Regional and Local Development Studies

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Role of Industrial Parks on Economic Competitiveness, Social Inclusiveness, and Environmental Protection in Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Mengistu Walelegn; Teshome Tafesse (PhD); Firew Mengistu (PhD)
This dissertation investigated the Role of Industrial Parks in Advancing Economic Competitiveness, creating shared prosperity, and Safeguarding the Environment in Ethiopia based on United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO, 2019c) evaluation indicators. Utilizing cross-sectional study design, the required quantitative data were collected from 395 randomly selected management and technical staff of enterprises operating within public and private industrial parks (IPs) through selfadministered questionnaire. The required qualitative data were collected from 14 key informants using in depth interview. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Binary Logistic Regression models, and IPPI while qualitative data using thematic analysis. The quantitative analysis indicates that various indicators that flourished due to IPs development such as open competitive tender systems, infrastructure development, maintenance services, job creation, and exports of processed goods have significantly enhanced advancing economic competitiveness. Similarly, the study underscores the significant contributions of safety measures, faith facilities, incident response center, emergency preparedness, annual social performance reports, accessible fire services, complaint handling, salary of employees, the proportion of female in the workforce, and low employees’ turnover in creating shared prosperity objective. On the other hand, the selection of environmentally suitable sites, wastewater treatment, segregated recycling reception bins, and operator’s possession of ISO14001 certification in IPs also enhance environmental safeguarding significantly. However, the study identifies factors that hindered the achievement of Advancing Economic Competitiveness, Shared prosperity, and safeguarding the Environment objectives in Ethiopia for rational planning of IPs and urgent policy interventions. These include challenges related to water supply reliability, limited repair, rectification, and restoration services for utilities, access to financial support, human resources recruitment and training services, and lower foreign direct investment (FDI) to total investment ratio in IPs compared to national average level hinder economic competitiveness significantly. Moreover, the social performance objective was hampered significantly by high average higher average commute time for employees to IPs, inefficient social role management ii system in place, limited number of firms with ISO45001 certification, and gender-based wage differentials in IPs. Besides, it is important to highlight that factors related to occupational health and safety were the main constraints that hamper IP’s role in social inclusivity. Last but not least, challenges related to solid wastes, toxic, and hazardous wastes management system, low level solar street lighting, and not performing annual environment audit on each firm operating in IPs had statistically significant negative effect on environmental stewardship. Accordingly, despite the aforementioned challenges, this dissertation concludes the significant role of Industrial Parks (IPs) in Ethiopia in advancing economic competitiveness, shared prosperity, and safeguarding the environment. Therefore, this dissertation recommends improvement of reliability of water supply, repair services, access to financial support; and design mechanisms to attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) in IPs to boost Ethiopia’s economic competitiveness. Moreover, the government and stakeholders need also to prioritize enhancing occupational health and safety, addressing gender wage differentials, and improving health facilities in IPs to promote creating shared prosperity. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of enterprises adhering to national environmental laws and regulations as well as installing solar street lighting and improving capacity for solid waste, toxic, and hazardous waste management in IPs will also enhance environmental stewardship.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Phone-Based Digital Agricultural Extension and Advisory in Ethiopia: Evidence from Expert Service Providers
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Messay Sintayehu; Kumela Gudeta (PhD)
The effectiveness of phone-based digital agricultural extension and advisory services (PBDAEAS) in Ethiopia is a critical factor in enhancing agricultural productivity and livelihoods, given the sector's substantial contribution to the country's GDP and population's livelihood. Despite significant investments in traditional agricultural extension services, challenges persist, highlighting a gap in the understanding and utilization of digital solutions. This study investigates the PBDAEAS effectiveness, focusing on expert service providers to fill this research gap. The study was conducted in Ethiopia, a country where agriculture is the mainstay of the economy and where digital transformation in agriculture is still in its nascent stages. The study followed a quantitative research approach and a descriptive research design. A structured survey questionnaire was used to measure experts’ perspectives of PBDAEAS effectiveness as explained by the variables cost, time, customization, and utilization. A census survey was used targeting 330 experts working in the digital agricultural extension and advisory services and based in Addis Ababa city, Sidama regional state, and Oromia regional state. The collected data were analyzed quantitatively using Descriptive Statistics and Relative Importance Index technique. The findings indicate that PBDAEAS is effective in several key areas. It is a low-cost means to disseminate standardized information to smallholder farmers, and it can timely deliver seasonal agriculture information to farmers. In addition, PBDAEAS facilitates better two-way communication with farmers and is easy for farmers to access agricultural information and advice. The study's implications are significant for policymakers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector. It recommends increased investment in PBDAEAS by the government and other key stakeholders to boost agricultural productivity and improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.
