CiteNScope — Scholarly Index & Analytics
Discover RESEARCH INTELLIGENCE
CiteNScope discovery

Explore publications.

Search the participating collection. Refine by journal, year or data source.

Browse journals · Browse publishers

INDEXED PUBLICATIONS23
CROSSREF CITATIONS18
CROSSREF · CITED PUBLICATIONS47.8%
CROSSREF · MEAN CITATIONS0.78

Crossref citation coverage: 23 / 23 publications (100.0%). Latest observation: 21 Oct 2026, 00:14 UTC. Means and percentages use records with known counts.

Research collection

23 publications

JOURNAL ARTICLE

Evaluating risk factors for criminal behaviors among youth and the responses of the criminal justice system and role players

Chiji Longinus Ezeji

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

Assessing risk factors for juvenile delinquency necessitates a holistic approach, taking into account individual, familial, societal, and communal influences. Risk factors are conditions or attributes that may elevate the probability of adverse outcomes or behaviours in adolescents. These elements may include multiple dimensions of a young individual's life, such as personal, familial, peer, educational, and communal influences. Globally, crime persists as a pressing issue, predominantly involving youngsters in offences such as cybercrime, robbery, theft, shoplifting, substance misuse, cash-in-transit heists, violent crimes, abduction, kidnapping, gang-related activities, cultism, and ritual killings. It is imperative to confront the prevailing trend of juvenile criminal actions inside society. This article analyses risk variables associated with juvenile criminal behaviour and the responses of the criminal justice system and its stakeholders. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, incorporating in-person interviews and surveys for data acquisition.  Research identifies determinants of criminal behaviour, including low self-control, impulsivity, and substance abuse. Family-related factors encompass parental neglect, maltreatment, and inadequate support. Social factors involve associations with delinquent peers, poverty, and discrimination. A correlation exists between drug, alcohol, and substance abuse and criminal behaviour among youth. Parental indifference may impact youth decision-making. Some young offenders are incarcerated in correctional facilities, while others participate in rehabilitation through diversion programs. The findings highlight the necessity for cohesive treatments involving family, community, and institutions, prioritising mental health support and restorative justice to diminish youth recidivism. The study advocates for the active involvement of stakeholders, including non-governmental organisations and rehabilitation centres. It emphasises the necessity for vigilant supervision and monitoring of youth by parents, guardians, family members, communities, institutions, and the criminal justice system to proactively prevent access to drugs and substances that incite violence and criminal behaviour. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of integrating family, community, and institutional interventions, mental health support, and restorative justice to mitigate youth recidivism. Additionally, it calls for the regular monitoring of youth mental health and the provision of effective interventions such as rehabilitation, youth crime prevention, treatment, and morality regeneration programs.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i5.10340 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

The role of robo-advisors in digitally transforming retirement planning in South Africa: a literature review

Mamekwa Katlego Kekana

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

In South Africa, only 6% of the population is expected to retire with financial independence, and the implementation of the Two-Pot retirement system in September 2024 exacerbates the retirement savings dilemma, underscoring an urgent necessity for creative retirement planning solutions. This article thoroughly delineates the present status of research into the utilisation of Robo-advisors in retirement planning. This analysis evaluates the appropriateness and feasibility of employing Robo-advisors to enhance and democratise digital financial advice within the context of a developing economy like South Africa, particularly through the adoption of the Two-Pot retirement scheme. A comprehensive literature analysis was conducted utilising the Emerald Insight, ProQuest, and Scopus databases to find peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2019 and 2024. These articles critically assessed the function of Robo-advisors in democratising financial advice, providing a cost-efficient, accessible, and perhaps less biassed alternative to conventional advising services. The study highlights the imperative for future research to guarantee the ethical, transparent, and controlled implementation of robo-advisory services in South Africa. The literature analysis delineates five pertinent study themes: emerging literature on Robo-advisors, behavioural dimensions, risk assessment, regulatory frameworks, and Robo-advisor characteristics pertinent to the South African retirement context, considering the Two-Pot retirement system.The report delineates potential research opportunities for each highlighted issue to aid scholars in performing empirical investigations aimed at optimising retirement planning in South Africa through the use of Robo-advisors.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i5.9700 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Evaluation of digital advancements in education and training: Incorporating generative artificial intelligence (GENAI), digital video educational platforms, and social media in teaching, learning, and research

