Professor James Kamwachale Khomba - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Professor James Kamwachale Khomba

Journal of management and strategy, Aug 3, 2013

The study primarily investigated the role of single sourcing strategy in either exacerbating or m... more The study primarily investigated the role of single sourcing strategy in either exacerbating or mitigating persistent supply failure in Malawi's public healthcare delivery supply chain. It also investigated the role of the single supplier in recurrent drug stockouts in the country's public hospitals. The study was conducted at five public healthcare delivery centres in southern Malawi. Data was collected using two sets of self administered questionnaires to, hospital managers and procurement staff at participating hospitals. Follow up interview with randomly selected managers were also scheduled to complement the data from questionnaires. The study findings confirmed that single sourcing exacerbates the risk of supply failure, evidenced by persistent stockouts of drugs in hospitals that consequently put at risk lives of many patients who rely on the public healthcare system. Such stockouts had multiple effects on the public healthcare delivery supply chains ranging from death of patients, deterioration of medical conditions of patients, hospital overcrowding, to transfer of patients to other hospitals (mostly private). Failure by the government instituted single supplier namely the Central Medical Stores, to maintain an adequate inventory of drugs both in quantity and variety, was found to be the most important cause of stockouts. From the study, it has been shown that the single sourcing strategy exacerbated the risk of supply failure, and is therefore generally inappropriate for healthcare delivery systems. It is hoped that these findings will help policy makers in making the right procurement strategies and policies in order to enhance healthcare delivery.

Journal of management and strategy, Aug 3, 2013

It is common knowledge that an organisation cannot operate in isolation without the critical role... more It is common knowledge that an organisation cannot operate in isolation without the critical roles that various stakeholders play in influencing organisational operations and ultimate corporate performance. Thus, stakeholders that are interdependent have to be rewarded based on their respective efforts in promoting and creating organisational wealth in different capacities. This study aimed at ascertaining the extent of corporate conscience phenomenon as on how body corporates in Malawi tackle and distribute wealth to their different stakeholders who are actively involved in the creation of such an organisational wealth. The study findings reveal that most business executives in Malawi recognise that being a body corporate with a conscience is a recipe for success of their current and future operations and the ultimate sustainable corporate performance. It is anticipated that the study results will improve the perception of business executives towards corporate conscience as well as transform the approaches in academic and business research programmes.

Southern African Business Review, 2011

1T he Balanced Scorecard model was designed for Western countries that operate within a capitalis... more 1T he Balanced Scorecard model was designed for Western countries that operate within a capitalist system. Africa differs from such Western countries with regard to dimensions such as infrastructure, markets and customers, sources of capital, government intervention, literacy levels and socio-cultural frameworks. Africa is more humanist and socialist in nature than Western societies. The purpose of this study was therefore to redesign the innovation perspective of the Balanced Scorecard model to suggest a new management approach for organisations based in Africa. In this study, exploratory factor analysis and correlation analysis using SPSS Version 16.0 were employed to identify four correlated principal components that could constitute an African innovation perspective of the Balanced Scorecard model, namely: (1) Africanisation values for general issues surrounding African socio-cultural frameworks, (2) learning values realised when employees gain indigenous culture and knowledge, (3) customer values focused on Africanising customer care and satisfaction, and (4) innovation values, clarifying values gained from skilled and motivated employees. All four components add value to improve productivity and corporate performance.

China-USA Business Review, 2013

Within an African setting, the Ubuntu philosophy embodies a socio-cultural framework that applies... more Within an African setting, the Ubuntu philosophy embodies a socio-cultural framework that applies to all individuals and institutions throughout the continent. The Ubuntu application is pervasive in almost all parts of the African continent. Hence, the Ubuntu philosophy is integrated into all aspects of day-today life throughout Africa and is a concept shared by all tribes in South, Central, West, and East Africa amongst people of Bantu origin. This paper presents a desk research that aims at reviewing and analysing literature on corporate lessons that can be realised from the African Ubuntu philosophy. The paper reviews the background and significance of the Ubuntu philosophy including successful cases of Africanising management systems. Finally the paper reviews major contributions that the Ubuntu philosophy can make towards global management systems. The literature reveals that there are a lot of corporate strategy lessons that can be realised out of the Ubuntu philosophy. These lessons include collectivism and teamwork, creation of synergies and competitive advantages, humanist leadership styles and maturity, consensus in decision-making systems, effective communication, and community-based corporate social responsibility. Therefore, there is a need for corporate strategy and management systems to be realigned with the local Ubuntu philosophy that defines the Africa's socio-cultural framework. To be successful, Africa-based organisations must be found on this Ubuntu philosophy.

