Tanzanian Context Research Articles

Barriers to the Effective Selection of Sustainable Materials for Residential Building Projects: A Qualitative Study

Although sustainability in Tanzania’s construction sector has been explored in areas such as energy efficiency and green building practices, little attention has been given to understanding the specific barriers to the selection of SBMs in residential projects. This study fills that gap by identifying and analyzing the critical barriers hindering the effective selection of SBMs in Tanzania’s residential construction sector. Through qualitative interviews with experts from regulatory bodies, public developers, and academic researchers, this research provides a comprehensive examination of these barriers. Using Atlas.ti 23 software for a qualitative data analysis, six key categories of barriers were identified: (1) Regulatory and Policy Barriers, (2) Financial Barriers, (3) Knowledge and Awareness Barriers, (4) Technical Barriers, (5) Market and Supply Chain Issues, and (6) Cultural and Social Barriers. Among these, lack of awareness and limited knowledge emerged as particularly significant, alongside regulatory and policy barriers, in hindering the effective selection of SBMs. This study’s novelty lies in its focus on the Tanzanian context, depth of the analysis of the unique challenges, and categorization of the barriers. The findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions, particularly in raising awareness, offering financial incentives, and establishing comprehensive regulatory frameworks. Furthermore, this study presents a graphical representation to illustrate the categories and constructs of these barriers, adding a visual dimension to the understanding of the issues. Future research should expand the scope to include private developers and material suppliers, whose roles are critical in enhancing the availability and adoption of SBMs in Tanzania’s construction industry.

Psychometric performance of tools to measure internalized drug use stigma among people who use drugs and people on medication-assisted treatment in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

BackgroundPeople who use drugs (PWUD) and people who use medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to treat opioid use disorder face severe stigma. Stigma may manifest in delayed health-seeking behaviors, which adversely affects health and increases disease risk. Few validated measures assess internalized drug use stigma or MAT disclosure concerns in sub-Saharan Africa. This study examines the performance of internalized drug use stigma scales and characterizes the prevalence of these stigmas among PWUD and people who use MAT in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey among 250 PWUD and 251 MAT clinic clients. Internalized drug use and MAT disclosure concerns were measured using scales adapted to the Tanzanian context. We conducted exploratory factor analysis to identify latent constructs and evaluate reliability of the scales. We then used confirmatory factor analysis to assess construct validity and reliability. ResultsThe six-item internalized drug use stigma scale (IDUSS) was unidimensional, reflected acceptable goodness-of-fit, and acceptable reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.79). The eight-item internalized drug use stigma scale for people using MAT (IDUSS-MAT) was bidimensional. Allowing error terms of related items to covary improved goodness-of-fit. The IDUSS-MAT demonstrated acceptable reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.79). Among PWUD and MAT clinic clients, higher levels of stigma were associated with increased depression and reduced social support and quality of life. ConclusionsBoth the IDUSS and IDUSS-MAT demonstrated good construct validity and acceptable reliability. These validated scales provide the foundation for collecting data to inform the development of stigma reduction interventions in Tanzania and among similar Sub-Saharan populations of PWUD and the tools needed to assess those interventions.

Factors influencing the adoption of mobile-based AI services in Tanzanian manufacturing SMEs

Purpose This study aims to establish a comprehensive framework for adopting mobile-based artificial intelligence (AI) services in Tanzanian manufacturing small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Design/methodology/approach The methodology involved conducting a literature review and using the combination of Mobile Services Acceptance Model and Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT) as a theoretical foundation. This synthesis delves into the current knowledge on technology adoption, organizational behavior and innovation diffusion, creating a solid conceptual basis. Expert review was used for framework validation to ensure the framework's accuracy. Findings This study shows that the factors influencing the adoption of mobile-based AI services in Tanzanian manufacturing SMEs include perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, context, personal initiatives and characteristics, trust, infrastructure, cost, mobility, power distance, compatibility, observability and trialability. Research limitations/implications The framework provides valuable insights tailored to Tanzanian sociocultural and economic nuances. However, its generalizability is limited due to its specificity to Tanzanian manufacturing SMEs. Practical implications The framework outlined in this research provides SME leaders, policymakers and technology implementers with valuable guidance to make informed decisions during the adoption process. Originality/value This study introduces a novel lens for understanding technology adoption. This study's focus on the Tanzanian context and its nuanced examination of contributing factors add to its originality and practical significance.

