Industry In Zimbabwe Research Articles

Exploring the melodies of opportunity: do nepo babies pursue music out of genuine passion or is it a matter of engaging in musicpreneurship?

PurposeIn recent years, a number of privileged individuals have entered the music industry in Zimbabwe, either as performers or entrepreneurs. The economic challenges in the country may have prompted these individuals to invest in music as a means of diversifying their income or exploring new business opportunities. To determine whether their interest in music is driven by entrepreneurship or genuine passion, a scholarly examination was deemed necessary.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative research approach with semi-structured interviews was used as the data collection technique. Narrative analysis was conducted on a sample of musicology students in Gweru, Zimbabwe.FindingsThe findings revealed the nepo babies’ interest in music is driven by legacy continuation – the responsibility to carry on with the name of the parent – harsh economic conditions, capitalizing on Internet and digital opportunities and mechanisms for psychological satisfaction during hardships.Originality/valueAlthough there is a wide range of literature on musicpreneurship, there are gaps in studies that have examined whether a nepo baby's interest in music is motivated by musicpreneurship or a genuine passion for it. Therefore, the aim of this research is to contribute to the existing body of literature on African musicpreneurship, with a specific focus on Zimbabwe.

The impact of Business Process Outsourcing on Sustainable Competitive Advantage in the Financial Services Industry in Zimbabwe

Business process outsourcing (BPO) is a fairly new field within research in Zimbabwe. Most companies are in a bid to remain competitive within the financial services industry. The study sought to investigate the impact of BPO on sustainable competitive advantage in the financial services industry. The research adopted the positivism research philosophy which resulted in a quantitative research design. The data was analyzed using IBM SPSS bivariate correlation analysis. Raosoft calculator was used to determine the sample of 148 units from the target population of 240. The findings were that business process outsourcing has a direct relationship with sustainable competitive advantage. According to the results, innovation, highly capable IT teams and cost reduction were all a result of outsourcing of IT services. Accounting outsourcing, through the study, showed that it allowed companies to have access to expertise which are not available internally. It also showed that companies can focus on their core competencies whilst they outsource processes that can be done externally. The study suggested that the factors considered for sustainable competitive advantage are directly affected or impacted by outsourcing of services and processes. The study recommended that due diligence should be taken when implementing BPO. It also recommended that cost-benefit analysis and risk assessment be carried out before deciding on whether to outsource or not.

Freelance journalism in Zimbabwe: Challenges and opportunities

In Zimbabwe, the comatose economy has had an impact on the media industry. Since 2000, media houses have been shutting down due to lack of financial support or poor business environment. For some news organisations, they have been retrenching their staff as a cost cutting measure. This has also led to retrenched journalists to write for other publications as freelance journalists. This study examines the state of freelance journalism in Zimbabwe. It aims to assess their role and contribution to the media industry, challenges they face, and also the survival strategies they are adopting. This qualitative study is informed by Bourdieu’s field theory. It used in-depth interviews while thematic analysis was employed in analyzing data. Findings demonstrates that freelance journalists are contributing to the growth of media industry in Zimbabwe by writing on specialised beats like science reporting. Besides such contributions, findings further demonstrated that freelance journalism is seen as ‘curse’ as journalists are easily harassed by the state agents who rarely recognizes someone not working for an established organisation.

Complexities and opportunities: A review of the trajectory of fish farming in Zimbabwe

AbstractZimbabwe is currently rated as one of the top 10 fish producers in Sub‐Saharan Africa. Fish farming in Zimbabwe is dominated by the culture of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) followed by rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Over 90% of the cultured fish is O. niloticus, which comes from Lake Kariba. Since the first decade of the 21st century, there has been a significant increase in fish production from two tons to eight tons annually. The increase in fish production has been attributed to the government and donor‐funded fishery programs. In this review, current practices, opportunities, and challenges for aquaculture in Zimbabwe are highlighted. The current practices include intensive, semi‐intensive, and extensive aquaculture systems. Consistent high market demand for fish and numerous water bodies with potential for cage culture are some of the drivers for aquaculture. Despite the industry's significant growth, there are still a number of management and production issues that need to be resolved. Weaknesses in structural issues and operational frameworks in Non‐Governmental Organizations, lack of credit facilities, subsidies, limited technology, obfuscated governance, weak fish disease surveillance mechanisms and legal frameworks, and constrained human resources capacity are some of the challenges plaguing fish culture in Zimbabwe. Cogent aquaculture policies, sustainable subsidies, intensive training of human resources and fisheries experts, strengthened disease surveillance, cheaper alternative fish feeds, reliable viable fingerling production, concerted value chain efforts, and exploration of lucrative export markets is a panacea for the fledgling aquaculture industry in Zimbabwe.

