Journal of Business and Economics in 4IR

An Assessment of the Effects of Social Media Marketing on the Marketing Performance of Firms in the Cosmetic Industry in Zambia: A Case of Naddies Beauty Salon

Nsama Chansa — 2025-10-08

This research evaluates the impact of social media marketing on the marketing performance of companies within Zambia's cosmetic sector, specifically examining Naddies Beauty Salon. The study examines the impact of platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp on consumer interaction, brand recognition, and sales expansion. A mixed-methods approach was used, including surveys and interviews with salon clientele and personnel. Research indicates that social media markedly improves marketing efficacy by augmenting exposure, recruiting new clientele, and cultivating consumer loyalty. Nonetheless, issues such as content uniformity and insufficient digital proficiency were observed. The research indicates that judicious use of social media may stimulate growth in the beauty industry and advocates for augmented digital training and continuous content creation to get better results.

Effect of Succession Planning on Employee Retention: A Case Study of ZCAS University

Nailet Christine Mwale — 2025-10-08

This study examines the effect of succession planning on employee retention at ZCAS University. The objective was to analyze the effect of limited career advancement opportunities on employee retention. Using a quantitative research methodology, the study investigates management and leadership practices in relation to succession planning. A survey-based research design was employed, with a target population comprising employees at ZCAS University, and a sample size of 92 respondents. The questionnaire return rate was 92%. Data collection techniques included structured questionnaires to assess job satisfaction, growth prospects, succession planning, and motivation. Stratified random sampling ensured representation across key employee groups, including principal officers, lecturers, library staff, and administrative staff. Data was analyzed statistically using regression analysis and descriptive statistics to identify patterns and relationships in succession planning at ZCAS University. Findings from the study revealed that limited career advancement opportunities were found to negatively affect employee retention, leading to reduced job satisfaction and increased turnover intentions. The study concludes that addressing succession planning gaps will enhance employee retention through structured frameworks, transparent communication, and career growth pathways. It is recommended that ZCAS University formalize and clearly define its succession planning framework, improve communication strategies, and establish mentorship programs to support career progression. Additionally, leadership training initiatives and equitable career advancement policies should be implemented to retain top talent. Policy implications suggest that higher learning institutions should institutionalize succession planning as a strategic function, aligning it with talent retention strategies and long-term organizational sustainability.

The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility in Enhancing Organizational Reputation: A Case Study of Zambian Breweries Plc

Muchona Progress Moonze — 2025-10-08

This paper examined the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts on the reputation of Zambian Breweries Plc. It addressed critical problems in optimizing CSR programs to build a strong business reputation through increased public awareness and evolving stakeholder demands. Further, the study gives crucial insights into how CSR actions effect brand perception, consumer trust, and long-term corporate growth in Zambia's emerging economy. The research employed a qualitative research methodology to conduct thirty in-depth interviews with senior management, personnel, community leaders, and external stakeholders to investigate the strategic CSR effects. Findings indicate that, Zambian Breweries enhances its organizational reputation through CSR operations, which primarily focus on environmental initiatives (water conservation & recycling), health-oriented programs, scholarships and responsible alcohol consumption campaigns. The study shows how these efforts promote successful stakeholder engagement, reinforcing stakeholder trust and brand loyalty. However, challenges persist in expanding CSR programs to rural areas, improving transparency in environmental sustainability efforts, strengthening employee involvement, and leveraging digital platforms for broader outreach. The study recommends targeted interventions in these areas to optimize CSR strategies and maximize reputational benefits within the Zambian business landscape.

