ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Developing an optimization model for efficient distribution of petroleum products: A case study of Tema Oil Refinery (TOR)

This research explores linear programming optimization models for distributing products by tankers in a land transportation system. Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) is used as a case study. The transportation problem is of great economic significance to the Government of Ghana, whose economy is traditionally dominated to a large extent by the oil sector. Any enhancement in the existing transportation procedure has the potential for significant cost savings for the Ghanaian economy. A linear programming model for the TOR problem is constructed in this paper. A set of nodes and arcs is used to form the network, and the decision variables are the different transportation routes. The objective function minimized is formed by summing the products of the decision variables and their corresponding cost coefficients. The constraints of the model include capacity at the depots and the demands of the Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). The scope of this research covered five (5) OMCs across three (3) capital cities namely; Accra, Kumasi and Takoradi. The resulting linear formulation is greatly simplified and it was solved using Solver (an in-built optimisation tool) in Microsoft EXCEL.

Source: Ashesi
Developing cost management system for Adil Foods

Adil Foods Corporation is a food company that has recently stepped into the agricultural industry. The company operates in Multan, Pakistan, and has been operating since 2001. The company provides white meat and eggs to suppliers of the domestic market. The management of Adil Foods expressed that their business failed to achieve the profitability goal for the year 2020. Mr. Rashid, the CEO of Adil Foods, noted issues with the cost monitoring and data analysis. The tools used for data collection were structured interviews, observation, and the company’s financial & internal reports. The CEO, Financial manager, and production manager were interviewed. Framework analyses were used to analyze the data. The results revealed that the business failed to achieve its profitability goal due to a lack of data analyses. The lack of data analyses was leading to poor decision-making. The literature review explored functionalities, conceptual frameworks, and limitations of the Enterprise resource planning software (ERPs) and excel-based cost management system. The existing literature coupled with the primary research indicated that an excel-based cost management system is better for Adil Foods as it is cheaper and Adil Foods management is familiar with the software. The proposed solution is a tailor-made cost management system that uses variable costing and sensitivity analysis to compute valuable information and generate signals. The excel based cost management system also forecasts data which will assist managers in making rational and prompt decisions.

Source: Ashesi
Developing sustainable recruitment strategies: The case of the Ashesi Venture Incubator

This is an applied project centered on the candidate engagement and selection process of Ashesi Venture Incubator. The Ashesi Venture Incubator (AVI) is a one-year business incubation program aimed at providing business training and mentorship to improve the start-ups of Ashesi recent graduates and alumni. The AVI operates in the business incubation sector, a thriving industry that offers services such as mentorship, office space and financing for businesses. One of the most important stages of the incubation process is the recruitment and selection stage. This stage involves how an incubator identifies the best pool of participants, develops requirements, evaluates and picks applicants. The AVI has incubated many outstanding businesses; however there exists a challenge in the recruitment process adopted. The major challenge was the need to develop a strategy to engage the potential applicants continually. This was revealed as some students knew very little on the AVI hence did not have interest in it. Another challenge was revealed when the AVI recruitment procedure was compared with that of renowned business incubators. There were certain crucial criteria that would enhance the screening process of candidates that was not included. The solution is a strategic engagement and recruitment plan aiming at addressing these two areas. The aim is to address effective strategies that the AVI should use to engage participants continuously to increase students' interest in entrepreneurship and the AVI. The latter is focused on enhanced models and criteria the AVI should use to ensure that participants understand and meet requirements. This project is of great relevance as it looks not only at improving the recruitment processes but essentially allows the AVI to be seen as a center of entrepreneurship that improves the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the university.

Source: Ashesi
Development of a sustainable business model development for Biblionef Ghana

Biblionef Ghana is a non-governmental organisation that provides new story books to underprivileged schools and holds other activities that aid in getting children to love reading. Biblionef Ghana is however being weaned off by their parent organisation, Biblionef Netherlands, and has therefore had a reduction in the amount of funds that they are receiving from them. Due to this, Biblionef Ghana has had to halt some of their important projects as they are facing difficulty with fundraising and have insufficient funds to handle those projects. Mainly qualitative research was emplored, with interviews and observations as data collection tools. It was discovered that Biblionef Ghana has poor publicity, is short staffed, and has an underperforming library. A needs assessment was carried out and it was gathered that the development of an appropriate business model is what Biblionef Ghana needs to become self-sustaining. Literature provided that for an NGO to become sustainable, it should fix its funding model, diversify its sources of income, and have more skilled workers. It proved that what Biblionef Ghana truly needs is a sustainable business model because a business model shows how an organisation can make and sustain its profit stream. Using a business model canvas, a business model depicting the current state of Biblionef Ghana was designed in order to derive a more appropriate, sustainable business model for the company. This business model was designed in such a way that will help the company become more income generating, have lower costs and provide greater publicity for the business, thereby ensuring sustainability. An implementation plan and recommendations were provided thereafter.

