Faculty of Business Administration and Management

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Factors Influencing the Borrower’s Behaviour and Attitude towards Different Sources of Credit in Uganda: A Case Study of the Formal and Informal Lenders in Kampala.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Mwanje, Charles, Mark
MWANJE CHARLES MARK (MBA PT (2006-08)-041) Factors Influencing the Borrower’s Behaviour and Attitude towards Different Sources of Credit in Uganda: A Case Study of the Formal and Informal Lenders in Kampala The study examined the factors influencing the customer’s behaviour towards the different sources of credit services in Uganda. The case study was that of the formal and informal lenders in and around Kampala. The objective of the study was to establish the factors influencing the customer’s continued consumption of informal lenders‟ services amidst a blossoming formal lenders sector in Uganda. The research also aimed at evaluating the importance of these factors in explaining the co- existence of formal and informal financial service providers in Uganda. The study used primary data from a group of selected respondents from both the clients of the formal and informal lenders and the management of lending financial institutions. Two kinds of questionnaires were issued; one for clients and another for the management of the financial institutions. Data were collected by administration of a structured questionnaire to the different respondents that had been randomly selected. Analysis of data was done using descriptive and analytical methods with cross tabulation. From the study, it is noted that there is a number factors that influence customer’s choice of informal lenders over the formal lenders. The factors range from the loan application terms of lenders to other exogenous factors like the relationship and distance between the lenders and the borrowers, the borrower’s knowledge of the facilities offered by the lenders or lack of it. The loan application terms and condition that influence a customer’s choice of informal lenders over the formal lenders include loan amount, flexibility of loan terms, loan product type, loan processing time, collateral requirement, loan repayment period, loan purpose and transactional charges of the formal lenders. Loan pricing although very important in facilitating competition between the formal lenders, it was found not to be influential in preventing borrowers from acquiring credit from the informal lenders. Actually, borrowers rated the interest rates of the informal lenders very high yet they went ahead to obtain credit from them. The study recommends diversification of loan products, increase in flexibility of loan terms and processing speed, review in collateral requirements, and need to increase product awareness by the formal lenders. The study also recommends fiscal policy review by consideration of regulations for the informal money lenders. Key words: Credit, Borrower, Behaviour, Attitude, Lender
Corporate Governance and Accountability in Uganda: An Analysis of Stakeholder Perspectives
(University of Dundee, 2006) Wanyama, Simeon
This thesis examines the extent to which stakeholders in Uganda perceive the country’s present governance framework to be effective in providing confidence about the corporate sector. The study is based upon semi-structured interviews and questionnaire surveys with different groups of stakeholders in Uganda. The issues that are examined include the legal, regulatory and supervisory frameworks, the political framework, the cultural framework, the ethical framework and the economic framework underpinning governance in the nation’s corporate sector. The research adopts an accountability perspective to investigate the various issues that emerge; the results suggest that urgent action is needed in order to facilitate the implementation of a sound corporate governance system that provides for a meaningful degree of accountability.
An Assessment of the Contribution of Individual Borrowers Credit Analysis to the Management of Loan Default Rates in Financial Institutions: A Case Study of DFCU Group Ltd.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Ssemmanda, Henry, Joseph
SSEMMANDA HENRY JOSEPH (2006-03-MBA-PT-072) An Assessment of the Contribution of Individual Borrowers Credit Analysis to the Management of Loan Default Rates in Financial Institutions: A Case Study of DFCU Group Ltd. This research considered an assessment of the contribution of borrower’s credit analysis to the management of loan default rates in financial institutions with a case study of DFCU Bank Ltd. Despite the credit analysis by banks, clients fail to fulfil their credit obligations thereby increasing the credit risk of the financial institution by defaulting on payments. The research was conducted in selected DFCU branches in Kampala where the researcher examined the borrower credit analysis methods used by DFCU Bank and their contribution towards loan default management. Bank credit committees conduct analyses through which loan applications are approved or rejected. The credit score determines the client’s credit worthiness by understanding character and establishing their capacity to pay loans, the nature and value of collateral involved and the general economic conditions before credit decisions are made. The client’s credit history was pivotal in determining their creditworthiness hence reducing the credit risk exposure of the bank. The credit history is contained on a financial card which Bank of Uganda through the Credit Reference Bureau has identified as an effective way of fighting loan disbursement irregularities in the sector. A cross sectional survey design provided an in-depth study of the client screening elements that determine client credit worthiness where both qualitative and quantitative methods were used for data collection. A stratified sample of seventy two respondents from Kikuubo, Owino and Market Street, representing seventy five percent of the staff in DFCU bank in Kampala was selected. Questionnaires, interviews, and informal discussions were administered to a purposive sample of staff in the credit department. The researcher noted that the credit history of clients was pivotal in determining their creditworthiness hence reducing the credit risk exposure of the financial institution. Key Words: Credit, Loan, Financial, Bank
