Developing Country Context Research Articles

Investigating the Constraints and Mitigation Strategies for the Adoption of Sustainable Land Management Practices in Erosion-prone Areas of Southeast Nigeria.

The adoption of sustainable land management practices (SLMPs) is crucial to improve soil health, and farm yield, and potentially limit the degradation of agricultural and ecological systems. However, farmers still encounter diverse challenges when trying to implement SLMPs. Research on the potential mitigation strategies to address the complex challenges to the adoption of SLMPs in the developing countries context is limited. Accordingly, this study investigates the constraints to adopting SLMPs using household survey data collected from 480 sampled farmers in erosion-prone areas of southeast Nigeria. Also, through focus groups and interviews with key stakeholders in the land sector, the study investigates the potential mitigation strategies to address the constraints. Descriptive statistics were used to explore the characteristics of the farmers, while Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to analyse the constraints to the adoption of SLMPs. The qualitative data collected were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. The PCA result identified economic/financial factors as the principal constraint to the adoption of SLMPs. Other barriers to the adoption of SLMPs in the study area include constraints related to the characteristics of the SLMPs, institutional constraints and constraints related to land property rights. Based on the stakeholders' perspectives, financial and economic support, improved R&D, knowledge exchange and advisory system, policy and regulatory solutions, and multi-stakeholder engagement are important strategies to tackle the constraints to the adoption of SLMPs. Insights from this study could help practitioners, conservation planners and policymakers design more targeted and effective interventions to promote the widespread adoption of SLMPs.

Race Differences in the Loneliness of Older Adults: Evidence from South Africa

Abstract Although the correlates of loneliness among older adults are very well explored in developed countries, there has been far less quantitative research in developing country contexts. This study helps to redress this research lacuna by investigating the loneliness reports of older adults (> 59 years) in South Africa. The analysis focuses on the considerable variation by race in how adults grow old, including in their living arrangements and socio-economic status. Using national micro-data collected in five waves of the National Income Dynamics Study, the study shows that older white adults report significantly fewer episodes of loneliness than other older adults, although they are far more likely to live alone. The gap in loneliness is greatest between older white and older African adults (who are the most likely to live with others), and it persists in multivariate regressions that control for a range of other differences in their individual and household characteristics. One possible explanation for these persistent race differences, which requires further examination, is that they reflect the importance of cultural factors, which are not adequately modelled, and which influence expectations of social interaction.

THE MEDIATING ROLE OF EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HUMAN RESOURCE PRACTICES AND TOURIST SATISFACTION: EVIDENCE FROM LEBANON'S TOURISM SECTOR

The study aims to highlight the critical role of HR practice in shaping tourist experience and satisfaction, ultimately contributing to the success and reputation of tourism enterprises. Additionally, it aims to understand how eff ective HR management influences the overall experience and satisfaction of tourists. Using a mixed-methods approach, data was collected from 112 employees and tourists in Lebanese resorts. Structural Equation Modelling revealed significant relationships between HRP and employee satisfaction and performance. Employee satisfaction strongly correlated with tourist satisfaction, while employee performance showed a weaker correlation. Notably, tourists prioritized employee friendliness over professional expertise. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the importance of employee attitude in shaping tourist experience in a developing country context. The findings have implications for HR strategies in the tourism industry, emphasizing the need to focus on fostering positive employee attitudes alongside professional skills.

Employing Renewable Energy to Promote Sustainable Economic Growth: An Analysis of the Effects of Investment on Developing Countries

This study examines the influence that investments in renewable energy have on the long-term economic development of emerging nations via a comparative data analysis. In this work, a mix of quantitative econometric analysis and qualitative case studies is used to investigate the intricate processes that determine the link between the adoption of renewable energy and the outcomes of economic growth. The quantitative research reveals that positive associations are statistically significant between investments in renewable energy and several critical economic indicators. These indicators include GDP growth rates, employment levels, and average income levels per capita. Qualitative case studies, on the other hand, provide insights into the contextual elements that influence the performance of investments in renewable energy in specific developing country contexts. The findings of this study highlight the significant impact that strategic investments in renewable energy infrastructure have as a driver of sustainable economic growth. To get the greatest possible socioeconomic benefit from the implementation of renewable energy systems in various developing nation contexts, the research highlights the need to implement specific policy interventions and investment methods.

