Department of Business Management

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DETERMINANTS OF LIVELIHOOD DIVERSIFICATION AND ITS IMPLICATION ON VULNERABILITY OF PASTORAL AND AGROPASTORAL COMMUNITY IN AFAMBO WOREDA OF AFAR REGION, NORTHEASTERN ETHIOPIA
(Mekelle University, 2024-10-20) ABNET SISAY TESHOME
Livelihood diversification has been recognized as a tool to cope with economic shocks and reduce vulnerability. This paper focused, identifying the current livelihoods strategy, determinant factors of livelihood diversification, major constraints of livelihood diversification, and the effects of livelihood diversification to reduce vulnerability of pastoral and agro-pastoral household in Afambo Woreda of Afar region. The study was followed the multi-stage sampling procedure with a sample household of 351 of these 139 from pastoral and 212 from agropastoral households. Quantitative and qualitative data types was collected using structured survey questionnaires. Both descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used for interpretation of the result. The Simpson index of diversity was computed to investigate the degree of livelihood diversification. The findings of the result showed that both pastoral and agro-pastoral households have medium level of livelihood diversification portfolio with a mean value of 0.579 diversity index which covers 55.56 percent. The range of medium level of livelihood diversity were 4 to 6 livelihood options. The maximum level of diversity index was only cover 19.37 per cent of the households which classified a high level of diversified income sources. The major determinate factors of livelihood diversification were households’ level of income, access to training, provision of livelihood support, family size, years of experience in age and exposure to shocks contributed positively significant at 5% level. While, consumption expenditure, distance to market, land size and dependency ratio were negatively significant at 5% level. The majority of households’ livelihood vulnerability ranges highly vulnerable and moderately vulnerable for both pastoral and agro-pastoralist. Major indicators of vulnerability to shocks and stress include a decline of the pasture lands, death of livestock, reduction of water availability, losses of crop production, food insecurity months and outbreaks of human and livestock diseases. To curve the livelihood diversification challenges, the woreda pastoral development office, local lined sector institutions and Non-governmental development actors should support the pastoral and agro-pastoralists with provision training, provision of livelihood support which would enhance livelihood choices in addition to primary livestock production.
Factors affecting project implementation: The case of Agbe,Yecila.Seqota roads construction project
(Mekelle University, 2024-12-28) ARAYA WELDEAMANUEAL
The study assessed the factors affecting project implementation: the case of Agbe, Yechila,Seqota roads construction project, Tigray-Amhara. The main objective of this study was to assess factors affecting project implementation in Yechila,Agbe,Seqota Roads Project, Tigray-Amhara. The study employed a descriptive research and designed a questionnaire survey instrument to assess the factors affecting project implementation. In order to address the research question, the researcher used a quantitative research approach. The target populations were the clients, consultants, Contractors, Contract administrators, technical team members of road construction project and laboratory technicians involved in Yechila,Agbe,Seqota road construction project at Tigray-Amhara. The target population of the study was 212 out of which 125 were samples in the study. The researcher employed both probability and non-probability sampling methods and utilized primary as well as secondary data collection instruments. The refined data was analyzed using descriptive statistics involving percentages and frequency distribution, tables and charts were used to give a summary of data and displayed in a meaningful manner. To analyze the collected data in line with the objective of the research undertaking, statistical procedures were carried out using SPSS software. In light of the present findings, it can be concluded that poor funding schemes delayed completion of construction projects, Contractors could improve their working capital by forming public, private partnerships with financiers who may be willing to finance big construction projects. On the other hand construction companies could establish a bank for construction industry that could provide them with access to credit at reasonable interest rates to improve their operating working capital and other pertinent recommendations are included in the study.