The Impact of Liberalisation on Foreign Direct Investment in Uganda.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Ijeu, Angela
IJEU ANGELA (2006-03 MBA PT 0112009) The Impact of Liberalisation on Foreign Direct Investment in Uganda. This study looked at the impact of liberalisation on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Uganda. Empirical data was obtained from major Government of Uganda publications. The study used macroeconomic time series, taking into account sector performance, gross domestic product, imports and exports data. Other information was from journals, bulletins, textbooks, and other major publications of organisations such as the World Bank. Internet sources were also used to obtain data which was not readily available in hardcopy form. The data collected were analysed to assess the impact of liberalisation on foreign direct investments using descriptive and quantitative designs. Furthermore, data were coded, edited, tabulated and presented statistically and regression analysis was employed to test hypothesis. The findings suggested that the trend of growth for inward foreign direct investment has been in the positive direction with the removal of controls that hinder free flow of goods and services. Like all other liberalised economies, Uganda is bound by core policies or standards of treatment accorded to 105 investors and investments as well as the functioning of markets within which they operate. The study also revealed that government through Uganda Investment Authority has put in place incentives to attract and encourage new business opportunities in the various sectors of the economy although majority are concentrated in the business district of Kampala. Unlike other nations that still practice protectionism to a certain degree for some of their sectors and industries, Uganda‟s policy allows for up to one hundred percent ownership and repatriation of almost all profits earned by the investor. Despite the above, there are challenges faced by investors in Uganda which include high costs of production, availability of land, macroeconomic instability, infrastructure, corruption and weak governance, competition and duplication, access to markets, taxation, high cost of operations and high cost of capital for investment. Therefore, the study recommends; first the need for government to set guidelines that will encourage re-investment of profits, increase employment of the local labour force, use of local raw materials, direct transfer of skills and knowledge, and increased exportation of locally manufactured goods. In addition, the study recommends decentralisation of Uganda Investment Authority‟s functions to the regions, transfer of technology, encouragement of joint venture partnerships, and widening of the tax base. The above notwithstanding, there is need for increased regulation and support to particular investments of national interest in sectors such as health and agro processing and manufacturing through investment guarantee arrangements. Other initiatives include encouragement of syndication arrangements especially for projects in similar sectors in order to increase access to finance and capital for onward expansion and development through the value-product chain analysis and outreach programme. Key Words: Impact, Liberalisation, Foreign, Investment
Leadership Styles and Employee Motivation: A Case Study of Ernst & Young Kampala
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Rwajekare, Julius
RWAJEKARE JULIUS (2006-03-MBA-PT-067) Leadership Styles and Employee Motivation: A Case Study of Ernst & Young Kampala The study set out to examine how leadership styles influence employee motivation. The study population was Ernst & Young Kampala‟s current and former employees in the period 2004 to 2008. Half of the study population was sampled using stratified random sampling. The research instruments including self-administered questionnaires, in-depth interviews and secondary data review were used. Human resources records and Ernst & Young people survey reports formed the secondary data. 115 The study revealed that the autocratic leadership style impacts on employee motivation positively or negatively depending on the characteristics of the employees. The autocratic style of leadership was found to be suitable for the AABS service line whose employees are relatively young and still need guidance and instructions while the democratic style of leadership was more suitable for the BAS and TAS service lines which have more experienced employees who know how to go about their tasks and need no instructions. Laissez-faire leadership is appropriate for mature and skilled senior teams where the skill level and competence of employees is high or when employees are known to be trustworthy and have a high level of pride in their own work. The study indicated that this leadership style was used by the ITRA service line and was associated with high employee turnover because employees lacked guidance and focus from the leadership of the opportunities available in the firm. The study indicated that a manager's leadership style contributes directly to the subordinates' motivation and work satisfaction, and the work progress in the organization. Good leadership plays an important role in all the factors that motivate people. There was no proactive application of leadership styles at Ernst & Young Kampala. The leadership styles used were generally driven by the individual leader‟s views. The study results indicated that there was a general mismatch between the respondents‟ expectations about appropriate leadership styles and what was applied in practice. The study made recommendations, the adoption of which will go a long way in improving the employee motivation levels for professional services firms with settings similar to those of Ernst & Young Kampala. The recommendations include, putting people into leadership positions through carefully executed selection and placement procedures, having and carrying out effective evaluation of leadership styles, having leaders with good understanding of leadership principles and theory as well as the application of leadership skills, tailoring the globally developed people management strategies to the local circumstances, considering leadership skills as key competence requirements for service line leaders, benchmarking of remuneration not only to the market rates but also to job complexity and review of the firm‟s strategy to ensure more certainty as to when personal objectives can be achieved. Key Words: Leadership Styles, Employee Motivation, Kampala
