Journal of Management Sciences, Innovation, and Technology
The Journal of Management Sciences, Innovation, and Technology (JMSIT) is an interdisciplinary journal that aims to publish incisive and game-changing scholarly work in the fields of management, innovation, and technology. It is a double-blind, peer-reviewed journal for publishing influential and original contributions. It publishes the following: Original Research Articles containing original research results. Conclusions will be of broad enough significance to apply beyond the particular study site, and this should be clearly stated in the discussion (8,000-word limit including references). Reviews should comprise a review of the state of knowledge regarding a regional or country-wide or a continental or global conservation problem (8,000-word limit). Special Issues from time to time: Guest Editors are invited to produce Special Issues consisting of 6 to 8 articles grouped around a common theme
The Effect of Financial Inclusion on Women’s Entrepreneurial Performance: Analysis of Credit Access in The Zimbabwean Banking Sector
Financial inclusion is a key driver of economic growth and development, and financial institutions must play a role in promoting it. One of the major challenges facing financial institutions, particularly in developing countries, is financial illiteracy. Illiteracy can limit women's ability to access and effectively use financial services and hinder the adoption of technology that drives financial inclusion. Employing a quantitative research approach, data were collected from a sample of 190 women in Mashonaland East through a structured questionnaire. The study aimed to understand how financial inclusion affects women’s entrepreneurial endeavours, particularly access to bank loans. The major focus was on assessing how financial illiteracy affects financial inclusion, the influence of financial technology on financial inclusion, the moderating role of age, and the effect of financial inclusion on women’s entrepreneurial performance. The findings reveal that financial illiteracy significantly negatively impacts financial inclusion, while financial technology positively influences it. Furthermore, age moderates the relationship between financial inclusion and company performance, with older individuals benefiting more from financial inclusion. The study also confirms that financial inclusion positively affects women’s entrepreneurial performance. These results underscore the importance of financial literacy and technology in promoting financial inclusion and enhancing company performance. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers and financial institutions, highlighting the need for targeted financial education programmes and digital banking solutions to improve financial inclusion and women’s entrepreneurial performance. Despite its limitations, including the sample size and cross-sectional design, the study offers a robust foundation for future research and practical interventions in the banking sector.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rahabhi Mashapure https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Structural and behavioral determinants of digital payment platform adoption in a multi-currency rural economy: Evidence from Gutu District, Zimbabwe
This study investigates the determinants of digital payment platform adoption in rural economies, focusing on Gutu District in Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe, within the context of the country’s evolving multi-currency monetary framework. In Zimbabwe, the coexistence of the United States dollar, South African Rand, Botswana pula and the domestically issued gold-backed Zimbabwean currency (ZiG), coupled with constrained circulation of ZiG cash, has elevated digital platforms as the principal medium for local-currency transactions. However, rural communities often face infrastructural and institutional barriers that limit their effective participation in these digital systems. Against this backdrop, the study examines how technological access, cognitive trust, social influence, socio-economic status, and monetary conditions jointly shape digital payment uptake. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed. Primary data were collected from 221 rural households using interviewer-administered structured questionnaires. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was applied to evaluate both direct and mediated relationships among digital access, trust perceptions, social influence, poverty status, and adoption outcomes. The findings reveal that digital infrastructure access constitutes the most significant predictor of adoption, followed by cognitive trust and social influence. While poverty status exhibits a modest negative association with uptake, its influence diminishes where connectivity and system reliability are strengthened. Importantly, the multi-currency environment emerges as a structural factor influencing adoption patterns: limited availability of ZiG cash increases reliance on digital platforms for local-currency transactions, yet infrastructural gaps and cost barriers restrict rural households from fully engaging in these systems. As a result, many transactions remain anchored in US dollar cash usage, reinforcing rural exclusion from segments of the formal digital economy. Adoption is positively associated with increased utilisation of mobile money services, digital banking, and routine electronic payments, contributing to expanded financial inclusion. However, broader wealth accumulation effects remain moderate. Overall, digital payment uptake in rural Zimbabwe reflects the interaction between technological readiness, trust formation, and monetary structure, rather than income levels alone. The study underscores the importance of strengthening rural connectivity, reducing transaction costs, enhancing interoperability, and aligning monetary policy implementation with rural digital capabilities to advance inclusive financial development.
Copyright (c) 2026 Michael Chauruka, Michael Kamoyo, Wilbert Manyanga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Local Content and Sustainable Procurement in the AFCFTA Era
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers major opportunities for economic integration, industrialisation, and sustainable development across Africa. However, these opportunities are limited by weak local content development and overreliance on imports in public procurement systems. This study examines the role of local content and sustainable procurement in promoting inclusive growth under the AfCFTA framework. Using a qualitative approach based on policy analysis, document review, and stakeholder interviews, the study identified key opportunities and challenges affecting implementation. The findings show that effective local content policies and sustainable procurement practices can promote industrial growth, employment creation, competitiveness, and regional value chains. However, weak institutions, poor policy enforcement, corruption, and limited procurement skills remain major barriers. The study concludes that strengthening local content policies, harmonising procurement regulations, investing in capacity building, and promoting regional cooperation are essential for achieving sustainable and inclusive economic transformation under AfCFTA.