Expert views on carbon pricing in the developing world**The authors wish to thank Anatole Boute, Mark Buntaine, Joshua Burke, Lorenzo Crippa, Baran Doda, Catrina Godinho, Dirk Heine, Kathy Hochstetler, Michael Pahle, Joseph Pryor, Marissa Santikarn, Gregor Schwerhoff, Luca Taschini, as well as the participants at the 2023 Environmental and Politics Governance conference, the LSE International Political Economy Research workshop, the

Abstract Dozens of governments across the developing world have adopted or are actively considering a variety of carbon pricing policies, but why policymakers prefer some policy designs over others remains uncertain. We argue that expert assessments of carbon pricing primarily center on economic efficiency and distributional concerns, which in turn influence perceptions of technical efficacy and political feasibility. Leveraging a unique conjoint experiment with carbon pricing experts in developing countries, we examine how aspects of policy design influence effectiveness and feasibility, as well as how experts weigh these factors against each other. Design choices that alter the costs and benefits of carbon pricing affect perceptions of the policy’s effectiveness and feasibility, often in opposing directions. Experts are split over which goal is more important overall, preferring political feasibility when distributing costs but weighing effectiveness and feasibility similarly when distributing benefits. Our findings highlight the challenge of balancing the ambition and political risk of pricing carbon in a developing country context.

The impact of financial literacy on financial inclusion for financial well-being of youth: evidence from Jordan

This study examined the impact of financial literacy on financial inclusion and well-being among Jordanian youth. Using a multidimensional approach, the research investigated the effects of knowledge of financial products and services, consumer rights and protections, and financial decision-making skills on financial outcomes. The target population comprised Jordanian youth aged 18–30, with a sample size of 440 participants. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey design was employed, utilizing PLS-SEM for data analysis. Results revealed significant positive relationships between all dimensions of financial literacy and both financial inclusion and well-being. Consumer rights and protections emerged as the strongest predictor of financial outcomes, followed by knowledge of financial products and services, while financial decision-making skills showed relatively weaker effects. The findings have implications for policymakers, financial institutions, and educators, highlighting the need for comprehensive financial literacy programs that address multiple dimensions, particularly emphasizing consumer rights and protections. This research contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence from a developing country context and supporting the conceptualization of financial literacy as a multidimensional construct. The study's focus on youth in Jordan offers valuable insights for promoting financial inclusion and well-being in similar demographic and economic contexts.

Technological Readiness, Innovative Work Behaviour, and Boundary Integration in Ghana's Public Sector

Purpose: This study investigates the impact of technological readiness (TR) on innovative work behaviour (IWB) among public sector employees in Ghana, with a focus on the moderating role of boundary integration behaviour (BIB). The Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) Theory is employed to clarify these relationships. Design/Methodology/Approach: Data were collected from 484 public sector employees through structured sets of questionnaires using a quantitative research design. The study employed partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to analyse the relationships between TR, IWB, and BIB. Findings: The results indicate that technology motivators (optimism and innovativeness) significantly enhance IWB, while technology inhibitors (discomfort and insecurity) do not have a statistically significant adverse impact as anticipated. Additionally, BIB positively moderates the relationship between technology motivators and IWB but not between technology inhibitors and IWB. Research Limitation: The study is limited to public sector employees in Ghana, which may affect the generalizability of the findings. Future research could explore similar relationships in different cultural and organisational contexts. Practical Implication: To enhance innovation, organisations should promote a positive technological environment and support work-life balance. This can be achieved by promoting technological motivators and encouraging positive boundary management practices. Social Implication: Boosting IWB in the public sector can improve public services and yield societal benefits, contributing to overall national development. Originality/Value: This study provides empirical evidence from a developing country context, contributing to Africa's limited knowledge on public sector innovation. It highlights the importance of TR and BIB in enhancing innovation among public sector employees.