Post war rural household food security challenges, the case of Samre Woreda, Tigray region, Ethiopia
(Mekelle University, 2025-01) Werke Beyene Kahsay
In Ethiopia, food security remains as the major challenges where conflict and drought are the key driving reasons for food insecurity specifically, the war in Tigray has been significantly worsen the challenges of food security of rural households. Therefore, the study was conducted to assess the post war rural household food security status, challenges and coping strategies in Samre Woreda. Data were collected from three Tabia of the Woreda, using simple random sampling to select 372 rural households. The collected data were analyzed and presented using simple descriptive statistics. The result of the study pointed out that the post war food security status of the study area is very low, since the family member feed themselves, on average, two times per day, with an average household food requirement of 31.75kg per month for five members in the household. Besides, the majority 77.4% of respondents had no access to credit services during 2023/24 even after the conflict cool down. The result of this study also shows during the post war period conflict, drought and increasing food price are the major challenges of rural household food security ranked as first, second and third respectively. Involving on off-farm activities, food Aid and household asset selling were the coping strategies used as 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively, by the rural households when they face food shortage. Hence, solving challenges on food security is the concern of many actors. It should be better if policy makers, concerned governmental organizations and NGOs place more emphases strengthening the extension and credit services to improve the productivity of rural households and to diversify their source of income like off farm activities. It is also recommendable to rehabilitate the war affected communities through immediate interventions
Reverse logistic practice in recycling plastic bottles in Mekelle city :An Embedded Case Study of SPA and Mercy Natural Spring Water Producing Companies
(Mekelle University, 2025-04-25) Esayas Mesfin
The purpose of this study is to explore the understanding and practice of reverse logistics in Mekelle city, Ethiopia. To achieve the study’s goal, the researcher used a descriptive research design where a combination of primary and secondary data sources was employed. Primary data was collected from 196 respondents, while secondary data was taken from office manuals and yearly reports. The findings of the study show that poor practice of disposing and collecting used plastic bottles are all apparent in the environment, making the city and its environs filthy and unpleasant to live in. This study also discovered that reuse and recycling have become less common and are rarely practiced. Even though plastic waste disposal guidelines have been incorporate in their operational manuals, the study revealed that there is a lack of community understanding regarding solid waste management, and almost all stakeholders actively disregard waste management proclamations. Thus, it is recommended that all stakeholders, including the government, business owners, plastic bottled water makers, and the public, pay close attention to waste disposal, particularly of non-biodegradable used plastic bottles in Mekelle city.
EFFECTS OF CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT ON MARKET PERFORMANCE: THE CASE OF COMMERCIAL BANK OF ETHIOPIA (CBE) IN ABI-ADI TOWN AND ITS NEIGHBORING WOREDAS, TIGRAY.
(Mekelle University, 2025-04-28) HADUSH ABRHA
In the evolving and competitive landscape of the banking industry, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) has emerged as a pivotal strategy for driving sustainable market performance. This study examines the effect of CRM dimensions on the market performance of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE), focusing on its branches in Abi-Adi Town and neighboring woredas in Tigray. The research centers on four strategic CRM dimensions: Key Customer Focus (KCF), Customer Knowledge Management (CKM), CRM Organization (CRMO), and Technology-Based CRM (TCRM). Employing a quantitative, cross-sectional design, data were collected from 90 employees through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 24. The reliability of the instrument was confirmed with high Cronbach’s Alpha values, all exceeding 0.80. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression were used to test the research hypotheses. The results reveal that all four CRM dimensions significantly and positively affect market performance. Notably, CRM Organization had the strongest influence (β = 0.416), followed by Key Customer Focus (β = 0.307), Customer Knowledge Management (β = 0.173), and Technology-Based CRM (β = 0.162). The adjusted R² value of 0.764 indicates that over 76% of the variance in market performance can be explained by these CRM factors. These findings underscore that CRM, when strategically aligned and executed, enhances customer satisfaction, retention, profitability, and overall brand reputation. The study concludes that CBE’s strength lies in its CRM organization and customer-centric strategies, although challenges remain in digital literacy and service consistency across branches. The research offers practical recommendations for bank management to deepen CRM integration through employee training, technology optimization, customer data analytics, and performance monitoring. It also highlights directions for future research, such as longitudinal studies, multi-sector analysis, and customer-focused CRM evaluations. Ultimately, this study contributes to both academic knowledge and practical banking operations by illuminating how CRM strategies can be leveraged to sustain competitive advantage in Ethiopia’s financial sector.