Copyright (c) 2026 rangarirai musiza, Abel Dzuke, Preston Hwena https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Bridging Sustainability Gap: Opportunities and Barriers for Green Public-Private Partnerships in Zimbabwe
Green Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are gaining traction as collaborative mechanisms for advancing sustainable energy goals in developing economies. In Zimbabwe, however, the institutional environment poses both opportunities and constraints to the effective implementation. This study investigates how the regulative, normative, and cognitive pillars of Zimbabwe’s institutional landscape influence the development of green PPPs in the energy sector, using Institutional Theory as an analytical lens. A structured survey was administered to 120 purposively selected stakeholders from government agencies, private energy firms, NGOs, and donor organizations in Harare Metropolitan Province. The survey employed a 5-point Likert scale to assess stakeholder perceptions across institutional dimensions. Findings reveal that while there is strong conceptual support for green PPPs, challenges such as weak regulatory enforcement, inter-sectoral mistrust, and a lack of shared sustainability values continue to hinder collaboration. Prior experience with PPPs was identified as a key factor influencing stakeholder readiness to engage. The study recommends policy interventions aimed at fostering trust, aligning institutional norms, and strengthening the regulatory framework to support sustainable energy partnerships.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sylvester Marumahoko https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Harnessing emotional intelligence for resilient leadership in human resources staff
The study explores the role of emotional intelligence in fostering resilience among employees in the human resources department. The purpose of the study was to understand how emotional intelligence contributed to human resources manager’s resilience in the human resources department especially during turbulent times. A case study research design was employed .The study was guided by an intepretivist philosophy .The study used a qualitative study on ten (10) members of staff at different managerial level in the human resources department who were purposively sampled. The study was based on the following objectives:-to examine how emotional intelligence contributes to resilience in leadership within human resources (HR) department in a university set up.; to identify challenges faced by human resources (HR) leadership in applying emotional intelligence in their day to day practices and to recommend strategies for enhancing emotional intelligence to foster resilient and effective human resources (HR) leadership in the university context. The study was guided by emotional intelligence theory. The study established that human resources managers with high emotional intelligence demonstrated adaptability in responding to challenges. The study found that emotional intelligence helped human resources managers to build strong relationship with staff, fostering a supportive work environment. The study also revealed that human resources managers with high emotional intelligence effectively managed to resolve conflict in the department. The study concluded that emotional intelligence was a critical component of resilience leadership in human resources department, enabling human resources managers to navigate turbulent times effectively. Based on the findings, the study recommended that human resources departments should incorporate emotional intelligence assessment in its recruitment for various university positions. The study recommended that human resources managers to undergo emotional intelligence training to develop social skills and introduce mentorship programmes to support them.
Copyright (c) 2026 Aron Gonye, Admore Mashokoh, Janeth Matingwina, Pride Mkandatsama, Emmanuel Nhedzi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Dark Side of Human Resource Analytics: A Systematic Integrative Review
Advances in information technology are ushering in a new era of human resource analytics and data-driven decision-making in the corporate world. Organizations increasingly turn to human resource analytics to enhance human resource management practices such as reward management, performance appraisals, and employee well-being. This improvement in information technology has raised expectations among various management practitioners and experts and fostered a very optimistic outlook on human resource analytics. Using human resource analytics to manage people, on the other hand, poses many challenges and ethical implications. This paper investigates the risks of applying human resource analytics based on a PRISMA-guided systematic integrative review. Following established guidelines for systematic reviews, a transparent and reproducible search strategy was implemented across Emerald Insights, Taylor & Francis Online, and grey literature sources, with clearly justified inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure methodological rigor. Two theories, the talent analytics maturity model and the technology acceptance model, form the conjectural structure for this paper to attain theoretical triangulation for the study. Inclusion criteria for the utilised articles included not more than five years old, articles in the English Language only, relevance to challenges/ethical issues in human resource analytics, full text-articles, business/social sciences articles, and only scholarly articles. The rejection criteria adopted were sources irrelevant to the study topic, sources more than 5 years old, sources not in English, pure science articles, and non-scholarly articles. The investigation identifies five challenges. Failure to diligently consider the unique aspects of human resource analytics can lead to unintended consequences such as techno-stress, invasion of workplace privacy, regulatory challenges, political challenges, bias, and discrimination. The review also revealed a lack of both qualitative and quantitative empirical studies. Not many organizations have advanced human resource analytics capabilities. The researcher suggests mixed-method and longitudinal empirical studies for each observed theme. Such studies provide a clear picture of the trends and patterns of human resource analytics challenges. Possible strategies for the menacing challenges can be found when empirical evidence is abundant.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kebiat Mukuze https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Emerging Trends and Best Practices in Stakeholder Collaboration in Innovation in Cultural Heritage Tourism
Cultural heritage tourism has become a key area for economic development and cultural preservation in developing countries. However, many heritage destinations face challenges such as limited infrastructure, fragmented stakeholder coordination, and exclusion of local communities from decision-making. This paper investigates how multi-stakeholder collaboration and innovation can address these issues and support sustainable growth in the sector. The research uses a systematic literature review method, analyzing 135 academic and policy documents published between 2000 and 2025. The reviewed studies focused on stakeholder roles, participatory governance, community-based tourism, and the use of digital technologies in heritage interpretation. Results reveal that collaborative models grounded in trust, shared goals, and inclusive planning are more likely to succeed. Technological tools like augmented reality (AR), digital storytelling, and virtual platforms were found to improve visitor engagement and cultural education, especially when developed with local input. The use of AR at the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, for example, led to a 25% increase in youth engagement. Case studies from countries like South Africa, Indonesia, and Italy show that community-led innovation and cross-sector partnerships enhance both authenticity and economic outcomes. However, challenges such as power imbalances, limited digital literacy, and governance gaps persist. The review identifies best practices including value co-creation, equitable benefit-sharing, and capacity-building. The study concludes that stakeholder collaboration is not just beneficial but essential for making cultural heritage tourism more resilient, inclusive, and adaptive to global shifts such as digital transformation and climate change.