Chiji Longinus Ezeji · Dominique Uwizeyimana

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

A transformative shift is imminent as generative artificial intelligence facilitates a synthetic and highly individualised approach to information creation and transmission. Technological breakthroughs and innovations necessitate the integration of technology across all facets of life, operations, and education to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Numerous institutions worldwide have adopted Generative AI (GenAI) as a revolutionary tool in educational dialogue, encompassing teaching, learning, student participation, and research. The study sought to assess digital innovations using GenAI, video platforms, and social media within the educational sphere. A mixed-methods design was employed including 225 participants. Research indicated that AI improves personalisation and engagement, while video and social media tools promote collaboration and digital literacy. GenAI can automate administrative functions, support multidisciplinary research, and enhance dynamic and interactive learning experiences. Artificial intelligence can automate and improve several processes, facilitating support for both learners and educators, from managing routine enquiries to optimising resource allocation via predictive analytics. Video educational platforms facilitate the creation of interactive and customised content. Social media may augment initiatives, cultivate digital literacy, and promote user-generated content. The research suggests that effective integration necessitates ethical AI knowledge and institutional capability.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i5.10330 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Investigating the influence of industry 4.0 technology on work engagement: Applying the JD-R theory to mitigate technostress

Njanjobea Isah Leontes · Jeremy Mitonga-Monga

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

This study investigates the influence of Industry 4.0 technology on work engagement through the lens of the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) theory, aiming to mitigate technostress. The primary objective is to explore how advanced technology affects work engagement and to develop a model that addresses potential negative impacts such as technostress and techno-addiction. Utilizing a sample of 339 employees from rated hotels in South Africa, data were collected through physical and online questionnaires. The study employed Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze the relationships between technology use and work engagement. Results indicate a significant positive effect of technology on work engagement (path coefficient=0.356, t=8.140 p<0.01), suggesting that Industry 4.0 technologies enhance employee vigor, dedication, and absorption by providing greater work flexibility and autonomy. These findings challenges existing literature, which often highlights the negative consequences of technology on work engagement. The study contributes to the understanding of how to harness Industry 4.0 technology to improve employee well-being and offers practical recommendations for effectively integrating such technologies in organizations.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i5.9481 Crossref citations1 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Organisational culture, responsible leadership, and job satisfaction: A social identity and learning approach

Jeremy Mitonga-Monga · Dakalo Precious Monyai

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

This study investigated the influence of organisational culture and responsible leadership on employee job satisfaction. A positivist research philosophy was adopted, with a stratified sample of 373 permanent employees from a South African state-owned enterprise, using a quantitative approach and cross-sectional design. Data were collected using the Organisational Culture Assessment Inventory (OCAI), the Responsible Leadership Scale (RLS), and the Job Satisfaction Index (JSI). Data reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, while confirmatory factor analysis, correlation analysis, and multiple regression were used to determine predictive relationships among variables. The results indicated that organisational culture correlated positively and significantly with both responsible leadership and job satisfaction, and responsible leadership also correlated positively and significantly with job satisfaction. Furthermore, responsible leadership significantly predicted job satisfaction, whereas organisational culture did not significantly predict job satisfaction. From a business ecosystem and strategy perspective, the findings highlight the importance of fostering responsible leadership and adaptive organisational cultures as key enablers of sustainable performance, ethical governance, and stakeholder trust. These factors are crucial for strengthening strategic alignment and long-term competitiveness in complex institutional environments. The study also has socio-economic development implications: by promoting responsible leadership and enhancing employee satisfaction, state-owned enterprises can drive productivity, social equity, and inclusive growth, thereby reinforcing South Africa’s broader business and socio-economic ecosystem.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i5.9430 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

The silent quintile: Infrastructural inequities and developmental risk in township-based early childhood development centres in South Africa