Digital Divide and Pension Disbursement in Zambia: Examining the ICT Constraints Affecting Timely Access to Benefits

Robbson Manda — 2025-10-08

Access to timely and equitable pension disbursement is a critical function of social protection systems. However, in Zambia, the growing reliance on digital platforms by the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA), the largest public pension provider, has exposed and, in some cases, intensified long-standing disparities rooted in the digital divide. This review article investigates how Information and Communication Technology (ICT) constraints hinder pension benefit delivery, especially for older populations in rural and underserved communities. Guided by Agency Theory, the Digital Divide Theory, and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the study employs the SPAR-4-SLR protocol to conduct a structured literature review of peer-reviewed articles, policy reports, and grey literature published between 2012 and 2024. The analysis identified four interrelated themes: (1) infrastructural barriers such as poor internet coverage and power instability; (2) digital illiteracy among older pensioners; (3) cybersecurity and trust concerns that inhibit technology adoption; and (4) policy and institutional gaps impeding effective implementation of digital pension reforms. While the adoption of ICT has significantly improved pension processing efficiency, it has also disadvantaged technologically challenged and digitally excluded pensioners. Agency Theory helps explain how information irregularities and weak accountability mechanisms between pension administrators (agents) and pensioners (principals) contribute to these disparities. The study concludes that bridging the digital divide requires broad-based interventions, such as expanding ICT infrastructure, rolling out digital literacy programmes for pensioners, adopting user-friendly platforms, and strengthening institutional capacity. These strategies are critical for ensuring inclusive, timely, and equitable pension access in a digital era.

Economic Effects of Load Shedding on Small and Medium Enterprises in Kalingalinga and Ibex Hill

Vusumuzi Muleya — 2025-10-08

This paper aims to analyze the economic effects of load shedding on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kalingalinga and Ibex Hill based on four underlining parameters: Operational capacity, employment, revenue and adopted mitigation strategies. Previous studies conducted lacked geographical specificity, particularly in the context of Zambia’s urban and pre-urban areas, the study aimed at addressing this gap. Load shedding continues to be a critical and persistent challenge in Zambia. There are several factors that have led to this challenge, which include a high dependency on hydroelectric power. Thus, the supply of power is subject to weather conditions and the drought experienced in 2024 worsened the condition. Loadshedding has a significant adverse effect on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) which contribute 70% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and account for 88% of the national employment. Therefore, any adverse economic effect on SMEs is critical to the overall economic position of the country. The findings inform various stakeholders, including policymakers and business owners, which provide a basis for developing effective mitigation strategies against the adverse effects of loadshedding. The authors conducted the study based on a quantitative methodology which employed a deductive approach guided by a positivism philosophy. Data was collected from a sample of 50 SMEs between December 2024 and February 2025. The Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) model was utilized to examine the relationship between the frequency of power outages and the dependent variables, which included reductions in operational capacity, revenue, and employment. The results of the study indicate that an increase in the frequency of load shedding has a direct and statistically significant negative impact on SME performance. Particularly, for every one-unit increase in outage frequency, there was a corresponding reduction in operational capacity, a significant decrease in revenue (with most businesses reporting a loss of approximately 50% of income during outages), and a consequential reduction in employment levels. Although 90% of SMEs implemented mitigation strategies such as the use of generators and solar power, 78% found them to be only moderately effective due to their high cost, which affected profitability. The study concludes that load shedding adversely affects SMEs as their going concern and growth are hindered by this challenge. The operational capacity, financial health and employment were all negatively affected. The high costs and limited effectiveness of current mitigation strategies exacerbate these challenges. The findings call for the urgent need for a multi-faceted approach, including government subsidies for renewable energy and improved national infrastructure, to build economic resilience against energy instability and protect the livelihoods supported by SMEs.

Reforming Pension Disbursement in Zambia: A Stakeholder-Driven Approach for Enhancing Effectiveness at NAPSA