African Journal of Business Management, Dec 5, 2012

Sustainability debate is founded on the premise that corporations have to focus their attention o... more Sustainability debate is founded on the premise that corporations have to focus their attention on social and ecological activities, apart from their economic endeavours. Thus, corporate sustainability which embraces both ecological and social components, poses an inescapable challenge in that without sustainability of business there will soon be no more profits for companies. This paper presents a desk research that aims at reviewing and analysing literature on corporate sustainability that is founded on the stakeholder-centred approach towards corporate governance. The review paper demonstrates that sustainability issues are paramount for the long-term realisation of business performance and ultimate profits. However, there are many challenges in instituting good sustainability programmes and corporate reporting systems, especially with regard to social and ecological elements many of which are complex and qualitative in nature. It established that many companies are now implementing provisions of good corporate governance that propagates inclusion of three sustainability elements as comprising economic, ecological and social dimensions. To remain competitive and sustainable, business executives should have a strong self-interest in minimising the ecological and social damage of their operations.

African Journal of Business Management, 2012

Lately, there have been various discussions about the values of the African Ubuntu philosophy in ... more Lately, there have been various discussions about the values of the African Ubuntu philosophy in many aspects as it relates to issues of human relationships, business ethics and corporate governance. As a governing philosophy, the Ubuntu is inclusive in nature as it considers all members of the community (organisation) as one entity aiming at achieving one purpose. There have been assertions that the ultimate success of any organisation operating in an African environment is premised on this Ubuntu framework. This study aimed at establishing corporate governance approach as practiced by organisations within an African context. Thus, this paper analyses and reports on research findings pertaining to issues of general business ethics and corporate governance approaches within an African context. The study results show that Africa's socio-cultural framework that is premised on the Ubuntu philosophy resonates with general principles surrounding business ethics and corporate governance. Central to the findings is the revelation that Africa's socio-cultural framework has a direct impact on business ethics, corporate governance approaches and overall corporate performance of organisations operating in Africa. It is expected that the study findings will influence organisations in Africa to adhere strictly to the provisions and recommendations of the new King III report on good corporate governance.

African Journal of Business Management, 2012

In the corporate and academic worlds, issues regarding corporate sustainability have become much ... more In the corporate and academic worlds, issues regarding corporate sustainability have become much pronounced. To sustain future business activities, corporations are advised to adhere to good corporate governance where they have to focus on social and environmental elements, apart from their economic aspirations. This is a new phenomenon in business as many corporations tend to focus their attention on the allocation of corporate wealth mainly to shareholders through the maxim of "maximisation of shareholders' wealth". The aim of this study is to empirically research on the current practices that corporations deploy and report the results in a scientific manner. Although at a transitional stage, the results indicate that corporations in Africa attend to issues of corporate sustainability through allocation of their wealth to many stakeholders that are involved in the wealth creation. To understand the interconnectedness and interdependence of different stakeholders that determine sustainability of any business, a conceptual framework of stakeholder relationships and networks has been developed. The study contributes towards new knowledge about corporate sustainability issues that involve companies in Africa.

Journal of Management and Strategy, 2013

The study primarily investigated the role of single sourcing strategy in either exacerbating or m... more The study primarily investigated the role of single sourcing strategy in either exacerbating or mitigating persistent supply failure in Malawi's public healthcare delivery supply chain. It also investigated the role of the single supplier in recurrent drug stockouts in the country's public hospitals. The study was conducted at five public healthcare delivery centres in southern Malawi. Data was collected using two sets of self administered questionnaires to, hospital managers and procurement staff at participating hospitals. Follow up interview with randomly selected managers were also scheduled to complement the data from questionnaires. The study findings confirmed that single sourcing exacerbates the risk of supply failure, evidenced by persistent stockouts of drugs in hospitals that consequently put at risk lives of many patients who rely on the public healthcare system. Such stockouts had multiple effects on the public healthcare delivery supply chains ranging from death of patients, deterioration of medical conditions of patients, hospital overcrowding, to transfer of patients to other hospitals (mostly private). Failure by the government instituted single supplier namely the Central Medical Stores, to maintain an adequate inventory of drugs both in quantity and variety, was found to be the most important cause of stockouts. From the study, it has been shown that the single sourcing strategy exacerbated the risk of supply failure, and is therefore generally inappropriate for healthcare delivery systems. It is hoped that these findings will help policy makers in making the right procurement strategies and policies in order to enhance healthcare delivery.

AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT, 2012

The purpose of this paper is to determine ways of managing supplier relationships to improve publ... more The purpose of this paper is to determine ways of managing supplier relationships to improve public procurement performance whiles conforming to legal and procedural framework for public sector procurement. Supplier relationship management is one of the most important aspect of supply chain management. Most public sector institutions especially in developing economies however neglect this aspect in their procurement practices. The advent of the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663) in Ghana addresses so many procurement issues but does not address supplier relationship management issues to achieve a long term benefit for the organization that will bring a win-win approach for the benefit of the organization. Hence, this study was set using public tertiary educational institutions as a case study to determine how supplier relationships are managed vis-à-vis procurement regulations to achieve procurement performance. The main findings revealed that selected entity follows accepted strategies of supplier relationship management in extent literature in order to ensure value for money and improve procurement performance. However, the existing relationships has some accompanying challenges. We discuss the theoretical and managerial implications from these finding.