THE EFFECT OF MARKETING MIX ELEMEON CUSTOMER SATIFACTION: A CASE OF STUDY ON COMMERCIAL BANK ETHIOPIA GIJECT BRANCH ON FOCUS
(Mekelle University, 2025-05-28) GEBRHIWOT TSEGAY
The purpose of the study was to examine the effective of marketing mix elements on customer satisfaction of commercial bank Ethiopia in Gijet branch. The study used explanatory research design to which examines causal linkage marketing mix elements on customer satisfaction. The study used quantitative approaches. This study considered 372 banking customers from the selected Gijet branch of the bank. More data, the study was used both descriptive and multiple leaner regression analysis. This study result that that have statistically significant effect are price, place, promotion, process, product, and physical evidence on customer satisfaction. Whereas that not implied statistically significant is people on customer satisfaction. The independent variables explained 0.58 of the variation on the dependent variable. Which implies that is 0.42 of the variation explained by the other variables, which are not included in the model. The competitive advantage competitive environment is working under bank to have. Bank manager should be having an equipped and human resource. If the bank have available employees that is motivate and committed in their job, then the bank is attract more customer and retain existing customers. The bank should be invest time, resource and building their customer interest and their bank. In addition, should be providing training and development their employees based the customers handing and their perspective.
ASSESSMENT OF EMPLOYEES’ PERCEPTION TOWARDS HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES A CASE STUDY OF SELECTED IN EDUCATION OFFICE IN ABERGELE YECHILA WEREDA CENTRAL ZONE REGION TIGRAY, ETHIOPIA
(Mekelle University, 2025-05-28) HADUSH GEBREMARIAM HAGOS
The aim of this study was to determine how Abergele Yechila Wereda Central Zone employees felt about HRM practices. When implementing these internal standards, the sector encountered issues with formal follow-up following training, unjust promotions and salaries, and restrictions on employee participation in decision making. Data was collected from operational staff members and team leaders. Using a cross-sectional survey method, the researcher employed both quantitative and qualitative research methods. To make the sample more typical of the population, the researcher utilized stratified sampling to choose a sample from each stratum using a sample size determination table. To analyze the data collected utilizing various data collection methods, the researcher employed both descriptive and inferential statistics. To gather primary data, five Point Likert-Scale questionnaires were used. 90 completed replies were sent back. To evaluate the empirical data gathered from the closed-ended questionnaire, SPSS 20 was utilized. The dependent variable is employee performance, while the independent variables include hiring and selection, training and development, pay, employee relationships, and performance reviews. The dependent and independent variables' mean, frequency, and percentile were calculated and analyzed. The correlation result showed that all of the independent variables, with the exception of the compensation variable, had a positive relationship with the dependent variable, meaning that any change in the independent variable would result in a corresponding change in the performance of employees. It also showed that the independent variables had a 70% influence on the dependent variable, with the remaining 29.2% being influenced by factors not included in this study. Researchers should also use the results of this study to further empirical research in the field of human resources.
ASSESSING THE EFFECT OF BRAND AWARENESS ON ENHANCING EXPORT OF GROUNDNUT IN ETHIOPIAN TIGRAY REGION
(Mekelle University, 2025-06-11) GIRMAY TEAMIR
Groundnut is economically important oilseeds grown in Ethiopia This crop most of the time grown as a food crop and a cash crop by smallholder farmers in the study area. The area has potential to the production of Groundnut for food and nutrition security as well as export. However, shortage of suitable environment imposes biggest obstacles to its production. To this end, the experiment was conducted in Abregele district five kebeles Hadnet, Lemlem, Enda Rufael, Negedebirhan, Gera.The aim of the study was to evaluate and identify the adaptable, best performing variety in agronomic traits and high yielding at study area. The study also considered four measurements of brand awareness such as recognition, recall, Top of the mind and Dominant to measure the customer buying decision behavior of groundnut products in Tigray region. The researcher uses quantitative research design, among the various quantitative methods, the researcher used explanatory study, where emphasis is given on studying a situation or a problem in order to explain the relationship variables. 183 groundnut consumers are selected from the total ground nut producers, merchants and consumers. the Pearson correlation test conducted between customer buying decision and brand awareness, there is a strong relationship between them. The regressions result showed that, the linear combination of all the components of brand awareness takes into account that the present study was significantly affected to the variance, except Dominant. The ANOVA test result also confirmed that, the prediction power of brand awareness is found to be statistically significant. From the beta coefficient result, the researcher found that, recognition is found to be the most important variable in predicting the dependent variable customer decision making, followed by top of the mind, recall and Dominant. Finally, the researcher concludes that brand awareness about groundnut has a significant positive effect on improving export performance of the groundnut and customer decision making.