Copyright (c) 2026 Laura Dongo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Developing a Strategic Human Resource Training and Development Framework to Optimise Performance in Zimbabwe’s Local Authorities
The study establishes a strategic human resource development training and development model for the local authorities in Zimbabwe. A sequential mixed-method design that was explanatory was pursued. It has a combination of both survey data (n=312) and interviews (n=11). The target population of the study included managerial and non-managerial employees who were selected within local authorities in Zimbabwe. The SPSS 21.0 software was used to analyse the quantitative data and present them in a tabular and graphical format. Thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data. The study findings identified several fundamental key elements of a customised training framework, one of which is the ability to integrate technologies, engage with the stakeholders, mobilise resources, customise the programme and align it with performance and talent management among others. The suggested framework is premised on nine integrated steps with the goal of maximising performance in local authorities. For practical implementation, the study concludes that local authorities should integrate training into human resource policies, allocate clear budgets for staff development and track results through establish monitoring systems
Copyright (c) 2026 Evans Bonjisi Tembo, Grace Portia Kuda Ngorora-Madzimure, Thomas Brighton Bhebhe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Impact of Strategic Human Resource Training and Development in the Performance of Local Authorities: A Systematic Review
Local government authorities (LGAs) are the nearest arm of government to the people, yet many can hardly provide the essential services effectively. Strategic human resource training and development (HRTD) has the potential to increase performance and capacity of LGAs, but remains limited across regions. A systematic search (2015 - 2025) identified 487 records; after screening 42 studies were included. These studies covered diverse local government contexts, with Africa contributing the largest share (Uganda, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Ghana), Asia adding cases from Nepal, India and Pakistan, and smaller but useful samples from Latin America and Oceania. In terms of method, 42 studies (52%) used quantitative approaches, 12 (29%) qualitative and 8 (19%) mixed methods, with sample sizes ranging from 35 to 1 240 respondents. Narrative synthesis and thematic analysis showed consistent findings across Africa, Asia and Europe that organised training programmes enhance staff performance, service provision and corporate responsibility in LGAs. Common approaches include coaching, mentoring and competency-based training. Key variables that moderate the relationship between training and performance include leadership commitment, sufficient funding and a systematic training needs assessment. The review concludes that strategic HRTD is a powerful force behind local authority performance, though its success depends on organisational circumstances. Policy implications include institutionalising needs-based training, strengthening leadership development, and improving evaluation systems. Future studies should focus on longitudinal designs and economic assessment of return on HRTD investment.
Policy Volatility as A Barrier to Industrial Renewal: Regulatory Instability and Its Impact on Long-Term Investment in Zimbabwe's Manufacturing Sector
Regulatory and policy instability has emerged as a critical systemic barrier to manufacturing sector revitalization in Zimbabwe, creating an environment where long-term strategic planning and capital investment become difficult for industrial firms. This article examines how frequent and unpredictable changes in economic policies, currency regimes, tax laws and regulatory frameworks fundamentally undermine industrial innovation and growth. Grounded in a mixed-methods doctoral study that surveyed 175 respondents and conducted in-depth interviews with 30 participants across Zimbabwe's mining and chemical manufacturing sub-sectors in Harare, Mutare, Bulawayo, and Hwange, the research reveals that regulatory instability operates as a profound disincentive to the multi-year investment commitments that innovation demands. The research establishes that regulatory uncertainty creates a stagnation mentality, with firms perpetually postponing innovation investments in hopes of future policy stability, effectively trapping the sector in a state of strategic paralysis. This article demonstrates that while individual firms can develop strategies to navigate policy volatility through diversified operations, strong government relations or business models resilient to regulatory change, such adaptations cannot substitute for the fundamental requirement of a stable, predictable, and transparent policy framework. The study concludes that without deliberate policy coherence, consistency, and predictability, including stable currency regimes, transparent tax policies and reliable regulatory enforcement, Zimbabwe's manufacturing sector cannot attract the long-term capital investment essential for technological upgrading, product diversification and global competitiveness. The findings carry urgent implications for policymakers, underscoring that industrial policy stability is not merely an enabling condition but an absolute prerequisite for industrial innovation and growth.
Copyright (c) 2026 Angeline Mutarisi, Desderio. M. Chavunduka, Nelia. E. Marima https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Journal of Management, Science, Innovation and Technology (JMSIT) is pleased to present Volume 2, Issue 2, featuring ten articles that collectively contribute to a coherent and timely editorial conversation on how Zimbabwe and comparable contexts can advance development through collaboration, institutional reform, human capital, inclusion, and sustainability. Taken together, the articles show that progress in tourism, procurement, finance, local government, manufacturing, and human resource management depends on systems that are adaptive, ethical, participatory, and resilient. One clear area of coverage is stakeholder collaboration and shared value creation. The cultural heritage tourism article emphasizes that innovation in heritage-based tourism is no longer the work of a single actor; it requires cooperation among communities, government, investors, and tourism operators. These studies suggest that collaboration is becoming a central development strategy, especially where resources are limited and implementation challenges are complex. Another major theme is sustainability. Several articles move beyond short-term performance to examine long-term viability in tourism, procurement, industrial renewal, and rural development. The titles on green PPPs, local content, and policy volatility show that sustainability is not only environmental, but also economic and institutional. In unstable policy environments, long-term investment becomes difficult, and the article on industrial renewal highlights how regulatory uncertainty can weaken industrial growth. Human capital and leadership form another strong strand. The articles on emotional intelligence and strategic HR training show growing recognition that organizational performance depends on people as much as structures. Resilient leadership, skills development, and effective training are presented as tools for improving public institutions and local authorities. The dark side of HR analytics adds an important caution: while digital tools can improve decision-making, they also raise concerns about ethics, misuse, and over-reliance on data. This broadens the discussion from efficiency to responsibility. Financial inclusion and digital adoption also receive attention. The article on women’s entrepreneurial performance shows how access to credit can shape business outcomes and strengthen women’s participation in economic activity. Likewise, the study on digital payment platform adoption in a rural economy reflects the growing importance of technology in financial access and everyday transactions. These topics show that inclusion is not only a social goal; it is also an economic driver that can expand opportunity in underserved communities. Overall, the articles cover interconnected areas of development: collaboration, sustainability, leadership, digital transformation, inclusion, and policy stability. Their common message is that development succeeds when institutions are capable, partnerships are purposeful, and people are empowered. In that sense, the collection offers a useful lens on contemporary challenges in Zimbabwe and beyond: building systems that are both productive and fair.
