UNAM Gā-aisib Repository

The UNAM Gā-aisib Repository serves as a central platform to preserve and showcase the university's scholarly output.

Gā-aisib, a term from the local Khoekhoegowab language meaning “wisdom".
 

Recent Submissions

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Investigating corporate governance practices and challenges in Namibia: A case study of NamPower
(University of Namibia, 2020) Nghihepa, Josea Mufeti; Heino, Heikki
The aim of the study was to investigate corporate governance practices and challenges at NamPower, Namibia. The main and specific objectives of the study were: to have an in depth investiga.tion into the corporate governance practices and challenges at NamPower; to determine the relationship between corporate governance practices used and performance level at NamPower; to determine successes and challenges facing the current corporate governance practices at NamPower; and to determine the determinant factors for implementing good corporate governance at NamPower. · The study adopted a mixed method approach for the collection of data on the investigation of corporate governance practices and challenges in Namibia. The finding of the study indicated a significant negative relationship between corporate governance practices used and performance level at NamPower (beta = -1.63, p < 0.00 I). The findings imply that a 1% increase in the current corporate governance practices would result in a 1.63% reduction in the firm performance ofNamPower. This study recommends that NamPower should consider finding the best model of corporate governance to induce positive level of performance. The study also recommends that NamPower should invest on corporate governance awareness which is critically important to the successful implementation of corporate governance practices at NamPower, this would induce enhancement of firm performance, corporate governance practices and corporate governance outcomes. Since NamPower's implementation of a successful corporate governance depends on external factors, it is also recommended that it should monitor external influences from politics and the environment from time to time. It is further recommended that a study be conducted, to investigate the relationship between corporate governance and performance level on NamPower in the energy sector
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An investigation into the impact of taxpayers education on tax-compliance: A case study of SMES in Windhoek
(University of Namibia, 2020) Kankondi, Pombili Hilma; Sharma, KR
The main objective of this study was to understand the impact of taxpayer education on tax-compliance among small and medium enterprises in Windhoek. This study employed both descriptive and analytical approaches whereby the quantitative approach which is concerned with either determining the frequency with which something occurs, or the relationship between variables was used. The questionnaire was the main instrument used to collect the· primary data in this approach and the questionnaire design that was used included structured questions. Secondary data was collected from previous literature. The specific objectives included: to detern1ine the nature and extent of the impact of taxpayer education programmes on sensitisation of tax-payers among small and medium enterprises; to evaluate the impact of the use of alternative media for tax-payer education on tax-compliance among small and medium enterprises; and to come up with appropriate strategies on taxpayers' education for better tax-compliance. The study used stratified random sampling for the selection of respondents and gathered information from various segments of the population. Data was collected through questionnaires.. Some of the findings made included: It is necessary for the taxpayer to acquire tax knowledge which will enable them to make the right compliance decisions. Tax is an important stream of revenue for government's development projects. However, taxpayer education and compliance by SMEs is poor in Namibia. Therefore, this study was conducted using SMEs in Windhoek; It was found that high tax-rates and complex filing procedures were the most crucial factors causing non-compliance ofSMEs. Other factors like multiple taxation and lack of proper enlightemnent affect tax-compliance among the SMEs surveyed only to a lesser extent. The government should therefore, consider increasing tax incentive
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An investigation into causes of saving behaviour among students at tertiary institutions: A case study of UNAM main campus
(University of Namibia, 2019) Taapopi, Rauha Shatika Ndeukoneka; Kakujaha-Matundu, Omu
The purpose of the study was to investigate saving behaviour among students at tertiary institutions in Namibia. The University of Namibia was used as a case study. It is important for both adults and young students to understand the importance of saving. The research included variables such as parental socialisation, fmancial literacy, self control and peer influence in order to determine the saving behaviour of students at tertiary institutions. In this study, the sample size was 324. A sample was drawn from the population using a non-random sampling method, namely: snowball sampling technique. 324 questionnaires were handed over to the selected fourth year Namibian students aged 18 to 24 at UNAM main campus. The findings from the study indicated that financial literacy, parental influence, peer influence and self-discipline have a great impact on saving behaviour. The recommendations were done including that the financial literacy amongst students must be improved. If students are fancially literate, they will save more. If the students are less financially literate they will save less
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An investigation into the application of corporate governance principles at selected public enterprises in Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2019) Immanuel, Fillemon Wise; Matipira, Lovemore