Assessing municipal solid waste collection service quality in a developing country context: A case study of Nha Trang, Vietnam

Assessing municipal solid waste collection service quality in a developing country context: A case study of Nha Trang, Vietnam

Entrepreneurship and SME Policies in Guinea: An Exploratory Analysis

This study examines the policies supporting entrepreneurship and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Guinea, focusing on their adequacy in fostering economic and entrepreneurial activities in a developing country context. Using the Lundström and Stevenson framework, we differentiate entrepreneurship and SME policies based on their objectives, targets, and instruments through documentary analysis. We also assess their alignment with the developmental phase and specific entrepreneurial needs. The study identifies four categories of policy instruments. These are business financing, improving the business climate, support and networking, and entrepreneurship education. However, actions favoring SMEs are more widespread than those supporting entrepreneurship. The findings underscore the importance of a holistic policy approach that balances enhancing entrepreneurial motivations, skills, and opportunities, thus fostering an ecosystem conducive to sustainable entrepreneurial growth and innovation. Additionally, the study highlights the role of entrepreneurship education in developing the necessary skills for new ventures. It suggests integrating such education into university programs to foster an entrepreneurial culture. This action could enhance employability and economic resilience, particularly among youth. By shedding light on these aspects, the research extends the theoretical framework proposed by Lundström and Stevenson to the context of lowincome countries. The practical implications suggest that policymakers should consider a balanced approach to supporting nascent and established enterprises, emphasizing the need for policies that foster an inclusive and supportive environment for all stages of business development.

West Syndrome: spectrum of disorders with diagnostic and therapeutic challenges

Introduction: West syndrome (WS) is a rare epileptic encephalopathy of multifactorial etiology, characterized by epileptic spasms, psychomotor delay, and hypsarrhythmia on electroencephalogram. Its prevalence is 1.5 to 2 per 10,000 children under 10 years, with an incidence of 1 per 2,000-4,000 live births. Objective: This article describes the clinical characteristics of a pediatric patient with WS in a developing country context. Materials and methods: With informed consent, the clinical history was performed, detecting psychomotor delay at 6 months, manifested by loss of social smile and gross motor skills. Physical examination revealed generalized hypotonia, desaturation, and bradycardia. Neuroimaging ruled out organic abnormalities; however, the electroencephalogram (EEG) showed hypsarrhythmia, confirming the diagnosis of West syndrome by meeting the classic clinical triad. Results and discussion: Male patient of 6 months, firstborn, born by cesarean section at 39 weeks due to hypoxic encephalopathy, with negative STORCH and toxicological tests. He presented to the emergency room with four episodes of spastic movements in the upper limbs, which spontaneously resolved without loss of consciousness, during the previous month. Currently, at 12 years old, the patient is in remission, without seizure episodes for over 10 years. He shows adequate social and family adaptation, with academic performance appropriate for his age group. Cognitive tests indicate borderline performance, suggesting the presence of ADHD, with no evidence of underlying cognitive deficit.

Post-Implementation challenges of the Outcome-Based budgeting model in budgetary practices: a Malaysian perspective

Purpose This study aims to explore the challenges in post-implementing the Outcome-Based Budgeting (OBB) model in budgetary practices in Malaysian Government agencies, in the context of government official’s perspective. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative methodology by collecting data from eight budget experts within federal government agencies through semi-structured interviews was used. Purposive sampling was used to select informants based on their relevant experiences and roles in the OBB model and associated budgetary processes. Data analysis involved thematic analysis using ATLAS.ti software, with member checking to enhance credibility. Findings Sustainability, innovation characteristics, organisational dynamics, individual capabilities and social context are identified as critical factors influencing the successful post-implementation of the OBB model in Malaysian federal government agencies. Organisational dynamics, encompassing policy control and Budget Review Officers role, as well as social factors, such as the presence of an OBB champion and broader buy-in, significantly impact the model’s effectiveness. These findings underscore the complex interplay of factors shaping the post-implementation phase of OBB in the Malaysian budgetary context. Research limitations/implications This study is constrained by its qualitative methodology and focus on the Federal Government of Malaysia, limiting the generalisability of findings. Future research using quantitative or mixed methods, expanded to include other government entities and comparative analysis across government levels is recommended to enhance understanding of OBB implementation challenges. Practical implications This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge on Performance-based budgeting (PBB) implementation, particularly in developing countries. By identifying critical success factors and barriers, it offers valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to improve public financial management. The study’s focus on Malaysia’s OBB experience provides timely and relevant information for addressing challenges in budgetary practices. Additionally, the research offers practical guidance for organisations navigating change management and building capacity for PBB implementation. Originality/value The study’s originality lies in its focus on the post-implementation challenges of the OBB within Malaysian Government agencies, which are largely under-studied. By using the Diffusion of Innovation theory, the study systematically investigates the interplay of sustainability, innovation characteristics, organisational dynamics, individual capabilities and social context in shaping OBB outcomes. Identifying sustainability and organisational dynamics as critical success factors contributes to the ongoing discourse on public sector budgeting reforms, particularly in developing country contexts.

