Category Volume 3

Barriers to Female Participation in Community-Based Organisations in the Kumbungu District of the Northern Region of Ghana

Abstract – A Community-Based Organisation (CBO) is a voluntary autonomous association of people designed to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs through a jointly owned and democratically managed organisation. Female participation in Community-based Organisations (CBOs) all over the world is one of the important factors which affect development in most communities. This term paper is about examining the barriers to female participation in CBOs in the Kumbungu District in the northern region of Ghana. The main objective of the study was to examine barriers to female participation in CBOs in the Kumbungu District of Ghana. A qualitative study design was used for the study and a purposive sampling technique was employed to arrive at 32 respondents. Data were collected through interviews with respondents to probe for detailed information on barriers to female participation in CBOs. The findings revealed a low level of participation of respondents, obstacles that serve as barriers challenging the active participation of respondents in their CBOs’, and suggested advocacy and capacity building as mitigating factors to barriers of female participation in CBOs’.  The study concludes that females face socio-economic, socio-cultural, socio-political, and religious barriers in participation in youth associations that served as CBOs in the study area. The study suggested CBOs’ activities on advocacy and capacity building to address the barriers to female participation in CBOs’.  The study, therefore, recommends that CBOs’ should organise sensitisation and training programmes for females on social and economic empowerment. Keywords: gender, community-based, organisation, participation, barriers, development [Cite as: Yussif, A. H. (2021). Barriers to Female Participation in Community-Based Organisations in the Kumbungu District of the Northern Region of Ghana. Diverse Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, Issue 7, Pages 19-32.]

Corporate Governance Practices by Rural District Councils (RDCs) in Zimbabwe. A Review of Related Literature

Abstract – The review paper focuses on challenges currently being faced by Rural District Councils (RDCs) in Zimbabwe of corporate governance nature. The performance of Rural District Councils (RDCs) in most parts of the country is being affected by council members who are advancing their interests at the expense of the community. The authors reviewed the literature on corporate governance challenges impeding the functionality of local authorities in Zimbabwe. The authors also looked at how the pillars of corporate governance are being violated by council members at the expense of service delivery in communities. Rural communities are characterized by poor roads and bridges, refuse collection, shortage of water and sanitation facilities, shortage of schools, poor entertainment centers, and under-equipped clinics amongst other determinants. The authors recommended the implementation of proper corporate governance frameworks in Rural District Councils (RDCs) to improve service delivery in communities under their jurisdiction. Keywords: corporate governance, rural district councils, state-owned enterprises, service delivery, local authorities [Cite as: Nyamudzodza, J., Mthombeni, A., Siziba, S., Sifile, O., and Manuere, F. (2021). Corporate Governance Practices by Rural District Councils (RDCs) in Zimbabwe. A Review of Related Literature. Diverse Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, Issue 7, Pages 13-18.]

Redirecting the path of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) Through Corporate Governance Legislative Development. A Review of Related Literature

Abstract – This review is concerned with corporate governance legislative development for State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). The primary focus is on corporate governance developments in Kenya, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. The authors reviewed the literature on corporate governance development for SOEs with the primary goal of identifying the main malfeasances that have happened at SOEs in Africa so as to allow to authors to make recommendations on how such malfeasances may be reduced. The study used secondary literature sources such as published journals and government reports. The study reveals that in Africa corporate governance development has largely evolved following main corporate scandals that have happened in different parts of the world. The other findings from the review of the literature show that SOEs have been involved in scandals in Africa hence their inefficiencies. The authors recommended that more serious penalties be put for those who practice corporate misgovernance and corruption.  Authors recommended that African countries strengthen non-partisan anti-corruption agencies that may reinforce good corporate governance practices by putting a cog to any corporate governance malfeasances in SOEs. Keywords: Corporate Governance, Corporate Scandals, Sustenance of State-Owned Enterprises, and State-Owned Enterprises, Corporate governance development [Cite as: Mthombeni, A., Nyamudzodza, J., Sifile, O., Manuere, F., and Siziba, S. (2021). Redirecting the path of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) Through Corporate Governance Legislative Development. A Review of Related Literature. Diverse Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, Issue 7, Pages 1-12.]