Assessment of Marketing Strategy Practices in the Case of Messebo Cement Factory, Ethiopia, Tigray
(Mekelle University, 2025-06-28) Goitom Hailemariam
This study assesses the marketing strategy practices at Messebo Cement Factory in Tigray, Ethiopia, focusing on the 4 Ps of the marketing mix and their impact on customer satisfaction and loyalty. Guided by the 4 Ps Marketing Mix, Expectation-Confirmation, and Relationship Marketing theories, the research employed a mixed-methods approach, collecting data from 58 respondents through a survey. Descriptive findings revealed that Messebo Cement Factory generally performs well in product variety, quality, broad market accessibility, and diverse promotional channels. However, specific areas identified for improvement include packaging quality, price competitiveness and transparency, delivery timeliness and reliability, effectiveness of channel partner collaborations, and the clarity and convincing nature of marketing messages. Correlation analysis indicated significant positive relationships between all marketing mix elements and both customer satisfaction and loyalty, with customer satisfaction being a very strong predictor of customer loyalty (r=0.755,p<0.001). Multiple regression analysis further demonstrated that, collectively, the four marketing mix strategies significantly explain 38.8% of the variance in customer satisfaction (F(4,53)=8.403,p<0.001). While the overall model was significant and diagnostics confirmed its robustness, individual marketing mix elements did not emerge as statistically significant unique predictors of customer satisfaction in the model. The study concludes that while Messebo Cement Factory’s marketing strategies are moderately effective, their collective impact is crucial for customer satisfaction. Recommendations include targeted improvements in product packaging, pricing clarity, distribution efficiency, channel partner engagement, and refining promotional messaging to enhance overall customer satisfaction and foster stronger customer loyalty and brand advocacy in a competitive market.
THE ROLE OF MICRO CREDIT UTILIZATION ON ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT OF SELF-EMPLOYED WOMEN; THE CASE OF ADI HAKI SUB CITY OF MEKELLE CITY
(Mekelle University, 2025-06-28) Hiluf Tadese
Microfinance empowers women by putting capital in their hands and allowing them to earn an independent income and contribute financially to their households and communities. Despite this micro credit utilization have major challenges and its role is questionable. Descriptive research design with mixed approaches was employed. The study used primary data collected through questionnaires distributed to self-employed women of Adi haki sub city. The descriptive analysis reveals that credit adequacy, interest rate, rigidity of repayment schedule and post credit service were important challenges of micro credit utilization by self-employed women. Also, the study find plays a greatest role in empowering self-employed women by increasing their income level, saving habit, right over assets and decision-making involvement. Therefore, this study recommends for enhancing micro credit utilization, micro finance institutions should introduce scalable loan products with progressive increases based on repayment history and business growth and should adopt flexible repayment plans aligned with cash flows borrowers as rigidity of repayment schedule is a major challenge of micro credit utilization by self-employed women. The study also recommends post credit service including skills training, market linkages, and financial literacy should be provided by micro finance institutions, other non-governmental organizations and the government bodies timely and properly.