Lesedi Senamele Matlala · Tshepo Baloyi

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

The quality of infrastructure in Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres has a profound influence on child development outcomes, particularly in marginalised communities. This article investigates the infrastructural challenges facing township-based ECD centres in Johannesburg, South Africa, and explores how these challenges influence parents’ decisions and, potentially, the developmental trajectories of their children. Drawing on the National Integrated ECD Policy (2015) and the Department of Social Development (DSD) infrastructure norms, the study employs a mixed-methods design to assess the availability and adequacy of physical infrastructure in selected centres. Parents of children attending township ECD centres participated through an online quantitative survey and telephonic qualitative interviews conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings reveal widespread compliance with minimum infrastructure standards—such as access to clean water, basic sanitation, and classroom space—but expose critical gaps in outdoor play areas, safety features, and child-friendly environments. These deficiencies are compounded by limited financial resources, overcrowded facilities, and dual-purpose premises that serve both as homes and ECD centres. While parents generally expressed satisfaction with proximity, staff care, and affordability, their responses also highlighted low awareness of infrastructural quality as a determinant of developmental outcomes. The study concludes that township ECD infrastructure reflects a “silent quintile” system—an informal, inequitable tier of provisioning shaped by historical neglect, regulatory ambiguity, and constrained investment. It argues for targeted infrastructure grants, strengthened monitoring mechanisms, and parental awareness campaigns to ensure that ECD infrastructure supports rather than hinders child development. This article contributes to the growing discourse on structural inequality in early childhood provisioning and calls for policy coherence and cross-sectoral collaboration to advance the right to quality early learning for all children in South Africa.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i5.9340 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Internal challenges of strategy implementation at a South Africa Bank

Dinko Herman Boikanyo · Godknows Gomwe

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify the internal implementation strategy issues encountered by a bank in South Africa. Challenges are phased in by South African banks during the fourth stage of the strategic planning process. Banks must be aware of the internal issues affecting the implementation stage. The banking industry in South Africa plays a significant role in the regional economy and market. The article's underlying contingency theory highlights how crucial it is for South African banks to use a range of approaches to address problems that can prevent them from implementing their strategies. Data were mostly gathered through semi-structured interviews with 25 workers of a bank in South Africa. Atlas.ti version 23 software was used to analyse the participant data gathering. The findings show that the South African bank is facing internal issues as a result of senior managers' decision to exclude junior and middle management's participation from the overall plan. This will demotivate those involved and result in a lack of support for the plan. Inadequate support from the change management team and communication from the management team regarding the new plan.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i4.8030 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Barriers to artificial intelligence adoption in State-Owned Enterprises

Patience Mokokota · Shopee Dube · Tinofrei Museba

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

State-owned enterprises (SOEs) have significant opportunities to enhance operational efficiency, decision-making, and service delivery through artificial intelligence (AI). However, several barriers hinder widespread AI adoption in these organizations. This article measures the impact of AI adoption on performance indicators like production output and customer satisfaction in State-Owned Enterprises. It analyses financial sustainability, resource management, and efficiency metrics while identifying key barriers such as high implementation costs, lack of technical expertise, and resistance to change. The barriers to AI adoption in the SOEs are studied quantitatively. Data was gathered from 240 carefully chosen SOE personnel in South Africa (SA) using a survey approach, which had a 93.28% response rate. The population of this study comprised employees of South African SOEs. The focus of the article is on examining the perspectives of individuals in SOEs in SA regarding AI implementation. Further complicating AI integration are data security and privacy concerns, as well as legal and compliance issues. A lack of strategic vision and financial limitations are also major obstacles to advancement. Developing successful plans to encourage AI adoption in SOEs, which will eventually spur innovation and enhance public sector performance, requires an understanding of these obstacles.  The article concludes that despite significant barriers to AI adoption in South African SOEs—such as lack of senior management support, inadequate infrastructure, resistance to change, data quality issues, and a shortage of skilled staff—there are clear opportunities for improvement.  This is one of the articles that focuses on identifying barriers of adopting AI in South African SOEs and it lays a foundation for future research on AI in SOEs.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i4.8670 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Predictors of effective management of doctoral programmes in Nigerian universities