An Analysis of Employee Performance Appraisal and Morale in Total Uganda Limited.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Kwesiga, Alex
KWESIGA ALEX (2006-03-MBA-PT-023) An Analysis of Employee Performance Appraisal and Morale in Total Uganda Limited The study was conducted to analyse the performance appraisal and employee morale in Total Uganda Limited from 2004-2008. The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between performance appraisal and employee morale in Total Uganda Limited. The study sought to identify the performance appraisal technique/s used, to establish the morale needs of employees, to determine the relationship between performance appraisal and employee morale and ascertain other factors affecting employee morale in Total Uganda Limited. The study took place at the head offices of Total Uganda Limited. A longitudinal study design was used, a questionnaire was set and sent to the respondents and face to face interviews were also done with some respondents. Stratified probability random sampling technique was used and then purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to select respondents from each stratum. Both primary and secondary data were collected, verified, edited, checked, coded and analysed both quantitatively using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and qualitatively using narrations, opinions and attitudes. Frequency distributions were then run, cross tabulation done and graphs and pie charts drawn. The findings have revealed that Total Uganda Limited uses two types of performance appraisals namely Management by Objectives (MBO) and Graphic rating scales. It was also revealed that there are various types of employee morale lacking in Total Uganda Limited. It was also found out that there is a negative relationship between performance appraisal and employee morale and that there are other factors affecting employee morale in Total Uganda It is recommended that management of Total Uganda should assess the kind of morale needs required of its staff and find ways of fulfilling them in order to make staff become more motivated. It is also important that management of Total Uganda always fulfils what is discussed with staff during performance appraisals. The conclusion of the study was that performance appraisal has created low morale in most employees, and that Total Uganda Limited does not meet most of the morale needs of her employees. There is a negative relationship between performance appraisal and employee morale and there are various other factors affecting employee morale in Total Uganda like leadership style and educational levels of employees. Key words: Employee, Appraisal, Performance, Morale
Ethical Issues and Public Sector Procurement: A Case Study of Law Development Centre.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Nakabugo, Cissy
NAKABUGO CISSY (2007-03-MBA-PT-050) Ethical Issues and Public Sector Procurement: A Case Study of Law Development Centre There is growing interest in public sector procurement particularly in curbing unethical practices, and safeguarding the proper and just use of scarce public resources. This prompted the researcher to carry out research in this area where she developed a research topic: “Ethical issues and public sector procurement”. The study was carried out at Law Development Centre (LDC), Kampala. The objectives of the study were to find out whether: acceptance of gifts by procurement practitioners, confidentiality during procurement, and non-disclosure of personal interest by procurement officers affects public sector procurement. The cross-sectional research design was used to conduct the study from a sample of 132 people. The sample was selected using the sample tables. Secondary data were collected from existing literature, while primary data were collected using a questionnaire and interview schedule, and comparison was made from both sources. The findings were interpreted in line with the research objectives and literature review to answer the research questions raised using frequencies and percentages. Existing literature showed that ethics and procurement is a utopian notion; some procurement practitioners will always pursue unethical behaviours for self-serving agendas at the expense of the public. The government’s efforts to minimize the occurrence of unethical behaviour by enacting laws, regulations, and enforcement agencies has been frustrated by the practitioners as each other day the unethical behaviours exhibit themselves as reported in the findings, hence affecting the public sector procurement. Primary data has showed that majority of procurement practitioners are familiar with issues of ethical conduct in the profession. They know that laws are in place, and they are clear and up to date but they tend to behave otherwise. The respondents also noted that practitioners do accept and receive gifts which influence the decision making during the procurement process. They also agreed that practitioners give inside information to relatives and friends, which information received during the course of the duty is used for personal gains. On whether non-disclosure of personal interest affects procurement, the respondents stated that, conflict of interest marred procurement proceedings. The problems identified by people familiar with procurement were: non-compliance with and enforcement of existing laws, lack of funds on a timely basis, cumbersome contract approval procedures, and interference by high level officers. The conclusions drawn were: unethical behaviours affect the procurement process at the Law Development Centre; this eventually causes inefficiency and affects performance. The respondents suggested; strong effective enforcement measures, professional training of procurement staff, and amendment to procurement procedures to curb the ethical problems in procurement. There are unethical procurement issues at LDC hence, it is recommended that: PPDA authority enforces laws and regulations on LDC, revision of laws, impromptu visits by the PPDA authority, rotation of practitioners in different PDE’s, and black listing of unethical culprits. Further research could also be done in contract management, payment, access to negotiations, and merit point system in the regulations. Key words: Ethical, Procurement, Law