The effect of social media marketing on brand loyalty in the hospitality industry in Zimbabwe: the moderating role of age

The effect of social media marketing on brand loyalty in the hospitality industry in Zimbabwe: the moderating role of age

Old Age Poverty

Despite having over 500 000 pensioners, Zimbabwe is far from guaranteeing its elderly an effective social security system. The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) – is embroiled in numerous cases of corruption. Similar criticisms have also been levelled against personal pension schemes with the living potential of pensioners in Zimbabwe (who receive in some cases less than US$1 monthly), continuing to deteriorate. In contributing new data to the understudied phenomenon of the old age pensions industry in Zimbabwe, this study interviewed a purposively drawn sample of bureaucrats from NSSA and pensioners in three provinces. Profound challenges in decommodification – attributes of a zero accountability status quo and a tokenistic, non-transformative old age social security regime were noted with numerous recommendations being proffered. Old age pension administrators failure to define and maintain measurable social indicators was argued in the study as partly contributing to their inability to ensure compliance to their primary mandate of providing a social security net for pension contributors.

Fostering Healthy Workplace Practices Through Inclusive Leadership Mediated by Perceived Organizational Support in the Mining Industry in Zimbabwe

The mining industry is facing a plethora of challenges which are militating against its potential performance despite being regarded as a leading pillar in an extractive-oriented economy. One major issue of concern is unhealthy workplace practices resulting in avoidable accidents taking place. This paper argues that inclusive leadership fosters healthy workplace practices in Zimbabwe’s mining industry. The study was predicated on the belief that inclusive leadership plays an important role in reducing accidents and fostering healthy workplace practices which will enable the mining industry to achieve enormous advantages. Guided by the positivism philosophy and the deductive approach, the study adopted a quantitative research design where a cross-sectional survey was used to collect primary data from 257 participants in the mining industry. The study found that inclusive leadership had a strong positive relationship with healthy workplace practices. The study concluded that inclusive leadership has a strong and direct effect on healthy workplace practices. Leaders who use inclusive leadership impact strongly on the healthy workplace behaviour of employees. It is recommended that leaders should be open, available and accessible to their employees so that employees are free to convey their concerns and share ideas with their leaders that may assist in reducing the rate of accidents and fostering healthy workplace practices.

Lead-time management, information sharing and performance of the motor industry in Zimbabwe

PurposeThis study examines the moderating role of information sharing on the effect of lead-time management on the performance of firms in the Zimbabwean motor industry.Design/methodology/approachData were collected using Likert-based structured questionnaires from a sample of 105 employees in Zimbabwe. In addition, Pearson Correlation, Linear Regression and Moderation Regression analysis were employed to test the relationship between study variables.FindingsThe study found that fixed lead time, preprocessing lead time, processing lead time and postprocessing lead time significantly influence the performance of firms in the motor industry. The results also demonstrate that information sharing moderates the effect of lead-time management on firm performance in the motor industry.Practical implicationsFirms in the motor industry should establish long-term relationships with their suppliers and implement effective communication channels for timely and frequent information exchange regarding production schedules, inventory levels, quality standards and potential disruptions.Originality/valueThe current study aims to contribute to the scientific discourse on lead-time management, information sharing and performance in the motor industry. Furthermore, it extends knowledge on the performance of the motor industry in the African region.

The Effects of Taxpayer Education Programs on Voluntary Tax Compliance amongst SMEs in the Fast Foods Industry in Zimbabwe: Systematic Literature Review

This literature review critically assesses the impact of taxpayer education programs on tax compliance by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Zimbabwe's fast-food industry. Given the sector's economic importance, the study aims to synthesize existing research on how these programs affect SMEs' understanding of tax regulations, awareness of compliance benefits, and intentions to comply. It systematically analyses methodologies, findings, and limitations of prior studies, employing meta-analysis for quantitative research and qualitative assessment for deeper insights. This review highlights the potential of taxpayer education to enhance voluntary tax compliance among SMEs in Zimbabwe's fast-food industry. Its findings have implications for policymakers, tax authorities, and practitioners seeking to improve tax compliance strategies. These insights can inform more tailored and effective educational interventions, ultimately benefiting government revenue, business sustainability, and economic growth in Zimbabwe.

