt across the whole world and has high potential to derail the economic outlook for Zimbabwe among many other countries that heavily depend on imports. Starting in early 2022, fertiliser prices rose almost 30% due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In this study, the effect of the Russia Ukraine conflict on the cost of maize inputs, maize productivity and profitability of maize production was evaluated in Chikomba District, located within Mashonaland East Province for the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 maize growing seasons. Simple random sampling was used to obtain a sample size of 385 participants derived from the conversion of a standard deviation of 0.5 at a 95% confidence level into a z-score. Questionnaires were used to obtain primary data from the participants. Benefit cost ratio (BCR) and gross margin budget analysis were used to evaluate the profitability of maize production. Out of the five explanatory variables that had a significant impact on maize productivity, AN use had the most significant effect in both seasons, 2021/22 and 2022/23, with (B=0.575, p=0.025) and (B=0544, p=0.025), respectively. Given that the Russia-Ukraine conflict period was characterised by exorbitant AN price increases that reduced affordability by many smallholder farmers across Zimbabwe, it therefore, means that the conflict has had a negative impact on maize productivity by farmers. This is due to the use of a lower fertiliser rate in response to the 57% and 71%price hike in basal and top-dressing fertiliser, respectively, lowering the yield/productivity of maize, meaning that there will be less maize to sell for covering costs and making a profit. The reduction in input levels lowered both the cost of production and the potential yield that could be produced for the market. There is need for further study aimed at developing solutions that enhance the farmers‟ resilience to the effects of conflict on input prices, productivity and profitability of maize productio
Adapting Learning Management Systems to Zimbabwean Cultural Contexts: Enhancing User Engagement through Localised Design
No full textThe adoption of Learning Management Systems (LMS) in Zimbabwe faces significant challenges due to infrastructural limitations, socioeconomic disparities and cultural mismatches. While e-learning holds transformative potential, its effectiveness is hindered by poor internet connectivity, high data costs and Western-centric LMS designs that conflict with Zimbabwe’s collectivist learning culture rooted in the ubuntu philosophy. This study explores how LMS platforms can be culturally adapted to enhance user engagement, accessibility and educational outcomes for Zimbabwean learners. Through a qualitative multi-methods approach, combining document analysis of Scopus-indexed literature and qualitative interviews with university educators, the research identifies key barriers, including infrastructural deficits, linguistic exclusion and institutional policy gaps. Findings highlight the need for localised LMS designs incorporating indigenous languages (Shona, Ndebele, etc.), low-bandwidth optimisation and collaborative learning features aligned with Zimbabwean pedagogical traditions. The study also underscores the importance of user-centred design (UCD) and policy interventions to bridge the digital divide. Recommendations include subsidised internet access, faculty training in digital literacy and culturally responsive LMS interfaces. By integrating these strategies, Zimbabwe can foster inclusive, equitable and effective e-learning ecosystems that align with local cultural and infrastructural realities
Leveraging Digital Proficiency to Transform Service Delivery in Private Sector Hospitals in Harare, Zimbabwe
No full textThe article examines the impact of digital proficiency on service delivery in private sector hospitals in Harare, Zimbabwe. It investigates how healthcare professionals’ competence in using digital tools and technologies influences the effectiveness and transformation of healthcare services. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through interviews with 32 participants, including healthcare professionals, administrative staff and patients. The study identified key competencies in digital literacy, such as the use of electronic health records (EHRs), digital appointment systems and telemedicine platforms and assessed their influence on operational effectiveness. Metrics used to evaluate service outcomes included reduced patient wait times; lower administrative error rates and higher patient satisfaction scores. Results reveal that higher levels of digital proficiency among hospital staff are associated with streamlined administrative processes, improved accuracy in patient data handling and enhanced communication with patients. Patients in digitally proficient hospitals reported greater satisfaction, citing efficient appointment scheduling and easier access to medical information as primary benefits. However, the study also uncovers several gaps. Limited training opportunities are noted, particularly in the use of advanced hospital management systems, data security protocols and telehealth platforms. Furthermore, resistance to technology adoption emerged as a significant barrier, with contributing factors including lack of understanding, fear of job displacement and generational differences in technology use. The study concludes with recommendations for targeted and continuous professional development programmes focused on bridging identified skill gaps. It also suggests implementing change management strategies to address resistance, including peer mentoring, inclusive training sessions and clear communication of the benefits of digital tools in enhancing care deliver
Unpacking the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence chatbots by students in tertiary institutions in Mashonaland Central, Zimbabwe
No full text This research article unpacks the perceptions of the academic community on the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots (chatting robots) by tertiary students in Zimbabwean universities. The article seeks to understand the usage of AI chatbots in education, their opportunities, challenges, concerns and prospects of using AI chatbots in educational settings. The research findings revolve around the perceptions and scepticism of the adoption of AI chatbots in education, as seen from students, lecturers and librarians developing higherorder cognitive skills. The main objectives were to identify the main AI chatbots commonly used by tertiary students, to explore the opportunities of adopting of AI chatbots to students and to expose the pitfalls associated with the usage of AI by tertiary students. Participants were drawn from tertiary students, lecturers and university library staff members. The study employed qualitative methodologies, including in-depth interviews, observational checklist and focus groups. The findings suggest that AI chatbot is both a curse and a blessing to tertiary students. The study reveals that AI chatbots enhance learning experience, enable them to overcome skill gaps, bring insights on assignment writing and aid in exam preparation. The study reveals that AI chatbots foster the development of higher-order cognitive skills by augmenting traditional lectures, test preparation and personalisation. However, pitfalls include plagiarism, outdated information, shallow information, indolent and slothful laziness in students, as well as financial constraints associated with AI chatbots. The study recommends that universities must invest in workshops to train staff and students on the responsible ways of adopting and using AI to reduce the increase of luddites. Universities are recommended to develop referencing systems allowing students to acknowledge using AI chatbots as sources. Tertiary students are also recommended to fuse AI with human capacity, desisting from the culture of relying solely on AI chatbots
Rural Electrification - Is the Panacea Working Across Africa
No full textRural electrification in Africa holds significant potential as a development tool, offering opportunities for economic growth, improved education and healthcare and enhanced quality of life. However, achieving universal access to electricity in rural areas is a complex challenge that requires careful consideration of multiple factors. This article presents a comprehensive analysis of rural electrification efforts in Africa, focusing on specific case studies to provide a nuanced understanding of the successes and limitations of current approaches. The methodology employed in this research involves a review of existing literature, academic sources and policy documents, supplemented by data sets and case studies from selected African countries. By examining the progress and challenges faced in countries such as Rwanda, Ethiopia, South Africa, Tanzania and Zimbabwe, a holistic view of rural electrification in Africa emerges. The key findings of this study highlight the importance of political commitment, renewable energy sources and community engagement in successful rural electrification initiatives