The Role of Marketing in the Development of Domestic Tourism in Uganda: A Case Study of Uganda Wildlife Education Centre.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Nyatia, Samson, Bill
NYATIA SAMSON BILL (2007-03-MBA-PT-055) The Role of Marketing in the Development of Domestic Tourism in Uganda: A Case Study of Uganda Wildlife Education Centre This is a case study on Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) which possesses the unique attributes of a tourist destination as well as an education facility. Given the impressive rate of growth of the tourism industry worldwide, the need to engage in marketing becomes imperative. This need is emphasised greatly given that the industry avails the consumer, in this case the tourist, an immense variety from which to choose. Notwithstanding tourism’s overall impressive growth, and having observed in the past UWECs ability to attract a cross section of Ugandans as well as foreigners, the researcher was prompted to establish why domestic tourism is not more prominent in Uganda, more so at UWEC, given the potential that exists today, and what exactly influenced the trends as they are. Specifically, the researcher explored the role played by marketing in attracting and maintaining domestic visitors. The marketing attributes of segmentation, targeting, relationship marketing, planning, positioning, market research, and the services marketing mix were reviewed to show whether indeed there would be a link with the level of appreciation of tourism, and what if any, could be done to spur a culture of tourism amongst ordinary Ugandans. With the urge exhibited by domestic tourists for more attractions, the study revealed that Uganda’s endowments were as much an attraction to the indigenous as they were to foreigners, but the approach adopted towards attracting more Ugandans determined UWECs performance as a tourism venue. Furthermore, the findings of the study also confirmed the promise tourism holds for Uganda, as seen from the year-on-year performance of tourism at UWEC, and Uganda in general, if only the domestic market was targeted, given the desire shown by respondents to revisit, or recommend UWEC as a tourism site. Ultimately, it was established that UWEC needs to commission market research consistently to determine changing consumer needs and trends within the tourism industry. Key words: Marketing, Development, Tourism, Wildlife
The Role of Capital Markets in the Provision of Long-Term Finance for Business Enterprises in Uganda: A Case Study of the Uganda Securities Exchange.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Mbabazi, Bamuhigire, Sarah
MBABAZI BAMUHIGIRE SARAH (2007-03-MBA-PT-011) The Role of Capital Markets in the Provision of Long-Term Finance for Business Enterprises in Uganda: A Case Study of the Uganda Securities Exchange The topic of study was to establish the role of capital markets in providing long term finance to business enterprises in Uganda. The study was based on the challenges faced by companies and governments in accessing long term finance and the use of short-term finance to fund long term projects and the need to explore other avenues of raising long term finance away from the traditional personal and bank finance. The findings indicated that capital markets can offer a source of long-term finance for governments and corporations and that a number of companies had made use of the capital markets as a source of finance. It was, however, noted that many Ugandan companies have not tapped its potential to generate an alternative source of capital for funds for medium- and long-term projects. The number of listed companies is still small and the market is characterised by limited number of products and players and a manual clearing and settlement system. It was also noted that no private companies have listed on the stock exchange. It was established that the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) and Uganda Security Exchange (USE) have put measures in place to facilitate and improve the operation of the capital market in Uganda that include among others; public awareness campaigns, approval of the SCD bill and the Alternative Investment Markets. These are aimed at improving public participation and efficiency of the stock exchange. In light of the findings, recommendations have been suggested as ways of enhancing participation in capital market in Uganda. The major recommendations include increased awareness campaigns, encouraging the listing of private companies, introduction of more innovative methods and boosting liquidity. Key words: Capital, Market, Finance, Enterprises, Business
Revenue Mobilisation and Service Delivery in Local Governments in Uganda: A Case Study of Kampala City Council.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Kasule, John Wasswa
KASULE JOHN WASSWA (2007-03-MBA-PT-024) Revenue Mobilisation and Service Delivery in Local Governments in Uganda: A Case Study of Kampala City Council. The study examines the relationship of the various sources of funding, revenue mobilisation policies and regulations to the quality of service that Kampala City Council delivers under its mandate at its Head Office and the five divisions, namely Kawempe, Nakawa, Central, Makindye and Lubaga divisions. It observes that service delivery depends on the commitment of both the citizen and the government in meeting their obligations. This commitment is necessary for the required contribution to the public 118 good which is affected by such factors as citizens‟ trust in others and the trustworthiness of the government as it forms the basis for social co-operation and voluntary compliance with laws and regulations. The study establishes that Kampala City Council needs to review its revenue policies to meet the challenges of the day, institute prudent revenue collection and financial management mechanisms, and stamp out corruption if it is to provide adequate service levels. The study recommends motivation of the work force, conduction of well-designed public sensitisation programmes to educate the public about its obligations towards the local government and also what they should expect when they meet their part of the bargain. It also calls for a critical review of how the decentralisation process affects service delivery in the city in view of the so many challenges. Key Words: Revenue Mobilization, Service Delivery, Local Governments, Kampala City Council.