Enhancing Software Testing Practices in Tanzanian Software Development Companies: A Case Study Approach

Purposes: The primary objective of this conducted research is to investigate and propose strategies for improving software testing practices in Tanzanian software development companies. Specifically, the study identify the current state of software testing practices, understand challenges faced by software development companies in Tanzania, propose effective solutions, and evaluate their impact. Methodology: A mixed-methods approach employed to achieve the research objectives. Qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, including surveys, interviews, observations, documentation analysis, and experimentation, utilized to gather comprehensive insights into software testing practices. Purposive sampling employed to select diverse software development companies across different regions in Tanzania. Thematic analysis and statistical analysis applied to analyze qualitative and quantitative data, respectively, ensuring a robust examination of software testing practices. Findings: The research findings reveal the prevailing software testing practices in Tanzanian software development companies. Challenges such as resource constraints, inadequate test coverage, and limited collaboration between developers and testers are identified. Additionally, the study identifies best practices and proposes context-specific solutions to enhance software testing practices in Tanzanian companies. Statistical analysis provides quantitative insights into the effectiveness of proposed solutions. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practices and Policy: The study contributes to bridging the gap between academic research and industrial practices in software testing. Through addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in the Tanzanian context, the research provides actionable recommendations for improving software testing practices. The findings underscore the importance of tailored strategies and collaboration between academia and industry to enhance software quality and reliability in Tanzanian software development companies.

Evaluating the implementation of the Pediatric Acute Care Education (PACE) program in northwestern Tanzania: a mixed-methods study guided by normalization process theory

BackgroundIn low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), such as Tanzania, the competency of healthcare providers critically influences the quality of pediatric care. To address this issue, we introduced Pediatric Acute Care Education (PACE), an adaptive learning program to enhance provider competency in Tanzania’s guidelines for managing seriously ill children. Adaptive learning is a promising alternative to current in-service education, yet optimal implementation strategies in LMIC settings are unknown.Objectives(1) To evaluate the initial PACE implementation in Mwanza, Tanzania, using the construct of normalization process theory (NPT); (2) To provide insights into its feasibility, acceptability, and scalability potential.MethodsMixed-methods study involving healthcare providers at three facilities. Quantitative data was collected using the Normalization MeAsure Development (NoMAD) questionnaire, while qualitative data was gathered through in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus groups discussions (FGDs).ResultsEighty-two healthcare providers completed the NoMAD survey. Additionally, 24 senior providers participated in IDIs, and 79 junior providers participated in FGDs. Coherence and cognitive participation were high, demonstrating that PACE is well understood and resonates with existing healthcare goals. Providers expressed a willingness to integrate PACE into their practices, distinguishing it from existing educational methods. However, challenges related to resources and infrastructure, particularly those affecting collective action, were noted. Early indicators point toward the potential for long-term sustainability of the PACE, but assessment of reflexive monitoring was limited due to the study’s focus on PACE’s initial implementation.ConclusionThis study offers vital insights into the feasibility and acceptability of implementing PACE in a Tanzanian context. While PACE aligns well with healthcare objectives, addressing resource and infrastructure challenges as well as conducting a longer-term study to assess reflexive monitoring is crucial for its successful implementation. Furthermore, the study underscores the value of the NPT as a framework for guiding implementation processes, with broader implications for implementation science and pediatric acute care in LMICs.

Effect of Succession Planning Practices on NGOS Performance in Tanzania

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of succession planning practices on Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) performance in Tanzania. The specific objectives of the study were to: examine the effects of talent management on NGO performance; determine the effects of career management on NGO performance; and evaluate the effects of compensation management on NGO performance. Design/Method/Approach: The study used quantitative approach. The targeted population was 124 employees working in two selected non-governmental organizations in Tanzania. Simple random sampling was used to provide detailed information. Data was collected using questionnaires. The data were analyzed through descriptive and inferential analysis. Findings: The findings of the study showed that the majority of respondents, with an average mean of 3.8, 3.8, and 3.7, agreed that talent management, career management, and compensation management influence organizational performance in terms of efficiency and effectiveness, respectively. The study found that, here is a positive and significant relationship between talent management (β =.152, p =.047) and NGOs performance. The results also indicated that there exists a positive and significant (r = 0.390, p > 0.000) correlation between an employee’s performance and career development. Finally, the results indicated that there exists a positive and significant (r = 0.624, p > 0.000) correlation between organization performance and compensation practices. Theoretical Implications: The study refines the succession planning practices literature. The multiple dimensions of selected human resources practices have been explored. Practical Implications: The multiple dimensions of selected human resources practices have been explored, which might help managers improve employees' performance at work. Human resource scholars would benefit from this study during training by ensuring this knowledge is intensified to produce better human resource management at work. Originality/Value: As per the existing empirical literature, it is the first study to be conducted in the Tanzanian context. Research Limitations/Future Research: This study concentrated on studying the relationship between selected succession management practices and organizational performance. Therefore, this study laid the foundation for other researchers to focus on other variables that may influence employees' performance. Nevertheless, researchers may also study the same relationship with other institutions. Also, other researchers may wish to expand their knowledge by conducting the same study through the use of different research methodologies, i.e., qualitative methods, in order to confirm whether different methods may produce similar findings or vice versa. Paper Type: Empirical JEL Classification: M12, M51, L31, O15