Unveiling the Absence of a Local Medical Device and Biomaterials Manufacturing Industry in Zimbabwe: A Literature Review

Medical devices and biomaterials play pivotal roles in the provision of healthcare and advancements in medicine. Zimbabwe, a low-income country in Southern Africa, faces resource constraints while combating both communicable and non-communicable diseases, which significantly contribute to the nation’s disease burden. The lack of a medical device and biomaterials manufacturing industry in Zimbabwe is a critical issue with profound implications for the country’s healthcare system and economic development. This literature review comprehensively examines the current state of medical device and biomaterials manufacturing in Zimbabwe, focusing on historical perspectives, health infrastructure, challenges, and the importance of establishing a local manufacturing industry. By analyzing barriers and constraints hindering industry growth and conducting international comparisons, successful strategies implemented by other countries are explored. Additionally, the review investigates ongoing research and development efforts, including collaborations between academic institutions and industries in the medical technology field. Furthermore, the impact of existing government policies and initiatives on the growth of the medical device and biomaterials manufacturing sector is evaluated. The review emphasizes the significance of a local manufacturing industry, as it enhances healthcare accessibility, reduces dependency on imports, and unlocks potential economic benefits. By identifying potential opportunities and providing recommendations for policymakers, investors, and stakeholders, this study advocates concerted efforts to address challenges and capitalize on growth opportunities in this critical sector. The call to action seeks to foster collaboration among relevant stakeholders to support the development of a thriving medical device and biomaterials manufacturing industry in Zimbabwe, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare outcomes and overall national progress.

The The Adequacy of Human Capital for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Era in the Mining Industry in Zimbabwe

This paper examined the adequacy of human capital in the fourth industrial era. This has been prompted by the fact that human capital has been regarded as the key driver of value creation, financial performance, and sustainability. However, concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of the phenomenon under study, particularly in emerging economies such as Zimbabwe. This paper adopted a qualitative critical literature review approach and thematic analysis was utilized for data analysis and interpretation until a point of saturation was reached. The findings revealed that the adoption of industry 4.0 technologies in the Zimbabwean mining industry was still in its infancy and there was limited investment in human capital development. The study also highlighted several challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, limited access to funding, and a shortage of skilled labor. The study recommended that policymakers should prioritize investment in human capital development, including upskilling and reskilling programs, to ensure that the mining industry is well-positioned to take advantage of the opportunities presented by Industry 4.0.

Exploring the Link between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Customer Loyalty (CL) in the Funeral Assurance Industry in Zimbabwe: A Qualitative Analysis

This study explored the link between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Customer Loyalty (CL) in the Funeral Assurance Industry in Zimbabwe. Using a qualitative research methodology, the study examined the impact of Nyaradzo Life Assurance (Pvt) Ltd Company's CSR initiatives on recipient communities and individuals, and how these initiatives influenced CL. Data were collected from 60 participants using interviews and focus groups. The study found that Nyaradzo's CSR initiatives, including community development projects, education support to vulnerable groups, and environmental sustainability programs, were perceived positively by participants who were also the company's clients. The tree donation initiative, in particular, created a long-lasting emotional connection between clients and Nyaradzo, and this initiative was contributing towards the development of CL shown by the clients. The study also found that CSR initiatives that aligned with the customer's values and expectations, as determined by their contextual realities, were the ones that were more likely to influenced CL. Overall, the study highlighted the importance of CSR in developing CL in the funeral assurance industry in Zimbabwe, and the need for companies not only to align their CSR initiatives with the values and expectations of their clients but also to involve their clients in some their CSR initiatives.

Techno-Economic Studies of Integration of Solar PV Technology in Telecommunications Sector for Sustainable Development: A Case Study of Budiriro

The telecommunications industry in Zimbabwe keeps growing with an increase in the number of users year by year. The demand on the national grid and low power supply means long hours of electricity outages, which prompts Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to use generators as backup power to keep base stations online for uninterrupted provision of internet to consumers. Generator systems increase the operation expenditure (OPEX) of running base stations, produce GHG emissions and in tern attract an additional cost of emission. This causes an increase in the cost of running the business and consequently internet data prices. A case study was conducted in Budiriro. A framework was developed which analysed six combinations (Grid + Generator, Generator only, Generator + Solar, Solar only, Grid + Solar, and Grid only) of power sources based on sustainability pillars; Economical, Environmental, and Social, as well as Technical. The six alternatives were simulated in HOMER Pro, a system that evaluates designs for both off-grid and grid-connected power systems, to determine the output (power output, investments, costs, and emissions) of these individual systems. Using a sub-criterion of 15 pairwise combinations, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to rank these systems, and the best solution was chosen based on the main criteria of the sustainability pillars. The result shows that Grid + Solar PV system provides the best optimal alternative power system to power base stations for the study area, substituting Grid + Generator systems (Existing system). It reduces OPEX by over 1,000 percent offering 37 percent more power and 41.13 tonnes of GHG emissions avoided per year. Socially, power sharing between households and base stations as well as reduction of air and noise pollution. The optimal alternative power source for the base station proposed here in this study will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and dependence on grid and operation costs which in turn will reduce data prices, increase internet accessibility at affordable rates and provide a sustainable future for telecommunications businesses in Budiriro.