Robbson Manda — 2025-10-08

Pension disbursement systems in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Zambia’s National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA), face persistent challenges related to timeliness, adequacy, and equitable service delivery. This article synthesises stakeholder-proposed reforms aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of pension benefit disbursement at NAPSA. Employing a systematic review guided by PRISMA methodology and thematic analysis of peer-reviewed studies, policy documents, and institutional reports from 2010 to 2024, five critical reform pillars emerge: legislative realignment, digital transformation and ICT integration, inclusive stakeholder engagement, financial sustainability, and benefit adequacy. Stakeholder consultations reveal strong consensus on the need for reforms that balance financial viability with pensioner protection, yet empirical evaluations remain limited. Drawing on Institutional Theory, the Technology Acceptance Model, and Systems Theory, this study highlights how regulatory constraints, technology adoption, and systemic interdependence jointly shape pension delivery effectiveness. Institutional Theory explains how outdated norms and bureaucratic inertia hinder responsiveness, while TAM underscores the role of user perceptions in digital uptake. Systems Theory adds that pension administration functions as an interconnected system where failures in one component, such as ICT or policy, can compromise the entire process. The article argues for a holistic, multi-dimensional reform approach grounded in stakeholder participation and sustainable governance to ensure timely, accessible, and equitable pensions. It concludes by recommending longitudinal research to assess reform outcomes and align NAPSA’s practices with global social protection standards.

Fostering Social Responsibility and Reducing Delinquency among High School Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Learners: A School-Level Intervention Study

Persuade Nyandoro — 2025-10-08

High school period is critical for social and emotional development of learners, especially those who are poised to become leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics disciplines. However, many high school learners struggle with delinquent behaviour resulting in ultimate abuse of Mutoriro, Nyaope, Broncleer, Musombodia among other drugs which negatively affect their academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being. Promoting social responsibility and reducing delinquent behaviour are essential for fostering a positive school climate and supporting learners’ long-term success. This paper was based on a study that answered what are the main causes of social irresponsibility among high school STEM learners? What are the effects of social irresponsibility on learner performance? And what are the promising interventions to forestall social irresponsibility? The study was anchored on Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility theoretical framework and it employed a qualitative approach, in which a micro-case study, grounded on the interpretivist paradigm to investigate the impact of School-level interventions on promoting social responsibility and reducing delinquent behaviour among Gweru District High School STEM learners. This paper has established that school-level intervention programs like self-monitoring, community service projects, use of sanctions and punishments, use encouragement, affirmation and reward, Guidance and counselling and all-stakeholder participation including guardian participation were effective in promoting social responsibility and reducing delinquent behaviours in Gweru District High School. The findings confirm that school-level interventions play a significant role in preventing juvenile delinquency and promoting positive social responsibility among High School STEM learners.

Effect of Digital Marketing Adoption on Business Performance in Selected Hospitality Firms in Kitwe: A Literature Review

Lumbwe Kaoma Constancea — 2025-10-08

This literature analysis examines the influence of digital marketing implementation on the performance of certain hospitality enterprises in Kitwe, Zambia. This study utilizes peer-reviewed journal articles, dissertations, and industry reports from 2015 to 2024 to ascertain the impact of digital marketing tools, including social media, email marketing, and online booking systems, on business performance metrics such as customer satisfaction, brand visibility, and revenue growth. The review employs the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Resource-Based View (RBV) to analyze the determinants affecting the adoption and strategic use of digital platforms. Research indicates a favorable association between the adoption of digital marketing and firm success, while also identifying significant hurdles such as inadequate digital literacy, infrastructural limitations, and organizational reluctance. Recommendations encompass more empirical research, digital training initiatives, and supporting policy structures.

Evaluating the Usage of Online Banking in Zambia

Henry S Zulu — 2025-10-08

In this study, FNB Zambia's online banking platform is evaluated for usability. User experience has become crucial to adopting services as digital banking changes. Consumer usability views are assessed using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) in the context of digital literacy and infrastructure. JASP processed 101 structured questions for a quantitative approach. Even while most users find the site user-friendly, usability concerns exist, especially among older and less-educated users. This study emphasizes the importance of inclusive design, mobile optimization, and digital literacy in promoting e-banking in Zambia.

