Namibia Business School (NBS)

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A comparative analysis of customer expectations and service quality of retail banking in Namibia: A case study of commercial banks in Windhoek
(University of Namibia, 2020) Herunga, Benestus; Akpo, Simon
The SERVQUAL instrument was developed in 1988 by Zeithaml, Parasuraman and Berry as a multi-item scale to assess customer perceptions of service quality in the service industry. Customers judge service quality as low or high depending on whether · the service performance meets their expectations or not. The main objectives of study are to evaluate the service quality dimensions with respect to perception and expectation of customers in retail banking sector at the Windhoek CBD , to ascertain the gap between perception and expectation and to Identify the impact of customer perception/expectation on Perceived service quality. A Purposive and convenience sampling methods were adopted by the researcher to select 200 bank customers for the study. The researcher applied Gap analysis to determine if there was significant difference between customers perception/expectation on perceived service quality. The results indicate the significant difference between all the dimensions in customer perceptions and expectations. Responsiveness, assurance and empathy showed an average negative difference of -0.3,-0.02 and -0.12 for the four banks which means customer expectations are higher than' perception in every dimension. Also, the Tangibility and Reliability showed a positive difference of 0.12 and 0.03. The fmdings seem to suggest that retail banks put attention to improve these dimension's performance and to achieve their _goals in these ,competitive business environment. The study was limited to customers from the four commercial banks in the Windhoek CBD, where the greater part of the research ·was undertaken. Other limitations are that the sample size of the current study. is 200. Out of ~56 targeted. sample size from qomputed statistical formula. Although this sample · size meets the minimum requirement, a bigger sample size should have given more accurate results that could be generalized to environments beyond the Windhoek CBD. Namibia. Again, the study covers only customers from Windhoek Namibia, yet the four banks operate in the retail banking industry country-wide. Hence, other customers of the four banks were excluded from this study
A comparative analysis of the effects of public tax education and tax amnesty on tax compliance in Windhoek
(University of Namibia, 2020) Mwapopi-Hanghome, Elise; Mtigwe, Bruce
This study was conducted with the aim of comparing the effects of public tax education and tax amnesty on tax compliance. The Ministry of Finance (MoF) as the custodian of the management and administration of state funds grapples with a widening budget deficit which is becoming untenable. The Revenue department has accumulated massive tax debts spanning over many decades. This has been aggravated by the imposition of compound interest on outstanding amounts. In most cases, the amount owing now exceeds the capital amount. The causal-comparative research design was adopted in this study as it identifies differences between dependent variables and independent variables. Quantitative research methods with a self-administered questionnaire were used to collect data from taxpayers. A probability sampling frame was then used to ensure that every taxpayer had an equal chance ofbeing selected. Analysis ofVariance (ANOVA) was used to test the research hypothesis because it requires fewer measurements to discover significant effects. Furthermore, descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were used in order to explain the effects of public tax education and tax amnesty on tax compliance among Windhoek CBD taxpayers. Based on the outcomes, it comes out clearly that the Inland Revenue Department had no educational programs in place to provide training, teaching, and education to taxpayers. All that they do currently is to remind taxpayers about their tax obligations and compliance while the public lack basic skills and knowledge regarding tax. Whilst it seems that the tax amnesty is aimed at increasing tax revenues in the State Budget, only a handful of taxpayers came forward to participate in the program and the Inland Revenue Department did not collect as much debt owed as expected. The Inland Revenue Department needs to do more to come up with educational strategies to educate tax-payers and ensure that tax-payers gain basic knowledge, especially on filling tax-return forms. They also need to educate taxpayers and create awareness on the importance of tax amnesty programs by ensuring that the public understands the benefits and consequences of the program. Both tax amnesty and tax education programs if well implemented could help to enhance the level of compliance which would help taxpayers to comply voluntarily through all possible ways
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
A study of employees' perceptions of corporate social responsibility management in the Namibian banking industry
(University of Namibia, 2016) Tjitamunisa, Salomo; Ali, Shameen
This study investigated the employees' perceptions of Corporate Social Responsibility Management in the Namibian Banking Industry. This study addressed the following research questions: How do the Namibian banking industry employees perceive CSR and what is their perception of the role of CSR and commitment to community welfare and development? CSR refers to all of an organisations impact on society and the need to deal responsibly with the impacts on each group of stakeholders, shareholders, customers, suppliers, employees and the community. Secondary data has been obtained from existing available literature and primary data were collected from survey data. A quantitative (questionnaire) research design was used to collect different data about the employees and management's perceptions ofCSR. The study found that the employees' perceptions of corporate social responsibility in the Namibian banking industry are poor. Employees do not appear to understand corporate social responsibility and most employees have poor perceptions about CSR and therefore CSR is not well applied in the Namibian banking industry. On the basis of the results ofthis research, it can be concluded that most bankers understand CSR as donating or giving back to society and they fail to understand it as the sustainable usage of scarce resources for future generations. The study concluded that there is a need for top management to undertake the internal marketing of their CSR efforts and to educate middle and junior management and employees about CSR and its importance to the banking industry and for the future generations. Adequate training and employee education on CSR awareness should be implemented; the banks should incorporate CSR strategies into their overall operational and strategic plans of the bank