The Role of Commercial Bank Loans in Enhancing Financial Performance of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania

Purpose: This study investigates the role of commercial bank loans on the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania. It examines how commercial bank loans affect SME financial performance, providing a comprehensive understanding of how financial support from banks influences SME growth and sustainability. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study adopted a quantitative approach. It utilized cross-section data collected from a sample of 92 SMEs in Morogoro municipality. The collected data were descriptively analyzed using SPSS version 25. This analysis aimed to evaluate loan accessibility, determinants of loan choice, and the effect of commercial bank loans on key financial metrics such as profitability, cash flow management, and business growth. Findings: The study reveals that although many SMEs perceive commercial bank loans as easily accessible, others encounter significant barriers, including high interest rates and stringent collateral requirements. The study also reveals that commercial bank loans have mixed effects on SME performance. While they positively impact revenue generation and asset growth, their effects on profitability and business expansion are inconsistent. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the existing literature by providing nuanced insights into the role of commercial bank loans in SME performance within a Tanzanian context. It highlights the challenges SMEs face in accessing financial support and the varying impact of bank loans on their financial outcomes. The study findings are relevant for both policymakers and financial institutions aiming to improve loan accessibility and support SME development. Policy Implications: The study suggests several policy implications, including the need for banks to simplify loan application processes, offer more flexible loan products and address high interest rates that hinder SMEs access to finance. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships between SMEs and financial institutions and leveraging financial advisory services to enhance loan utilization and overall business performance.

Health, energy security or people's jobs? Understanding cooking transition narratives and energy justice implications in Tanzania

The achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 7 ‘affordable and clean energy for all’ is incomplete with 1.8 billion people worldwide still dependent on biomass for cooking, with detrimental effects on health, well-being and environment. The situation is especially acute in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study explores cooking transition narratives in the Tanzanian context. The recent policy initiative towards clean cooking from the Tanzanian government provides the opportunity to investigate the main actors and perspectives that set the scene for clean cooking, and justice implications. Drawing on interviews with relevant stakeholders and analysis of key strategic documents we find that the current narratives highlight technical, financial and environmental dimensions, but has little emphasis on the end-users. This provides limited understanding of the practices that underpin cooking, and people's ability to transition to clean cooking technologies. In the future, there is a need to consult the end-users to ensure a successful, just and sustainable transition.

Empirical Investigation of the Effect of Public Investment on Private Investment in Tanzanian Context

Empirical Investigation of the Effect of Public Investment on Private Investment in Tanzanian Context

The predicting role of sustainable supplier selection on lead-time performance in public procurement: relational capability as a moderator

PurposeWith increasing concerns regarding the performance of public procurement, especially concerning timely delivery, this study aims to investigate the predictive role of sustainable supplier selection (SSS) in enhancing lead-time performance in public procurement, while also examining the moderating effect of relational capability.Design/methodology/approachThe study collected primary data from 179 accredited public organizations in Tanzania through structured questionnaires and used partial least squares structural equation modeling for data analysis.FindingsThe results reveal that SSS and relational capability influence lead-time performance in public procurement. Regarding the moderating effect of relational capability, the study establishes that relational capability strengthens the influence of SSS on lead-time performance. Therefore, based on the collected data from surveyed public organizations, relational capability positively moderates the relationship between SSS and lead-time performance in public procurement.Social implicationsThe study offer valuable implications for public procurement practitioners, academics and other stakeholders. Public organizations should consider contemplate integrating sustainability aspects into supplier selection processes. Furthermore, the study contributes to advancing efforts toward achieving sustainable development goals (i.e. SDG12) within Tanzania, particularly by advocating for sustainable public procurement practices aligned with national policies and priorities.Originality/valueThis study not only enhances the understanding of public procurement performance by investigating lead-time improvement, incorporating considerations of SSS and relational capability, but it also offers empirical evidence of the moderating role of relational capability within the unexplored Tanzanian context.