African Journal of Business Management, 2012

Traditional financial reporting systems have geared towards the single-bottom line reporting in t... more Traditional financial reporting systems have geared towards the single-bottom line reporting in the form of profitability. However, there are arguments that corporate reporting systems should not just dwell on a single-bottom line but should be reported upon on three elements comprising economic/financial, social and environmental elements that constitute the triple-bottom line. This study aimed at empirically researching on what current practices corporate business executives and financial managers deploy in their corporate financial reporting systems. The focus of the study was on the assessment of the relevance of either the single-bottom line or triple-bottom line reporting systems within an African framework. Data was collected using the structured questionnaire that was administered across different countries from Southern Africa. The study results reveal that a sustainability (triple-bottom line) reporting system has been embraced by many organisations in Africa. The study findings suggest that there is a need to review and redesign accounting and financial principles and policies so that they are aligned with the emerging triple-bottom line reporting system requirements. The study findings will be of much relevance to academics, researchers and industry practitioners.

AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT, 2012

Ecosystems provide goods and services that are important for the needs of humanity. Corporate sus... more Ecosystems provide goods and services that are important for the needs of humanity. Corporate sustainability programmes balance the need for economic growth with environmental protection and social equality. This study examines the extent to which organisations in Southern Africa are linking their business operations to sustainability of the natural environment. A desk review was done of documents collected from different sources, including stock exchanges, registrars of companies, companies' annual reports, organisational constitutions, national statistical offices, government publications and internet sources. Primary data was obtained from managers at registered organisations using both structured and unstructured interviews, as well as through questionnaires. Direct observations were employed wherever necessary in the study. This study found that 69.3% of organisations in Southern Africa indicated that they do not consider the natural environment as their main stakeholder in their planning and performance measurement systems; and that they do not have proper measurement systems to assess the impact of their operations on either the natural environment or society. It is recommended that if corporate sustainability in Southern Africa is to be a success, then organisations must immediately start to value and protect ecosystems which are the backbone of their business operations.

AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT, 2012

The balanced scorecard model that was invented by Kaplan and Norton (1992) in the USA was designe... more The balanced scorecard model that was invented by Kaplan and Norton (1992) in the USA was designed for Western countries that operate within a capitalistic system. The capitalist systems focus on maximisation of wealth for the financial capital providers, shareholders. Africa is different in that its socio-cultural framework is socialist, community-based and humanist in nature. Thus, the balanced scorecard model is not fully reconcilable with an African environment. This study aimed at establishing whether or not the balanced scorecard model is relevant to an organisation operating in Africa. The study results reveal that the African social-cultural framework is inclusive in that its corporate governance embraces all stakeholders unlike an exclusive western framework of corporate governance that focuses on shareholders only. The current conceptualisation of the Norton and Kaplan balanced scorecard model is not ideal for an organisation operating in an African environment. There is a need to redesign the current balanced scorecard model to reflect realities of the African socio-cultural framework.

Southern African Business Review, 2011

The Balanced Scorecard model was designed for Western countries that operate within a capitalist ... more The Balanced Scorecard model was designed for Western countries that operate within a capitalist system. Africa differs from such Western countries with regard to dimensions such as infrastructure, markets and customers, sources of capital, government intervention, literacy levels and socio-cultural frameworks. Africa is more humanist and socialist in nature than Western societies. The purpose of this study was therefore to redesign the innovation perspective of the Balanced Scorecard model to suggest a new management approach for organisations based in Africa. In this study, exploratory factor analysis and correlation analysis using SPSS Version 16.0 were employed to identify four correlated principal components that could constitute an African innovation perspective of the Balanced Scorecard model, namely: (1) Africanisation values for general issues surrounding African socio-cultural frameworks, (2) learning values realised when employees gain indigenous culture and knowledge, (3...

Mobile payments usage is low in Malawi and there are many limitations to encourage users to conti... more Mobile payments usage is low in Malawi and there are many limitations to encourage users to continuously use mobile payments. The purpose of this research was to examine determinants of continuous intention to use mobile payments in Malawi. A quantitative method using the survey approach was used. TAM 3 model was used and seamlessness was added as one of the predictors of the inner model. Data analysis followed Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Squares using SmartPLS software. The model showed very high levels of internal consistency reliability (CR values > 0.7). Validity was confirmed (AVE > 0.5 and indicator reliability >0.4). There were no collinearity issues (VIF < 5 and Tolerance Values > 0.2). Society norms showed significance in explaining continuous intention (p=0.012). Seamlessness was also found to be significant in explaining satisfaction (p=0.002) and society norms (p=0.001). Seamlessness and service quality were found to have significantly negat...