Copyright (c) 2026 Obert Sifile https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Knowledge sharing as a determinant of university performance:
Knowledge sharing enhances organisational performance, fosters competitive advantage, organisational learning, and innovation; it is of significant interest to both researchers and practitioners. The study sought to examine whether knowledge sharing positively influences university performance and collaborative behaviour among academics and researchers. Also, the study investigated how university collaborations influence university performance. A cross-sectional survey of 180 academic staff was conducted, and data gathered using a self-administered structured questionnaire. Respondents were randomly sampled from selected universities, and data were analysed through SPSS V23 and AMOS V23. Results from the study show that knowledge sharing has a positive influence on both university research collaborations and university performance. Additionally, university research collaborations were found to influence university performance. Lastly, it was concluded that university research collaborations mediate the relationship between knowledge sharing and university performance. By examining the influence of knowledge sharing on university collaborations and performance, the current study aimed to contribute to the existing body of knowledge in the performance of the higher education institutions domain.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lucy Chikono, Lovemore Chikazhe, Josphat Manyeruke https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effective strategies to mitigate staff turnover in Universities through the establishment of knowledge management units in human resources departments in Zimbabwe.
The study explores effective strategies to mitigate staff turnover in Universities through the establishment of knowledge management units in human resources departments in Zimbabwe. The study tries to identify how knowledge management units can address the gap left by seasoned staff by leveraging knowledge sharing, employee engagement, and organisational learning. The total number of human resource personnel across these universities was 40, 18 at University A, 10 at University B, and 12 at University C. We selected a purposive sample of 13 participants, which included five from University A, four from University B, and four from University C. The study was guided by Knowledge Management Theory. The study indicated that there were no knowledge management units at these state universities. The study revealed that human resources personnel believed that KMUs can facilitate knowledge sharing among staff and address staff turnover challenges. The study established that by developing knowledge management units, universities can promote organisational learning and innovation, creating a healthy work environment. The study concluded that establishing KMUs in human resources departments can be an effective strategy to mitigate staff turnover in universities. The study recommended that university human resource departments should establish knowledge management units that facilitate knowledge sharing among staff within different departments using technology to capture, share, transfer, retain, and preserve knowledge. The study further recommended that human resources departments should develop robust programmes that promote staff development to avoid losing critical knowledge from their employees. The study recommended that human resources departments should foster a culture that values knowledge sharing by utilising experienced employees to share their field experiences and pass knowledge to newer staff members.
Copyright (c) 2026 Admore Mashokoh, Ms. Janeth Matingwena, Ms. Fortunate Mhlanga, Aron Gonye, Pride Mkandatsama, Emmanuel Nhedzi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Unveiling Strategic Human Resource Training and Development Challenges in Zimbabwe's Local Authorities: Pathways to Sustainable Governance
This study examines the barriers to strategic human resource training and development (HRTD) within Zimbabwe’s local authorities and proposes context-driven strategies to strengthen workforce capacity and governance. The study is anchored in the High-Performance Work Performance Systems (HPWS) theory. The study adopted a positivist philosophical stance and a descriptive survey design within a quantitative methodological approach. Data was collected using structured questionnaires which were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0. The sample comprised 312 respondents, selected through stratified sampling from 25 local authorities distributed across the country. Findings reveal that strategic HRTD is hindered by internal misalignments, leadership inertia and limited HR capacity. It is further exacerbated by external challenges such as technological disruption, economic instability and regulatory volatility. In response, the study advocates for a governance framework that is contextually responsive, leveraging digital innovation, institutional partnerships and diversified funding to reposition HRTD as a catalyst for resilience and improved service delivery. The research contributes to HRTD theory by illustrating how institutional and environmental constraints influence capacity-building in local governance and introduces a hybrid model that reconceptualizes HRTD as a strategic instrument through innovation-driven, context-sensitive approaches. While the study offers valuable insights, its geographic focus on Zimbabwean local authorities may limit the broader applicability of its findings, suggesting the need for future comparative research across diverse regional contexts.
The impact of tax incentives on foreign direct investment attraction: a literature review for Southern African Development Community (SADC) and beyond.
The efficiency of tax incentives in luring foreign direct investment (FDI) to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) area is investigated in this research, which puts its conclusions in a worldwide perspective. It analyses important elements impacting the effectiveness of tax incentive regimes via a thorough literature study, such as investor views, institutional quality, and economic circumstances. While tax incentives may greatly increase foreign direct investment inflows, comparative studies show that their efficacy varies by area, with Southeast Asia and the EU showing more constant performance. Mentioned in this study are best practices for designing tax incentives, focusing on sector targeting, transparency, and conformity to international norms. However, there are still gaps in our knowledge of these incentives' long-term effects, which call for further sector-specific and longitudinal studies in the future. Furthermore, the importance of non-tax considerations in FDI choices is emphasised, supporting a comprehensive strategy that balances tax breaks and revenue requirements. In the end, the analysis offers insightful information to SADC policymakers who want to establish efficient tax incentive schemes that draw in foreign capital and support long-term economic growth.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gumisai Jacob Gutu, Obert Sifile , Edson Gwangwava https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The raging polemics of defining the concept of hospitality: Towards silencing the storm
The term hospitality became widely used in the 20th century to refer to an industry that covered hotels, restaurants and tourism. Etymologically, the concept was derived from the terms ‘hospitalite’ and `hospitalis` as French and Latin derivatives, respectively. However, noteworthy is that the current discourse on the concept of hospitality remains a slaughter house of ideas and perspectives without any foreseeable consensus on the horizon. The debate largely features scholars who challenge a management-oriented perspective or the hegemony of the ‘managerial’ paradigm, which conceptualizes hospitality as a series of organisational functions or service transactions that provides ambience to the social and commercial manifestations of hospitality. In essence, the management-oriented perspective is too linear to embrace the multi-faceted nature of the hospitality phenomenon. The latter view also fails to bring closure to the conceptual disharmony in that its emphasis on `commercial manifestations’ is also too obscure and general to offer practical guidance to the hospitality industry. This scenario leaves the industry practitioners stuck in a cul-de-sac with hardly any clear pointers on what the phenomenon is about. This paper seeks to address the ongoing conceptual fragmentation that develops a more integrative approach to defining hospitality. Specifically, it aims to identify and synthesize the critical elements of hospitality from existing literature in order to propose a composite index of hospitality. The paper originates not to align with either pros or cons of the debate but to demonstrate with reviewed literature on the futility of such a disposition. Using a qualitative literature review, the paper tracked the polemical debate on hospitality. The analysis revealed that both managerial and socio-cultural interpretations of hospitality remained incomplete abstracts when considered in isolation. The literature highlighted the multiple dimensions that ranged from the quality of service, organizational efficiency to ethical, social, and experiential factors that together shaped the phenomenon of hospitality. The conclusion led to a rewarding discourse in the hospitality industry. The findings showed that the hospitality concept through informed extracts in the literature review comprised elements of critical importance that defined the discipline. Scaffolding on the literature review this manuscript attempts to discuss on a `composite index of hospitality’ with the aid of a battery of critical hospitality indicators which serves as a distinct score card for any hospitality establishment that envisages to assess and evaluate itself in terms of how hospitality services are offered.