Some psychometric properties of the school refusal assessment scale–revised: Parent and child version in Tanzanian context

Considering the increase in primary and secondary school dropout rates worldwide, it is necessary to identify the underlying causes, particularly in places with high school refusal rates, such as Tanzania. Today, only a limited number of studies can explain, through valid and reliable measurements, why students in Tanzania refuse to attend school. The current study used confirmatory factor analysis techniques to investigate some psychometric properties of the child’s and parent’s versions of the School Refusal Assessment Scale–Revised (SRAS–R) in the Tanzanian population. Since previous studies found significant associations between the parent–child relationship and the risk of school refusal, we included the associations between the SRAS–R scales and measures of psychological control (parent ratings) and parent–child communication (child ratings) as external validity criteria. We collected data from five public primary schools, including 502 grades three to seven children with their parents (N = 465) in Ruvuma, Tanzania. Confirmatory factor analyses revealed that the four–factor model (avoidance of stimuli provoking negative affectivity, escape from aversive social situations, attention seeking, and tangible rewards) showed a good fit for both the parent and child versions of the SRAS–R. In line with expectations, we found a negative association between parent–child communication and school refusal and positive associations between the parent version of the SRAS–R subscales and the psychological control scale. The findings of this study support the use of this measurement in an African context and Tanzania specifically. The discussion stresses the appropriateness of Western cultural instruments in the African context.

Supplier relationship management and business performance of small-scale grapes processing firms in Dodoma, Tanzania: the moderating role of logistics capabilities

PurposeThis paper aims to investigate the effect of supplier relationship management (SRM) on the business performance of small-scale grapes processing firms in Dodoma, Tanzania. The paper also examines the moderating role of logistics capabilities in the relationship between SRM and business performance.Design/methodology/approachThis research uses a cross-sectional survey design. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 202 small-scale grape processing firms. The data were analysed through descriptive and structural equation modelling.FindingsThe findings revealed that buyer-supplier relationships, supplier development and supplier selection were positively and significantly related to business performance. Furthermore, knowledge transfer had no relationship with business performance. On the other hand, the findings showed that logistics capabilities significantly moderated the relationship between SRM and business performance.Research limitations/implicationsThe study was cross-sectional, conducted only in Tanzania, and focussed entirely on small-scale firms processing grapes as raw materials. Thus, generalising the study findings to other countries with different conditions should be done cautiously. Also, this study used subjective measures, and other studies could use objective measures.Practical implicationsThe study helps firm managers understand the importance of supplier relationship management on business performance. The findings also can be used by policymakers to create targeted policies and initiatives that support the firm’s growth and sustainability.Originality/valueTo the best of the researchers’ knowledge, this is the first attempt to find empirical support for the moderating role of logistics capability in supplier relationship management and the business performance of small-scale grapes processing firms in the Tanzanian context.

Impact of Women’s Land Ownership Patterns on Intimate Partner Violence in Tanzania

Strengthening women's ownership of and control over land is a significant development goal. "The study aimed at analysing the lonely, joint, and title deed land ownership by women on intimate partner violence (IPV) they experience in region population variability in the Tanzanian context. This quantitative explanatory study used ANOVA and multi-linear regression to analyse secondary data from 2015-16 and 2022 TDHS-MIS reports and population and women who own land alone, each having a census in 2022 and its estimation in 2015 based on the 2012 census. A study found that the percentage increase of women who own land jointly with their intimate partners and those whose names are on land title deeds leads to a significant decrease in intimate partner violence (IPV) against women. An increase in the percentage of women who own land alone and that of the regional population as years advance, each lead to a significant increase in IPV against women in the Tanzanian context. The result of this study demonstrates the relevance of promoting joint land ownership in title deeds for both partners as some of the interventions that would reduce intimate partner violence against women. It also proposes regulation to curb the increasing rates of intimate partner violence in the context of increased regional and national populations. Therefore, the study recommends that interventions encourage joint land ownership with the names of each partner appearing on the land title deed while also regulating the growth of regional and national populations.