Purpose - To investigated the impact of procurement operations on healthcare delivery in Malawi’s... more Purpose - To investigated the impact of procurement operations on healthcare delivery in Malawi’s public healthcare delivery system. It sought to confirm the existence, establish the frequency, effects and causes of stock outs of drugs. The Study was provoked by local media reports on acute drug stock outs in the public healthcare delivery system despite the same being adequately available in private hospitals. Design/Methodology/Approach: Data was collected using three sets of questionnaires administered to 40 patient caregivers (nurses, clinicians and doctors), 12 senior hospital managers, and 6 procurement managers. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences Findings: The study found that procurement functions derailed healthcare delivery through failure to ensure availability of drugs. Frequent stock outs of drugs were confirmed, the effects of which on healthcare delivery ranged from death of patients, deterioration of medical conditions of patients, h...

The proliferation of mobile phones has made mobile payments to be widely used in developing econo... more The proliferation of mobile phones has made mobile payments to be widely used in developing economies. However, mobile payment usage in Malawi is low, and there are many limitations to encourage users to continuously use mobile payments. The purpose of this research was to examine determinants of continuous intention to use mobile payments in Malawi. A conceptual framework adapted from Technology Acceptance Model was developed. Data was collected through a survey while data analysis used Structural Equation Modelling Partial Least Squares using SmartPLS software. The findings of this study showed that society norms significantly influence continuous intention to use mobile payments (p=0.012). Most interestingly, prior knowledge (p=0.000) and seamlessness (p=0.000) had the strongest influence as compared to structural assurance (p=0.008). Seamlessness significantly influenced satisfaction (p=0.002) and society norms (p=0.001). Seamlessness and service quality had significantly negati...

Global Journal of Management and Business Research, 2013

Cultural beliefs and philosophies are fundamental in shaping a society. Lately, there have been v... more Cultural beliefs and philosophies are fundamental in shaping a society. Lately, there have been various discussions about the values of the African Ubuntu philosophy in many aspects as it relates to issues of human relationships, business ethics and corporate governance. As a governing African philosophy, the Ubuntu is inclusive in nature as it considers all members of the community (organisation) as one entity aiming at achieving one purpose. There have been assertions that the ultimate success of any organisation operating in an African environment is premised on this Ubuntu framework. This study aimed at establishing corporate governance approach as practiced by organisations within an African context. Thus, the paper analyses and reports on research findings pertaining to issues towards general business ethics and corporate governance approaches within an African context. The study results show that Africa’s sociocultural framework that is premised on the Ubuntu philosophy res...

Drucker (1992) views intellectual capital as the only major source of capital that can create pro... more Drucker (1992) views intellectual capital as the only major source of capital that can create productivity and contribute towards profits for corporations. The problem statement refers to lack of recognition about this significant contribution of intellectual capital towards corporate performance by some organisations in Africa. Thus, the objective of the research was to focus on the intellectual constructs in order to fully understand its dynamics within an African framework. The study drew corporate data from different companies using structured questionnaires. The data was analysed through the use of univariate and correlation analysis. It is found that some corporations are not still aware of the importance and necessity of intellectual capital that brings innovation and profitability. Many managers in Africa still tend to put much emphasis on the other four sources of capital as comprising labour capital, natural resource capital, financial capital and debt capital more than the intellectual capital. Thus, recognition of intellectual capital is still in the transitional stage amongst many organisations in Africa. It is expected that the results of this research will enhance knowledge and recognition of intellectual capital value as another source of productivity and a contributor towards corporate performance and profitability.

African Journal of Business Management, 2012

African Journal of Business Management, Nov 28, 2013

The growing internationalisation of Higher Institutions of Education and the proliferation of Inf... more The growing internationalisation of Higher Institutions of Education and the proliferation of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) have increased the competitive challenge facing local public universities and MBA programs. Service quality is the key challenge facing local universities to compete at international level. To achieve service quality however, managers of Higher Institutions of Education and/or MBA programs have to understand the service quality perceptions of students and set service quality standards and strategies that meet these quality perceptions. Most studies assessing service quality of MBA programs and/or of the education sector have utilised SERVQUAL, SERVPERF and HEdPERF models. Although these models offer reliability they are limited in providing practical understanding of service quality in specific contexts. This study replicated the Top-of-mind expression technique that uses unaided free expressions of respondents to investigate MBA service quality criteria of 31 MBA postgraduates of a public university. The analysis discovered two new MBA service quality criteria and that includes management of the MBA program and image which are not conceptualised for measurement in existing service quality models. The results further confirmed other service quality dimensions of MBA programs; syllabus, lecturing quality, reliability of program, academic facilities and outcomes. The results designate that using the Top-of-mind technique which involves analysing free top-of-mind expressions of respondents can identify key service criteria in specific contexts. The specific terms may offer very useful insights for managers and practitioners to formulate specific strategies to improve attractiveness and competitiveness of the service provided and in this case, MBA programs.

