Abstract: This study investigated the contribution of stakeholder salience on the sustainability of development projects implemented by Compassion International Rwanda. It used a descriptive research design, combining both quantitative and qualitative methods. The target population consisted of 363 individuals, with a sample of 190 respondents selected using Slovin’s formula, including staff from Compassion International Rwanda, local government authorities, NGO partners, educational institutions, and beneficiaries (heads of families). A total of 185 questionnaires were returned, yielding a response rate of 97%. Inferential analysis, conducted using SPSS software (version 21), revealed a statistically significant relationship between stakeholder salience and project sustainability, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of r = 0.786, indicating a strong positive relationship. Regression analysis further supported this, with a standardized beta coefficient of 0.870, demonstrating that stakeholder salience was a major predictor of project sustainability. The p-value of 0.000 signified the statistical significance of this relationship, suggesting that the effect of stakeholder salience on project sustainability was highly unlikely to have occurred by chance. The study concluded that stakeholder salience played a crucial role in the sustainability of projects at Compassion International Rwanda, with higher levels of stakeholder involvement contributing to more sustainable outcomes. Based on these findings, it was recommended that Compassion International Rwanda strengthen stakeholder engagement at every stage of project implementation. By actively involving stakeholders, particularly those with high salience, the organization could better align project goals with stakeholder needs, minimize conflicts, and enhance long-term project sustainability.

Abstract: Financial literacy has been highlighted as a key driver for the growth of small and medium enterprises. However, there is a dearth of empirical research on this study in Rwanda, and specifically in Kigali city. The study examined the effect of financial literacy on the growth of SMEs in Nyarugenge District. The study is underpinned by the hypotheses that budgeting literacy, book keeping literacy and financial access literacy have no significant effect on the growth of selected SMEs. The target population was 2,489 SMEs from which a sample size of 345 managers were randomly selected. However, data was collected from 269 managers using the questionnaire. Data was analyzed through descriptive and inferential analyses. The finding for H01 shows that Budgeting literacy has no significant effect on the growth of selected SMEs in Kigali city, Nyarugenge District (β=.507; p<.05). Therefore, the first hypothesis is rejected. However, for H02, findings show that Book-keeping literacy has no significant effect on the growth of selected SMEs in Kigali city, Nyarugenge District (β=.058; p>.05). Therefore, the second hypothesis is accepted. For H03, Financial access literacy has no significant effect on the growth of selected SMEs in Kigali city, Nyarugenge District (β=.495; p<.05). Therefore, the third hypothesis is rejected. These findings hold relevance for policymakers, financial institutions, and business support organizations striving to enhance SME success. The recommendations include enhancing financial resource allocation skills, prioritizing effective financial reconciliation with bank records, improving banking literacy among business owners, seeking training for better financial decision-making, and staying updated on available funding opportunities.

Abstract: This study investigates the effect of digitalization on the performance of financial institutions in Rwanda, focusing on the Bank of Kigali and SACCOs in Musanze District. Findings from the study show that the adoption of mobile banking and online banking significantly improves profitability, liquidity, and capital adequacy. Mobile banking, with its broad accessibility, is particularly influential in increasing transaction volumes, leading to higher profitability. Online banking and digital payment systems contribute to enhanced customer engagement and satisfaction, with customers reporting ease of use and reliability. Investment in cybersecurity has improved the financial stability of institutions by reducing risks of data breaches and fraud, thereby positively impacting capital adequacy ratios and overall financial security. Furthermore, operational efficiency has markedly improved, with significant reductions in transaction processing times and operational costs. Cybersecurity measures have enhanced risk management capabilities, reducing the likelihood of fraud and improving institutional risk resilience. The study concludes that digitalization plays a critical role in enhancing the financial performance of institutions in Rwanda. Based on these findings, it is recommended that financial institutions continue to invest in digital technologies, with a particular emphasis on enhancing cybersecurity frameworks to protect against emerging risks. Institutions should also focus on improving customer experience by investing in user-friendly digital platforms that cater to customer preferences.