The Impact of Microfinance Institutions on the Performance of Small Scale Businesses: A Case Study of Foundation for International Community Assistance.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Nanungi, Grace
NANUNGI GRACE (2007-03-MBA-PT-052) The Impact of Microfinance Institutions on the Performance of Small Scale Businesses: A Case Study of Foundation for International Community Assistance The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of microfinance on small scale businesses taking Foundation for International Community Assistance (FINCA) as a case study. The methodology used took the form of a quantitative cross-sectional survey design with a study sample of 140 respondents and the purposive sampling technique was employed. Self-administered questionnaires and personal interviews were used for data collection. Data analysis was done using the Statistical package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Ms Excel and presented in form of tables, graphs and corresponding narrations. The findings indicated that microfinance had impacted the small scale businesses positively on growth and there was an improvement in the lifestyles and standards of living of the borrowers with many being able to access better social amenities and their status in the community improving. However, it indicated that the loan provisions offered by microfinance were rather unfriendly to both business and owner expectations and thus raising challenges on loan use. A number of challenges are faced by borrowers with most of the respondents indicating that the loan terms and expectations do not match the returns from the businesses. The study recommends, therefore, that microfinance institutions should change their repayment terms, offer more loans to males and also encourage them to join groups and increase on the amounts offered if the loans are to make great positive change on businesses and borrowers. Key Word: Impact, Microfinance Institutions, Performance, Small Scale Businesses,International
Women Small Scale Entrepreneurs and Poverty Alleviation: A Case Study of Nakawa-Division, Kampala District
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Nalumansi, Sylvia, Ntege
NALUMANSI SYLVIA NTEGE (2007-03-MBA-PT-054) Women Small Scale Entrepreneurs and Poverty Alleviation: A Case Study of Nakawa-Division, Kampala District The research was carried out to establish the extent to which women small scale entrepreneurs have alleviated poverty. It was also done find out the extent to which poverty had been alleviated. The researcher set four objectives; to assess the small scale entrepreneurial activities women in Nakawa division are involved in and their level of performance, to determine the extent to which small scale entrepreneurship has empowered women to alleviate poverty in Nakawa division, to examine the extent to which entrepreneurial competence is an essential ingredient for a successful small-scale enterprise in Nakawa division and finally to examine the problems faced by women small scale entrepreneurs in an attempt to alleviate poverty in Nakawa division, Kampala district. This study was both qualitative and quantitative in nature and was based on a sample of 60 women respondents resident in Luzira Parish, Naguru, Kiwatule, Banda and Mbuya Parish. The study findings revealed that women in Nakawa division had not received enough capital and for this reason majority of women are involved in micro enterprises such as handcrafts, tailoring and food vending, retail shops, local drinks brewing among other ventures. The situation is worsened by the fact that they cannot access loans to expand their businesses because they do not have assets to exchange with banks as security against these loans. Even though most of them are performing fairly well, their being involved in entrepreneurial activities has achieved minimal results in terms of poverty alleviation. This is because less attention has been paid to empowering women economically as most debates focus on the political agenda of women empowerment in the division and Uganda at large. Additionally, more emphasis has been placed on merely forming women groups with little emphasis placed on training and skills development of women entrepreneurs. The study also reveals that while it is women who look for start-up capital, it is men who take over control of these enterprises a situation of responsibility without control. The study concludes that unless human and financial capital is strengthened among women, their empowerment will remain a distant goal. The study recommends that development partners, should focus on the inter linkages between gender, women empowerment and poverty. There is need for government through women’s organisations such as Uganda Women Entrepreneurs’ Association Limited (UWEAL), to promote entrepreneurship training for women starting at the grass root level particularly in secondary schools and tertiary institutions and spearheaded by successful women entrepreneurs. Key words: Women, Entrepreneur, Poverty, Association,
Relationship Marketing and Customer Loyalty in Selected Merchandise Enterprises in Uganda.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Kalwanyi, Fred Matovu
KALWANYI FRED MATOVU (2007-03-MBA-PT-021) Relationship Marketing and Customer Loyalty in Selected Merchandise Enterprises in Uganda Relationship marketing has been put forth as a way for firms to develop mutually beneficial relationships with customers (Grönroos, 1994). It is most effective where there is high interaction between the seller and the customer and where both are interested in relationship building activities. Past studies give some insight into the nature and importance of relationships between merchandise enterprises and their customers (Paulin et al., 1998), but some questions remain unanswered. This, therefore, prompted research with three (3) objectives which were the understanding of how customer satisfaction is related to relationship marketing and to show how the latter influences the former, the establishment of the relationship between customer satisfaction and customer loyalty and the assessment of the impact of relationship marketing on customer loyalty in merchandising enterprises in Uganda. The purpose of this research was to investigate the correlation between relationship marketing and customer loyalty in selected merchandise enterprises in Uganda, and also to examine whether - after the implementation of relationship marketing, customer loyalty was strengthened. A survey of ten (10) merchandises was conducted within Kampala district. All five (5) divisions were visited and responses were gathered from customers by encouraging them to answer structured questions in a questionnaire, guiding them towards the purpose of the research. It was found that there is a positive relationship between customer satisfaction and customer loyalty, and that the elements of trust, commitment, communication and customer satisfaction are vital in relationship marketing and do apply in the merchandise industry in Uganda. Key Words: Relationship, Marketing, Customer, Merchandise, Enterprises.