The Effectiveness of Online Learning Strategies Adopted by Secondary Schools in Nyanga North, Zimbabwe

Abstract – The study sought to determine the effectiveness of online learning techniques towards the quality of learning in Nyanga North Secondary Schools in Zimbabwe during the COVID-19 era. The researcher was motivated to carry out the study by the alarming fall in pass rates by students in Nyanga North secondary schools in 2020 national examinations. The unexpected COVID 19 outbreak in 2019 led to subsequent national lockdowns which disrupted the normal way of social life. The emergence of the Covid 19 virus meant education across the globe had to take a new trajectory. The functionality of learning institutions was affected as strict measures were put in place to combat the spread of the deadly virus.  The traditional leaning methods became less effective as the measures which were put into effect promoted distance learning to reduce physical contact between persons. It was therefore incumbent for schools and other learning institutions to embrace new methods of teaching and learning to bridge the gap created by national shutdowns so that learners would not leg behind with their syllabuses. The purpose of the study was to determine the effectiveness of online learning strategies towards the quality of learning in Nyanga North secondary schools. An exploratory research approach was adopted by the research to have a deep understanding of the problem area. The researchers made use of a qualitative research approach where questionnaires were used as the data collection instrument for the study. The population of the study consisted of students from 13 secondary schools in Nyanga North. The study population was 120 students randomly selected from the thirteen secondary schools. The questionnaire response rate was 80% with 96 out 120 students returning fully completed questionnaires. The findings of the study showed that the adoption of online learning was impeded by a number of…

An Assessment of the Role of Customs Institutions in Facilitating Women’s Informal Cross-Border Trade Activities in Southern Africa: The case of Zimbabwe

Abstract – The paper scrutinizes the role played by customs administrative systems in facilitating women’s cross-border trading activities. Customs and revenue collection authorities are mandated to extract taxes by implementing just and fair duty regimes. Developments in recent decades have emphasized a need to safeguard women’s rights and inclusion in economic systems. Despite all efforts in ensuring gender equality research has proven that women have remained marginalized. With World Customs organization (WCO) conventions which include the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) in place, it is the responsibility of the customs administration to align their laws, policies and procedures to ensure that women in Informal Cross Border Trade (ICBT) are also covered and their operations protected. Gender equality and diversity play an important role in the achievement of economic and social transformation and this has been reinforced by the inclusion of gender equality in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The article seeks to explore how customs administration can enhance intra-regional trade by managing and regulating informal cross-border trade activities in a gender-sensitive and responsive manner. Keywords: customs administration, trade facilitation, women, cross border trading, WCO, regional integration [Cite as: Chiukira, L. (2021). An Assessment of the Role of Customs Institutions in Facilitating Women’s Informal Cross-Border Trade Activities in Southern Africa: The case of Zimbabwe. Diverse Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, Issue 6, Pages 1-11.]

Can Remittance Boost Tax Revenue Collections: A case study of Zimbabwe

Abstract – The study investigates whether remittances can help developing countries increase their tax revenue collections. For the period from the second quarter of 2009 through the fourth quarter of 2017, the study used quarterly secondary time series analysis. The study used the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) methodology to construct two basic regression models that take into account two major tax heads that are linked to remittances: income tax and value-added tax. Remittances are measured using three different methods: current period remittances, one period lagged remittances, and remittance squared. Remittances boost both income tax and VAT, according to empirical evidence derived using the OLS approach. As a result, increased remittance inflows have the potential to generate significant additional revenue for the government in the form of income and consumption taxes. The results of both models also showed that tax revenue responds to economic growth in a significant and beneficial way. According to the report, if the government can build a platform that draws more remittances, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority can generate more revenue. This can be accomplished by lowering the expenses of sending remittances through official channels. Keywords: Remittance, Tax Revenue, Value Added Tax, Income Tax, Economic Growth [Cite as: Hamudi, S. (2021). Can Remittance Boost Tax Revenue Collections: A Case Study of Zimbabwe. Diverse Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, Issue 5, Pages 1-12.]