An analysis of factors influencing the financial performance of Namibian fuel stations in Helao-Nafidi town
(University of Namibia, 2023) Mirjam, Wilka Kuhatumwa
This study sought to analyse factors that have an impact on the financial performance of fuel stations at the Helao Nafidi town in the Ohangwena region, in terms of risk management, high fuel prices, the pandemic (COVID-19, logistic management (stock arrival) and the role of government in mitigating losses of financial performance. This study used explanatory sequential research design. It adopted a mixed methodology approach in which data was collected using a questionnaire for the quantitative part and for the qualitative part, an interview guide was used. To achieve this, the study used multiple regression analysis, based on a sample size of 32 participants and the results reveal positive impacts of risk management and stock arrival on business performance while high fuel prices and pandemics reveal negative impacts on business performance for fuel stations at the Helao Nafidi town in the Ohangwena region. Moreover, the study followed up on these findings qualitatively to explore the role that the government can play to mitigate business performance losses for the fuel stations due to pandemics, which go hand in hand with high fuel prices using reflective thematic analysis in NVivo. This analysis was based on the data collected from 12 interviewees using an interview guide and results revealed two themes, each with two codes. The first theme was on controlling the rivalry with two codes as oil/fuel smuggling control and the protection of the borders. The second theme was selfreliance that is associated with two codes as own oil discovery and giving subsidies. Thus, the study applied an explanatory sequential research design. Lastly, qualitative findings serve as policy recommendations while in terms of directions for future studies, the study suggests future research focus on other regions that are not severely affected by oil/fuel smuggling in Namibia from Angola, as well as to assessing the impact of the pandemic on business performance for companies in other sectors. Keywords: Business performance, risk management, high fuel prices, COVID-19 pandemic, multiple regression analysis, reflective thematic analysis
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
An analysis of the impact of the exchange rate on export perfomance in Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2019) Amadhila, Orodesia; Mugano, Gift
The purpose of the study was to analyse the effect of the exchange rate on export performance in Namibia. Furthermore, the researcher was to investigate if there is a relationship between the exchange rate and export performance. The objectives of the study were to examine whether there is a long run relationship between real effective exchange rate and export performance in Namibia, to determine the casual relationship between real exchange rate and export performance in Namibia as well as to suggest policies for the mitigation of the impact on the domestic economy. The theories on which this paper was based are Marshal-Lerner Condition, Exchange Rate Pass-Through and The Balance of Payments theory. To investigate the existence of a long run relationship between exchange rate and export performance in Namibia, the Engle-Granger two-step estimation technique was employed. The technique entails the determination of the long term co-integration relationship through testing for stationarity of the residuals using Augmented Dickey Fuller (ADF) test. The study revealed that the variable exchange rate negatively affects export performance and that the coefficient is statistically significant. From the regression estimation it can be concluded that the theoretical proposition of the relationship between exchange rate and export performance is confirmed in the case of Namibia. A currency depreciation results in more exports while a currency appreciation results in a reduction in exports. Therefore, policy recommendations of the study included employing strong financial tools to hedge against change in the international market, such as: Accept the risk and transfer it through pricing, A void or minimise costly commodities, seek natural hedges and manage the risk through contracts
An analysis of the importance of government contribution to the growth of Agricultural Bank of Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2020) Hauwanga, Victoria; Sunde, Tafirenyika