Government Assistance, the way to Improve on Export Performance in Uganda: A Case Study of Selected Crafts Exporting Companies.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Babirye, Angella
BABIRYE ANGELA (2007-03-MBA-PT-009) Government Assistance, the way to Improve on Export Performance in Uganda: A Case Study of Selected Crafts Exporting Companies. The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between supply of export market information, access to export finance and government export promotion programmes with exporting firms and their influence on the firms‟ export performance. The Study undertook a sample of 144 exporters of selected export products. Self-administered questionnaires and personal interviews were used to collect responses. Measurement of the relationships of the study (export market information, export finance, export strategies, government export promotion programmes and export performance) was done and subjected to rigorous data processing and analysis using the relevant statistical computer software packages. The findings indicated that there was a positive significant relationship between export market information, export finance, export strategies, government export promotion programmes and export performance. The results from regression analysis showed that export market information, export finance, export marketing strategies, government export promotion programmes were significant predictors of export performance. The study recommends, therefore, that government‟s departments of trade and industry should put more emphasis on training of firms to acquaint them with the necessary information about the export markets. Emphasis should also be put on the continuous exposure of local firms into the foreign markets as this would enhance their benchmarking skills and the standards that are required in the different export markets. Policy makers should advocate for direct entry of local firms into foreign markets so as to avoid exploitation of local exporters by middlemen in foreign markets. Government should strengthen export financing by easing its access, availability, interest rate and awareness of its availability for the local firms and export promotions programmes so as to promote export performance. Key Words: Government, Export Performance, Crafts, Companies
Supply Chain Management and Access to Essential Medicines by Health Units in Wakiso District
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Kaggwa, David
KAGGWA DAVID (2007-03-MBA-PT-018) Supply Chain Management and Access to Essential Medicines by Health Units in Wakiso District There is acute shortage of essential medicines, or they may not be readily accessible at the time when they are needed in the health units, yet stocks expire when not put to proper utilisation in time, either in the national stores or in health units, which translates into a huge gap between the need (demand) for drugs and their level of supply at the districts and health unit level. This study aimed at investigating the relationship between the following drug supply chain components; selection, procurement, distribution, and management support, and access of the essential medicines by health units in Wakiso district. The study design was based on the qualitative and quantitative approaches to establish the cause-and-effect relationships and it also involved a cross sectional survey method to gather data from the sample of the population at that particular time. The data were presented and analysed using graphical and statistical methods, including the Pearson correlation coefficients for describing in quantitative terms the degree to which variables are related and the results were then extrapolated to the entire population. 116 The study found a positive association between procurement and access; that distribution has a positive relationship with access; a positive relationship between management support and access and no significant empirical support for a positive relationship between selection and access of medicines by health units in Wakiso district. This was explained by the fact that selection is a passive activity for health units because these facilities base their needs on the carefully selected lists (STG & EDLU), which are predetermined by government. The study recommends that government; undertakes capacity building and supportive supervision by training, managing and motivating more health workers and to enhance skills in medicines management, procurement, distribution and rational use of medicines; puts in place measures for strengthening government health systems from the top to the bottom of the health system, and integrating government‟s vertical programme supply systems; pays more attention to forecasting and quantification of drug requirements and doing them accurately to guarantee adequate supply and to minimise wastage (oversupply, expired stock), and incidences of stock outs or undersupply; provides adequate financing of the health sector to ensure adequate and regular supply of medicines to the health units. It is also necessary to increase the ability of managers at the district level in planning and financial management; embarks on review of inflexible policies such as those that limit the National Medical Store‟s procurement flexibility and capacity.These and other policy measures recommended in the study should improve Supply Chain Management (SCM) effectiveness and efficiency and access of medicines by government health facilities, hence, enhance health outcomes and improve peoples‟ lives. Key Words: Supply Chain, Management, Access, Essential Medicines, Health Units, Wakiso District
The Influence of Human Resource Planning on the Performance of an Organisation: A Case Study of Stanbic Bank Uganda Limited.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Sempa, Sheila, Caroline
