Analysis of Current Challenges Affecting Business Operations of Two State Enterprises

Abstract

study sought to establish challenges affecting the effective business operations of two Zimbabwe parastatals under the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development namely, the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) and the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA). The study was prompted by negative media reports and complaints from key stakeholders about the operations of these institutions. The main theory underpinning the study was the Resource-Based Entrepreneurship theory (RBET) by Hussain et al. (2019) complimented by the organisation theory (Oyibo and Gabriel, 2020). The pragmatism philosophy was applied to ensure that both quantitative and qualitative aspects of study were accommodated. The study used the mixed methods paradigm and the explanatory sequential design. The target population was made up of 97 managers from the GMB and the ZINWA, as well as government officials. A sample of 46 respondents was used to obtain quantitative data responses. Purposive sampling the online sample calculator were used to determine the two sample sizes made of those who provided qualitative data and those for quantitative data through use of a self -administered structured questionnaire and semi-structured interview guide. .The major findings were that the two parastatals did not have management succession plans and suffered from political interference, lacked financial resources to carry out their operations and deliver quality products and/ or services. The major recommendations were; the need to promote autonomy and reduce bureaucracy in their operations, mobilising more resources particularly finances to ensure that daily operational expenses are met, implementing sound corporate governance systems that address corruption and having a coherent and effective performance management system.