Strategic Alliances and Emerging Opportunities: Assessing the Benefits of Zambia's Membership in BRICS

Kennedy Banda — 2025-10-08

Zambia's probable accession to the BRICS grouping offers a strategic opportunity to expedite economic growth, diversify ties, and enhance geopolitical influence. Zambia, as a developing economy rich in natural resources, especially copper and cobalt, stands to gain significantly from enhanced trade, investment, and infrastructure development via partnership with BRICS member nations. Membership will provide Zambia access to alternative financial institutions like the New Development Bank, therefore reducing reliance on Western financial systems and presenting more advantageous conditions for development funding. Furthermore, accession to BRICS will amplify Zambia's influence on global economic and political matters, positioning it within a coalition that champions multipolarity and enhanced equality in international governance. This transition may promote innovation, facilitate knowledge transfer, and stimulate industrialization while creating new markets for Zambian exports. Enhanced cultural and diplomatic relations with BRICS countries may result in more educational exchanges and strengthened South-South collaboration. Strategic planning and alignment with national objectives are crucial to optimizing advantages and mitigate possible geopolitical problems. Zambia's accession to BRICS may significantly advance inclusive and sustainable national development in a swiftly changing global landscape.

Risk Factors for Capture in NGO-Multinational Partnerships: A Study of Lusaka

Japhet Beenzu Michelo — 2025-10-08

NGOs and MNCs go into partnership for strategic benefits, fiscal resources for the NGO, and legitimacy and sustainability for the corporations. With the high proliferation of NGOs, there was increased competition for funding and consequently partnerships. However, despite the mutual benefits, NGOs remain at risk of capture posed by the partnership due to the need for financial resources. Therefore, a survey was conducted to determine what observable evidence put an NGO at risk of organizational capture by an MNC in Lusaka.
The survey was conducted on NGOs in Lusaka, owing to 64% of NGOs being based in Lusaka. Interviews were conducted with NGOs that were purposefully selected as those that were in partnership with MNCs in Lusaka. Despite over 1,500 NGOs being registered in Zambia, there was little data on which ones were in partnership with an MNC or what industry sector they operated in, based on the electronic data that was available to the public for the research. Interviews were conducted using structured interview guides and electronic one-on-one interviews. Data was collected using NVivo data analysis software and analysed using thematic analysis. The data analyzed showed that NGOs were at risk of financial capture owing to weak governance structures and a lack of sustainable partnerships.
The partnerships needed strategic sustainability practices to strengthen the partnership. There was a need for the government to institute policies and regulations that protect NGOs and monitor for capture.

An Alternative Innovative Model for Financing Solid Waste Management in Local Authorities: A Literature Review

Sidney Lukundo Ngwira — 2025-10-08

This literature review investigates the development of an alternative innovative model for financing Solid Waste Management (SWM), which is a growing concern in Lusaka City due to inefficiencies in council operations and inadequate traditional financing mechanisms. Historically, SWM has been underfunded, with limited resources allocated compared to sectors like roads, education and water. Funding typically comes from local sources such as taxes, fees, permits and national support like the Local Government Equalization Fund (LGEF), grants and Constituency Development Funds (CDF), all of which have proven insufficient. The objective of this review is to evaluate existing literature to guide the creation of a sustainable financing framework. Studies from Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas were reviewed, highlighting alternative models such as public-private partnerships (PPP), adoption of new technologies, long-term low-interest loans and diversified investment strategies. The review is grounded in the PPP model for financing, the Behavioral Change Model for community engagement and Stakeholder Theory for inclusive planning. This study’s literature review employed the PRISMA framework to ensure transparency and rigor. A systematic search using keywords like “solid waste management,” “sustainable financing,” and “urban Zambia” was conducted via Google Scholar to source peer-reviewed articles, reports, and grey literature relevant to Lusaka’s context. The review focused on English-language studies from 2020–2025 addressing innovative financing, community participation, or policy in low- and middle-income urban areas, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Out of 186 initial sources, 40 were selected after screening for relevance and quality. The final selection highlighted key research gaps, including limited focus on informal settlements and PPP-related studies. The findings emphasize the need for multi-faceted, inclusive financing strategies. Identified gaps include limited community involvement and weak institutional capacity, pointing to the need for more adaptive, stakeholder-driven financial models in SWM.