Amos Agbojo · Ganiyu Quadri · Wilfred Ukpere

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

The doctoral programme is an educational programme put in place to earn the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D). A criterion for assessing the successful administration of doctoral degrees in universities is the timely completion of the programme.  Research indicates that several Ph.D. candidates at Nigerian universities fail to finish their programmes within the anticipated five-year timeframe. This research examined the determinants of efficient administration of PhD programmes in universities in southern Nigeria. A sample of 528 respondents (PhD students, supervisors and coordinators) was drawn from the University of Ibadan 305, Olabisi Onabanjo University 38, Ekiti State University 50 and the University of Lagos 135. Two questionnaires titled “Effective Management of Doctoral Programme Questionnaire” (EMDPQ r=0.83) and “Predictors of Effective Management of Ph.D Questionnaire” (PEMPQ r=0.82) were used to collect data. Multiple regression analysis was used to test two null hypotheses at the significance level of 0.05. The research found that the successful administration of PhD programs in institutions in southwest Nigeria was significantly influenced by student, supervisory, and institutional variables (F(3;461) =25.973, Adj. R2=0.13), accounting for 13% of its variance. It was also shown that institutional (? = 0.277, t = 2.892, p < 0.05) and student-related (? = 0.275, t = 2.425, p < 0.05) factors are more powerful predictors of effective management of doctoral programmes than supervisory variables. The findings indicated that to improve the effective management of doctoral programmes in universities in southwest Nigeria, stakeholders should prioritise collaboration on student, supervisory, and institutional factors.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i4.9110 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Leveraging social media for entrepreneurial success: a systematic review of the literature

Elvis Madondo · Hummerly Dhoba

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

Social media has become a vital tool for entrepreneurs, enabling them to expand their reach, enhance brand visibility, and engage directly with customers. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn provide entrepreneurs with cost-effective ways to access global markets, promote their products, and foster meaningful relationships with consumers. While social media has facilitated the growth of entrepreneurship by lowering barriers to entry, challenges such as managing online presence, handling negative feedback, and addressing privacy concerns persist. This study aims to systematically review existing literature to explore how entrepreneurs can strategically leverage social media for growth, examining its economic benefits, challenges, and best practices. Findings from the review reveal that social media offers entrepreneurs substantial advantages, including increased brand awareness, enhanced customer engagement, and improved sales performance through direct sales features and promotional campaigns. Additionally, social media enables networking, resource acquisition, and business model innovation. However, challenges related to platform management, algorithm changes, and privacy risks must be navigated. Based on these findings, the study recommends that entrepreneurs develop a clear social media strategy, actively engage with customers, stay updated with trends, and leverage data analytics to optimise their marketing efforts. Building brand communities and fostering customer loyalty through personalised communication and consistent interaction can further support business growth.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i3.7072 Crossref citations2 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Population growth and unemployment in South Africa: A 24-Year analysis

Hummerly Dhoba · Primrose Mutema · Adedamola Temitope Akinlade · Elvis Madondo

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

This study explores the nexus between population growth and unemployment in South Africa from 2000 to 2023, a period marked by significant demographic changes and economic challenges. South Africa has experienced rising unemployment alongside rapid population growth, which has led to concerns about the country’s ability to absorb its expanding labour force. The aim of this research is to examine how population growth influences unemployment, considering additional factors like foreign direct investment (FDI), gross domestic product (GDP), and inflation. Using time series data from the World Bank, Statistics South Africa, and the South African Reserve Bank, the study employs the Augmented Dickey-Fuller unit root test for stationarity, Johansen cointegration for long-term relationships, and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression to estimate the impact of population growth on unemployment. Key findings indicate that population growth has a positive and statistically significant relationship with unemployment, meaning higher population growth increases unemployment levels. Foreign direct investment also shows a positive effect on unemployment, while GDP and inflation exhibit negative but statistically insignificant relationships. Based on these findings, the study recommends strategic urban planning, family planning initiatives, and targeted policies to attract labour-intensive FDI. Additionally, the government should focus on economic diversification, supporting SMEs, and investing in skill development to create sustainable jobs. This research contributes to understanding the dynamics between population growth and unemployment in South Africa and offers insights for more effective policy interventions.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i3.7081 Crossref citations1 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

The transformative and communicative impact of digital marketing in rural retailing: the case of flagstaff