THE EFFECT OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY ON COMPANY COMPETITIVENESS (THE CASE OF COMMERCIAL BANK OF ETHIOPIA MEKELLE DISTRICT
(Mekelle University, 2025-06-28) TADESE TEKLU
This study investigates the effect of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on company competitiveness, focusing on Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) Mekelle district. In an era where business success is increasingly measured not only by profit but also by social and environmental impact, CSR has emerged as a strategic tool for long term organizational growth. As Ethiopia’s largest financial institution, CBE has implemented various CSR initiatives ranging from community development and educational support to environmental conservation and financial literacy programs. However, the extent to which these initiatives contribute to the bank’s competitiveness, especially at the branch level, remains unclear. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both primary and secondary data. Questionnaire were distributed to 166 respondents, comprising customers and employees from four selected CBE branches. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS to assess the relationship between CSR practices and indicators of competitiveness such as customer loyalty, brand reputation, and employee engagement. Findings reveal a strong positive correlation between CSR activities not only to enhance the bank’s public image but also foster stakeholders trust and internal commitment. Despite these benefits challenges such as weak strategic alignment, limited monitoring mechanisms, and low stakeholder awareness hinder the full integration of CSR in to business strategy. The study concludes that CSR is a powerful driven of competitiveness when proactively and strategically implemented. It recommends that CBE strengthen CSR integration within its core operations, enhance stakeholder education, and establish systematic evaluation tools. The research contributes to the broader understanding of CSR’s strategic role in emerging markets and offers practical insights for policymakers, banking institutions, and CSR practitioners.
The effect of Leadership Styles on Organizational Performance in Tanqua Milash Wereda, Centeral Zone, Tigray, Ethiopia
(Mekelle University, 2025-06-28) Gebreslassie Hailemariam
This study investigates the effect of leadership styles on organizational performance in Tanqua Milash Wereda, a newly established administrative unit in Tigray, Ethiopia. Given its nascent stage and challenges like resource constraints, political interference, and workforce shortages, effective leadership is crucial for service delivery and sustainable development. The research used a combination of methods to gather information, collecting numerical data from 215 structured questionnaires and personal insights from 18 semi-structured interviews, while looking at six types of leadership: autocratic, transactional, transformational, democratic, charismatic, and laissezfaire. Key findings indicate a predominant reliance on autocratic leadership, with 77.4% of respondents reporting exclusion from decision-making. This leadership style strongly correlated with poor organizational performance, evidenced by critically low employee motivation (78.3% negative perception) and minimal recognition of staff contributions (82.1% negative perception). Transformational and democratic styles, while linked to higher performance in literature, were largely absent in practice. Qualitative data further highlighted systemic barriers including inadequate leadership training, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and political interventions hindering good governance. The study contributes empirical evidence on leadership dynamics in newly formed Ethiopian weredas, addressing a significant research gap. It highlights the serious problems caused by strict control in areas with limited resources and suggests practical solutions like leadership training programs, reforms for involving people in decision-making, and changes in policies to reduce political interference. Ultimately, this research emphasizes the need for a systemic shift toward adaptive leadership approaches to enhance organizational effectiveness, employee satisfaction, and public service delivery in Tanqua Milash Wereda, offering a framework for similar developing contexts.
Factors affecting the performance of women entrepreneurs in micro and small enterprises in case of Atsbi Endasilasie Town
(Mekelle University, 2025-06-28) GEBRE GIRMAY TESFAY
Entrepreneurial activities play a critical role in the development and well-being of societies. Different sources argue that globally women have started businesses in significantly greater numbers over the past two decades, though gender inequality in entrepreneurship continues to be prominent when compared to the traditional labor market. In Ethiopia, the importance of enterprises owned by women entrepreneurs is noticed on different documents like industrial policy, micro and small enterprises development strategy, and the growth and transformation plan one and two to accelerate growth and reduce poverty. Despite this, both the growth and performance of women-owned micro and small enterprises remain a concern, although women entrepreneurship has gained popularity in the country with a growing number of women to start and run their own business. The aim of the study was assessing the key factors affecting the performance of women entrepreneurs in micro and small enterprises in Atsbi endasilasie town, Tigray. Stratified sampling method was used to select the given sample size and primary and secondary data was also used. The descriptive and inferential analyses findings were assessed in terms of different variables such as demographic characteristics of the study participants, economic, social, cultural and legal/administrative characteristics of the study participants. According to the coefficient of determination result, response variable was explained by the 71.1% explanatory factors (economic, social, cultural, and legal/administrative factors) and the assumption of multiple linear regressions such as variance inflation factor, test overall model, and the correlation analysis was also fulfilled. The results of inferential statistics i.e. multiple regression analysis that, there is statistically significant relationship between economic, social, cultural and legal/administrative factors and performance of women entrepreneurs in micro and small enterprises. Concluded that the findings of the study imply that economic, social, cultural and legal/administrative factors have significant effect on the performance of women entrepreneurs in Atsbi endasilasie Town.