This thesis investigated the application of corporate governance principles at selected Public Enterprises in Namibia, with a specific focus on Risk Management, IT governance as well as Board Performance and Effectiveness. These three aspects are focal areas at the core of corporate governance and are determinants of corporate success of an institution. The thesis highlighted the Namibian perspective on corporate governance in terms of the domestication of the King III and the development of other codes aimed at improving corporate governance space in the country. The thesis would serve as a resourceful guide to future researches and the general practice of corporate governance both in Namibia and beyond. The thesis adopted a qualitative methodology research approach and followed an explorative research philosophy. The population of this thesis was 80, comprising ofNAMFISA Board of Directors, UNAM Council Members and their respective committees, and the owners of the two institutions. By use of interviews and survey questionnaires, data was collected through a convergent method. Through ATLAS.ti data was analysed using a content analysis. The thesis found that both NamCode and King III have influence on corporate governance practices in Namibia. Furthermore, both NAMFISA and UNAM, although at varying degrees, apply corporate governance principles in terms of risk management and TT governance. The thesis could however not make a clear cut finding on whether the two institution have adopted the Board/Council Performance Evaluation principle. In addition it established that board and council's constitution and appointment were informed by specific theories based on the institutional needs. This approach is often pursued in ensuring the Board/Council effectiveness. The thesis recommended inter alia, the amendments of the enabling Acts of the two institution to align them with the Public Enterprises Governance Act and bring clear separation of powers, introduction of Board/Council Performance appraisals, auditing of the exercise of delegated powers, future investigation of the concept of reversed governance and the relationship between political correctness and corporate governance
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A new model to measure the effects of price to book ratio and interest rate on share price volatility of financial institutions in emerging markets
(University of Namibia, 2019) Lopez, Yansy Caridad Odio; Kruger, Jan Walters
The development of studies in the field of trading activities in emerging markets are taking relevance in the last time (Leite, Klotzle, Pinto & Ferreira da Silva, 2018). This study attempts to be part of existing literature on the topic of trading opportunities in developing nations. The present research objective was to design a new model to measure the effects of price to book ratio as a fmancial indicator related to bank share prices and interest rates on share price volatility of fmancial institutions in emerging economies. The data analysis method used in this academic work was regression analysis. This was done by developing multiple regression models in Microsoft Excel to fmd relationships between variables of the study. The model includes three variables: one dependent variable (share price volatility) and two independent variables (price to book ratio and interest rates). Secondary sources such as journal articles and the publicly available online database for the Central Bank of Brazil were used to collect information. The model designed was implemented to test its validity in the Central Bank of Brazil for the period December 2016 to September 2018. The researcher found no relationship between price to book ratio and interest rates and share price changes in the Central Bank of Brazil from December 2016 to September 2018. The researcher interpreted this to mean that changes in the price of shares of the Central Bank of Brazil were not predicted by price to book ratio and yields in the period from December 2016 up to September 2018. It is considered that fmancial institutions must have instruments to measure and control financial and macroeconomic indicators in the banking sector, such as share prices and yields indicators, to contribute to increase fmancial growth by making informed decisions. This is an academic professional tool to be used by researchers, students, fmancial managers, investors, policymakers and shareholders as a source of literature for studies. This research has contributed to existing literature on trading activities in emerging countries, and how to study fmancial and macroeconomic variables that can influence stock price direction in developing nations, such as price to book ratio and yields
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An investigation of the relationship between customer orientation and customer satisfaction in the Namibian public sector: A case study of the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA)
(University of Namibia, 2020) Ndakeva, Aune Penelopee Ndemumana; Gilika, Mpho
It is a widely accepted phenomenon that service delivery in the public sector leaves much to be desired. Customer complaints in the in the Namibian Public Sector are common and BIP A is no exception. The main objective of this study was to investigate the existence of a relationship between customer orientation and customer satisfaction at BIP A, and the specific objectives were to investigate the nature of the relationship between customer orientation and customer satisfaction at BIP A, to determine the factors contributing towards customer satisfaction at BIP A, and to suggest approaches for enhancing customer orientation and improving customer satisfaction at BIP A. The study employed a combination of both quantitative and qualitative components in the collection of data. Primary data was obtained from the participants in the study, through questionnaire surveys and interviews. The systematic sampling technique was used to select the sample, and the sample size was computed using Slovin's formula. 91 walk-in clients of BIP A were selected for participation in the study, to whom 81 questionnaires were administered and collected at an agreed time, and 10 clients were selected for interviews. Secondary data was obtained from strategic documents and corporate reports of BIP A. The data was coded and analysed in the form of frequencies and percentages using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS V 23.0) and the results were presented in tables and graphs. The study found that there is a positive relationship between customer orientation and customer satisfaction. The study further identified service affordability, staff attitude, external communication and other elements of service quality, as some of the factors contributing towards customer satisfaction at BIP A. The study was limited to the Namibian public sector, cautious generalization of the findings in other sectors and other countries should therefore be considered. The study concluded that, BIP A should invest in customer orientation efforts to ensure customer satisfaction. The key recommendations of the study include espousing customer orientation as a management imperative, conducting market research to inform service orientation, promoting government frameworks to facilitate reforms, establishing a customer contact centre, the automation of processes and the adoption of best practices.