Abstract: This study investigated the effect of Rwanda’s National Urbanization Strategies on sustainable urban development in Kigali, with particular emphasis on the implementation of the Coordination Strategy and the Kigali Master Plan. Grounded in governance and systems theory, the research employed a descriptive design and integrated both quantitative and qualitative approaches. A total of 312 respondents including urban planners, government officials, and policy experts—were selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered using structured questionnaires and interviews, and analyzed using SPSS Version 21 through descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses. Findings revealed a strong positive correlation between the coordination strategy (r = 0.742) and sustainable urban development outcomes, underscoring the pivotal role of effective governance and institutional coordination in promoting urban sustainability. Regression analysis further confirmed institutional coordination as a significant predictor of sustainable urban development (β = 0.534, p = 0.000). The study underscores the importance of reinforcing coordination mechanisms across urban planning institutions to ensure coherent policy implementation. Based on these findings, the study recommends that urban planners, government agencies, and private sector stakeholders enhance collaboration and communication by institutionalizing regular coordination meetings, joint planning sessions, and the alignment of strategic objectives. These measures will strengthen decision-making processes and contribute to the development of inclusive, resilient, and sustainable human settlements.

Abstract: Storytelling activities are very important to pre-primary school learners because they contribute to the development of language skills among children and shapes levels of self-confidence in reading, writing and speaking and listening skills. However, in Ndia Division, acquisition of language skills among pre-primary school learners is a challenge. Thus, this study sought to examine the influence music activities on development of language skills among learners in public pre-primary schools. The study was guided by the social development theory and language acquisition theory. The study adopted mixed methodology and applied concurrent triangualtion research design. Target population totaled 850 respondents comprising of 50 pre-primary school teachers and 800 pre-primary school learners from which a sample of 272 respondents was sampled using Yamane’s Formula. This comprised 40 pre-primary school teachers and 232 pre-primary school learners. Data analysis began by identifying common themes. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically along the objectives and presented in narrative forms. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively using frequencies and percentages and inferentially using linear regression analysis in Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS 25) and presented using tables. The study established that reading, writing and speaking skills among pre-primary school learners are below average despite the fact that they participate in different storytelling activities. Thus, the study recommends that teachers need to adopt storytelling sessions as a teaching method to enhance their language skills. Teachers and key stakeholders need to provide a conducive environment where music and play activities are designed to promote the acquisition of reading, writing and listening skills.

Abstract: The study focused on assessing the impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) through Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) modes in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. This study performed a systematic literature review by analyzing articles published between 2020 and 2023 using VOSviewer (version 1.6.18), MS Excel, SPSS, and the PRISMA 2020 statement. The result shows that the research began in 2020 with 105(8%) articles and increased to 480(35%) articles by 2021, in year 2022 a remarkable increase occurred to 622 (46%) publications. The publication trend declined from 46% in the year 2022 to 11% in the year 2023, this might be due to the decrease of pandemic infections. The study includes only the review of the research articles published from 2020 to 2023 and indexed in the Scopus database. The study has explored the impacts of ML and DL models in combating COVID-19 pandemic; that encompasses a rapid and adaptive response to the urgent needs of the pandemic, the discovery of disease and treatment. The study helps society to improve efficiency, enhanced convenience, and innovative solutions across various sectors, such as the ability to react to health emergencies, examine the healthcare and disease management methods. The study provides a remarkable contribution of AI in addressing the Covid-19 pandemic in work a work place and it has been used to monitor and manage the pandemic on a global scale. In addition, the study contributes to understanding the recent growth statistics of global publications that address COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract: study explores the relationship between traditional cultural values, norms, and practices and their impact on wildlife conservation within the Karamojong community in Kidepo Valley National Park, Northeastern Uganda. It aims to assess how indigenous beliefs and customs can be integrated into formal conservation strategies to enhance biodiversity conservation and community engagement. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Questionnaires were administered to the 243 Indigenous Karamojong community members to assess observance of wildlife conservation norms, related cultural values and practices. Five Key Informant Interviews with governmental officials and wildlife authorities, and five Focus group discussions with Local Council 1 committee members. All quantitative data were analysed using Stata 17, while qualitative data were thematically analysed using NVivo 14. The study found strong community adherence to wildlife conservation norms, particularly regarding sacred animal protection (Mean = 3.5, SD = 1.6). Cultural practices such as totemic restrictions and hunting regulations significantly shaped community attitudes toward conservation. Engagement with traditional practices was moderate (Mean = 2.6, SD = 1.7), with practices like community-led regulated grazing and elder-controlled hunting requiring further strengthening. While there was moderate support for wildlife conservation based on cultural attachment to animals (Mean = 2.4, SD = 1.4), a disconnect between traditional values and formal conservation strategies was noted, indicating the need for better integration of these values into modern frameworks. This study contributes to conservation theory by highlighting the importance of integrating indigenous cultural values into formal wildlife management. Practically, it suggests that leveraging local cultural norms can enhance community buy-in and sustainable conservation. For policy, it advocates for a collaborative approach between wildlife authorities and local communities, incorporating traditional norms into national conservation strategies for more inclusive and effective outcomes.