Journal of management and strategy, Aug 3, 2013

The study primarily investigated the role of single sourcing strategy in either exacerbating or m... more The study primarily investigated the role of single sourcing strategy in either exacerbating or mitigating persistent supply failure in Malawi's public healthcare delivery supply chain. It also investigated the role of the single supplier in recurrent drug stockouts in the country's public hospitals. The study was conducted at five public healthcare delivery centres in southern Malawi. Data was collected using two sets of self administered questionnaires to, hospital managers and procurement staff at participating hospitals. Follow up interview with randomly selected managers were also scheduled to complement the data from questionnaires. The study findings confirmed that single sourcing exacerbates the risk of supply failure, evidenced by persistent stockouts of drugs in hospitals that consequently put at risk lives of many patients who rely on the public healthcare system. Such stockouts had multiple effects on the public healthcare delivery supply chains ranging from death of patients, deterioration of medical conditions of patients, hospital overcrowding, to transfer of patients to other hospitals (mostly private). Failure by the government instituted single supplier namely the Central Medical Stores, to maintain an adequate inventory of drugs both in quantity and variety, was found to be the most important cause of stockouts. From the study, it has been shown that the single sourcing strategy exacerbated the risk of supply failure, and is therefore generally inappropriate for healthcare delivery systems. It is hoped that these findings will help policy makers in making the right procurement strategies and policies in order to enhance healthcare delivery.

Journal of management and strategy, Aug 3, 2013

It is common knowledge that an organisation cannot operate in isolation without the critical role... more It is common knowledge that an organisation cannot operate in isolation without the critical roles that various stakeholders play in influencing organisational operations and ultimate corporate performance. Thus, stakeholders that are interdependent have to be rewarded based on their respective efforts in promoting and creating organisational wealth in different capacities. This study aimed at ascertaining the extent of corporate conscience phenomenon as on how body corporates in Malawi tackle and distribute wealth to their different stakeholders who are actively involved in the creation of such an organisational wealth. The study findings reveal that most business executives in Malawi recognise that being a body corporate with a conscience is a recipe for success of their current and future operations and the ultimate sustainable corporate performance. It is anticipated that the study results will improve the perception of business executives towards corporate conscience as well as transform the approaches in academic and business research programmes.

Southern African Business Review, 2011

1T he Balanced Scorecard model was designed for Western countries that operate within a capitalis... more 1T he Balanced Scorecard model was designed for Western countries that operate within a capitalist system. Africa differs from such Western countries with regard to dimensions such as infrastructure, markets and customers, sources of capital, government intervention, literacy levels and socio-cultural frameworks. Africa is more humanist and socialist in nature than Western societies. The purpose of this study was therefore to redesign the innovation perspective of the Balanced Scorecard model to suggest a new management approach for organisations based in Africa. In this study, exploratory factor analysis and correlation analysis using SPSS Version 16.0 were employed to identify four correlated principal components that could constitute an African innovation perspective of the Balanced Scorecard model, namely: (1) Africanisation values for general issues surrounding African socio-cultural frameworks, (2) learning values realised when employees gain indigenous culture and knowledge, (3) customer values focused on Africanising customer care and satisfaction, and (4) innovation values, clarifying values gained from skilled and motivated employees. All four components add value to improve productivity and corporate performance.

China-USA Business Review, 2013

Within an African setting, the Ubuntu philosophy embodies a socio-cultural framework that applies... more Within an African setting, the Ubuntu philosophy embodies a socio-cultural framework that applies to all individuals and institutions throughout the continent. The Ubuntu application is pervasive in almost all parts of the African continent. Hence, the Ubuntu philosophy is integrated into all aspects of day-today life throughout Africa and is a concept shared by all tribes in South, Central, West, and East Africa amongst people of Bantu origin. This paper presents a desk research that aims at reviewing and analysing literature on corporate lessons that can be realised from the African Ubuntu philosophy. The paper reviews the background and significance of the Ubuntu philosophy including successful cases of Africanising management systems. Finally the paper reviews major contributions that the Ubuntu philosophy can make towards global management systems. The literature reveals that there are a lot of corporate strategy lessons that can be realised out of the Ubuntu philosophy. These lessons include collectivism and teamwork, creation of synergies and competitive advantages, humanist leadership styles and maturity, consensus in decision-making systems, effective communication, and community-based corporate social responsibility. Therefore, there is a need for corporate strategy and management systems to be realigned with the local Ubuntu philosophy that defines the Africa's socio-cultural framework. To be successful, Africa-based organisations must be found on this Ubuntu philosophy.