An Investigation of Hindrance Factors Preventing Companies from Listing on the LuSE

Wisdom Mweemba; — 2025-10-08

Purpose: This study seeks to examine the underlying factors that hinder companies in Zambia from listing on the Lusaka Securities Exchange (LuSE), despite the advantages of going public. While stock market participation can significantly enhance access to capital, lead to improved corporate governance, and support long-term growth, listing activity on LuSE remains limited. This research aims to identify the core challenges and inform strategies to address them. Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative approach was employed, combining primary data collected through structured surveys administered to a diverse group of companies and capital market stakeholders, with secondary data from relevant institutional sources. Descriptive statistical analysis and thematic categorization were used to systematically identify and interpret the principal barriers to listing. Findings: The results highlight a confluence of economic, regulatory, organisational, and perceptual constraints that discourage firms from pursuing public listing. Key deterrents include the high financial and administrative costs of listing, burdensome regulatory compliance requirements, limited understanding of the listing process, concerns over potential loss of ownership and control, and an underdeveloped market ecosystem lacking sufficient investor participation and liquidity. Practical Implications – The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), LuSE authorities, and business leaders. By addressing these barriers, stakeholders can improve the attractiveness of public listing, stimulate broader market participation, and contribute to Zambia’s financial sector development. Originality/Value – This study fills a critical gap in the literature by providing empirical evidence on listing deterrents in Zambia, offering actionable recommendations for capital market reform in emerging economies. Keywords: Lusaka Securities Exchange (LuSE), Zambia, capital markets, listing barriers, stock market participation, financial inclusion, corporate finance.

Evaluating The Impact of Digital Banking on Customer Satisfaction: A Case of Access Bank Zambia

Lauzi Jumbea — 2025-10-08

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of digital banking on customer satisfaction at Access Bank in Zambia, focusing on the key factors influencing satisfaction with digital banking services. The research utilized a quantitative approach, using structured surveys to collect data from a sample of 384 respondents selected from a population of 290,000 Access Bank customers. The study examined three independent variables: internet literacy, digital banking products and services, and demographic profile, and their impact on the dependent variable, customer satisfaction. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. Key findings revealed that digital banking products and services had a significant positive impact on customer satisfaction, with a very strong correlation (r = 0.996) between digital banking services and customer satisfaction. Internet literacy also showed a strong positive correlation with customer satisfaction (r = 0.939), but regression analysis indicated that it did not significantly predict satisfaction when other factors were considered. The demographic profile of customers was correlated with both internet literacy and digital banking services, but its impact on customer satisfaction was not statistically significant in the regression model. The study concluded that enhancing the availability and quality of digital banking services would be the most effective way to improve customer satisfaction, while internet literacy and demographic factors had a limited role. The study recommended that Access Bank focus on expanding and improving its digital banking services to ensure greater customer satisfaction and engagement. Additionally, the bank could consider providing more resources to improve internet literacy, particularly among customers with lower digital literacy levels. Further research was recommended to explore the impact of emerging technologies on customer satisfaction and to assess the effectiveness of digital banking services in other banks and regions. The study's limitations included its focus on a single bank and the use of a cross-sectional design, which may not capture changes in customer satisfaction over time.

An Investigation of Strategies to Improve Tax Compliance Among SMES: A Case Study of Zambia Revenue Authority

Sililo Lumba — 2025-10-08

This study investigates strategies to enhance tax compliance among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Livingstone, Zambia, using the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) as a case study. The research employed a mixed-method approach, combining surveys and interviews with SME owners and ZRA officials. Key findings indicate a significant compliance gap, with 40.4% of SMEs not registered for tax, largely attributed to a lack of awareness about tax obligations. Despite this, most SMEs recognize the benefits of taxation and express interest in improving their understanding through training programs. The study concludes with recommendations for ZRA to implement targeted educational campaigns and improve electronic tax filing systems to address usability issues.