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An analysis of factors influencing the level of fundraising for Non-Profit Organisations (NPOS) of the Khomas region of Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2020) Shaduka, Luise Ndateelela; Chifamba, Ronald
Like the NPOs sector globally, the number of NPOs in Namibia has been increasing yearly. Most NPOs depend on government subsidies or local and international donor agencies to finance their operations. This scenario has been threatening their survival and ability to attain their aims and objectives for social transformation. Donor agencies have reduced their support for Namibian NPOs owing to the global economic crisis and financial headwinds facing the Namibia economy. As a result local NPOs have limited access to funding from both local and international donors, as well as private philanthropic organisations. This is attributed to factors such as: global financial crisis, economic recession, the re-classification of Namibia to an upper middle-income country, the downgrading to junk economic status, and the increase in the number ofNPOs in Namibia. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to analyse factors influencing the level of fundraising for NPOs in Khomas Region. Based on the study, this paper explores the influence of sources of funding on the financial sustainability ofNPOs. A quantitative research design was used as the principal research methodology for the study. The target population was six hundred and ninety six (696) NPOs registered with Business and lntellectual Property Authority (BIPA) under Section 21 of Company Act No. 28 of2004 of the Republic ofNamibia. One respondent per NPO was selected as per their role in the organization either: managements, administrative or financial personnel. The study made use of a random sampling methodology of which the, a total of forty ( 40) of NPOs were sampled each per year from 1950 to 2018. For the purposes of this study, a quantitative research method was employed and quantitative data were collected using a questionnaire. Data was processed using Stata software and the coded data I d t the SiQllificance level of .05% using an ordered logistic regression model was ana yse a o · · I Significant variables to the study were identified and interpreted accordingly and where possible compared to the literature review to gain a full understanding from both primary research data and secondary research. The chi-square test was done to test the model and it is statistically significant as it has a chi-square value below the 5% level. The findings of the study showed that there are factors influencing the level of fundraising in NPOs. These are gender, years of working experience, number of staff members, fund raising procedures, number of student interns, fundraising through electronic media, local and international donor's agency and partnership or joint projects with other organizations. Therefore, this situation has left Namibian NPOs with no options, but to develop alternative fundraising strategies to access new sources of funding in order to increase the level of funding to finance their operations. Jt is recommended that the NPOs should move from being dependent on government subsidies and local donor agencies for self-sustainability and have a more international outlook and indeed focus on establishing income generating activities and venture into multiple sources of funds for their projects. This would improve their financial sustainability. It is further recommended that there is a need to create and develop alternative fundraising strategies in order to increase the level of funding and remain competitive in the markets. Furthermore, it is recommended that NPOs should engage individuals, corporate sectors, government and local and international donors to develop interest in their activities for future donations. Alternatively, NPOs should give timely reports, thank you letters, issue donation certificates and offer a free luncheon for donors even once a year. With regard to media, it is advisable for NPOs to partner up with the media for marketing purposes as well as forming joint ventures with business and universities
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An examination into the impact of e-business adoption on the operational performance of manufacturing SMES in Windhoek, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2020) Tirigu, Lee; Woyo, Elisha
There is an abundance of literature on e-business definitions, ideas, perceptions, benefits, drivers and challenges in general. However, most of the research has focused on larger organisations and a few on SMEs with a greater bias still towards first-world SMEs. In an attempt to redress the balance of research, this paper looks at e-business with a particular focus on manufacturing SMEs in Namibia. The main objective ofthe study was to examine the impact of e-business adoption on the operational performance of manufacturing SMEs in Windhoek. The study used the quantitative research method with a descriptive-explanatory research design. The population was restricted to owners or managers of manufacturing SMEs in Windhoek and the sample was selected using stratified random sampling. 