The impact of driver safety system adoption on organizational performance in the petroleum industry in Zimbabwe

The impact of driver safety system adoption on organizational performance in the petroleum industry in Zimbabwe

Towards a framework to quantify research-industry (R-I) synergy: A case study of Zimbabwe

This paper shares the research-industry synergy index developed through 212 expert responses from academia and industry in Zimbabwe. The findings were part of results obtained after DPhil studies (2017-2022) under the topic “Towards moral synergy between research and industry in developing countries: a case study of Zimbabwe”. The perceptions were captured through Likert Scale responses (LSR) from experts and researchers in both academia and industry. The LSR responses had a scale which ranged from 1=lowest to 10=best. Twenty (20) techno-business parameters were covered under the quantitative component of the case study. This culminated in indices for those in research/academia; those in industry and a third embracing both research and industry sides. The overall R-I synergy level at the time of the study was estimated at 40%, confirming the widely held view that R-I among developing economies like Zimbabwe was limited. The resistance to R-I synergy emanated from; among others; skills shortage, under-funding, limited mentorship, limited exposure to international best practices, poorly equipped laboratories, weak alumni, absence of professional networks depriving idea sharing and training systems that do not match current technology trends. What gets transferred from research to industry is limited. The paper shares aspects that needed serious policy attention for informed intervention by stakeholders. It also argues that developing economies face similar circumstances and urges developed nations to assist in equipping laboratories and needed capacity building.

The Role of the Risk Committee in Coming up with Strategies Overcome Challenges Posed by Multiple Currency System and Exchange Risk in the Manufacturing Industry in Zimbabwe

The Role of the Risk Committee in Coming up with Strategies Overcome Challenges Posed by Multiple Currency System and Exchange Risk in the Manufacturing Industry in Zimbabwe

The Effect of Training and Development on Employee Attraction and Retention in the Gold Mining Sector in Zimbabwe

The purpose of this study is to establish the effect of training and development on employee attraction and retention in the mining sector in Zimbabwe. The mining industry in Zimbabwe has been extensively affected by the loss of key personnel in key areas such as engineering, metallurgy and geology among others. The loss of such vital employees in the mining sector has had a negative impact on output and consequently loss of the much-needed revenue to the Zimbabwean economy. It is against this background that there is need to establish the establish the effect of training and development on employee attraction and retention in the mining sector. The quantitative method research was employed in this study. An interview guide was used to collect data during consultative meetings and semi-structured interview platforms. The purposive sampling technique was employed in this study. The main findings were poor employee motivation due to the failure to train and develop personnel but poor leadership style being employed, lack of employee ascension to higher levels within the organisation. This study recommends that managers in the Zimbabwe mining sector should strive to train their employees so that their skills remain current as well as developing employees in a bid to expose them to perform additional duties and assume positions of importance in the organisational hierarchy.

The impact of Customer Relationship Management on Customer Satisfaction in Telecommunication Industry in Zimbabwe

The impact of Customer Relationship Management on Customer Satisfaction in Telecommunication Industry in Zimbabwe

Awareness of the African continental free trade area socio-economic benefits as drivers of sport industry stakeholders′ expectations in Zimbabwe

Despite the proliferation of free trade agreements worldwide, few studies have examined how the supposed benefits of the agreements are interpreted, understood, and applied by those operating in the sport industry. In light of the recently operationalized African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement and in response to a glaring lack of research into the sport industry’s expectations arising from this Agreement, the present study analysed whether the awareness of the AfCFTA socio-economic benefits can be considered drivers of sports industry stakeholders’ expectations in Zimbabwe. Data analysis deployed descriptive statistical processes with tests for correlation to determine the relationship between the awareness of social and economic benefits of the AfCFTA on the expectations of the sport industry stakeholders. Consequently, the social benefits played a significant relative role when accounting for the stakeholders’ expectations compared to the economic benefits. The study provides insight into how the sport industry in Zimbabwe can take advantage of foreseen or unforeseen developments within its external environment, such as the AfCFTA, whose transversal benefits cut across the sport industry and can address both the country′s and its sport industry's present challenges.

Climate change and adaptation in the Zimbabwean nature-based tourism industry

ABSTRACT Weather and climate are vital for Nature-Based Tourism (NBT). Weather influences tourists’ experience, while climate affects the timing of the season and attractions. This influence is particularly apparent in southern Africa, which has limited adaptive capacity to climate change. Particularly in Zimbabwe, the NBT industry is dependent on and affected by weather and climatic changes. It is important to investigate how the NBT industry in Zimbabwe is adapting to these changes. Through a qualitative approach, this study examines the adaptation strategies applied by NBT proprietors in four provinces around Zimbabwe, encompassing the major NBT destinations. The results reveal location-specific adaptation strategies. With the current and projected temperature increases and reduction in precipitation, there is a need for urgent adaptive action.