Research Article
Addressing Business and Entrepreneurial Challenges in Bulawayo: Unlocking the Economic Potential of SMMEs Through Policies and Practices Inspired by SSA Stories
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 4, August 2026
Pages:
167-177
Received:
4 March 2026
Accepted:
25 March 2026
Published:
11 August 2026
Abstract: Small to Medium Enterprise (SMMEs) are today’s reality, as most of the population work for them; they are also tomorrow’s future, because they have great potential to contribute to the structural transformation and diversification of the economy. This study sought to investigate strategies to overcome the obstacles faced by SMEs in Bulawayo by drawing insights from successful policies and practices implemented across Southern African countries. The primary objective of the study was to explore how Bulawayo's business ecosystem can be revitalized to stimulate SMME growth, enhance their contribution to economic development, and address pervasive socio-economic challenges. By examining case studies from neighboring Southern African countries, the research identified adaptable strategies that can foster a conducive environment for SMMEs in Bulawayo. The findings of the study reveal that SMME success in Southern African cities and provinces such as Gaborone, Gauteng, and Maseru is often underpinned by strong institutional support, streamlined regulatory processes, targeted financial interventions, and robust business development programs. Furthermore, partnerships between the public and private sectors emerge as a common thread in fostering sustainable growth. Applying these insights, the study identifies actionable recommendations for Bulawayo. From the study, if policymakers and stakeholders adopt a multi-faceted approach that prioritizes both systemic reform and localized solutions tailored to the city's unique challenges, it could position Bulawayo as a thriving hub for entrepreneurship and innovation in Zimbabwe. The research concludes that with strategic interventions, informed by regional successes, Bulawayo can enhance its economic resilience and drive inclusive growth.
Abstract: Small to Medium Enterprise (SMMEs) are today’s reality, as most of the population work for them; they are also tomorrow’s future, because they have great potential to contribute to the structural transformation and diversification of the economy. This study sought to investigate strategies to overcome the obstacles faced by SMEs in Bulawayo by draw...
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Research Article
The Impact of FinTech Adoption on Environmental Performance: The Mediation Role of Green Dynamic Capability and Green Innovation
Yiran Chen
,
Yulu Ying*
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 4, August 2026
Pages:
178-191
Received:
22 April 2026
Accepted:
4 June 2026
Published:
13 August 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.jfa.20261404.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Environmental sustainability is increasingly viewed as a key priority for organizations striving to align economic growth with ecological responsibility. As digital technology continues to evolve rapidly, financial technology (FinTech) has emerged as a significant enabler of efficient financial services, improved information transparency, and optimized resource allocation. However, limited research has explored the organizational mechanisms through which FinTech adoption (FA) enhances environmental performance (ENP). To fill this gap, the present research investigates the impact of FA on ENP by exploring the mediating effects of green dynamic capability (GDC) and green innovation (GI). A conceptual framework integrating these constructs is developed and empirically tested using a hybrid analytical approach. Specifically, Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) is employed to evaluate the hypothesized relationships and mediating effects among the constructs. Subsequently, Artificial Neural Network (ANN) analysis is applied to assess the predictive strength and relative importance of the significant determinants identified in the PLS-SEM stage. FA exerts both direct and indirect positive effects on ENP, with GDC and GI acting as mediating pathways. Furthermore, ANN analysis shows that GDC exerts the strongest influence on ENP, followed by GI and FA. By integrating PLS-SEM and ANN, this research offers a more in-depth analytical perspective than single-method approaches and provides deeper insights into how FA facilitates organizational environmental sustainability.
Abstract: Environmental sustainability is increasingly viewed as a key priority for organizations striving to align economic growth with ecological responsibility. As digital technology continues to evolve rapidly, financial technology (FinTech) has emerged as a significant enabler of efficient financial services, improved information transparency, and optim...
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