Evaluating the Implementation of the Pediatric Acute Care Education (PACE) Program in Northwestern Tanzania: A Mixed-Methods Study Guided by Normalization Process Theory.

In low- and -middle-income countries (LMICs) like Tanzania, the competency of healthcare providers critically influences the quality of pediatric care. To address this, we introduced PACE (Pediatric Acute Care Education), an adaptive e-learning program tailored to enhance provider competency in line with Tanzania's national guidelines for managing seriously ill children. Adaptive e-learning presents a promising alternative to traditional in-service education, yet optimal strategies for its implementation in LMIC settings remain to be fully elucidated. This study aimed to (1) evaluate the initial implementation of PACE in Mwanza, Tanzania, using the constructs of Normalization Process Theory (NPT), and (2) provide insights into its feasibility, acceptability, and scalability potential. A mixed-methods approach was employed across three healthcare settings in Mwanza: a zonal hospital and two health centers. NPT was utilized to navigate the complexities of implementing PACE. Data collection involved a customized NoMAD survey, focus groups and in-depth interviews with healthcare providers. The study engaged 82 healthcare providers through the NoMAD survey and 79 in focus groups and interviews. Findings indicated high levels of coherence and cognitive participation, demonstrating that PACE is well-understood and resonates with existing healthcare goals. Providers expressed a willingness to integrate PACE into their practice, distinguishing it from existing educational methods. However, challenges related to resources and infrastructure, particularly affecting collective action, were noted. The short duration of the study limited the assessment of reflexive monitoring, though early indicators point towards the potential for PACE's long-term sustainability. This study offers vital insights into the feasibility and acceptability of implementing PACE in a Tanzanian context. While PACE aligns well with healthcare objectives, addressing resource and infrastructure challenges is crucial for its successful and sustainable implementation. Furthermore, the study underscores the value of NPT as a framework in guiding implementation processes, with broader implications for implementation science and pediatric acute care in LMICs.

Factors Influencing Adoption of The Diffusion of Instagram Social Media Innovations among Selected Football Clubs in Tanzania

The study aimed to determine the adoption of the diffusion of Instagram social media innovations among selected football clubs in Tanzania. The diffusion of innovation theory guided this study to answer the studied objectives. There needs to be more studies that assess the factors influencing the adoption of the diffusion of social media innovations in the Tanzanian context, which are guided by the diffusion of innovation theory, particularly on the relative advantage, compatibility, and trialability. A survey strategy was utilized in data collection by administering the questionnaires. A sample of 90 respondents was drawn from the study population. Quantitative data was analyzed based on descriptive statistical analysis and multiple linear regression Analysis. The variables under the study were Relative advantage, compatibility, and trialability. In contrast, the dependent variable was the adoption of the diffusion of Instagram social media innovations among selected football clubs in Tanzania. The findings showed that Relative advantage and compatibility affect the adoption of the diffusion of Instagram social media innovations among selected football clubs in Tanzania, while trialability has no effect. This study has unveiled the knowledge contribution by validating the Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DOI), specifically on the Instagram social media platform, by suggesting the relationship between variables under the study by approving or disapproving the theory. The findings will have practical implications that can be applied in real-world contexts to technology adoption.

Disparities in teaching practice corrective feedback among university teaching practice assessors in Tanzania: Implications on pre-service professional practices

This study examines disparities in teaching practice corrective feedback among university assessors in the Tanzanian context: Implications on pre-service professional practices. A mixed-method research design was employed to bring together different strengths and non-overlapping weaknesses of quantitative and qualitative methods. The purposive sampling technique was used to get 120 undergraduate pre-service teachers from three colleges involved in the study. Questionnaire, interview and documentary reviews were used to collect data and analyzed descriptively to provide summaries in terms of numerical counts and frequencies. The study revealed that teaching practice assessors have conflicting suggestions and non-consensus in supporting pre-service teachers when dealing with similar issues. Conflicting suggestions might pose anomalies on the course of action to be undertaken by pre-service teachers who are trying to grow professionally. The study recommends the formulation of inter-institutional consensual supervisory guidelines that could inform synergy among university teaching practice assessors and supervisors.