SEMPA SHEILA CAROLINE (2007-M102-20061) The Influence of Human Resource Planning on the Performance of an Organisation: A Case Study of Stanbic Bank Uganda Limited The main aim of the study was to investigate the extent to which human resource planning influences the performance of Stanbic Bank Uganda Limited. The researcher specifically wanted to discover what human resource planning strategy is used by the bank; to establish the extent to which and how human resource planning affects asset turnover, level of sales and customer turnover; and to identify areas for reinforcing the current human resource planning methods. The sampling procedure was a combination of random and non-random. The methods for data collection were both primary and secondary in nature varying from qualitative to quantitative research methods to investigate the influence of human resource planning on the performance of the selected branches of Stanbic Bank in Uganda. The data collected were coded and cross checked to ensure consistency and accuracy, and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The researcher found out that proper human resource planning plays a vital role in extracting, distributing and allocating resources. It was found out that as a primary component of management, human resource planning helps propel organisations towards the achievement of goals and constant monitoring of departmental activities. The study also revealed that Stanbic Bank has a well-educated workforce, but human resource planning is poorly done, leading to poor work performance due to lack of interest to perform and non-commitment of the workforce amongst others. This in turn led to high employee turnover, low customer retention, low asset turnover, low level of sales, and downward trends in profitability of the bank and under utilisation of resources. It was concluded that the poor human resource planning strategies carried out by the bank result into poor goal attainment, far below the expectations of the bank. The researcher recommended that banks should improve their human resource planning and performance by ensuring that the strategy is free from bias, error and fraud, organise training workshops and seminars to sensitise employees, improve reward systems and develop a more organised culture. These will generally improve on the performance of banks by meeting all the set objectives. Key words: Human, Resource, Planning, Performance, Organisation, Bank, Stanbic
The Impact of Infrastructure Development on Productivity of the Informal Sector in Uganda.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Balaza, Timothy
BALAZA TIMOTHY (2007-03-MBA-PT-010) The Impact of Infrastructure Development on Productivity of the Informal Sector in Uganda The study was aimed at determining the impact of infrastructure development on productivity of the informal sector in Uganda. Good infrastructure lowers the cost of production thereby having a positive correlation with high productivity. The study was guided by the following objectives: to survey the state of infrastructure in the country; to examine trends in productivity; to find out if there is any relationship between infrastructure development and productivity; to determine the challenges facing infrastructure development; and to explore policy recommendations. A time series and descriptive cross-sectional survey research designs were used to collect and analyse data. A multistage sampling technique was employed on selecting the informal sector respondents in the study area. Secondary data were obtained, where the researcher needed statistics concerning a particular variable and trends, from published reports. Primary data used to provide additional information, were collected through detailed interviews with persons involved in informal sector activities. The data were edited and analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Quantitative analysis involved descriptive, bivariate correlations and regression analysis. The results show that infrastructure in Uganda is in a poor state. The infrastructure in big towns like Kampala, Jinja, and Mukono is relatively much better than in smaller trading centres and in rural areas. However, the results show that over the years Uganda’s productivity has varied a lot as a result of several other factors such as political instability, Official Development Assistance, economic policies, and Foreign Direct Investment, and evidence from correlation and regression analysis revealed that infrastructure positively impacts productivity. Nevertheless, results from the qualitative interviews carried out with informal sector enterprises involved in informal trade revealed that infrastructure development results into increased productivity of the informal sector, and that some of the challenges facing infrastructure development in Uganda are: lack of capital/funding; low purchasing power of residents in some areas; lack of skilled labour; poor government policies; lack of capacity to guarantee efficient infrastructure project delivery, utilisation and maintenance; the need for expanded involvement of the private sector in the ownership and management of economic infrastructure; and government’s public spending composition. The study, therefore, recommends that in order for the government of Uganda to meet its goal of poverty alleviation, focus should be placed on developing both the social and economic infrastructure in most parts of the country; government expenditures should be shifted from unproductive sectors like public administration and security to growth generating sectors of the economy like transport, energy, water, agriculture and health, more technological/vocational institutions should be set up to train more people in the management, design, construction, operation and maintenance of the various infrastructures; the private sector should be encouraged to be more involved in the development, ownership, and management of infrastructure; and member countries of the East African Community should consider developing a joint regional development plan for infrastructure which would ensure that the meagre resources that individual countries have or could source from development partners are utilised effectively. Key words: Infrastructure, Development, Informal, Productivity
Welfare of Health Workers and Job Satisfaction: A Case Study of Our Lady Consolata, Kisubi Hospital.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2008) Busulwa, Stephen
BUSULWA STEPHEN (2008-M102-20022) Welfare of Health Workers and Job Satisfaction: A Case Study of Our Lady Consolata, Kisubi Hospital Job satisfaction is a key factor in bringing about employee commitment, increased productivity, as well as organisational success. Job satisfaction can be attributed to various factors, some of which include salary, working conditions, relationship with supervisors, job security and welfare. This study focused on the aspect of welfare and its influence on job satisfaction as supported by perspectives from both developed and developing countries. The study set out to establish the influence of welfare of health workers of Kisubi hospital in the form of medical care, accommodation, as well as workplace Health and Safety (H&S). The study adopted both a quantitative and qualitative research design. In the context of medical care, accommodation and H&S, the data collected were analysed according to welfare policies as well as the existing welfare benefits and their influence on job satisfaction. Demographic variables such as age, gender and marital status can affect the relationship between welfare and job satisfaction, a cross tabulation analysis of which was also done. Quantitative findings revealed that welfare in terms of medical care, accommodation and H&S do influence job satisfaction. Results also showed that some staff demographics had a contingent effect 108 on the level of influence welfare has on job satisfaction. Female respondents were more satisfied than male respondents with medical care. Qualitative findings revealed that majority of respondents expressed that an increase in and/or a fair salary, medical care to staff relatives, relationship with supervisors, improvement on the meals and payment of transport allowance to non-accommodated staff would increase their job satisfaction. Key Words: Welfare, Health Workers, Job Satisfaction, Hospital