An investigation of the Effects of Supply Chain Efficiency on Business Performance in selected Supermarkets of Lusaka

Racheal Chenda — 2025-10-13

This study investigates the effects of supply chain efficiency on business performance in selected supermarkets in Lusaka. Specifically, it examines how key supply chain efficiency metrics, fill rate, cash to cash time, cycle time, and inventory turnover, affect overall business performance. The research adopts a positivist philosophy and employs a deductive approach, utilizing a quantitative, cross-sectional survey design. Data was collected using Likert scale questionnaires from a sample of 120 employees across 12 randomly selected supermarkets in Lusaka. The analysis was conducted using multiple linear regression to test the relationships between the independent variables (efficiency metrics) and the dependent variable (business performance). The findings revealed that while cash to cash time and cycle time exhibited positive correlations with business performance, their effects were not statistically significant. This diverges from some existing literature that highlights these metrics as critical for performance improvement, suggesting that in Lusaka’s unique operational context, such metrics may be overshadowed by other factors. Conversely, fill rate and inventory turnover showed significant positive relationships with business performance, aligning with prior research that emphasizes the role of high stock availability and efficient inventory management in driving profitability and customer satisfaction. These results underscore the importance of working on specific supply chain metrics to enhance performance in the retail supermarket sector. The study provides practical insights for supply chain managers and decision-makers aiming to improve operational efficiency and competitiveness.

Assessing the Awareness Level of Potential Students on the Value of Professional Qualifications: A Case Study of Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies

Joseph Maluso — 2025-10-13

This study looked at prospective students' understanding of the value of the professional programs offered by the Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies (ZCAS). Utilising a quantitative research methodology, a representative sample of 150 prospective students at ZCAS were given a standardised survey, ensuring diverse demographic representation across Zambia in terms of age ranges, educational attainment, and geographic locations. To elucidate the patterns and associations found in the data, the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyse the data using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed significant knowledge gaps about how professional credentials affect employment opportunities and career advancement. Many prospective students had a poor understanding of how professional qualifications may boost their career possibilities in Zambia's competitive labour market, even though the majority acknowledged the value of higher education. Only a small percentage of respondents were able to articulate the advantages of earning certifications like as ACCA or CIMA over traditional degrees. Financial barriers also seemed to be a major barrier to participation in these programs. Many prospective students identified the perceived high cost of professional qualifications, lack of financing or scholarships, and financial constraints as the main obstacles to enrolling. These economic elements were exacerbated by insufficient knowledge of accessible financial aid opportunities and the enduring advantages of pursuing professional education. To increase student enrolment rates, the study emphasises the need for ZCAS to improve its communication strategies to increase knowledge of professional credentials and their benefits. To successfully involve potential students and their families, certain outreach strategies are suggested, including webinars, social media campaigns, and educational lectures in high schools. Collaborations with local organisations and secondary schools may help foster a greater awareness of the advantages of these vocational programs. This study fills a major gap in the literature by providing valuable insights into the factors influencing enrolling decisions in a developing country like Zambia and highlighting fresh opportunities for aspiring professionals.

Dual-Career Marriages and Child Well-Being: A Qualitative Study of Black-Collar Couples in Chawama

Ruth Mesue Ayuk Epse Vuyof — 2025-10-13

This research examines the influence of dual-career arrangements on marital dynamics and the well-being of children within black-collar couples in Chawama, Zambia. Employing an interpretivist approach, we carried out semi-structured interviews with 18 dual-career couples (ages 26–50) and utilized purposive–snowball sampling to access information-rich households. Thematic analysis was conducted on the data. Research indicates a widespread work–family conflict characterized by time scarcity, role overload, and work-to-home spillover, often referred to as the “second shift,” with women disproportionately shouldering unpaid domestic labor. Communication breakdowns, financial pressures, and widespread digital distractions have significantly diminished marital intimacy. Reported outcomes for children included loneliness, decreased parent–child attachment, reduced supervision, and changes in behavior and school engagement. Despite these risks, certain families indicated adaptive benefits, including increased child independence and resilience, implying varied effects dependent on coping strategies and informal support systems. This study highlights specific contextual constraints, including limited childcare options, precarious incomes, and entrenched gender norms, that exacerbate dual-career strain in semi-urban environments. We advocate for interventions that are locally grounded, including gender-sensitive negotiations regarding household labor, employer flexibility for low-income workers, affordable after-school care, and community-based programs for parental communication. The findings provide detailed, context-specific evidence to the work–family literature and inform policies designed to enhance family stability and child well-being in resource-limited settings.