Investigating the Nexus Between Foreign Aid and Economic Development: The Case of Goromonzi District, Mashonaland East Province, Zimbabwe

Abstract – The foreign aid-economic development nexus remains controversial and hence vague as different development economists and researchers give mixed conclusions over the debate. Commanding a place on the list of perpetual recipients of foreign aid, Zimbabwe has its stake in the on-going debate. As one of the perennial beneficiaries of aid, one would expect that at one point aid would cease and countries be self-sustaining. However, this is not the case with Zimbabwe and this leaves one with a question- ‘Is foreign aid ushering in development’? This paper sought to unpack the aid-local development nexus through a qualitative approach. The quantitative approach could not be possible due to data paucity. Through physical evaluation, interviews, questionnaires and focus group discussions in Goromonzi District, results indicated a strong positive impact of aid towards development. However, stakeholder registered some concerns which they felt if attended to would bring more benefits from foreign aid. The study registers some policy recommendations basing on research findings. Keywords: Foreign Aid, Economic Development, Exploratory, Goromonzi District [Cite as: Chinorwadza, T., and Siavhundu, T. (2021). Investigating the Nexus Between Foreign Aid and Economic Development: The Case of Goromonzi District, Mashonaland East Province, Zimbabwe. Diverse Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, Issue 4, Pages 1-8.]

An Investigation into the Efficacies of Introducing a National Health Insurance Scheme in Zimbabwe: Insights from Key Stakeholders

Abstract – There is consensus on the contribution of both public and private health expenditure on health outcomes. Several health funding schemes have emerged over time and National Health Insurance Schemes (NHIS) commands its stake. A myriad of studies were carried out on the impact of NHIS on health outcomes. Though there is a general concurrence on its effectiveness, some countries have failed to establish such schemes and Zimbabwe, the country of study is not an exception. This exploratory study sought to elicit views from selected key stakeholders on the efficacies and odds of introducing an NHIS in the country. Questionnaires and Focus Group Discussions (FDGs) were the main data collection tools used. Responses indicated that 87 % of the stakeholders threw their weight in underscoring the contribution of the introduction of an NHIS towards positively impacting health outcomes. However, all the stakeholders expressed reservation towards the near-future introduction of such owing to the prevailing macroeconomic conditions. The study proffered recommendations basing on the expressed views. Keywords: National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Health Expenditure, Health Outcomes [Cite as: Chinorwadza, T. (2021). An Investigation into the Efficacies of Introducing a National Health Insurance Scheme in Zimbabwe: Insights from Key Stakeholders. Diverse Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, Issue 3, Pages 21-29.]

The Challenges of Consolidating Democracy in the Nigerian Fourth Republic: A Comment

Abstract – Nigeria returned to civil rule on 29th May, 1999 and Nigerians were hopeful that their lots would be improved but twenty-one years after, the country is faced with numerous challenges among which are insecurity, poverty, banditry, leadership failure, corruption, electoral malpractice, among others. All these have affected democratic consolidation in the country. This essay examines the challenges of consolidating democracy in the Nigerian Fourth Republic and suggests ways by which such challenges can be addressed. The paper adopts a historical and descriptive method.  Put differently, it is a desk research and relies on secondary data such as books, journals, and internet materials and analyzed using content analysis. The paper argues that the country has not fared better in the last twenty-one years of democratic rule in the country as cases of corruption, insecurity, banditry, and many other social vices have been on the rise. For democracy to be consolidated, there is a need for attitudinal change on the part of the rulers and ruled and adherence to democratic tenets. Keywords: Democracy, Democratic Consolidation, Nigeria, Fourth Republic [Cite as: Adeosun, A. B. (2021). The Challenges of Consolidating Democracy in the Nigerian Fourth Republic: A Comment. Diverse Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, Issue 2, Pages 10-20.]