Elvis Madondo

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

The rise of digital marketing has the potential to reshape consumer engagement and business strategies, particularly in rural retailing, where traditional marketing methods often dominate. This study examines the transformative and communicative impact of digital marketing in rural retailing, with a focus on Flagstaff, South Africa. A quantitative approach was employed, with questionnaires personally administered to retail store operators and management, achieving a response rate of 86.54% from the forty-five responses received out of the fifty-two distributed. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and factor analysis, were conducted using SPSS 27.0 to validate the data. The findings indicate that digital marketing plays a crucial role in transforming and sustaining retail businesses by enhancing brand perception, influencing consumer behaviour, and facilitating effective communication. To maximise these benefits, rural retailers should transform their operational strategies to effectively leverage online platforms for improved customer engagement. Additionally, policymakers should support local businesses through resources and training initiatives. Local communities also need to be supported through the development of infrastructure that enhances digital connectivity, ensures a reliable electricity supply, and provides access to devices. Workshops or informational campaigns aimed at improving digital literacy would also be beneficial for enhancing the diffusion of digital innovation in rural areas. This study provides valuable insights into how digital marketing can transform rural retailing, offering important implications for both practitioners and researchers.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i3.7650 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Exploring youth entrepreneurial cognition: opportunities and challenges in the South African context

Elvis Madondo

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

The increasing unemployment rates in South Africa and other parts of the continent underscore the critical importance of youth involvement in entrepreneurship to sustain the economy and enhance living standards. Despite this, youth participation in entrepreneurship remains low. This study aimed to investigate the entrepreneurial cognition of opportunities and challenges among the youth in the South African context. Exploratory design using a qualitative research approach, focusing on a cross-sectional data collection method through structured online interviews was employed. A sample of twelve South African youth. The findings show that engagement in entrepreneurial activities remains limited due to significant cognitive challenges which stem from historical inequalities that have marginalized many from economic participation and from present systems that are less supportive of the youth. The study recommends promoting an entrepreneurial mindset focused on seizing opportunities and overcoming historical constraints to stimulate start-up creation and reduce unemployment.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i3.7672 Crossref citations2 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

The implications of technology and innovation: a critical analysis of youth and children's activities on social media platforms

Chiji Longinus Ezeji · Dominique Emmanuel Uwizeyimana

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

Innovation and technology have transformed all facets of human endeavours, including the experiences of youth and children. Digital technology and connection have influenced the lives of youth and children across all societies. Presently, connectivity has permeated all regions of the world, and the utilisation of application technology, particularly social media, has influenced children and adolescents both positively and badly. Connected teens and youngsters have gained several opportunities while also facing countless threats. Individuals lacking connectivity face the peril of marginalisation and disadvantage, as a significant portion of the contemporary world remains inaccessible to them. As the internet becomes more embedded in civic and political life, it offers children and young people chances to engage in issues that impact them and to articulate their views and opinions. The study examines the essential role of kids and children on social media platforms and the consequences of innovation and technology. A mixed method was employed for the study, integrating qualitative and quantitative methodologies for data collection. The research indicated that digital access to social media influences equitable opportunities for youngsters. Digital technology has a dual nature; it advantages youngsters and children by providing access to knowledge, educational resources, cultural artefacts, and opportunities for peer interaction. Numerous youths and children have been victimised on diverse social media sites, with some individuals utilising these channels to plan attacks on their targets. A correlation exists between exposure to violence, pornography, violent video games, cyberbullying, sexting, online exploitation on social media, and subsequent violent behaviour and immorality. It is essential to implement social skills training in educational institutions, grant children and adolescents access to cognitive behavioural therapy, encourage parents to monitor their children's online activities and security settings to safeguard their information, and educate them on the significance of maintaining the confidentiality of their personal data. The government must control, monitor, and oversee the actions of youth and children on social media platforms, rehabilitate victims, and develop moral regeneration programs in educational institutions.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i3.8202 Crossref citations2 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Exploring business process outsourcing services and activities for sustainable competitive advantage in the emerging markets