The study was in exploration on the impact of state contribution to the growth of Agribank. The study was based on the one main objective which was to study the impact of state contribution to Agribank and the whole agricultural sector. This research applied an exploratory research design to tease information on the contribution of the state to the growth of Agricultural Bank of Namibia. The investigation on the impact of state contributions to the growth of Agribank was carried out in using a quantitative research method. In order to attain the objective, the structured questionnaires were designed following the specific objectives of the study. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data from the participants. All ethical clearance data necessary procedures were followed before the data was carried out and permission was granted by the institution. The data was analyzed using SPSS and content-based analysis. The objectives of the study were to find out the impact of the state funding to Agribank on the bank's growth, the strategies that Agribank can implement to grow the loan book and recommendations on how Agribank could use the state funding to improve the agricultural sector in Namibia. The main findings of the study were that the state has a positive impact on the growth of Agribank. A direct relationship between the state funding and the Agricultural Bank of Namibia was identified through the findings. However, variables such as poor management, delays in approving loan applications as well as disbursement of funds to the client and lack of a sound loan recovery system hinder the smooth process of funding. The conclusions were that the growth of the Agribank depends on the state funding because it increases the number of loans hence the growth of Agribank. Interest rates do not really impact the growth of Agribank. The study came up with recommendations that the state has to increase its funding to Agribank. Employees should be developed regularly to be efficient in the discharge of their duties and to equip them with new management skills. The challenges faced in the process of carrying out the study were getting the participants to fill in questionnaire because they were always busy
An analysis of the sources and use of financial resources of local authorities: The case of Rehoboth Town Council
(University of Namibia, 2020) Haiyaka, Else Gudrun Salome; Sunde, Tafirenyika
This study assessed the factors affecting the financial performance of Rehoboth Town Council. Odero (2017) stated that financial performance in local government in the country remains poor and a radical approach to financial management was a necessity. The study assessed the factors affecting financial performance from institutional, human capital and external environment perspectives and its effects of financial performance of the town council. The study adopted a case study research design and data was collected through self-completing questionnaires. These were administered to 1 05 Rehoboth town council stakeholders. The findings were presented in graphs, charts and frequency tables. The study concluded that the main factors affecting Rehoboth Town Council's financial perfonnance included unavailability of reliable sources of funds, liquidity management, inflation rates, employee capacity and management practices. Though there were other factors affecting fmancial performance, the participants highly rated unavailability of reliable sources of funds, liquidity management, inflation rates, employee capacity and management practices. They indicated that there is a combination of institutional, human capital and external environment factors. The study recommended a number of factors to cushion poor financial performance in local authority among the debt management techniques, management of the cash conversion cycle and engagements for creation of sustainable income, investments in modem accounting management systems, extensive budget consultations and training and development for all the staff members for understanding of the town council financial management approaches. However the study only focused on the assessing the factors from a holistic approach, leaving room for testing of the magnitude of the effects of individual factors.
An assessment of employers' expectations to enhance the employability of university graduates in Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2023) Nepando, Victor P.
The issue of university graduate employability is a universal challenge however severe in developing countries. Namibia is one such developing country that has challenges with graduate employability. This study was conducted to establish the employers' perceptions of graduate employability. The study sought to establish the employers' perceptions towards graduate employability, employers' views on the effectiveness of recruitment and selection methods to determine the skills of graduates, and to establish interventions that can be put in place to enhance graduates' employability. The study adopted a qualitative exploratory research design informed by interpretivism as the research philosophy underpinning the study. Out of a population of 69 employers, twenty purposively selected employers were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide, which contained questions, aligned with the research objectives. Data were analyzed using a thematic data analysis technique. An Atlas ti software was used to analyse data. The following results were obtained. Employers perceived graduates to lack hands-on and soft skills. According to the employers, a lack of hands-on skills compromised productivity, and a lack of soft skills affected adjusting to the work environment and fitting into the team. The employers further indicated that a lack of these skills made the induction process long and costly to the organisation. The study established that recruitment and selection were aimed to select recruits who were then taken for induction, hence the selection process fails to determine the skills of the graduate. Finally, the study recommended the need for an inclusive approach to curriculum design, where all key stakeholders are part of the curriculum design process. The study also recommended enacting an attachment policy, which is inclusive and includes a module on soft skills in all courses. The Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creations were requested to conduct a skills audit, to guide and inform tertiary institutions on the demand for skills. Universities would be informed of trades, which require additional skills. The study also raised the need to 4 counsel students during their final year at university. The study suggested further study involving all key stakeholders on the challenges of graduate employability so that an inclusive plan of action can be generated
An assessment of the influence of the Namibian housing policy on addressing accommodation shortages in Windhoek
(University of Namibia, 2019) Sangunji, Antonio; Matipira, Lovemore