African Journal of Business Management, Dec 5, 2012

Sustainability debate is founded on the premise that corporations have to focus their attention o... more Sustainability debate is founded on the premise that corporations have to focus their attention on social and ecological activities, apart from their economic endeavours. Thus, corporate sustainability which embraces both ecological and social components, poses an inescapable challenge in that without sustainability of business there will soon be no more profits for companies. This paper presents a desk research that aims at reviewing and analysing literature on corporate sustainability that is founded on the stakeholder-centred approach towards corporate governance. The review paper demonstrates that sustainability issues are paramount for the long-term realisation of business performance and ultimate profits. However, there are many challenges in instituting good sustainability programmes and corporate reporting systems, especially with regard to social and ecological elements many of which are complex and qualitative in nature. It established that many companies are now implementing provisions of good corporate governance that propagates inclusion of three sustainability elements as comprising economic, ecological and social dimensions. To remain competitive and sustainable, business executives should have a strong self-interest in minimising the ecological and social damage of their operations.

African Journal of Business Management, 2012

Lately, there have been various discussions about the values of the African Ubuntu philosophy in ... more Lately, there have been various discussions about the values of the African Ubuntu philosophy in many aspects as it relates to issues of human relationships, business ethics and corporate governance. As a governing philosophy, the Ubuntu is inclusive in nature as it considers all members of the community (organisation) as one entity aiming at achieving one purpose. There have been assertions that the ultimate success of any organisation operating in an African environment is premised on this Ubuntu framework. This study aimed at establishing corporate governance approach as practiced by organisations within an African context. Thus, this paper analyses and reports on research findings pertaining to issues of general business ethics and corporate governance approaches within an African context. The study results show that Africa's socio-cultural framework that is premised on the Ubuntu philosophy resonates with general principles surrounding business ethics and corporate governance. Central to the findings is the revelation that Africa's socio-cultural framework has a direct impact on business ethics, corporate governance approaches and overall corporate performance of organisations operating in Africa. It is expected that the study findings will influence organisations in Africa to adhere strictly to the provisions and recommendations of the new King III report on good corporate governance.

African Journal of Business Management, 2012

In the corporate and academic worlds, issues regarding corporate sustainability have become much ... more In the corporate and academic worlds, issues regarding corporate sustainability have become much pronounced. To sustain future business activities, corporations are advised to adhere to good corporate governance where they have to focus on social and environmental elements, apart from their economic aspirations. This is a new phenomenon in business as many corporations tend to focus their attention on the allocation of corporate wealth mainly to shareholders through the maxim of "maximisation of shareholders' wealth". The aim of this study is to empirically research on the current practices that corporations deploy and report the results in a scientific manner. Although at a transitional stage, the results indicate that corporations in Africa attend to issues of corporate sustainability through allocation of their wealth to many stakeholders that are involved in the wealth creation. To understand the interconnectedness and interdependence of different stakeholders that determine sustainability of any business, a conceptual framework of stakeholder relationships and networks has been developed. The study contributes towards new knowledge about corporate sustainability issues that involve companies in Africa.

Journal of Management and Strategy, 2013

The study primarily investigated the role of single sourcing strategy in either exacerbating or m... more The study primarily investigated the role of single sourcing strategy in either exacerbating or mitigating persistent supply failure in Malawi's public healthcare delivery supply chain. It also investigated the role of the single supplier in recurrent drug stockouts in the country's public hospitals. The study was conducted at five public healthcare delivery centres in southern Malawi. Data was collected using two sets of self administered questionnaires to, hospital managers and procurement staff at participating hospitals. Follow up interview with randomly selected managers were also scheduled to complement the data from questionnaires. The study findings confirmed that single sourcing exacerbates the risk of supply failure, evidenced by persistent stockouts of drugs in hospitals that consequently put at risk lives of many patients who rely on the public healthcare system. Such stockouts had multiple effects on the public healthcare delivery supply chains ranging from death of patients, deterioration of medical conditions of patients, hospital overcrowding, to transfer of patients to other hospitals (mostly private). Failure by the government instituted single supplier namely the Central Medical Stores, to maintain an adequate inventory of drugs both in quantity and variety, was found to be the most important cause of stockouts. From the study, it has been shown that the single sourcing strategy exacerbated the risk of supply failure, and is therefore generally inappropriate for healthcare delivery systems. It is hoped that these findings will help policy makers in making the right procurement strategies and policies in order to enhance healthcare delivery.

AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT, 2012

The purpose of this paper is to determine ways of managing supplier relationships to improve publ... more The purpose of this paper is to determine ways of managing supplier relationships to improve public procurement performance whiles conforming to legal and procedural framework for public sector procurement. Supplier relationship management is one of the most important aspect of supply chain management. Most public sector institutions especially in developing economies however neglect this aspect in their procurement practices. The advent of the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663) in Ghana addresses so many procurement issues but does not address supplier relationship management issues to achieve a long term benefit for the organization that will bring a win-win approach for the benefit of the organization. Hence, this study was set using public tertiary educational institutions as a case study to determine how supplier relationships are managed vis-à-vis procurement regulations to achieve procurement performance. The main findings revealed that selected entity follows accepted strategies of supplier relationship management in extent literature in order to ensure value for money and improve procurement performance. However, the existing relationships has some accompanying challenges. We discuss the theoretical and managerial implications from these finding.