Samson Mbanje · Joseph Mutangadura · Blessing Takawira · Joseph Mithi

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

As globalization continues to reshape the business landscape, the use of Business process outsourcing services and activities is gaining significant popularity among businesses. The exact services and activities that benefits and create a sustainable competitive advantage to organizations remain underexplored and few studies have been conducted in the Southern Africa developing countries including South African mobile operators. The main purpose of this study was to redress the existing knowledge gap by ascertaining the actual services and activities that the mobile telecom operators are outsourcing for sustainable competitive advantage. A structured closed-ended questionnaire was used to collect raw data from 210 employees. Overall, the results indicate that some of the key services and activities outsourced for sustainable competitive advantage included building and managing network infrastructure, network roll-out and management, manufacturing of mobile network equipment, monitoring the mobile network on capacity overload and breakdowns and assembly operations, maintenance of the base stations of mobile network, manufacturing of hard software components and resolving software problems and fleet management. The practical implications of the findings, assist organizational management in making informed and structured decisions through the identification of critical activities and services that contribute to the attainment of a sustainable competitive advantage and performance improvement of the mobile telecom operators.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i3.8270 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Evaluation of generative artificial intelligence (GENAI) as a transformative technology for effective and efficient governance, political knowledge, electoral, and democratic processes

Chiji Longinus Ezeji · Dominique Emmanuel Uwizeyimana

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

The incorporation of generative artificial intelligence in governance, political knowledge, electoral, and democratic processes is essential as the world transitions to a digital paradigm. Numerous nations have adopted Generative AI (GenAI), a disruptive technology that compels electoral bodies to advocate for the integration of such tools into governance, electoral, and democratic processes. Nevertheless, these technologies do not ensure effortless integration or efficient usage owing to intricate socio-cultural and human dynamics. Certain African jurisdictions are ill-prepared for the adoption of these technologies due to factors including underdevelopment, insufficient electrical supply, lack of technology literacy, reluctance to change, and the goals of governing parties. This study examines generative artificial intelligence as a disruptive technology for enhancing governance, political knowledge, electoral processes, and democracy. A mixed-method approach was employed, incorporating surveys and in-person interviews. The analysis of data, debates, and interpretation of findings were grounded in postdigital theory and theme analysis employing an abductive reasoning technique, in alignment with the tenets of critical realism. The study demonstrated that GENAI can influence political knowledge, election processes, and enhance efficiency in government and democracy. Moreover, GENAI, including ChatGPT, can either exacerbate or mitigate societal tendencies that contribute to human division, facilitate the dissemination of misinformation, perpetuate echo chambers, and undermine social and political trust, as well as polarise disparate groups or sets of viewpoints or beliefs. AI offers substantial opportunities but also poses many obstacles, including technical constraints, ethical dilemmas, and social ramifications. The swift progression of AI may disrupt labour markets by automating tasks conventionally executed by people, resulting in job displacement. Implementing AI necessitates significant upskilling and proficiency with digital tools; therefore, governments and organisations must adequately train their personnel to reconcile the disparity between AI's capabilities and users' comprehension. Additionally, there is a requisite for governmental oversight, regulation, and monitoring of AI adoption and utilisation across all facets of its implementation.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i3.8311 Crossref citations1 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Evaluation of multifaceted holistic measures and strategies for combating cash-in-transit heists in South Africa