Remittances as a driver of economic growth: the moderating impact of financial development in developing economies

PurposeThe aim of this research is to examine the moderating impact of financial development (FD) on the relationship between remittance inflows and economic growth in 82 developing countries.Design/methodology/approachThis research utilized dynamic panel data estimation, specifically the system generalized method of moment (GMM), on a panel data set comprised of 82 developing economies from 2000 to 2022.FindingsThe findings indicate that the interaction of remittances and FD proxies by size and depth creates a substitute effect to reduce economic growth. In contrast, the interaction of remittances and FD proxy by efficiency creates complementarity by attracting remittances that accelerate economic growth. The robustness of the findings is further checked across upper- and lower-middle-income countries, respectively.Research limitations/implicationsThis study assists policymakers in attracting remittance inflows through FD and spending them in sustainable, productive ways to boost economic growth in developing economies.Social implicationsThe policymakers should have interactive remittances–FD policies to improve not only economic growth but also the social welfare of the developing economies.Originality/valueThis work contributes significantly to the underexplored literature on the moderating impact of FD on the relationship between remittance inflows and economic growth in the developing countries context. This research utilizes maximum proxies of FD that not only examine the remittance but also investigate how FD various proxies shape the relationship between remittances and economic growth.

Organizational Design and Public Outcomes Among New Universities in Developing Countries

ABSTRACT Many public higher education systems in countries in Asia and Africa have sought a new approach in response to their modern environments. Built in the 1950s following decolonization, they seek to overcome colonial regulations, norms, and practices to produce new public outcomes focused on communities and market forces. Drawing from in-depth case studies of seven new universities in India, we assess the role of organizational design and public value institutions in producing contemporary public outcomes. We conclude that organizational design factors—integrative leadership, disciplinary identity, regional embedded, entrepreneurial orientation, and development stage—offer opportunities to work with public value institutions and produce public outcomes in a developing country context.

Enhancing Perceived Influence through Perceived Quality of Information, Emotional Appeal and Parasocial Interactions: The Moderating Role of Perceived Risk

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationships among Perceived Quality of Information, Emotional Appeal and Parasocial Interactions on Perceived Influence in influencer marketing context. It also explores the moderating role of Perceived Risk in between Perceived Influence and Purchase Intention. The study employed a quantitative survey-based methodology with 242 respondents in Pakistan who followed influencers on social media. The constructs Perceived quality of information, Emotional Appeal, Parasocial Interactions, Perceived Influence, Purchase Intention and Perceived Risk were measure through a structured questionnaire. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to analyze the data, identifying relationships between variables and the moderating role of perceived risk. Perceived Quality of Information, Emotional Appeal and Parasocial Interactions are positively associated with Perceived Influence. The results indicate that Perceived Risk negatively moderates the relationship between Perceived Influence and Purchase Intention, such that greater perceived risk decreased the ability of social media influencers to affect purchase decision-making. The result then implies that while influencers are indeed effective in changing consumer’s perceptions, whether that affect will translate into actual behavior depends of the consumer’s perceived risk about the transaction. This study contribute to the existing literature on influencer marketing (IM) by analyzing an under researched aspect of Perceived Risk as a moderator, focusing on a developing country context (Pakistan) highlighting consumer behavior in emerging markets with still evolving digital trust and online shopping patterns. This study contributes valuable knowledge on social media influenced consumer behavior in Pakistan, considering digital marketing is a fast growing phenomenon of the developing economies like Pakistan. The insights into influencer strategies in similar economies provided by these findings will be useful for marketers.