Copyright (c) 2026 MARINGENI ROSEMARY POSHAI, Prof. Patrick Walter Mamimine https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Entrepreneurial Leadership as a Catalyst for Human Resource Development in Resource-Constrained SMEs in Africa
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in emerging economies face acute resource constraints that preclude the adoption of conventional, formalized Human Resource Development (HRD) models. Drawing on Complexity Leadership Theory (CLT) and Afrocentric leadership philosophies, this paper develops an integrative conceptual framework explaining how entrepreneurial leadership catalyses HRD in Zimbabwean SMEs. Through a systematic literature synthesis of 85 core sources spanning leadership theory, indigenous African perspectives, and empirical studies of informal learning, the research identifies four leadership functions (adaptive experimentation, social-capital mobilization, emergent structure building, and ubuntu-infused relationality) that give rise to informal HRD mechanisms such as experiential learning cycles, peer coaching, problem-solving forums, and narrative exchange. These processes generate distributed learning capacity, adaptive competence, and cultural–structural alignment, offering a robust alternative to Western paradigms of formal training and hierarchical development. The framework not only underscores the cultural authenticity and resource efficiency of emergent HRD in resource-scarce contexts but also provides actionable insights for SME owner-managers and policymakers. The paper concludes by proposing a mixed-methods empirical validation of the model combining structured surveys with in-depth interviews to test its propositions and refine its constructs, thereby advancing both scholarly understanding and practical pathways for sustainable SME growth in Zimbabwe and similar emerging economies.
Copyright (c) 2026 GETRUDE MAVUNGA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effect of employee training, career development and job security on the performance of the small-scale mining sector in Zimbabwe.
Globally, the mining sector plays a major role in the development of economies through foreign exchange, employment opportunities and supporting the country’s infrastructure development and Gross Domestic Product. The current study investigates the effect of human resource framework factors (employee training, career development, employee job security) on the performance of the small-scale gold mining sector. In Zimbabwe's Mashonaland West Province, a cross-sectional survey of 210 randomly selected workers from small-scale gold mining sector was conducted between April and June 2023. the study adopted positivism philosophy and quantitative approach. The study is underpinned by the Bandura’s social learning theory and the Behaviourist theory. Data was analysed using structural equation modelling and presented in tables. The study findings show a correlation between human resources framework factors (employee training, career development, employee job security) and improved organisational performance. Studies focusing on human resource framework factors on the influence of organisational performance are scarce especially within the mining industry in the Sub-Saharan nations like Zimbabwe where the majority of the small-scale gold miners are informal. Thus, the current study was conducted to further the corpus of knowledge in the business management domain. Moreover, studies of this nature are imperative as they provide fresh insights and validate extant knowledge on human resource framework factors and organisational performance within the mining industry.
