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This study investigates the impact of financial literacy on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), focusing on its role in enhancing financial decision-making, access to finance, fintech adoption, and risk management. Grounded in Resource-Based Theory (RBT) and Human Capital Theory (HCT), financial literacy is positioned as both a strategic capability and a form of human capital that strengthens firm resilience and competitiveness. A systematic literature review was conducted, synthesising evidence from 18 empirical studies published between 2016 and 2024. Findings reveal that financial literacy significantly improves SMEs’ ability to budget, manage debt, and evaluate investment decisions. It also enhances creditworthiness through improved financial record-keeping, thereby facilitating access to financing. Moreover, digital financial literacy is identified as a catalyst for fintech adoption, which contributes to cost reduction, operational efficiency, and financial transparency. The study concludes that targeted financial literacy interventions are essential, especially in developing economies where SMEs face structural constraints. It calls for integrated financial education strategies involving policymakers, financial institutions, and SME development agencies. Further empirical research is recommended to examine the long-term and digital dimensions of financial literacy as a driver of sustainable SME performance.

Road’s infrastructure is regarded as an essential factor to achieve development goals. It is recorded that most people living in the rural areas are constrained by poor road infrastructure, thereby causing poverty, hunger, and food insecurity. This situation calls for more investments in road infrastructure to promote agricultural activities. Using systematic review method, this study reviewed literature pertaining to road infrastructure in South Africa, the review focused on the importance, benefits, and present state of road infrastructure and the socio-economic effects of poor road infrastructure. The study revealed that Most South African roads are in bad shape, especially roads in the rural areas. due to lack of qualified personnel to manage road infrastructure, government regulations and policies and financial challenges. The implications of this study's findings are substantial for future research. Firstly, in order to ensure the timely delivery of infrastructure construction projects, the study's findings are expected to provide guidance to decision-makers and stakeholders in South Africa and other nations on how to proactively implement measures to provide and maintain sustainable, good road infrastructure.