Housing is a critical enabler of economic growth and a great tool for reducing poverty. In every country, the Government has the responsibility, through its national policy, to ensure the provision of adequate housing for its citizens. At present, more people are forced to live in precarious socio-economic circumstances by building their own substandard homes. Half of the poorest households live in the worst housing conditions. With growing economic difficulties, there are increasing concerns over the rising level of homelessness amid rising housing costs, mortgage defaults and foreclosures. This study critically assesses the current Namibian National Housing Policy established in 1991 (NNHP), later revised in 2009, to determine whether it is fit for purpose. The research found that the currently revised NNHP is largely to blame for the housing shortages and the high level of land disputes between Namibian landless citizens and the National police in various regions of Namibia. The study found that the driving factors behind the worsening housing crisis for low-income earners in Windhoek were rising prices, inadequate serviced land, high taxes, lack of access to loans and mortgages, an antiquated land tenure system and corruption in the housing distribution process among the authorities. In order to address the growing housing crisis, there is a need for thorough understanding of the problem and the driving factors behind the problem. Research shows that evidence-based policy making is more effective ·and helps to inform the judicious use of the scarce resources of the government. This study developed a conceptual model that seeks to promote an agreement and a process of collaboration among the government of Namibia, the private housing developers, financial institutions and the low-income group. The proposed model calls for the involvement of the Government in this whole process, because without government's participation in the improvement and housing provision, problems of shortage of accommodation in Windhoek will not be easily solved. With the proposed model, the study put forward, four main propositions to address the housing crisis. The ·three main propositions are i) Land tax proposition and rental control board in Namibia; ii) Reforming Namibia's rent bill; iii) Greater Support for the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia (SDFN). The proposed model together with these three propositions will ensure that the housing process is inclusive for all and that those households excluded from the market and conventional housing development mechanisms are given the opportunity to access land, housing and services
An assessment on the effects of school teachers' turnover on learners' performance in public schools in Windhoek
(University of Namibia, 2019) Kadhikwa, Liina; Kaupa, Stewart Peter
According to the Public Service Commission (PSC) Annual Report (2013/2014), Namibia, like most other Sub-Saharan African countries noticed a rise in teacher attrition mainly in the public schools (Pitsoe, 2013). The negative development has also been accompanied by deteriorating academic performance in public schools. More so, Donaldson and Johnson (2011) added that the revolving door effect has continued to compound the problem. The study therefore sought to investigate the causes of teacher attrition and establish the nature of the relationship and the magnitude of the impact of teacher turnover on learners' performance. The study only focused on 3072 teachers in government schools in the Khomas Region a sample of 96 participants was extracted using the Slevin's formula. The study adopted a case study research design and both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques were used. The qualitative approach used a semi-structured interview guide for data collection whereas the quantitative data collection approach used a questionnaire with both structured and non-structured questions. Quantitative and qualitative data was analyzed using SPSS and thematic data analysis methods respectively. The research concluded that there are a number of factors that affect teachers' turnover in the Khomas Region and these included ill-disciplined learners, heavy workload of teachers, poor school leadership practices, too much administrative work and lack of professional development. However, the study found out that turnover in public schools was chiefly a product of extrinsic factors emanating from the prevailing socio economic environment. The study concluded that teachers' turnover affects learners' performance in public schools to a larger extent, though there are other factors such as parental support, resource availability and school leadership that affect the performance of the learners
An evaluation of corporate governance practices at local authorities: A case study of Rundu Town Council
(University of Namibia, 2019) Hamutenya, Bluemy M; Kaseke, Nyasha
Corporate governance systems have evolved over the years, if not centuries. More often than not, it has been in response to corporate scandals or system failures. This study sets out to evaluate the corporate governance practices at the Rundu Town Council (RTC), in terms of organisational values of good corporate governance and the existence of various policies, strategies and plans as part of its corporate governance model. This RTC case study used a mixed approach (qualitative and quantitative research methods). The sample size was 18, equivalent to the target population but only 15 responded positively. Questionnaires were used to collect data and document analysis was carried out on secondary data. The data was imported into the SPSS with specific commands which enabled the retrieval of the results. Graphs and charts were analysed and postulated conclusions based on the analysis. The main findings were, among others, the minimal policy discretions on decisions with regards to HR, financial management, target group and policy instruments, non-existence of internal audit function and audit committee, existence of codes of conduct and strategic plan and, failure by the council to conduct regular performance assessment. In conclusion, a significant number of decisions in these important fields were taken in consultation with and within the limits set by the central government through its portfolio ministry, the MURD. This study recommends greater policy autonomy and accountability on HR, financial management, target groups and policy instruments. It also recommends the establishment of the internal audit function, audit committee and/or risk management committee. SLA should be considered between RTC and the portfolio ministry as a tool to measure and monitor performance by the respective ministry