Effect of procurement practice on Business Performance: The case of bank of Abyssinia s.c Addis Ababa Head office
(Mekelle University, 2025-06-28) Hagazi Desalew
The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of procurement practice on business performance: in the caseof Bank of Abyssinia s.c Addis Ababa Head office. Explanatory and Descriptive research design is used to undertake the research. The study used secondary data sources. Questionnaire that was tailored with the help of literature to collect the relevant information from the respondents. The questionnaire included 40 items categorized into 5 parts, which are general information on business performance, inventory management, procurement planning, procurement controlling, and procurement training work force. The survey was carried out at 5 bank of Abyssina Department Head office respondent employees. A sample of 143 employees was selected. With the support of the SPSS statistics V26 software system: - descriptive, correlation, and regression analysis was conducted to generate results. Correlation analysis was used in this study to show the relation between dependent and independent variables. Based on this, all variables have a positive and significant relationship with business performance. Multiple regression analysis was used in establishing the significance of the relationship between inventory management, procurement planning, procurement controlling, and procurement training workforce which in the findings, has a positive and significance relationship. The finding suggested that all variables have a slight positive effects impact on Business’ performance except controlling which was at a strongly high range. As the output of the training and development programs must be intensively evaluated to enhance the overall performance of the employees, the researcher recommended that CBE needs to give due emphasis to the evaluation aspects of a training program.
AN ASSESSMENT ON STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PRACTICE ( THE CASE OF PEOPLE’S LIBERATION ARMY (PLA) HOSPITAL OF CHINA)
(Mekelle University, 2025-11-28) Zhang Giang
Strategic management is essential for organizational success, particularly in complex and highly structured institutions such as military hospitals. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Hospital of China operates under unique organizational and operational conditions, requiring effective strategy formulation, implementation, and evaluation to ensure efficient healthcare delivery and alignment with broader military objectives. This study aims to assess the strategic management practices adopted at the PLA Hospital, focusing on how strategies are formulated, implemented, evaluated, and controlled, as well as identifying the key challenges faced in the strategic management process. A descriptive research design was employed, using a mixed-methods approach with a primary focus on quantitative techniques. Data were collected from 98 hospital staff through structured questionnaires covering strategic planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. A pilot study was conducted to ensure the reliability of the instrument. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 27, employing descriptive statistics to summarize trends and inferential statistics, including correlation and regression analyses, to examine the relationships between strategic management practices and organizational effectiveness. Findings indicate that the PLA Hospital demonstrates acceptable to good reliability in strategic management practices, with effective planning, implementation, and monitoring. Challenges identified include resource allocation constraints and coordination issues among staff. Addressing these challenges can further enhance operational efficiency and strategic alignment. The study recommends continuous evaluation, targeted staff training, and integrated strategic planning to strengthen hospital performance.
Strategic Leadership in the Transformation from Traditional Bathroom Manufacture to Smart and Healthy Living Solution Provider: A Case Study of Bolina Group
(Mekelle University, 2025-11-28) ZHENG WENQIN
This study investigates the role of strategic leadership in guiding the transformation of Bolina Group from a traditional bathroom manufacturer to a provider of smart and healthy living solutions. It focuses on understanding how leadership practices influence organizational strategy, structure, processes, technological adoption, employee engagement, and overall performance during this transformation. A case study design was employed, collecting data through structured questionnaires distributed to 168 employees across key job categories, complemented by semi-structured interviews with management and technical staff. The study examined constructs including Transformational Leadership, Adaptive Leadership, Visionary/Entrepreneurial Leadership, Organizational Culture, Technological Readiness, Smart and Healthy Living Product Adoption, and Organizational Performance. Reliability tests using Cronbach’s Alpha confirmed that all measurement scales were internally consistent and suitable for analysis. Findings reveal that strategic leadership is a critical driver of organizational transformation. Transformational, adaptive, and visionary leadership practices significantly influence the adoption of smart and healthy living solutions, foster innovation, enhance employee engagement, and improve overall organizational performance. Additionally, a supportive organizational culture and strong technological readiness were identified as key enablers that amplify leadership effectiveness in driving change. The study concludes that effective strategic leadership, supported by an enabling organizational environment, is essential for navigating complex transformations and sustaining long-term competitiveness. Recommendations include strengthening leadership development, enhancing organizational culture, investing in technological readiness, and continuously monitoring transformation initiatives to ensure alignment with strategic objectives.