Religiosity and corruption acceptability in a developing country: does patriotism mediate the relationship?

Purpose Religiosity is believed to have an effect on corruption acceptability but the mechanism by which its effect is realized is not fully known. In this study, we explore the potency of patriotism as a mediating variable on the relationship between religiosity and corruption acceptability in a developing context. Design/methodology/approach We use cross-sectional data from the World Values Survey on Ghana which was collected from 1,552 respondents. We analyse the data using descriptive statistics, correlation and macro PROCESS model in SPSS. Findings We ascertain that while religiosity has a significant direct negative effect on corruption acceptability, it has no significant direct effect on patriotism or indirect effect on corruption acceptability. However, patriotism has a positive significant effect on corruption acceptability. Furthermore, the findings reveal that private-sector employees, as compared to public sector employees, are more likely to perceive corruption as unacceptable. Similarly, females are more likely than males to perceive corruption as unacceptable. We conclude that patriotism does not mediate the relationship between religiosity and corruption acceptability. Originality/value Our findings have bridged the gap in extant literature by revealing that patriotism is not an effective mediator in the relationship between religiosity and corruption acceptability in developing country context. Therefore, we provide evidence for building a strong link between religiosity and socio-moral conduct, where the conscience of citizens will be developed against the acceptability of corruption.

Idea to integration: assessing mechatronics technologies in the construction industry of a developing economy

Purpose The main aim of this research study is to comprehensively evaluate the level of awareness and practical implementation of mechatronic technologies in developing countries, with a particular emphasis on their application within the Nigerian construction industry. Design/methodology/approach Using a quantitative framework, this study uses a well-structured questionnaire that was administered to professionals within the Nigerian construction industry. Subsequently, the obtained data was subjected to in-depth analysis such as mean values and standard deviations, utilization of the Kruskal–Wallis H-test and application of the Shapiro-Wilk normality test. Findings Results from the study revealed a relatively fair level of awareness and implementation of mechatronic technologies among Nigerian construction professionals. Among the 22 mechatronic technologies surveyed, respondents exhibited considerable awareness and implementation of only a few, underscoring the imperative for further initiatives to enhance awareness of these technologies. Originality/value By focusing on a developing country context and specifically addressing the construction sector, this research offers novel insights into the opportunities associated with adopting advanced technological solutions in a unique setting. The findings of this study provide a foundation for future discussions, strategies and interventions aimed at fostering the integration of mechatronic technologies in similar contexts.

EXPRESS: Chronicles of Film Tourism: An Integrative Review and Future Research Directions

This study triangulates historiographical and scientometric reviews to provide a systems perspective on film tourism. The three phases of historiographical analysis (exploration, growth, and maturity) correspond to the three clusters of scientometric analysis – (i) initial research exploring film tourism development and management, (ii) growing the field through studies on film tourists’ perceptions and practices, and (iii) reaching maturity through extending research into different cultural contexts and meaning-making processes. Based on the analysis, we offer a set of directions for future research including the need to integrate sustainability research and film tourism studies in developing country contexts, as well as intertextuality and its impact on film tourism. We recommend research on developments in media consumption and its impact on film tourism, investigation of the relationship between digitalisation and film tourism, and the need for interdisciplinary research. Finally, we suggest combining product life cycle analysis to complement historiographical analysis for robustness.