An evaluation of financial management practices in tier 3 state owned enterprises in Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2022) Veroonika, Petrus
The success or failure of any organisation whether public or private is reckoned on the governance and effectiveness of its financial management practices. Moreover, financial management practices have an impact on a broad range of areas within an organisation, including, aggregate financial management, operations management, governance and fiduciary risk management. Consequently, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the financial management practices in Tier 3 SOEs in Namibia. Specifically, the study investigated the current financial management practices adopted by Tier 3 SOEs in Namibia and to determine their effects as well as to identify the challenges regarding the implementation of financial management practices. The study employed a descriptive survey research design to collect the data on financial management practices from the CEOs, Accountants and Financial Directors/Managers (FD/Ms) of Tier 3 Namibian SOEs. Semi - structured questionnaires were used to collect the primary data and all data was entered and analysed using SPSS v.26. Descriptive analysis was done and the results were presented in tables, figures and charts. The findings show that, financial planning and control, reporting and analysis of financial, working capital management and capital structures management practice are current financial management practices adopted by Tier 3 SOEs in Namibia. Companies have good financial performance. Lack of advanced knowledge and skills was one of the challenges experienced in the implementation of financial management practices in the SOEs. Failure to fill vacant positions and lack of support from leadership (management) were also identified as challenges that hinder the implementation of the financial management practices. Therefore, the study recommends that the managers in SOEs should highly prioritise financial management practices during the formulation of their organisation's strategies to enhance transparency, accountability and consistency in financial operations. Finally, the study also recommends that regulatory bodies should formulate appropriate policies and regulations which would facilitate the implementation of financial management practices in companies.
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
An evaluation of the circumvent strategy implementation factors inhibiting effective tax collection within the Inland Revenue department in the Ministry of Finance in Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2022) Vatileni, Eila Nghiikimhote; Saruchera, Fanny
This study was conducted to evaluate the circumvent strategy implementation factors inhibiting effective tax collection within the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) in the Ministry of Finance in Namibia. The study was conducted against the background that the IRD in Namibia was struggling with the collection of taxes with more than N$ l9 Billion uncollected tax revenue. The objectives of the study were: to identify circumvent strategy implementation factors that inhibit the effective collection of taxes by the Inland Revenue Department, to assess the impact 01 the strategy implementation factors on the effective collection of taxes by the Inland Revenue Department, to establish ways of avoiding strategy implementation factors that inhibit effective collection of taxes by the Inland Revenue Department and to recommend best practices from the international and regional levels on how to avoid strategy implementation factors that inhibit effective collection of taxes by the Inland Revenue Department. The study was conducted through a descriptive survey, based on a sample of 44 employees from the Khomas Region of the !RD in Windhoek, Namibia. Respondents were selected through stratified random ampling procedure and data was collected through interviews and self-administered questionnaires. The findings of the study revealed that factors that inhibited effective tax collection included tax avoidance and eva ion, lack of capacity by revenue authorities, poor compliance and corruption and exemptions. The most prominent factor was tax evasion and avoidance, followed by lack of capacity of revenue department. The study established that there were significant but moderate correlations between strategy implementation factors and revenue collection at the IRD. The increase in inhibiting factors led to a moderate decrease in revenue collection, for instance, when tax eva ion, exemptions, and corruption increased, there was a moderate decrease in revenue collected by the IRD. The major solutions suggested by respondents for reducing circumvent factors were tax education, frequent audits, training staff, incentivise employees and building IT systems to flag uspicious taxpayers. The study recommends an improvement in the capacity of revenue authorities and the adoption of international standards in the management of taxes
An evaluation of the impact of COVID-19 on the performance of hotels and lodges in Windhoek, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2023) Kauatuuapehi, Clemence