Source: Ashesi
Developments in mobile financial services and its impact on financial inclusion in Ghana

Mobile money services have the potential to drive greater financial inclusion and give individuals and businesses access to affordable and timely financial services. In Ghana, mobile money has contributed to the increase in financial inclusion, with fifty-eight (58) per cent of the adult population having access to financial services in 2017, as compared to forty-one (41) per cent in 2014 (Demirguc-Kunt et al., 2018). However, mobile money in Ghana was not as successful in the early stages due to a number of reasons, but when the regulatory guidelines were changed in 2015, the adoption rates of mobile money increased significantly. Thus, this study aimed to investigate if the increase in the adoption of mobile money was as a result of a change in the regulatory guidelines. Furthermore, the Bank of Ghana mandated mobile money interoperability between mobile money providers and banks in 2018 with the hope of deepening financial inclusion. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the impact of the interoperability initiative on financial inclusion in Ghana, as well as the challenges experienced in the use of mobile money services. This study employed a quantitative research method. Secondary data was sourced from the Bank of Ghana and World Bank and analyzed using a regression model. Using convenience sampling, primary data was collected from respondents through questionnaires and analyzed using a Chi-Square test. The results revealed that there is a relationship between mobile money interoperability and financial inclusion in Ghana. It also revealed that mobile money regulation is not solely responsible for the growth in the adoption of mobile money and the promotion of financial inclusion in the country.

Source: Ashesi
Digital Marketing Strategy for Debbies Products Limited

Debbies Products Limited is a Ghanaian skin and hair care company established in 2007. The company manufactures and distributes a range of shea butter-based skincare products, a range of ‘Alata Samina’ or black soap-based skincare products, hair maintenance products, and lately, cleaning and sanitising products in response to COVID-19. Despite Debbies’ steady growth and strong presence in many West African countries, the company lack a Digital Marketing Strategy. The gaps in Digital Marketing, as outlined by the management of Debbies Products, are mainly limited access to all segments of its target market and making much sales online. The gaps mentioned above were studied by conducting a needs analysis using observation, in-depth interviews, and questionnaires. The study participants include the company's management, its customers, competitors, and members of the general public. The results supported the assumption that Debbies’ marketing strategy had not adequately evolved over the years to accommodate changes in the digital business climate. Thus, they were not fully reaching their target market and optimising their sales. The literature review touched on the various factors and models that influence digital marketing while tying in the e-commerce factor. This inclusion is necessary because digital marketing is essential in this era for stimulating sales. The proposed solution uses a comprehensive digital marketing strategy fused with the promotional mix elements to bridge Debbies’ marketing gap. The design touches on plans meant to implement across different platforms, including a website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Pinterest. If implemented correctly, the strategy will help the company increase its market reach, engagement, and sales.

Source: Ashesi
Drivers of civic virtue in Ashesi University College alumni employed in Ghana

The behaviour of employees in a workplace have many repercussions in relation to profitability, efficiency and customer retention. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the alumni of Ashesi University College exhibit civic virtue behaviours while at work. It also sought to investigate what the drivers behind this behaviour were in a bid to inform employers of Ashesi alumni on the likely behaviours their employees would exhibit, as well as educators at Ashesi as to whether or not their students apply what they have been taught once they graduate from school. The findings of the study revealed that Ashesi alumni exhibit civic virtue at work. It also revealed that female alums, as well as Ashesi alumni employed in senior management positions are more likely to exhibit civic virtue at work. It was found that there is the likelihood that extra-curricular sessions with certain bodies within the university, as well as the content of some of the courses taught at the university, impact the awareness of proper workplace behaviour and thus influence the exhibition of civic virtue in the workplace. It is recommended that employers continue to hire Ashesi alumni, and that educators at Ashesi continue to instruct their students in the manner that they have been doing.