Understanding How Organizational Culture and Job Satisfaction Drive Commitment and Citizenship Behavior in SMEs

Purpose – What is the gap in prior literature this paper fills in? This study addresses a gap in the literature by investigating the relationships between organizational culture (OC), job satisfaction (JS), normative commitment (NC), and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) within the context of Clothing SMEs in Indonesia. Aims(s) – The primary aim is to understand how organizational culture and job satisfaction influence normative commitment and OCB, with a secondary aim of identifying the mediating role of normative commitment in these relationships. Design/methodology/approach – Using an explanatory research approach, data was collected from 165 employees of Clothing SMEs across Indonesia through questionnaires utilizing a five-point Likert scale. The data was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4, incorporating a two-stage approach to assess both the outer and inner models. Findings –The results show that organizational culture positively influences both normative commitment (β = 0.439, p < 0.000) and OCB (β = 0.223, p < 0.003). Job satisfaction also positively affects normative commitment (β = 0.379, p < 0.000) and OCB (β = 0.318, p < 0.000). Moreover, normative commitment serves as a mediator, enhancing the effects of organizational culture and job satisfaction on OCB. Limitations of the study – The cross-sectional design limits the ability to infer causality, and the focus on the textile sector in SMEs may limit generalizability. Future research should explore these relationships in other industries and consider longitudinal designs. Originality/value – This study contributes to the literature by empirically demonstrating the causal interactions between organizational culture, job satisfaction, normative commitment, and OCB, with a specific focus on SMEs in a developing country context.

Exploring the impact of university-driven supplier development interventions on supplier performance: a case of the garment industry

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of university-driven knowledge transfer initiatives in enhancing the capabilities and performance of local suppliers in the garment industry. By focusing on the impact of UDIs in Myanmar, this research aims to provide empirical evidence on how these initiatives can foster supplier development and performance improvement through targeted capability enhancement strategies.Design/methodology/approachThis study utilizes a combination of surveys and an experimental design to evaluate the impact of university-driven supplier development interventions (UDIs) based on Lean principles in Myanmar’s garment industry. Nine garment suppliers were assessed before and after the UDI program. The research employed partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze the direct, indirect and mediating effects of UDIs on supplier performance, focusing on the role of supplier capability enhancement as a mediating factor.FindingsThe study found that the UDI program significantly improved supplier capabilities, which in turn led to enhanced performance. The analysis revealed partial mediation, indicating that while UDIs directly impact supplier performance, their effect is significantly amplified through the enhancement of supplier capabilities. These findings highlight the critical role of targeted capability development in achieving substantial performance improvements among local suppliers.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on the effectiveness of university-driven supplier development initiatives in a developing country context. It validates the indirect role of UDIs in boosting supplier performance via capability enhancement, emphasizing the importance of industry-specific and capability-focused development strategies. The findings underscore the value of structured knowledge transfer programs in supporting local suppliers, offering practical insights for policymakers and educational institutions aiming to enhance industrial performance through strategic interventions.

Investigating HEMIS pre-implementation factors in Kenyan universities

Background: A few Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in African countries have successfully implemented the higher education management information system (HEMIS). Aside from technological challenges, studies indicate that other contextual elements (social and economic) play a critical role in influencing implementation.Objectives: This article investigates HEMIS pre-implementation factors in Kenyan HEIs, specifically Universities.Method: The article adopts a qualitative multiple case study approach, focusing on the HEMIS implementation journey of four Universities. Participants from the HEIs cases comprise HEMISs staff who are directly involved in the implementation projects. Data is collected using interviews. Data analysis comprises of reviews of iterations and document analysis.Results: The findings reveal that technological and organisational factors play a key role in motivating implementation. Environmental factors are least significant. Integration, automation, information access, usability, efficiency, cost and scalability are the key influencing factors that influence HEMIS implementation. Other elements include accountability, security, robustness, contractual issues, technological support and need for greater capacity for storage.Conclusion: HEMIS implementation is complex and challenging. Recommendations were offered to incorporate implementation factors and considerations within African or developing countries context to enable the development of more practical solution-oriented perspectives on HEMIS implementation.Contribution: The findings provide an understanding of pre-implementation of HEMIS implementation through its investigation of pre-implementation factors. The findings reveal that technological and organisational factors play a key role in motivating implementation. Environmental factors are least significant. The article recommends adopting a socio-technical approach in the review of pre-implementation in determining HEMIS implementation.