This study evaluated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the performance of hotels and lodges in Windhoek, Namibia. The study was promoted by the poor and uninspiring performance of hotels and lodges following the pronouncement of successive COVID-19 induced lockdowns. The objectives of the study were to establish the influence of COVID-19 on occupancy rates, ADR, RevPAR and profitability of hotels and lodges in Windhoek, Namibia and suggest perceived policy interventions for sustainable recovery of the hotels and lodges. The study was theoretically guided by the theory of constraints, resource-based theory and the dynamic capability theory. The study adopted the positivism philosophy and quantitative approach to enable the researcher to make use of scientific evidence, including statistics that show how COVID-19 affected the performance of hotels and lodges in Windhoek, Namibia. A correlational research design was employed to facilitate hypotheses testing and explain the cause-and-effect relationships between the COVID-19 pandemic and the performance of the hotels and lodges. A total of 89 structured questionnaires, designed using google forms, were electronically distributed through a cross-sectional survey that targeted managers and accounting officers of the participating hotels. The respondents were selected using stratified random sampling in order to reflect the population structure in the sample. Data was analysed quantitatively using SPSS version 19. It was revealed that rising new COVID-19 cases and deaths as well as restrictions on domestic, regional and international travel led to cancellation of bookings and low occupancy rates. COVID-19 negatively impacted on Average Daily Rate (ADR), Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) and profitability of hotels and lodges. The study concluded that the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the performance of hotels and lodges in Windhoek, Namibia. It was recommended that hotels and lodges should develop new business models; advocate for a rescue / aid package for hotels and lodges and target domestic tourists with limited travel restrictions to enhance occupancy, ADR and RevPAR. A further study covering other cities and towns in Namibia and incorporating qualitative methods was suggested
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
An examination of barriers in transitioning from informal to formal business sector in Windhoek (Namibia)
(University of Namibia, 2022) Jeomba, Jefta; Ziramba, E
The study examined the barriers in transitioning from the informal to the formal business sectors in Windhoek (Namibia). The statistics in Namibia indicate that there are several informal businesses in Namibia that have the potential to boost the economy. However, the transition of these informal businesses to formal businesses is not satisfactory. Thus, the study was carried out to examine barriers contributing to this slow formalization of informal businesses. The study was premised in the pragmatic research paradigm and followed the mixed methods approach. The mixed methods approach was used to draw upon beliefs, views and experiences of informal entrepreneurs on the barriers in transitioning from the informal to the formal business sectors in Windhoek. A sample of 40 businesses was drawn from five business categories. Convenience sampling technique was employed to select 40 participants who were administered with the questionnaires, which contained both close-ended and open-ended questions. Quantitative data collected from the section of the questionnaire which had close ended questions was analyzed through descriptive analysis and the frequency graphs, charts and tables were used to present the data. Qualitative data collected through the section of the questionnaire which had open ended questions was analysed thematically. The findings of the study indicated that advancements in technology challenges and lack of capital funding from banks and the government are the major barriers for the transitioning of the informal businesses to formal businesses. The study concluded that for business to be formalized, they need information, government support and sufficient technological advancement to assist them in transitioning. The study recommends that the government needs to consider the informal sector as fundamental part of its economy and come up with some solutions to integrate it into the main national economic programs, to facilitate the transition to formal sector, which will result in a high contribution to the country's GDP
An exploration of government financial support towards the sustainability of accommodation facilities during COVID-19 in Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2022) Shikangala, Martha Peneyambeko
This study was conducted to explore government financial support towards the sustainability of accommodation facilities during Covid-19 in Namibia. The objectives of the study were to ascertain measures that the government has put in place to improve cash flows of accommodation facilities, identify challenges towards obtaining suitable financial support for accommodation facilities during the pandemic from the government and to evaluate the factors government takes into account in deciding to support the accommodation sector. The study used an exploratory research design utilising a qualitative research approach for data collection and analysis. Data was gathered from 30 participants (26 B & B and Lodges and 4 officials from the Ministry of Environment and Tourism). Data was collected using a semi-structured interview guide and the data was analysed using thematic analysis. The study found that there was a drastic decrease in both room occupancy and annual turnover for the year ended 2020, compared to the same period in 2019, hence the need for government financial support to sustain the hospitality industry. The results revealed that the available financial support and stimulus packages are not effective for the tourism sector. The available funding programs include government guaranteed loans, facilitated through the Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) and other commercial banks, and are meant to boost production. However, the B & B and Lodges rely on local and international visitors who may require accommodation, hence these loans cannot do much to boost production but rather leave the owners in more debt. Therefore, this study recommends for the government to provide financial suppo1i suitable for the tourism industry. Also, currently grants are recommended to sustain the industry. The government is also encouraged to promote domestic tourism. It is recommended for the B & B and lodge owners to diversify their businesses in this current environment