Copyright (c) 2026 Georgina Shumba, Dr. Lovemore Chikazhe, Dr. Miriam Jengeta https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Ubuntu paradox: exploring the tensions and synergies between moral awareness, ethical leadership and moral courage within urban councils in Zimbabwe
This study explored the relationship between moral awareness, Ubuntu, ethical leadership, and moral courage within urban councils in Zimbabwe. The study was anchored in the positivist paradigm and utilized a cross-sectional survey research design. The population of the study comprised 406 senior, middle managers, and office employees. The target population was made up of 324 office employees, including frontline managers and clerical staff within the six urban councils in Mashonaland West Province. A criterion purposive sampling technique was used to select the respondents. The sample size was 324 respondents. Data was collected using a questionnaire. The validity of the instrument was established through confirmatory factor analysis, and while reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha statistic. Descriptive statistics summarized the demographic characteristics of the respondents, while inferential statistics, including regression and correlation analyses, were used to test hypotheses, moderation, and mediation. The findings of the study revealed that moral awareness enhances ethical leadership. The results indicated no mediating effect of Ubuntu on the relationship between moral awareness and ethical leadership. The study found that moral courage was a critical factor in enabling leaders to translate moral awareness into observable moral conduct. The study recommended that urban councils implement ethics training programmes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shorai Chitimbe, Lovemore Chikazhe, Miriam Jengeta https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A Critical Analysis A Critical Analysis of the Impact of Zimbabwe’s Domestic Tourism Promotion and Growth Strategy on Domestic Tourism Performance: The Case of the ZIMBHO Campaign
The tourism sector in Zimbabwe contributes significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product. It comes third after mining and agriculture. However, tourism performance in Zimbabwe is largely anchored on international tourist arrivals and expenditure. Whilst Zimbabwe possesses abundant natural attractions, its domestic tourism is performing below its potential. In order to improve the performance of domestic tourism in Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority embarked on a domestic tourism promotion and growth campaign called ‘ZIMBHO’. The ZIMBHO campaign was launched in 2020 as a way to improve domestic tourism performance of the nation and drive economic growth. However, stakeholders’ perceptions on the impact of the ZIMBHO campaign on the performance of the domestic tourism in Zimbabwe have not been fully explored. This study therefore explored stakeholders’ perceptions of the impact of the ZIMBHO campaign on the performance of domestic tourism in Zimbabwe. The study was carried out in Kariba resort town. Specifically, the study sought to establish the stakeholders’ perceptions of the performance of domestic tourism in Kariba before the launch of the ZIMBHO campaign; establish the stakeholders’ perceptions of the performance of domestic tourism in Kariba after the launch of the ZIMBHO campaign; assess the challenges faced by the stakeholders in implementing the objectives of the ZIMBHO campaign in Kariba and suggest strategies for optimizing the contribution of the ZIMBHO campaign to the performance of domestic tourism in Zimbabwe. This study employed qualitative research methodology, through the use of structured interviews and observations to collect data from a sample size of twenty purposefully chosen respondents. The population of the study comprised of domestic tourists, tourism and hospitality operators and Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry and Zimbabwe Tourism Authority officials. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings from the study indicated that the ZIMBHO marketing campaign contributed positively towards the performance of domestic tourism in Zimbabwe, which was evidenced by an increase in domestic tourists’ occupancy and travellers to Kariba after the launch of the ZIMBHO campaign. The study recommended that more support systems for domestic tourists be initiated, that domestic tourists pay less for services, and that the road infrastructure to tourist resorts be improved to enhance easy accessibility.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nelson Zengeni https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Disruptive Artificial Intelligence Technologies in Automated Self Service Digital Platforms.
The rapid advancement of AI capabilities has brought the disruptive potential of this technology into sharper focus in Zimbabwe. In the banking sector, disruptive AI is being used to automate a wide range of tasks, from trading decisions to fraud detection. The rapid progress of disruptive AI has also raised a number of ethical and societal concerns. In response to these concerns, policymakers and researchers have been working to develop ethical frameworks and governance structures to ensure that disruptive AI is developed and deployed in a responsible and equitable manner. The study explores the transformative role of the disruptive technology of AI and use of blockchain in Zimbabwe’s digital banking sector, focusing on how automated self-service platforms can be shaped by these technologies in online transactions. It adopts a qualitative approach. Data was collected through online interviews with bank managers, and also through the use of literature and document analysis. The target population for the study consisted of 16 individual banks (both Commercial and Building Societies. The data collected from the primary sources was analysed using a thematic analysis approach. The study found out that artificial intelligence technologies have profoundly reshaped the banking sector, ushering in a new era of automated, mobile-based self-service banking transactions. The conclusion of the study is that although disruptive AI and blockchain technologies have the potential to revolutionize Zimbabwe's banking industry by improving efficiency and accessibility, they also present considerable challenges, such as financial exclusion and cybersecurity threats. Tackling these issues necessitates cooperative initiatives to create strong ethical frameworks that emphasize accountability and transparency.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lucia Winji, Brilliant Kashuware, Clainos Chidoko, Mercy Nyasha Magoso https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Community Empowerment and Sustainable Tourism: Leveraging Asset-Based Community Development in Botswana's context
Botswana’s tourism industry faces challenges of sustainability and economic diversification, particularly in rural areas where local communities possess untapped cultural and natural assets. This study examined how to leverage Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) principles to promote sustainable community-based tourism (CBT) initiatives. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating qualitative interviews with twenty (20) key stakeholders and quantitative surveys administered to one hundred and fifty (150) event participants, local residents, and tourists, using a purposive and stratified random sampling method. The study focused on two case studies: the Annual Desert Bush Walk in Jwaneng and the Tsodilo Hills Heritage Challenge, both grassroots initiatives supported by the CSI Concepts Foundation. Data collection involved focus group discussions, document analysis, structured questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews to capture both quantitative and qualitative perspectives. The findings revealed that ABCD effectively mobilised community assets, empowered local leadership’s accountability in decision making, and fostered a sense of community service without compensation, while partnerships with external organisations complemented the local efforts without undermining the community’s norms and beliefs. The survey results indicated that there was an active participant satisfaction, increased awareness of local heritage, and perceptions of economic benefits. The study underlines the potential of ABCD as a strategic framework for sustainable tourism development which advocates for stakeholder collaboration, continuous monitoring, and a holistic active engagement with local resilient communities in order to diversify tourism offerings.
Copyright (c) 2026 Olivia Nthoi, Prof. Jacob Mapara, Dr.Tonderai Vumbunu, Dr. Nelson Zengeni https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Transformational Leadership through Indigenous Systems: Unlocking the Harurwa Value Chain for Economic Growth and Innovation in Bikita District.
