African Journal of Economic and Business Research

Business Mentorship System of the Igbos and Job Creation in Onitsha Main Market, Anambra State, Nigeria

Emmanuel Ejike Odeh — 2025-02-10

The Business Mentorship System of the Igbos commonly known as ‘Igba-Boi’ apprenticeship is a common practice among the Igbo people, especially the Onitsha Main Market traders in southeast Nigeria. The study focuses on the effect of the mentorship system on creating employment opportunities and other aspects of entrepreneurship in Onitsha, Anambra State. Using survey data, the study explores the relationship between mentorship and job creation through the lens of Social Learning Theory, which suggests that skills and behaviours are learned through observation and social interaction. Structured questionnaires were distributed to 375 mentors, current mentees, and former mentees. Thus, with the help of descriptive and thematic analysis, the study shows that the system of the mentorship contributes to the strengthening of the entrepreneurial abilities of the mentees and the growth rates of businesses launch and employment. The study reveals that mentees who are well trained and equipped are likely to set up business ventures thus offering employment opportunities in the region. Based on these findings, the study recommends that government structures be formalized to support and enhance the capacity of this traditional mentorship system in fostering entrepreneurship and job creation in Onitsha Main Market and similar commercial hubs.

The Effect of Macroeconomic Factors on Agricultural Sector Growth in Tanzania: Macroeconomic Factors on Agricultural Sector

Seif Muba — 2025-02-10

The agricultural sector in Tanzania is a significant contributor to the country's economy, but various macroeconomic factors, including inflation, exchange rates, and interest rates have impeded its growth. Therefore, this study assessed the effect of macroeconomic factors on agricultural sector growth in Tanzania. The study aimed specifically to determine the effect of exchange rates, interest rates, and inflation rates on agricultural sector growth. The study used a correlational research design and quantitative data from existing sources, covering the period from the year 1993 to 2023. The data was sourced from reputable institutions, including the National Bureau of Statistics, the Bank of Tanzania, and the World Bank. This study used descriptive analysis, trend analysis, and time-series analysis. The descriptive analysis involved means, standard deviations, maximum and minimum values of exchange rates, interest rates, inflation rates, and the share of agriculture in County’s GDP. The trend analysis involved time series line graphs which were used to illustrate the trends and patterns of variables. The study also applied ARDL to estimate the long-run and short-run relationships between variables. Findings indicate that the exchange rates, interest rates, and inflation have a statistically significant negative effect on agricultural sector growth at p-values of 0.0458, 0.042, and 0.014, respectively. The negative effect of exchange rate, interest rate, and inflation rate on agricultural sector growth means that, when exchange rate, interest rate, and inflation rate increases, agricultural sector growth decreases hence the study draws a conclusion that, the exchange rate, interest rate, and inflation rate have a negative effect on agricultural sector growth. Policymakers should prioritize stabilizing these economic indicators and consider targeted support measures to mitigate their adverse effects on agriculture, ensuring the sector can thrive amidst fluctuating macroeconomic conditions. To mitigate the negative impact of high inflation, depreciated currency and high interest rates on the agricultural sector, the government can provide subsidies to farmers in order to offset increased costs of production, renegotiating trade agreements with other countries to reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers so that farmers can export their products at competitive prices. The government can also increase access to credit for farmers and agricultural businesses through subsidies, low-interest loans, or credit guarantees.

Effects of Dynamic Capabilities and Multichannel Integration Quality on Bank Performance; A Moderated Role of Environmental Dynamism : A Moderated Mediation Model Analysis

Negash Geleta — 2025-02-10

This study investigates the effects of dynamic capabilities (DCs) and multichannel integration quality (MCIQ) on the performance of banks (BP). It also explores the moderating role of environmental dynamism in the banking industry, using a moderated mediation model. Quantitative analyses were employed to examine data collected from multiple banks. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the relationships between variables, while moderation and mediation effects were analyzed using SEM-AMOS. The findings reveal that dynamic capabilities and MCIQ significantly enhance bank performance. Furthermore, environmental dynamism (ED) moderates the relationship between these variables, intensifying their effects on performance under high levels of dynamism. The mediation analysis shows that MCIQ partially mediates the impact of dynamic capabilities on bank performance. The study is limited by its cross-sectional design, which restricts causal inferences. Additionally, the findings may not be generalizable to non-banking industries or regions with distinct regulatory frameworks. The results provide actionable insights for bank managers, emphasizing the importance of fostering DCs and enhancing MCIQ to sustain performance in rapidly changing environments. The findings highlight significant social benefits, as improved dynamic capabilities (DCs) and critical information quality (MCIQ) enhance bank performance, fostering economic stability, financial inclusion, and customer trust. By enabling resilience and innovation in dynamic environments, banks contribute to broader societal goals, including sustainable development and socio-economic growth. This research contributes to the literature by integrating DCs and MCIQ in a moderated mediation framework, offering a novel perspective on their interplay with environmental dynamism in the banking sector.

Renewable Energy Resource Assessment and Deployment: A Comprehensive Review

Haghai Pandisha — 2025-02-10

This study examines methodologies and technologies for assessing and deploying renewable energy resources to mitigate climate change and enhance energy security. It employs a systematic literature review, stakeholder surveys, and interviews, along with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and multi-criteria analysis to evaluate potential sites. Case studies of successful projects highlight best practices. The research reveals significant regional variations in renewable energy potential, with Africa showing immense prospects for solar, wind, and biomass energy. Advanced mapping techniques are crucial for identifying and visualizing these resources. Key findings emphasize the importance of stakeholder engagement, robust regulatory frameworks, and innovative financing mechanisms for successful project implementation. The study underscores the need for cohesive energy policies, increased funding for research and development, and incentives for private investment. Recommendations include establishing clear regulatory frameworks, boosting R&D funding, and encouraging private sector participation. The study's insights are valuable for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners in the renewable energy sector, highlighting the critical role of comprehensive resource assessment and strategic planning in the transition to renewable energy.

Examining the Impact of Remote Work on Employees, Employers, and the State in Nigeria

Mutiu Adeyinka — 2025-02-10

Abstract

The rise of remote work, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has created significant challenges for employees, employers, and the government, complicating the management of remote teams while striving to maintain productivity and organizational cohesion. The central problem addressed in this study is the deteriorating state of employment relations marked by downsizing and layoffs, particularly in the private sector in Nigeria. This study aims to analyze the impact of remote work on these stakeholders through a systematic and thematic review based on PRISMA guidelines. Twenty four publications from 2013 to 2023 were reviewed, sourced from Google Scholar, DOAJ, Scopus, and Web of Science. The findings indicate that while organizations are beginning to adopt tools for remote work and virtual communication, these resources are primarily accessible to larger companies due to associated costs. Additionally, the study highlights the pressing need for enhanced infrastructure and structural improvements to support remote work at a societal and economic level. In conclusion, the study recommends that the government enhance infrastructural development and that organizations implement better strategies for remote work. Furthermore, individuals should pursue advancements in technology to adapt to the changing landscape. These recommendations aim to promote sustainable employment relations and economic development in Nigeria in light of the evolving digital economy.