Developing an Adaptive Risk Management Framework for International EPC Projects: A Mixed-Methods Study of CGGC’s Belt and Road Initiatives
(Mekelle University, 2025-12-28) Duan Congkun
This study examines the risk management practices of China Gezhouba Group Corporation (CGGC) in international Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) projects, with a particular focus on projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in Angola, Pakistan, and Argentina. The research investigates the effectiveness of risk identification, assessment, mitigation, monitoring, and dispute resolution mechanisms, aiming to identify gaps and propose actionable improvements. Findings indicate that while CGGC has established foundational risk management procedures, their application is inconsistent across departments and project sites. Technical, financial, and security risks are most frequently identified, whereas social and environmental risks are often underreported or detected late. Risk identification remains heavily project manager–driven, and quantitative risk assessment tools such as probability–impact scoring and Monte Carlo simulations are rarely applied. Risk mitigation strategies vary in consistency and effectiveness, with digital tools and cross-functional coordination underutilized. Monitoring and reporting systems rely primarily on periodic reports and inspections, resulting in delayed responses to fast changing political and security risks. Dispute resolution is predominantly informal, limiting opportunities for institutional learning and systematic documentation. Based on these findings, the study proposes several recommendations to strengthen CGGC’s risk management capabilities. Key measures include standardizing multi-department risk identification, implementing quantitative assessment tools, adopting systematic mitigation protocols, enhancing digital monitoring and real-time reporting, formalizing dispute resolution procedures, and building a knowledge base for lessons learned. The study also introduces an adaptive CGGC–BRI Integrated Risk Management Framework structured around five pillars: Predictive Risk Intelligence, Integrated Data Systems, Cross-Country Knowledge Transfer, Multistakeholder Engagement Protocols, and Continuous Monitoring and Adaptive Response. The proposed framework aligns with ISO 31000, COSO ERM, and established EPC risk management literature, offering a cohesive and proactive approach to managing technical, financial, social, and security risks in complex international projects. Adoption of this framework is expected to enhance CGGC’s resilience, improve project performance, and reduce the likelihood of cost overruns, delays, and disputes in future overseas operations.
Cash Flow Management Practices and Strategies a Case Study of Selected Chinese Companies Operating In Ethiopia
(Mekelle University, 2025-12-28) Cai Renjin
This thesis investigates cash flow management practices and strategies among Chinese companies operating in Ethiopia, with particular focus on the manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure sectors where Chinese investment plays a critical role. The study adopts a descriptive research design and employs a census approach, covering 15 selected Chinese companies that are actively operating in Ethiopia. Data were collected from 45 respondents, comprising financial managers, accountants, and operational staff, using structured questionnaires, interviews, and document review. The findings indicate that Chinese firms in Ethiopia face significant cash flow challenges arising mainly from external factors, including delayed value-added tax refunds and government payments, foreign currency shortages, exchange rate volatility, and infrastructural inefficiencies. Internally, operational inefficiencies, delayed receivables, and supply chain disruptions further intensify liquidity fluctuations. These challenges disrupt operational continuity, increase financing costs, constrain investment capacity, and strain relationships with suppliers and employees, ultimately affecting firm sustainability. Despite these constraints, Chinese companies adopt various coping strategies, such as maintaining liquidity reserves, negotiating flexible payment terms, relying on internal financing, hedging foreign exchange risks, and utilizing technology to enhance cash flow forecasting and control. Effective coordination between headquarters and local management is also found to be essential in adapting corporate financial policies to Ethiopia’s financial and regulatory environment. The study concludes that while Chinese companies benefit from strong financial capacity and operational experience, they must continuously adapt to Ethiopia’s complex financial and regulatory landscape. Accordingly, the study recommends improving cash flow forecasting practices, strengthening stakeholder engagement, diversifying funding sources, optimizing internal operational efficiency, managing foreign exchange risks, and enhancing financial and policy frameworks to support sustainable foreign investment in Ethiopia.