Knowledge on the Dangers of Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy Among Women of Reproductive Age in Nadowli-Kaleo District, Ghana

Abstract – Alcohol consumption in the reproductive age of women is a public health concern because of its health implications on both mother and baby. The outcome of such action is that frequent drinkers may be unaware they are pregnant until after some weeks of gestation. This study assessed the knowledge of reproductive age women on the dangers associated with alcohol consumption during or in pregnancy in the Nadowli-Kaleo District. The study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional design. A sample size of 294 reproductive-age women were selected through a multi-stage random sampling method for the study. Data was collected through researchers’ developed questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was used for the analysis of data collected and chi-square statistics was utilized to test association at a significance level of 95% (0.05). Our findings showed that more than half (56.5%) of the respondents knew that alcohol consumption has some negative effects on human health including the unborn child. Alcohol consumption among women in this study was 62.6%. Low birth weight, attention deficit disorder, mental retardation, and low intelligence quotient were the major dangers identified to be associated with alcohol consumption on the unborn child. Women who had SHS education or were not pregnant were more likely than those who had no level of formal education or pregnant to know that alcohol consumption in pregnancy can cause any of the dangers associated with alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Women generally knew that alcohol consumption has negative effects such as low birth weight, attention deficit disorder, and mental retardation on the unborn child. Keywords: alcohol, consumption, knowledge, reproductive age, Nadowli-Kaleo [Cite as: Danyi, M. A., and Kogi, R. (2021). Knowledge on the Dangers of Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy Among Women of Reproductive Age in Nadowli-Kaleo District, Ghana. Diverse Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, Issue 2, Pages 1-9.]

An Evaluation of Competition in Zimbabwe’s Short-Term Insurance Sector: An Application of the Panzar-Rosse Approach

Abstract – This paper is aimed at evaluating the nature of competition in Zimbabwe’s short-term insurance sector. Panel data from 19 short-term insurers was utilized from year 2010 to 2017, the author employed the Panzar-Rosse (1987) approach as a proxy for competition. Total Revenue and Premium Revenues were used as dependent variables while size, equity ratio and underwriting risk were used as control variables. The results from the empirical investigation showed that generally short-term insurers in Zimbabwe were operating under monopolistic competition for the better part of the period under review. Thus, findings from the research point out that competition was increasing during the period under review as witnessed by declining H-statistics. The findings of the study will add literature on competition in Zimbabwe’s financial sector and particularly the insurance sector. This is the first study to evaluate competition in the short-term insurance sector of Zimbabwe. To the best of the author’s knowledge, this examination is the first to assess competition in Zimbabwe’s short-term insurance sector. Keywords: Panzar-Rosse, H-Statistics, Contestability [Cite as: Musiiwa, R., and Dzingai, M. E. (2021). An Evaluation of Competition in Zimbabwe’s Short-Term Insurance Sector: An Application of the Panzar-Rosse Approach. Diverse Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, Issue 2, Pages 1-12.]

Internationalization of SMEs through MNCs Social Capital in African Countries

Abstract – The paper examines the importance of internationalization of SMEs in the current global set up of international trade. The study identifies the existing MNCs social capital as critical to the growth of SMEs in Africa and promotion of both forward and backward linkages between SMEs and MNCs. Approximations in the studies done accentuates that approximately 95% of the running businesses in the world are Small to Medium Enterprises and they employ about 60% of the total working population and significantly add up to 40% of Gross Domestic Product. It highlights the role which can be played by the state to ensure sustainable economic growth is achieved by inclusion of SMEs in developmental policy. With the proliferation of regional trade agreements in Africa and continued opening of domestic markets to foreign suppliers through trade liberalization, policies have to be matched with external growth of SMEs and domestic industries. As businesses venture into the international markets there are prospects of internal growth and this result in the development of competencies, thus firming competitiveness of the firm in the long run. The paper is concerned with small enterprise development in African countries, concentrating on the interrogation of the prospective for making use of connections and relationships with large business organizations as part of a strategy for the development of the SMEs sector. Keywords: internationalization, social capital, SMEs, MNCs, networking, linkages, globalization [Cite as: Chiukira, L. (2021). Internationalization of SMEs through MNCs social capital in African countries. Diverse Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, Issue 1, Pages 1-11.]