African Journal of Business Management, 2012

Traditional financial reporting systems have geared towards the single-bottom line reporting in t... more Traditional financial reporting systems have geared towards the single-bottom line reporting in the form of profitability. However, there are arguments that corporate reporting systems should not just dwell on a single-bottom line but should be reported upon on three elements comprising economic/financial, social and environmental elements that constitute the triple-bottom line. This study aimed at empirically researching on what current practices corporate business executives and financial managers deploy in their corporate financial reporting systems. The focus of the study was on the assessment of the relevance of either the single-bottom line or triple-bottom line reporting systems within an African framework. Data was collected using the structured questionnaire that was administered across different countries from Southern Africa. The study results reveal that a sustainability (triple-bottom line) reporting system has been embraced by many organisations in Africa. The study findings suggest that there is a need to review and redesign accounting and financial principles and policies so that they are aligned with the emerging triple-bottom line reporting system requirements. The study findings will be of much relevance to academics, researchers and industry practitioners.

AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT, 2012

Ecosystems provide goods and services that are important for the needs of humanity. Corporate sus... more Ecosystems provide goods and services that are important for the needs of humanity. Corporate sustainability programmes balance the need for economic growth with environmental protection and social equality. This study examines the extent to which organisations in Southern Africa are linking their business operations to sustainability of the natural environment. A desk review was done of documents collected from different sources, including stock exchanges, registrars of companies, companies' annual reports, organisational constitutions, national statistical offices, government publications and internet sources. Primary data was obtained from managers at registered organisations using both structured and unstructured interviews, as well as through questionnaires. Direct observations were employed wherever necessary in the study. This study found that 69.3% of organisations in Southern Africa indicated that they do not consider the natural environment as their main stakeholder in their planning and performance measurement systems; and that they do not have proper measurement systems to assess the impact of their operations on either the natural environment or society. It is recommended that if corporate sustainability in Southern Africa is to be a success, then organisations must immediately start to value and protect ecosystems which are the backbone of their business operations.

AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT, 2012

The balanced scorecard model that was invented by Kaplan and Norton (1992) in the USA was designe... more The balanced scorecard model that was invented by Kaplan and Norton (1992) in the USA was designed for Western countries that operate within a capitalistic system. The capitalist systems focus on maximisation of wealth for the financial capital providers, shareholders. Africa is different in that its socio-cultural framework is socialist, community-based and humanist in nature. Thus, the balanced scorecard model is not fully reconcilable with an African environment. This study aimed at establishing whether or not the balanced scorecard model is relevant to an organisation operating in Africa. The study results reveal that the African social-cultural framework is inclusive in that its corporate governance embraces all stakeholders unlike an exclusive western framework of corporate governance that focuses on shareholders only. The current conceptualisation of the Norton and Kaplan balanced scorecard model is not ideal for an organisation operating in an African environment. There is a need to redesign the current balanced scorecard model to reflect realities of the African socio-cultural framework.

Southern African Business Review, 2011

The Balanced Scorecard model was designed for Western countries that operate within a capitalist ... more The Balanced Scorecard model was designed for Western countries that operate within a capitalist system. Africa differs from such Western countries with regard to dimensions such as infrastructure, markets and customers, sources of capital, government intervention, literacy levels and socio-cultural frameworks. Africa is more humanist and socialist in nature than Western societies. The purpose of this study was therefore to redesign the innovation perspective of the Balanced Scorecard model to suggest a new management approach for organisations based in Africa. In this study, exploratory factor analysis and correlation analysis using SPSS Version 16.0 were employed to identify four correlated principal components that could constitute an African innovation perspective of the Balanced Scorecard model, namely: (1) Africanisation values for general issues surrounding African socio-cultural frameworks, (2) learning values realised when employees gain indigenous culture and knowledge, (3...

Mobile payments usage is low in Malawi and there are many limitations to encourage users to conti... more Mobile payments usage is low in Malawi and there are many limitations to encourage users to continuously use mobile payments. The purpose of this research was to examine determinants of continuous intention to use mobile payments in Malawi. A quantitative method using the survey approach was used. TAM 3 model was used and seamlessness was added as one of the predictors of the inner model. Data analysis followed Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Squares using SmartPLS software. The model showed very high levels of internal consistency reliability (CR values > 0.7). Validity was confirmed (AVE > 0.5 and indicator reliability >0.4). There were no collinearity issues (VIF < 5 and Tolerance Values > 0.2). Society norms showed significance in explaining continuous intention (p=0.012). Seamlessness was also found to be significant in explaining satisfaction (p=0.002) and society norms (p=0.001). Seamlessness and service quality were found to have significantly negat...