Strategic Risk Management and Competitiveness Enhancement Positioning of Chinese Construction Firms in Ethiopia’s Infrastructure Sector
(Mekelle University, 2025-12-28) LEI FEI
This study investigates the strategic risks confronting Chinese construction firms operating within Ethiopia’s rapidly expanding infrastructure sector and critically evaluates their current risk management practices in relation to enhancing competitiveness. Ethiopia’s infrastructure development landscape presents a complex set of challenges characterized by political instability, legal ambiguities, financial volatility, socio-cultural tensions, and operational difficulties. These multidimensional risks collectively threaten project timeliness, cost control, quality delivery, and the overall sustainability of construction firms. The research findings reveal that while Chinese firms possess significant technical and financial strengths, their risk management approaches are predominantly reactive and focused on operational risks. There is a notable lack of integrated, proactive, and strategic risk frameworks that holistically address the interconnected political, legal, financial, social, and operational risk dimensions inherent in the Ethiopian context. Firms with more comprehensive and structured risk management systems report superior project outcomes, fewer delays and cost overruns, stronger client relationships, and improved reputation within the market. The study highlights the critical importance of tailoring risk management strategies to Ethiopia’s unique local environment. Effective risk mitigation hinges on enhanced stakeholder engagement, collaboration with government authorities, legal clarity, and cultural sensitivity. To strengthen competitiveness, Chinese firms must incorporate enterprise-wide risk frameworks, improve partnership building with local entities, bolster legal and financial risk controls, and invest in employee training and localization, and leverage emerging technologies for risk monitoring and predictive analytics. Overall, this research provides valuable insights for Chinese construction companies seeking to improve their resilience, operational effectiveness, and market position in Ethiopia’s infrastructure sector while contributing to the broader academic discourse on international construction risk management in developing countries.
ASSESSMENT OF EMPLOYEE WELLBEING AND ITS EFFECTS ON WORKFORCE PRODUCTIVITY IN CHINESE CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES OPERATING IN ETHIOPIA
(Mekelle University, 2025-12-28) PENG MENGYUAN
This study investigates the impact of employee wellbeing on workforce productivity in Chinese construction companies operating in Ethiopia. Employee wellbeing, encompassing physical health, mental health, safety, and organizational support, is a critical factor influencing performance, engagement, and overall project outcomes in the construction sector. Given the cross-cultural and high-risk work environment in Ethiopia, workers face unique challenges related to fatigue, stress, and communication barriers between Chinese expatriates and local Ethiopian employees. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data collected from 15 employee questionnaires with qualitative insights from five in-depth interviews with supervisors and managers. The study examined four key dimensions: employee wellbeing, workforce productivity, cross-cultural work environment, and occupational health and safety. Quantitative results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were interpreted through thematic analysis, enabling triangulation and a comprehensive understanding of the relationships among variables. Findings reveal a strong positive relationship between employee wellbeing and workforce productivity. Employees experiencing higher levels of physical and mental wellbeing report increased efficiency, better task completion, and improved quality of work. Fatigue, stress, and cross-cultural misunderstandings were identified as significant barriers to productivity. Moreover, effective safety practices, organizational support, leadership engagement, and culturally sensitive management practices were found to enhance both wellbeing and productivity. The study concludes that improving employee wellbeing through integrated health, safety, and cross-cultural strategies is essential for maximizing productivity in Chinese construction firms in Ethiopia. Recommendations include implementing mental and physical health programs, fostering cross-cultural communication, strengthening occupational safety measures, and promoting supportive leadership practices. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of workforce management in multinational construction projects, providing practical insights for companies, policymakers, and scholars aiming to enhance labor productivity, project efficiency, and sustainable construction outcomes in Ethiopia.