An Analysis of the Challenges of Women Entrepreneurs and the Performance of Micro and Small Scale Enterprises in Uganda: A Case Study of Mukono District.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2008) Ahabyoona, Faith Mugisha
AHABYOONA FAITH MUGISHA (2008-M102-20002) An Analysis of the Challenges of Women Entrepreneurs and the Performance of Micro and Small Scale Enterprises in Uganda: A Case Study of Mukono District. This study examines the “challenges” that affect the performance of women entrepreneurs in Uganda using Mukono as the case study; “challenges” here refers to factors limiting the growth and development of women entrepreneurship. Uganda is among the countries upholding the millennium goals in order to eradicate poverty and the use of entrepreneurship is a key aspect in this programme especially for major stakeholders that are women. Mukono district was chosen because it is a typical representation of both situations of rural but rapidly developing town located 25KM out of the city Kampala in the eastern direction. Performance for this study was interpreted to mean key factors of quantity produced, market readiness and availability, consistent in improvement of the production process and the price fetched by the products produced. This study examines the “challenges” that affect the performance of women entrepreneurs, the constraints they face, and the entrepreneurial ventures they have established over the past decade. The challenges examined included lack of access to trade financing, inadequate training and skills, limited access to product markets, high interest rates, poor bargaining power, socio- cultural ties, government policy on taxation, unfair labour laws and inaccessibility to equipment use. The entrepreneurial ventures invested in by these women entrepreneurs in the past decade include: agriculture, processing industries, retail shops and others that included all forms of cottage firms and online trading The primary objective was to explore the challenges that limit the performance of women entrepreneurs‟ micro and small scale enterprises in Uganda. This will help attract support to mitigate the challenges and help alleviate them from their present state of deprivation and poverty. From the findings of the study, it was discovered that lacking of access to trade financing, followed by inadequate training and skills ranked highest with 95% and 88% respectively. And the greatest possible strategy to counteract this state according to the survey was increased access to development skills and improved enterprise capital funding and each showed a 93% and 95% recommendation respectively. Key Words: Challenges, Women Entrepreneurs, Micro and Small Scale Enterprises, Mukono District.
The Effect of Productivity on the Competitiveness of a Firm: A Case Study of Member Organisations of the Private Sector Foundation Uganda.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2008) Kimaka, David Ssekibaala
KIMAKA DAVID SSEKIBAALA (2008-M102-20036) The Effect of Productivity on the Competitiveness of a Firm: A Case Study of Member Organisations of the Private Sector Foundation Uganda According to the study conducted by the Investment Climate Assessment (an arm of the World Bank group), low productivity has been identified as a major factor of low competitiveness of Ugandan enterprises relative to its neighbours and internationally. The investment climate assessment finds that labour productivity is particularly lower in smaller enterprises. The value added per worker in micro, small and medium enterprises in Uganda is in fact only about one third of that in Kenya and Tanzania (Investment climate assessment report 2004). This study, therefore, is aimed at looking at the relationship between a firm‟s productivity and the respective firm‟s competitiveness in the market and economy. It further aims at establishing whether or not a firm‟s productivity in Uganda has had an impact on the respective firm‟s competitiveness. And if so the nature of the impact on the level of competitiveness of the firm in the markets The objectives of the study were: to assess whether increasing innovativeness and technology in staff improves their productivity, to assess whether increasing the level of skills of staff through training has an effect on productivity, to assess whether the organisational structure affects the staff. Empirical data were collected from various sources including country competitive reports and primary data through questionnaires and interviews with a purposive sample of staff of Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), and Uganda Investment Authority. The data were then analysed using descriptive statistical analysis and quantitative techniques in order to assess the relationship between productivity and competitiveness of a firm. The empirical evidence showed that the labour productivity of staff of the member firms of the PSFU has been growing and has an effect on the level of the firm‟s competitiveness with the other member firms of the PSFU. However, the government through its various actions has indirectly also affected the labour productivity of staff of the member firms of the PSFU. Therefore, given the fact that Ugandan firms are going to face competition from firms from the neighbouring states as a result of joining the East African common market, there will be a need to improve the labour productivity of staff of the member firms of the PSFU. This will help improve the sustainability of the PSFU member firms and this research has gone forward to recommend some of the steps that PSFU member firms should take to improve on the labour productivity of their staff so that they improve on their competitiveness levels in the East African common market. The study has also recommended other areas for further research which will help build up this study to another level in terms of improving the labour productivity of staff to achieve improved competitiveness in the market. Key Words: Effect, Productivity, Competitiveness, Firm, Organisations, Private Sector, Foundation

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