This study explores how transformational leadership, when rooted in indigenous systems, can unlock the economic and innovative potential of the harurwa (edible stinkbug) value chain in Bikita District under Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe. The harurwa, a culturally significant delicacy with nutritional and economic value, has traditionally been harvested and consumed within local communities but remains underutilized in broader market value chains. Drawing on the principles of transformational leadership vision, inclusivity, capacity-building, and innovation the paper examines how community leaders, traditional institutions, and local entrepreneurs can work together to enhance production, processing, and commercialization of harurwa. The research employed a qualitative case study design to explore how transformational leadership within indigenous knowledge system s(IKS) can unlock the harurwa value chain for economic growth and innovation in Bikita District. Anchored in a constructivist paradigm, it recognized the co-creation of knowledge through interaction between the researcher and participants who value indigenous knowledge systems. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with traditional leaders, local entrepreneurs, and government officials, focus group discussions with harvesters and traders, and participant observation during the harvesting season, supplemented by secondary data analysis. The targeted population included individuals knowledgeable about harurwa harvesting, leadership structures, and value chain dynamics, comprising traditional leaders, harvesters, traders, youth, and relevant officials. A total of forty (40) participants were selected using purposive sampling and refined through snowball sampling to ensure diverse representation and access to knowledgeable informants. The integration of indigenous knowledge with modern value chain management provides opportunities for employment creation, food security, and rural industrialization. The findings suggest that embracing indigenous governance structures, promoting collective ownership, and fostering innovation-driven practices can position harurwa not only as a local resource but also as a strategic contributor to national economic growth. The paper argues that a hybrid leadership model that respects cultural heritage while driving market-oriented innovation can transform the livelihoods of Bikita residents and serve as a blueprint for other indigenous resource-based economies in Africa.
Copyright (c) 2026 rangarirai musiza https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Silver Economy Start-Ups: Exploring the Motivations, Barriers, and Support Needs of Elderly Entrepreneurs in the Informal Sector of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
This study explored the emerging phenomenon of elderly entrepreneurship within the informal sector of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, through the lens of the interpretivist paradigm and a qualitative research approach. Anchored in the context of the silver economy, the research investigates the motivations, barriers, and support needs of entrepreneurs aged fifty (50) years and above who engage in small-scale, informal business ventures. Using purposive sampling, thirty (30) elderly entrepreneurs were selected for an in-depth semi-structured interviews to elicit rich, subjective insights into their lived experiences. The interpretivist stance guided the inquiry towards understanding how personal histories, social networks, and contextual realities shape the entrepreneurial behaviour of older adults in a developing economy. The findings revealed that motivations are largely driven by necessity, social inclusion, and a desire for self-reliance, while barriers include limited access to finance, declining health, and age-related discrimination. Despite these challenges, many participants demonstrated resilience and creativity, leveraging on social capital and accumulated experience to sustain their ventures. The study underscores the need for policy frameworks and support mechanisms that recognise the economic and social contributions of older entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe’s informal sector. By illuminating the nuanced meanings elderly individuals attach to entrepreneurship, this research contributes to an expanding discourse on ageing, economic participation, and inclusive development within the African urban contexts.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jabez Moyo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Journal of Management, Science, Innovation and Technology (JMSIT) is pleased to present Volume 2, Issue 1, a rich and multidisciplinary collection of scholarly works that collectively advance discourse at the intersection of management, innovation, technology, and sustainable development, particularly within the African context. This issue brings together diverse empirical and conceptual contributions that interrogate contemporary challenges and opportunities in society. A strong thematic thread across the manuscripts is the pursuit of contextualised innovation and inclusive development, with a clear emphasis on indigenous knowledge systems, human capital development, and institutional transformation. Several contributions in this volume explore human resource development and leadership dynamics. Studies on ethical leadership, Ubuntu philosophy, and moral courage within Zimbabwean urban councils provide critical insights into governance and organisational integrity. Complementing these are investigations into employee training, career development, and human resource strategies in sectors such as mining and local authorities, highlighting the centrality of people-centred approaches in driving performance and sustainability. The issue further underscores the importance of knowledge systems and collaborative innovation. Research on knowledge sharing in state universities reveals its mediating role in enhancing institutional performance, while studies on artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies demonstrate the transformative potential of digital innovation in Zimbabwe’s banking sector. A notable contribution of this volume is its strong focus on indigenous knowledge, harurwa and localised value chains. In addition, the issue engages with entrepreneurship and economic transformation. Articles on the silver economy and elderly entrepreneurship in informal sectors broaden the discourse on inclusivity, while analyses of tax incentives and foreign direct investment offer policy-relevant insights for regional economic development within SADC and beyond. Tourism and hospitality also feature prominently, with critical examinations of domestic tourism strategies, community empowerment in sustainable tourism, and the conceptual foundations of hospitality as a discipline. These contributions deepen understanding of how tourism can be leveraged for community development and national growth. Collectively, the manuscripts in this issue reflect a commitment to evidence-based scholarship, contextual relevance, and practical applicability. They not only contribute to academic knowledge but also provide actionable insights for policymakers, industry practitioners, and development stakeholders. The Editorial Board extends its sincere appreciation to all authors and reviewers whose dedication and scholarly rigour have made this publication possible. As JMSIT continues to grow, it remains committed to fostering impactful research that drives innovation, informs policy, and contributes to sustainable development in Africa and beyond.
The nature of stakeholder collaboration in innovation in cultural heritage tourism
Cultural heritage tourism is a vital sector that fosters cultural preservation, economic development, and intercultural exchange. However, the industry faces significant challenges, including sustainability, authenticity, and visitor engagement, necessitating innovative approaches to remain competitive. This paper explores the nature of stakeholder collaboration in driving innovation within cultural heritage tourism, with a specific focus on Zimbabwe. Drawing on theoretical frameworks such as Stakeholder Theory, Collaboration Theory, Innovation Theory, Sustainable Tourism Theory, and Institutional Theory, the study highlights how multi-stakeholder engagement can enhance site management, visitor experiences, and sustainable development. Through a systematic literature review of 100 peer-reviewed journals published between 2000 and 2025, the paper identifies key stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, private sector players, and international organizations, and examines their roles in fostering innovation. The review prioritized studies focusing on cultural heritage tourism, stakeholder collaboration, and innovation. The findings of this paper illuminate the transformative potential of digital technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), in overcoming infrastructural deficits and enhancing visitor engagement. It also underscore the importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) and inclusive policy frameworks in mobilizing resources and ensuring equitable benefits for local communities.