The Role of Collaboration on Acceptance of E-Government in Tanzania

E-government is the process of delivering government services through electronic media or platforms. It provides alternative options for offering services with minimal need for physical contact. The acceptance of E-government practices and tools is influenced by factors as explained by prominent models such as TAM, UTAUT and TRA. This research involves empirical evidence from the Tanzanian context to examine the influence of collaboration on citizens’ intention to use e-government systems. The conceptual framework was formulated by extending TAM with collaboration. The research employs a survey of 203 respondents followed by analysis using Smart PLS 4. The conceptual framework was developed by extending the Technology Acceptance Model with E-government collaboration before testing it in a survey. The results show that the collaboration has a significant influence on perceived usefulness. Among others, this research provides theoretical underpinnings to the acceptance of technologies and areas for future research and policy implications.

Database Privacy: Design of User Privacy Preserving Central Bank Digital Currency: A Case of Tanzania

Objectives: This work aims to contribute towards Tanzanian Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) users’ privacy preservation. It proposes the design of a privacy preserving CBDC which might be issued by Tanzania's Central Bank (CB), the Bank of Tanzania (BoT), which is currently in CBDC research phase. The work also aims to contribute to literature, the CBDC research being done by BoT, other CBs and CBDC stakeholders around the world. Methods: By using the Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, a privacy preserving CBDC design suitable for Tanzania was proposed, demonstrated and evaluated. This is the result of existing literature showing that different countries have different CBDC designs due to their differences in contexts and purposes for CBDC issuance. This consequently emphasized the fact that a CBDC design should not be treated as a one-size fits all solution. Findings: As opposed to the existing general and other country specific CBDC designs, we proposed a privacy preserving CBDC design suitable for Tanzania by consulting literature and taking into consideration the Tanzanian context. The design appears to be promising Tanzanian CBDC users’ privacy preservation though further work needs to be done. The work should not only be on practical evaluation of the proposed design but also on other factors impacting the success of CBDC projects. This will consequently further increase the success probability of CBDC projects, hence the potential for practical realization of CBDC project benefits. Novelty: Existing literature has shown that, considering the countries’ differences in context and CBDC issuance purposes, CBDC design should not be treated as a generic solution thereby obliging the need for country-specific CBDC designs. Consequently, the privacy preserving CBDC design suitable specifically for Tanzania consists of and provides an outline of privacy preserving interactions among the identified key Tanzanian CBDC participants or actors. The actors are the BoT, the intermediaries (i.e., other banks and payment service providers), Tanzania’s National Identification Authority (NIDA), financial transactions violation detection engine, and the expected CBDC users. Keywords: Digital currency, database privacy, central bank digital currency, privacy

Assessing the acceptance of mobile phone technology in Tanzanian SMEs

Purpose This study investigates the acceptance of mobile phone technology in Tanzanian small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) with a special focus on service quality.Design/methodology/approach The conceptual framework was designed by extending the TAM with an additional construct, service quality, before testing a model in a survey of 155 respondents and analysing using Smart PLS 4.Findings Service quality was found to be among the significant factors in the acceptance of mobile phone technology among SME employees.Research limitations/implications This implies that the higher the quality of service offered, the more employees accept and use mobile phone technology in their duties and improve the productivity of SMEs.Practical implications The aspects of quality of mobile phone technology usage such as call dropouts, network quality, speed, etc., must be improved significantly.Social implications The Mobile Network Operators and Regulators must understand that employees are offered the most accurate and reliable mobile phone services for its usefulness to be realised.Originality/value The originality is a modified version of a TAM that accommodates service quality that has been tested in the Tanzanian context.

Demanding sexual satisfaction: women’s agentic practices and male sexual “non-performance” in Tanzania

ABSTRACT This paper explores women’s agentic practices in expressing their sexual dissatisfaction in the context of male sexual ‘non-performance’. Much scholarly work on male sexual ‘non-performance’ in Tanzanian context largely focus on the voices of men in making sense of their sexual performance concerns. Common limitations of these studies are isolating women from male sexual ‘non-performance’ and their narrow focus on the voices of women. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork in Tanzania, and building on the Afro-feminism perspective, this article demonstrates women’s cheating habits, breaking up with their partners, naming and shaming and, participating in non-sexual intimate matters as agentic practices of their sexual dissatisfaction in heterosexual relationships. While these practices that women devise to handle their male partner’s sexual ‘non-performance’ challenge the patriarchal structures of sexuality and gender relations on the one hand, they performatively reproduce them on the other hand. The findings of this paper indicate that women are active social actors, who are often sexually expressive and devise various agentic practices for handling their partners’ sexual ‘non-performance’. In a nutshell, women’s viewpoints in this paper highlight the need to further consider how women demand and achieve sexual satisfaction in their sexual relationships.