Source: Ashesi
The dynamics of technology in five restaurants in East Legon, Accra

This study explores the use of technology in five restaurants in East Legon for sustainable growth. The objective is to find out how the use of technology is bringing changes in the operations of the restaurant business and how these changes are transforming restaurant business operations. Accordingly, a qualitative approach was employed to collect data using semi-structured interviews. Ten participants, made up of one manager and one employee from each restaurant, were interviewed. Data were analyzed by identifying categories and developing themes for discussion in line with research questions and objectives of the study. Responses revealed that technology had been a major factor in the changes that had occurred in the operations of their business over time. It changed the way they take orders, prepare meals and cocktails, the use of advanced equipment like pressure cookers, blenders, microwaves, hot plates, toasters, dough spreaders, and ovens with thermometers and timers, and advertising using social media, and having an online presence by means of a website. The study concludes by suggesting that restaurant operators maximize the use of technology to boost their businesses for sustainable growth.

Source: Ashesi
E-commerce product delivery strategy for Way with Words

Way with Words is a Ghanaian company that produces and sells authentic arts and crafts and home décor items. Established in 2006 and located in Tema, their products include wall decals, desk items, wall décor, greeting cards as well as embroideries. Way With Words is in the process of creating an online store where it can retail its products. However, it does not have an efficient delivery system to fulfil customer orders from their online store. Therefore, clients would still have to pick up products from their pick-up points, even when they order online. Qualitative research was conducted to understand the current state of Way With Words as a company, and the problems that it faces. These findings from this research shaped the basis for the delivery solution proposed in this project. The proposed solution is to combine a direct delivery model and a dropshipping model to fulfil customers’ online orders. Implementing this delivery strategy would enable Way With Word to easily fulfil customer orders in an effective and efficient manner.

Source: Ashesi
Eco-Labeling and Its Influence on Consumer Purchase Behavior in the Bottled Water Industry in Ghana.

This study investigates the impact of eco-labeling on consumer purchasing behavior in Ghana's bottled water industry. As global environmental awareness increases, eco-labels play a crucial role in influencing consumer decisions. However, research in the Ghanaian context is limited. This thesis addresses this gap by examining the influence of eco-labels on consumer behavior, focusing on two prominent bottled water brands: Company X and Bel-Aqua Company Limited Ghana. The research integrates the quantitative data from consumer surveys with qualitative insights from interviews with industry representatives. The theoretical framework incorporates the Theory of Planned Behavior, Norm Activation Theory, Perceived Consumer Effectiveness etc, providing a comprehensive understanding of the determinants of environmentally conscious purchasing decisions. The results demonstrate a positive but low significant correlation between eco-labels and consumer purchasing behavior. Consumers aware of eco-labels are more inclined to purchase environmentally friendly products, driven by trust in third-party certifications and perceived environmental benefits. The study also highlights the importance of eco-label design in shaping consumer perception and trust, suggesting that clear and credible labeling can enhance market positioning and foster consumer loyalty. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers, businesses, and consumers, offering multifaceted implications. Especially for policymakers, the results support efforts to create regulations that encourage eco-labeling and sustainable consumption practices. Overall, this study contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence from an emerging market, emphasizing the critical role of eco-labels in promoting sustainable consumer behavior and supporting Sustainable Development Goals 12 and 13.

Source: Ashesi
Econometric analys of relationship between exchange rate and inflation: A case study of Ghana

The purpose of this study is to predict inflation rates for Ghana, based on past exchange rate data. The project was motivated by the instability of general price levels in Ghana and the detrimental effects it has on the economy. The study seeks to determine if inflation rates in Ghana be predicted based on past exchange rate data. Forecasting inflation rates will aid the government to devise more precise policies to tackle the expected rates and assist individuals with contingent planning. The study uses a quantitative research method to examine the subject matter, in the form of a time series regression analysis. The data employed has a monthly frequency and spans from 1999 to 2018. Quantitative data for the intended analysis was retrieved from the World Bank and Bank of Ghana, however data from past literature journals, reports, and books were also analysed and discussed. A negative correlation between exchange rate and inflation is expected from the analysis such that an appreciation; increase in the value, of the Ghanaian Cedi would yield lower inflation rates.