Copyright (c) 2025 Laura Simbisai Dongo, Patrick Walter Mamimine, Jacob Mapara https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Social and economic impacts of procurement reforms on local communities in Zimbabwe
This study explores the social and economic impacts of procurement reforms on local communities in Zimbabwe, focusing on how these reforms have influenced transparency, community participation, and inclusive economic development in rural settings. Utilising a pragmatism philosophy and mainly quantitative research design, data were collected through structured questionnaires and interview guides administered to stakeholders involved in public procurement including suppliers, local authorities and community members. Descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, KMO, Bartlett's tests and structural equation modeling (SEM) were employed to analyse the relationships between procurement reforms and their perceived impacts. The results indicate that procurement reforms have positively contributed to increased access to public procurement opportunities, reduced corruption, and fostered greater accountability and trust among community stakeholders. Additionally, the introduction of digital tools and social media platforms has facilitated improved information dissemination, vendor engagement and monitoring of procurement activities, thus aligning with global trends in circular economy and digital governance. These findings support existing literature emphasising the transformative potential of transparent procurement systems in enhancing service delivery and promoting equitable development. The study concludes that while significant progress has been made, sustained political will, capacity building and community empowerment remain critical to ensuring the long term effectiveness and sustainability of procurement reforms in Zimbabwe’s local governance landscape.
Copyright (c) 2025 Meeting Banda https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Perceived Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices affecting investor behaviour amongst publicly traded companies in Zimbabwe: individual investors’ perspectives
ESG considerations are increasingly becoming an important issue in investment decisions, influencing investor behaviour and long-term financial performance. This paper explores how environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices affect investor intentions and behaviour among publicly traded companies in Zimbabwe. Using Stakeholder Theory, the study focused on individual investors on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange, employing an explanatory design and quantitative approach. A self-administered questionnaire yielded 309 valid responses. Results reveal that environmental practices (path estimate = 0.296) and social practices (path estimate = 0.304) significantly influence stock purchase intentions, while governance practices (path estimate = 0.095) do not show a significant impact. Additionally, stock purchase intentions strongly predict actual stock purchase behaviour (path estimate = 0.716). The study recommends that Zimbabwean companies should prioritise and communicate their environmental and social practices to attract investors, as these factors notably influence stock purchase intentions. While governance practices are important on their own, they are most effective when integrated into a comprehensive ESG framework that aligns environmental, social, and governance efforts towards sustainable organisational performance. It is recommended that companies use big data to strengthen ESG disclosures and drive investor action.
Copyright (c) 2025 Caret Nduna Ncube https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
An exploration of Memorable food experiences in Zimbabwe: towards food tourism development.
Food experiences are being promoted by several countries leading to developing and enhancing food tourism. Zimbabwe has unique culinary potential yet there is a gap in literature on food tourism in most African countries Zimbabwe included. This paper explores memorable food experiences towards food tourism development. This study was carried out in Harare as the capital city of Zimbabwe and in Victoria Falls the major tourism destination. 10 service providers responsible for designing, facilitating and marketing food experiences were purposively sampled. Twenty (20) international tourists were conveniently sampled. Interviews were conducted with research participants. Data collected was analyzed using thematic analysis. The major themes that emerged from the studies are that food experiences can be categorized as authentic traditional food experiences, consumption of unique exotic foods, Culinary Festivals and Events, Farm and Agricultural experiences food and beverage tours and Dining in unexpected settings. The study will benefit various stakeholders who have a role in facilitating and staging food experiences in Zimbabwe. The study recommends that food experiences that are found in various tourism destinations be documented so that they can be marketed and promoted. Food trails and food tours should also be packaged. This will help attract food enthusiasts to Zimbabwe thereby leading to food tourism development. Documenting and marketing food experiences will give the country competitive advantage and give tourists more reasons to visit other than flora and fauna. The findings can inform Zimbabwe's tourism strategy on elements of destination Zimbabwe that can be facilitated, staged and co-created into memorable food experiences.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tiisetso Mazibeli, Nelson Zengeni, Molline Mwando, Forbes Kabote https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The nature of internal audit practice challenges prevalent in public institutions of higher learning: a systematic literature review
Institutions of higher learning, particularly universities, have for long received goodwill and support as hubs entrusted with developing key human capital and skills, generating knowledge products and giving evidence-based policy direction to governments essential for national development. There has, however, been an increased level of scrutiny and greater demand for such institutions to demonstrate greater value for money in view of the levels of public and private investment and trust in their programmes and operations. To that end, practices such as internal auditing have been identified as essential in safeguarding resources, promoting accountability, transparency and ensuring integrity within such institutions. However, internal audit practices in public universities, especially in developing country contexts, face persistent challenges that compromise their effectiveness. This systematic literature review interrogates these challenges in greater detail. This is achieved through synthesising empirical findings from 50 peer-reviewed studies (published between 1999 and 2025) retrieved using PRISMA 2020 guidelines from Scopus, Web of Science, JSTOR, and Google Scholar. Guided by agency theory, which underscores the need for oversight to address conflicts between agents and principals, the review identifies five recurrent challenges. These are limited auditor independence, insufficient professional competence, lack of top management support, inadequate resourcing, and political interference including intimidation. These challenges are exacerbated by weak reporting structures and a persistent audit expectation-performance gap. The findings suggest that improving internal audit effectiveness requires strategic interventions across practice, policy and theory. Recommendations include investing in auditor capacity development, enforcing structural and operational independence, strengthening governance oversight, and aligning internal audit functions with institutional strategic objectives. These measures can enhance audit resilience, promote public trust, and improve decision-making and performance in higher education institutions. This review contributes to the discourse on public sector auditing by highlighting contextual barriers and offering, through several recommendations, a roadmap for reform and future research.
Copyright (c) 2025 Caroline Tendai Muguti , Kudzanai Matowanyika , Shepard Makurumidze https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0