Chiji Longinus Ezeji · Dominique Emmanuel Uwizeyimana

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

In recent years, South Africa has witnessed a rise in diverse criminal activities, including violent crime, armed robbery, domestic violence, rape, heists, murder, drug abuse, theft, organised crime, cybercrime, social media offences, gangsterism, ritual killings, cultism, smuggling, the import and sale of contraband, and human and drug trafficking. Enhancing the abilities and competencies of criminal justice officials responsible for preventing, reducing, investigating, and prosecuting crime is crucial for achieving success in the fight against crime. This study seeks to discover comprehensive tools and techniques to reduce cash-in-transit robbery thefts in South Africa. A mixed-method approach was employed for data collecting, integrating qualitative and quantitative methodologies, such as interviews and questionnaires. Findings indicated alarming escalations in violent crime and cash-in-transit heists in South Africa. Technological improvements and inventions have led to an increase in sophisticated criminal activities both in South Africa and elsewhere. Cash-in-transit crime adversely impacts the nation's economy, leading to significant financial losses for institutions and resulting in numerous fatalities. It is essential to analyse the root causes of cash-in-transit crimes to implement preventive measures; hence, enhancing the capacity of police, law enforcement, and private security personnel to collect and utilise intelligence is necessary for the prevention and reduction of cash-in-transit robberies. Intelligence-led policing techniques should be implemented to target criminals and mitigate cash-in-transit crime in South African communities, as well as to prosecute offenders. Moreover, the implementation of multifaceted and holistic strategies, including spatial and crime mapping, focused deterrence, the prediction of prolific offenders, the identification and targeting of repeat offenders, crime intelligence, community intelligence, and inter-agency collaboration, is essential for an expedited response to crime incidents, as well as for the prevention and reduction of crime, investigation, prosecution, and sentencing of cash-in-transit heist offenders. It is essential for the criminal justice system, law enforcement, and security agencies to adopt intelligence-driven community policing, a holistic approach that prioritises the identification and prevention of habitual offenders, focussing on groups that pose a threat to the community. It utilises community intelligence in conjunction with other intelligence-driven policing techniques and approaches to combat crime and criminal activities.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i3.8400 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

4 IR-based capacity-building for improved service delivery and municipal readiness in South Africa

Mncedisi Ncamphalala · Shikha Vyas-Doorgapersad

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

Capacity-building is a multifaceted strategy for developing competencies within entities, crucial for enhancing current skill sets.  Moreover, capacity-building is the intervention that all organisations must consolidate necessary resources to enhance effectiveness and productivity.  Consequently, South African towns must enhance their capabilities to implement superior public service delivery models.  The paper intends to examine the importance of capacity-building interventions in South African municipalities.  The primary inquiry posed in the study is, 'What factors impede the efficient implementation of service delivery in South African municipalities?'  The research is qualitative and collects data from secondary sources.  The literature indicates that capacity-building is successful only when all forms of capacity—institutional, network, and organizational—receive equal consideration, akin to the approach traditional organisations take with individual employee performance.  It is essential to recognise the connection between capacity-building and service delivery, with the former deemed a critical necessity for municipalities in the Republic.  Consequently, the study underscored the significant necessity for capacity-building within municipalities.  The data was evaluated by content analysis.  The findings indicate that potential exist in adopting 4IR-based service delivery within the broader context and specifically in municipal governance.  This is essential as the capacity-building activities for enhanced smart governance depend on the many tools and practices defining the Fourth Industrial Revolution.  

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i2.6931 Crossref citations1 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Road infrastructure in South Africa: What is missing?

Bulelwa Maphela · Eyitayo Francis Adanlawo

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

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.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i2.7385 Crossref citations6 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLE

Progress made towards achieving National Development Plan in post COVID-19 era

Maemu Emmanuel · Munzhedzi Harry Pandelani · Mathebula Ntwanano Erasmus

International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025

Read abstract

This paper seeks to evaluate the progress that has been made towards achieving the NDP in post COVID-19 era. By bringing South Africans together, unleashing their energies, developing an inclusive economy, and strengthening the state's and leaders' capacity to collaborate on solving complex issues, the National Development Plan (NDP) aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030. The Plan's strategy centers on citizens taking an active role in their own development, a strong leadership across society that collaborates to solve issues, and a capable and developing state that can step in to address historical injustices. The Plan tackles the need to improve the state's capacity to grow more quickly, attract more workers, and boost living standards for everyone, especially the poor, as well as to improve the people's capacity to live the lifestyles they want. The COVID-19 epidemic has severely damaged an already damaged economy, which has impacted the NDP 2030's implementation. Both quantitative and qualitative research methods were employed in this study's mixed research technique. The mixed approach was chosen because it may be blended in a way that preserves the original procedures and structures of both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Purposive sampling, a kind of non-probability sampling, was employed to obtain a suitable sample to accomplish the study's goal. Questionnaires and interviews were the two methods of data collecting that the researcher employed. The International Business Machinery (IBM): Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS) version 28.0 computer program was used to perform statistical analysis on the data gathered from the questionnaires. The results were displayed using graphical tabular form, frequencies, and percentages. The data collected through interviews were analysed through thematic analysis and presented in narrative form.

DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i2.7541 Crossref citations1 OpenAlex citations