Purpose - To investigated the impact of procurement operations on healthcare delivery in Malawi’s... more Purpose - To investigated the impact of procurement operations on healthcare delivery in Malawi’s public healthcare delivery system. It sought to confirm the existence, establish the frequency, effects and causes of stock outs of drugs. The Study was provoked by local media reports on acute drug stock outs in the public healthcare delivery system despite the same being adequately available in private hospitals. Design/Methodology/Approach: Data was collected using three sets of questionnaires administered to 40 patient caregivers (nurses, clinicians and doctors), 12 senior hospital managers, and 6 procurement managers. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences Findings: The study found that procurement functions derailed healthcare delivery through failure to ensure availability of drugs. Frequent stock outs of drugs were confirmed, the effects of which on healthcare delivery ranged from death of patients, deterioration of medical conditions of patients, h...

The proliferation of mobile phones has made mobile payments to be widely used in developing econo... more The proliferation of mobile phones has made mobile payments to be widely used in developing economies. However, mobile payment usage in Malawi is low, and there are many limitations to encourage users to continuously use mobile payments. The purpose of this research was to examine determinants of continuous intention to use mobile payments in Malawi. A conceptual framework adapted from Technology Acceptance Model was developed. Data was collected through a survey while data analysis used Structural Equation Modelling Partial Least Squares using SmartPLS software. The findings of this study showed that society norms significantly influence continuous intention to use mobile payments (p=0.012). Most interestingly, prior knowledge (p=0.000) and seamlessness (p=0.000) had the strongest influence as compared to structural assurance (p=0.008). Seamlessness significantly influenced satisfaction (p=0.002) and society norms (p=0.001). Seamlessness and service quality had significantly negati...

Global Journal of Management and Business Research, 2013

Cultural beliefs and philosophies are fundamental in shaping a society. Lately, there have been v... more Cultural beliefs and philosophies are fundamental in shaping a society. Lately, there have been various discussions about the values of the African Ubuntu philosophy in many aspects as it relates to issues of human relationships, business ethics and corporate governance. As a governing African philosophy, the Ubuntu is inclusive in nature as it considers all members of the community (organisation) as one entity aiming at achieving one purpose. There have been assertions that the ultimate success of any organisation operating in an African environment is premised on this Ubuntu framework. This study aimed at establishing corporate governance approach as practiced by organisations within an African context. Thus, the paper analyses and reports on research findings pertaining to issues towards general business ethics and corporate governance approaches within an African context. The study results show that Africa’s sociocultural framework that is premised on the Ubuntu philosophy res...

Drucker (1992) views intellectual capital as the only major source of capital that can create pro... more Drucker (1992) views intellectual capital as the only major source of capital that can create productivity and contribute towards profits for corporations. The problem statement refers to lack of recognition about this significant contribution of intellectual capital towards corporate performance by some organisations in Africa. Thus, the objective of the research was to focus on the intellectual constructs in order to fully understand its dynamics within an African framework. The study drew corporate data from different companies using structured questionnaires. The data was analysed through the use of univariate and correlation analysis. It is found that some corporations are not still aware of the importance and necessity of intellectual capital that brings innovation and profitability. Many managers in Africa still tend to put much emphasis on the other four sources of capital as comprising labour capital, natural resource capital, financial capital and debt capital more than the intellectual capital. Thus, recognition of intellectual capital is still in the transitional stage amongst many organisations in Africa. It is expected that the results of this research will enhance knowledge and recognition of intellectual capital value as another source of productivity and a contributor towards corporate performance and profitability.

African Journal of Business Management, 2012

African Journal of Business Management, Nov 28, 2013

The growing internationalisation of Higher Institutions of Education and the proliferation of Inf... more The growing internationalisation of Higher Institutions of Education and the proliferation of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) have increased the competitive challenge facing local public universities and MBA programs. Service quality is the key challenge facing local universities to compete at international level. To achieve service quality however, managers of Higher Institutions of Education and/or MBA programs have to understand the service quality perceptions of students and set service quality standards and strategies that meet these quality perceptions. Most studies assessing service quality of MBA programs and/or of the education sector have utilised SERVQUAL, SERVPERF and HEdPERF models. Although these models offer reliability they are limited in providing practical understanding of service quality in specific contexts. This study replicated the Top-of-mind expression technique that uses unaided free expressions of respondents to investigate MBA service quality criteria of 31 MBA postgraduates of a public university. The analysis discovered two new MBA service quality criteria and that includes management of the MBA program and image which are not conceptualised for measurement in existing service quality models. The results further confirmed other service quality dimensions of MBA programs; syllabus, lecturing quality, reliability of program, academic facilities and outcomes. The results designate that using the Top-of-mind technique which involves analysing free top-of-mind expressions of respondents can identify key service criteria in specific contexts. The specific terms may offer very useful insights for managers and practitioners to formulate specific strategies to improve attractiveness and competitiveness of the service provided and in this case, MBA programs.