Abstract: This study investigated the impact of positive recognition on employee performance within the Ministry of Finance in the Hhohho Region of Eswatini. The research focused on identifying the effect of positive recognition on employee performance. A quantitative approach was employed, with data collected through structured questionnaires from a sample of 252 civil servants. The study utilised inferential statistical analysis to examine the relationship between positive recognition and employee performance, particularly in areas such as engagement in decision-making and appreciation from superiors. The results revealed that positive recognition significantly enhances employee performance(F-value = 43.738, p < 0.001).. Aspects such as managers involving staff in decision making, and managers seeking employees’ opinion in meetings were identified as key positive elements of recognition. The findings highlight the importance of fostering a supportive work environment through effective recognition practices to improve overall employee performance. The study concludes that workers’ engagement in decision-making and appreciation from management should be implemented to improve recognition in the Eswatini Public Sector in order to enhance motivation and productivity of their workforce.

Abstract: This study addresses the critical issue of service delivery efficiency in municipal councils in Eswatini, where effective performance management is essential for optimising resource allocation and enhancing accountability. The research examines the impact of Employee Performance Management System documentation (EPMSD) on service delivery efficiency within the Manzini and Mbabane municipal councils. A quantitative research approach was adopted, employing a survey research design to collect data from 159 employees across both municipalities. Prior to data collection, respondents were informed about the purpose of the study, ensuring transparency and encouraging participation. Ultimately, 150 respondents completed the questionnaire, resulting in a response rate of 94.3%. The data were gathered using a self-administered questionnaire, and the analysis revealed a positive relationship between well-documented EPMSD and service delivery effectiveness. Findings indicate that effective EPMSD fosters accountability, standardises performance evaluations, and enhances decision-making processes, ultimately leading to improved service delivery outcomes. However, the study also revealed that excessive bureaucracy in documentation could hinder flexibility. To optimise efficiency and accountability, the study recommends that municipal councils implement standardised EPMS documentation frameworks to ensure consistency, transparency, and fairness in performance evaluations. Additionally, adopting standardised yet adaptable EPMS documentation practices will further enhance service delivery. Future research should explore the impact of digital documentation systems on performance management effectiveness, thereby deepening the understanding of how documentation influences service delivery in municipal settings.

Abstract: The main objective of this paper is to assess the possible uses of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and applications for information professionals employed by Tanzania’s higher education institutions (HEIs), particularly in the areas of end-user services and information technology where AI tools and applications may be employed. To find out what they thought about the use and adoption of AI techniques by information professionals of HEIs in Tanzanian, ten information officers were surveyed using a qualitative method. The results’ descriptive tabulation demonstrates that information professionals are knowledgeable about AI tools and applications. Information professionals use Natural Language Processing (NLP)-based applications like Google Assistant, Voice Search, and Google Translate. Pattern recognition methods, such as text data mining, are also used for online searching and information retrieval. OneDrive, Google Drive, cloud computing, and other services can all provide access to Big Data (BD). The population has very little knowledge of chatbots and robotics. The study guides how to use AI technologies and tools for information professionals who have not yet embraced or deployed them or wish to employ more advanced solutions. To establish AI laboratories for information professionals and information science in general, Tanzanian HEIs should collaborate with departments, computing units, and subject matter specialists. Lack of funding and technological know-how is one the biggest challenges facing information professionals in HEIs when implementing AI technologies and solutions.