Source: Ashesi
The effect of bank loans on sectoral growth in Ghana

This paper applies the Barro-regression model on data obtained from 2008 to 2014, to assess whether bank loans affect sectoral growth. This is to test whether finance has an impact on growth as proposed in literature. Sectoral Distribution of Credit is the independent variable while the Value added by Sectors represents the dependent variable. Inflation, Monetary Policy Rate, USDGHS exchange rate, Balance of Payment and Gross Domestic Product are control variables in the analysis. The independent variable was instrumented using Money Supply (M2) to eliminate the problem of endogeneity resulting from reverse causality. This paper finds that bank loans distributed to the sectors have a significant effect on the growth of the sectors. Bank loans to Agriculture and Industry have a positive effect on the growth of the respective sectors. While bank loans to the Services sector has a negative and small effect on the growth of the Services sector. These results suggest that there may be firms in the Services sector that are not bank loan dependent and hence why the coefficient value is low. Firms here may be better developed than others and able to raise funds through other mediums like equity and debt. The government should focus on encouraging these alternative sources of finance. They can invest in training programmers for Agriculture and Industry and implement favorable policies like lower lending rates to benefit the sectors. Investors can also buy debt and shares within companies in the Services sector as they may benefit from improved profits.

Source: Ashesi
The effect of conflict on the performance of employees in two educational institutions in Ghana

Conflict is an unavoidable part of every institution. Educational institutions are saddled with conflicts among employees and sometimes with management which invariably influence their overall output. At the workplace, it is important that measures are put in place to ensure employees are comfortable and happy in their work environment to function well. The purpose of this study is to explore how unresolved conflicts between employees in educational institutions affect productivity. This study identifies some causes of conflict in two educational institutions (universities) and suggests possible ways of effectively resolve them for improved sustainable productivity. A qualitative research method was used, whereby semi structured interviews were conducted to collect data for analysis. The participants were asked certain question to determine the causes of conflict, and how they manage it. In analyzing the results, the responses were grouped into themes and then examined according to the questions asked during the interview. Based on the results, it was determined that a common cause of conflict in educational institutions is poor communication. With regards to managing conflict, it was determined that people prefer to talk to the other party and would only involve a third person if they are not able to solve the issue. Another reason they would also involve a third person is if the person is a colleague or an employer they are not friendly with. I recommend that superiors in educational institutions should be approachable, and should also provide a formal complaint process that employees can use when they have any issues.

Source: Ashesi
Effect of corporate governance on the outcome of corporate investment decisions in Ghana

This study examines the effects that Corporate Governance has on the outcome of Corporate Investment Decisions of Ghanaian Companies. This research is conducted on 19 Ghanaian companies sub-divided into Multinational and local Companies. Multiple regression analysis is used in this study in estimating the relationship between corporate governance characteristics and the outcome of investing decisions. The independent variables used which are Firm Size, Board Size, Board Independence, CEO Duality, Size of Audit Committee and the Independence of Audit Committee; represent the measure of corporate governance for this study. The results of this study show that for all 19 Ghanaian Firms, the Board Size, Board Independence and Size of Audit Committee are variables relevant in making sound investing decisions whose benefits companies can enjoy over a number of years. For multinationals, Board Independence, the Size of Audit Committee and the Independence of Audit Committee have positive relationships with investing decisions while for local companies the Board Size, Board Independence and the Independence of the Audit Committee are the variables having a positive relationship with the outcome of investment decisions. This paper adds to the limited evidence on the governance-performance relationship that exists in Ghana but approaches the topic by focusing mainly on the outcome of investing decisions (capital budgeting decisions). This study can inform governance policy making in Ghana.

Source: Ashesi
Effect of exchange rate volatility on stock prices In Ghana

The purpose of this study is to identify the whether there exists a Granger-causing relationship between exchange rate and stock prices. Using the Granger-Causality model as a framework, we employed daily data observations of the Ghana Stock Exchange Composite Index (GSE-CI) and the USD-Cedi exchange rate values across the period 2010 -2018. The data used in the study were obtained from the Bank of Ghana and the Ghana Stock Exchange. Following a Granger-causality test on for causality from exchange rate to stock price change, as well as stock price changes, the results showed that there was neither variable significantly influenced the other. Thus, we concluded that exchange rate changes do not Granger-cause stock price changes or vice-versa. Despite these observations, investors should be aware of other effects of exchange rate in their investment decisions on the stock market.

Source: Ashesi