Managerial Experiences with Artificial Intelligence in Strategic Decision-Making: Evidence from Zambia

Agness Musonda — 2025-10-13

Artificial Intelligence (AI) transformed strategic management allowing it to make decisions based on data, forecast via prediction and automate processes. This research paper explored how AI tools are influencing strategic management within the Zambian context, where companies were operating within economically unstable, underdeveloped, and developing digitalized environments. An interpretivist-based qualitative methodology was employed and secondary data analyzed through academic literature, policy documents and international report. The results showed that AI improved predictions, efficiency, risk management, and customer-centred strategies, which helped organisations become more competitive. But the cost was prohibitive, technical skills were limited, poor data ecosystems existed and there were gaps in the regulations. The researcher concluded that, when combined with organisational preparedness, capacity building, as well as empowering policies, AI might become a strategic resource contributing to sustainable growth. Government, businesses, and academia were advised to create a strong AI ecosystem, with further studies being recommended to utilise primary data and longitudinal analysis.

Influence of Job Market Conditions and Government Policies on Enrolment Trends in Professional Programs: A case of Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies (ZCAS)

Joseph Maluso — 2025-10-23

This study looked at how government regulations and employment market variables affected the Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies' (ZCAS) professional program enrolment trends. A closed-ended questionnaire that was given to students as well as educators throughout the university was used in this quantitative study. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences was used to analyse data from 112 respondents (SPSS). The results provided some important new information on how students see and experience enrolling in professional programs. One important conclusion showed that prospective students were worried about their employment prospects. Many respondents were unsure about their employability after graduation, a sentiment that was greatly impacted by Zambia's present economic situation, which has seen volatility across several industries. As prospective students balance their return on investment in school against possible work possibilities, such concerns about future employment might discourage people from enrolling in professional programs. Furthermore, the survey emphasized the view that financial restrictions had a substantial influence on students' decision-making. Several respondents stated that tuition fees and other education-related expenditures were substantial impediments to enrolment. This parallels a wider trend seen in many developing nations, where the cost of higher education remains a major issue for both students and families. Government initiatives encouraging education have emerged as a crucial element in affecting enrolment trends. Participants stated that government-established scholarships, loans, and policy incentives might improve educational access and increase enrolment numbers. This shows that supporting government actions may alleviate the effects of negative employment market circumstances and financial barriers. Finally, this study adds to the current literature by highlighting gaps in understanding the relationship between external economic issues and educational enrolment in Zambia. It highlights the need of a holistic approach to policy formation in which educational institutions, governments, and economic forces work together to increase enrolment rates and ensure graduates have long-term job opportunities.

Resource Allocation Management in Zambia’s Devolved Health System: A Comparative Study of Lusaka Province Before and After Devolution

Susan Chabala — 2025-10-23

This study examined resource allocation management in Zambia’s devolved health
system before and after devolution in Lusaka Province. Conducted as a mixed-method
cross-sectional study in four districts of Chilanga, Chongwe, Rufunsa, and Lusaka,
between 2023 and 2024, the research combined quantitative analysis of funding data with
qualitative insights from interviews with 367 facility staff. Quantitative data were
sourced from government reports and Ministry of Finance records to assess funding
disbursements for Management Support Services (MSS) and Primary Health Services
(PHS). Paired t-tests using SPSS evaluated changes in funding pre- and post-devolution.
Results showed a statistically significant increase in PHS funding in the rural districts of
Chilanga, Chongwe, and Rufunsa. The paired t-test yielded a t-value of 11.13 (df = 2)
with a one-sided p-value of 0.003988, indicating an average funding increase of
approximately 52,435 units, with a 95% confidence interval confirming the increase was
at least 38,678 units. MSS funding remained stable in these districts, while Lusaka
District experienced funding variations attributed to constituency realignment, not
devolution. The study concludes that devolution positively impacted primary health care
funding by increasing program funds in rural districts. The uniform increase in PHS
funding aligned with population needs, likely reducing regional disparities and
improving equitable access to health services. These findings support the objective of
devolution to enhance resource allocation and service delivery at the community level.