116 semi-structured questionnaires were successfully researcher administered, and research data captured using Microsoft Excel then exported to SPSS version 22 for descriptive and inferential data analysis. It was found that SME and respondents' characteristics with the exception of educational level does not affect e-business adoption. Management choices, expected positive results and ICT infrastructure evolution are major drivers of e-business adoption. Firm size and stakeholder pressure are weaker drivers, while the availability of ICT skilled personnel within a firm and government support were ruled out as possible e-business adoption drivers. There is a high adoption of the general use of computers, emails, Facebook, and financial services platforms. There is low adoption of management and operations systems, online information storage and recently launched social media networks such as Twitter and Instagram. Manufacturing SMEs in Windhoek are still at the infancy stage of e-business adoption. Tested relationships yielded satisfying outcomes consistent with the way they were hypothesised. Recommendations of the study were that more work needs to be done by various stakeholders such as the government, various ministries, academics and SMEs, to ensure effective e-business adoption and use in the future. Lastly, recommendations for future studies were also made and suggested that there should be use of mixed research methods, qualitative research, nationwide research or comparative studies across different geographical zones
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An evaluation of mobile banking as a tool for enhancing financial inclusion in Namibia: A case of FNB Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2020) Van Wyk, Desery; Woyo, Elisha
Financial inclusion is a multi-dimensional concept of financial development that enables affordable access through availability and equality of opportunities to access financial services, especially among previously disadvantaged social groups. Namibia has one of the most developed financial systems in Africa, and is blessed with a well run payment system. Yet, Namibia has failed to fully leverage its mobile penetration rate of 97% to deploy financial solutions that can provide an interoperable platform for financial inclusion. As such, this study uses data from a population of the more than 1,2 million mobile banking customers on the FNB Cell phone banking and E wallet platforms in the period July 2012 to December 2019 (89 months). However, the sample size was restricted by privacy concerns, which saw the study using 74% (66/89 months) of data in the period July 2012 to December 2017 (66 months). The study used a cross-sectional time-series econometric analysis to test Granger causality relationships between mobile banking and financial inclusion. The study found that at the 95% level of confidence, there were significant mean differences (MD) between the unbanked and banked platforms, in terms of value-added services, cash out ratios and financial inclusion channels on the mobile banking platforms. The study also found that among the four identified financial inclusion channels, only Profit Incentives and Financial Penetration channels could be enhanced with mobile banking. While, the other two channels: Financial Access and Account Ownership, influenced the rate of mobile phone adoption. The study concludes that the charge-based value added services provide the critical intermediation link as to how profit incentives can enhance both mobile banking services and financial inclusion in Namibia. The study recommends that regulators should provide profitability incentives to the banks and other e-money service-providers, as profitable mobile banking platforms can be used as effective tools for enhancing financial inclusion of the unbanked population
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Density and abundance estimation of unmarked ungulates using camera traps in the Mudumu National Park, Namibia
(European Journal of Wildlife Research, 2024) Nauyoma, LineekelaOmwene T; Warbington, Camille H; Azevedo, Fernanda C; Lemos, Frederico G; Sequeira, Fernando; Fabiano, Ezequiel C
Density and abundance estimates are critical to effective wildlife management and are essential for monitoring population trends and setting effective quotas for harvesting. Management of roan (Hippotragus equinus) and sable (H. niger) antelopes in Mudumu National Park (MNP), Namibia, is challenging because they are elusive, naturally unmarked, and believed to occur at low densities. The species are threatened by habitat fragmentation, human population growth, and illegal hunting, and reliable density and abundance estimates have not been quantified, hampering management and conservation plans. Our objective was to estimate roan and sable densities and abundances using the time in front of the camera model (TIFC) and the Poisson-binomial N-mixture model (PB), respectively. We also evaluated the effects of environmental and ecological variables on roan and sable abundance. We used data from two camera trap surveys conducted between March and September 2021 in the MNP. Results showed that the TIFC model provided low-density estimates of 1.62 (95% CI 1.61–1.64) roans/km2 and 2.46 (95% CI 2.42–2.50) sables/km2 , consistent with trends reported in Africa where these species occur at low densities. In addition, the total abundance of roans and sables in the MNP from the PB model were 57 and 242, respectively. Higher roan abundance occurred in sites with higher grass cover. This study provides the first accurate camera trap-derived density and abundance estimates for roan and sable in the MNP, which will be critical for developing comprehensive conservation programs and strategies that are likely to reduce the risk of extinction for both species