Effects of Business Development Services on the Financial Performance of Enterprises in Addis Ababa: The Case of Entrepreneurship Development Institute’s Beneficiaries
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Mastewal Moges; Frew Mengistu (PhD)
Micro and small enterprises (MSEs) are considered a means to reduce poverty and generate employment. They contribute greatly to economic development in both developed and developing countries. For more than two decades, the Ethiopian government has prioritized this sector by providing infrastructure and inviting international development agencies and private sectors to participate in supporting MSEs. The Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) is a UNDPsupported institute organized to provide Entrepreneurship Training Workshops and customized Business Development Services (BDS) for all potential clients. The major objective of this study is to examine the effect of business development services on the financial performance of micro and small enterprises, focusing on beneficiaries of the Entrepreneurship Development Institute. Four variables were employed as independent variables for this specific study: training and technical assistance, access to finance, access to market, and technology and innovation. Based on the major objective, specific objectives and a research hypothesis were developed. A crosssectional mixed approach was used to analyze the collected data. The research targeted active micro and small enterprises in Addis Ababa that received support from EDI since 2017. Based on a sample size calculation, data collection instruments were distributed to 216 owner-managers, and 190 (88%) responded. The researcher used structured questionnaires and personal interviews for data collection. The instrument's reliability was ensured using Cronbach's Alpha method. After the reliability test, the study employed a multiple regression model to understand how the independent variables affect the financial performance of MSEs. The dependent variable was the financial performance of MSEs, specifically measured by Return on Assets (RoA). The regression analysis results showed that all independent variables together significantly affected the financial performance of MSEs. However, only access to finance among the four independent variables was significantly and positively related to financial performance. The remaining predictors were not significantly related to financial performance. The study suggests that EDI should focus on BDSs, particularly supporting enterprises in accessing finance by collaborating with financial institutions like banks and microfinance institutions.
Electric Vehicle Adoption in Ethiopia: Challenges and Opportunities for Green Mobility
(Addis Ababa University, 2023-12) Yared Nigussie; Teshome Tafesse (PhD)
Electric vehicles are crucial alternatives to create clean transportation by offering a variety of merits such as reducing air pollution, and dependency on oil. However, price, range anxiety, lack of infrastructure such as charging infrastructures are some of the barriers to ensure a swift adoption of electric vehicles. Ethiopia as a nation stands at a crossroads with regards to its transportation future. While grappling with air pollution and dependence on fossil fuels, the country also sees the potential of electric vehicles (EVs) to drive a cleaner and more sustainable mobility landscape. This study delves into the intricate dynamics of EV adoption in Ethiopia, analyzing the challenges hindering and opportunities propelling this transition. Ambitious government targets, Ethiopia's abundant renewable energy resources for instance hydropower and geothermal, cost-effective and environmentally friendly mode of the transportation, financial savings and reductions in energy consumption and harmful emissions are among the prospects of EVs adoption. This study employed a qualitative approach combined with a data analysis of charging infrastructure availability, range anxiety, and government policies with methods such as interviews with key stakeholders and surveys to assess users’ perception. Both inductive and deductive analysis methods were employed in this study. Geographically, the study is confined to Addis Ababa city. Through a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and opportunities, this study provided a nuanced understanding of the factors influencing EV adoption in Ethiopia, identify key interventions and policy measures to accelerate the transition to electric mobility. The findings show that the main challenges of the adoption of electric vehicles in the first place are high upfront cost of electric vehicles, which is responded by 25% of the respondents. Limited charging infrastructure is being identified by 16.7% of respondents as a major conundrum to adopt the vehicles. Lack of awareness and knowledge among the population is another factor that limited the adoption of electric vehicles, according to 16.67% of respondents. High import taxes, limited charging infrastructure and inadequate policies such as absence of regulations to build and administer charging infrastructures are among the factors that are hindering swift adoption of electric vehicles. The study concludes that Ethiopia can leapfrog old systems and embrace EVs, leading in development and avoiding used gasoline cars. Overall, EV adoption promises a positive impact on future sustainability and efficiency. To encourage EV adoption in Ethiopia, the study recommends financial incentives such as reducing the purchase costs through tax breaks, subsidies, and above all customs exemptions, build charging stations, especially fastcharging options, and incentivize their installation. Non-financial incentives on the other hand includes dedicated parking, green zones, and other benefits for EVs.
Export Diversification and International Competitiveness of Ethiopia: A decadal Performance, Challenges and Opportunities
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Kassahun Gofe; Mengistu Ketema (Professor); Andualem Teshome (PhD)
The research topic ‘Export Diversification and International Competitiveness of Ethiopia: A decadal Performance, Challenges and Opportunities’ is very pertinent and appropriate given its significant impact on the economic development of the nation. This study explores the competitiveness and diversification of Ethiopian exports, delving into performances, challenges and opportunities within the export sector. Informed by dewyan pragmatism a mixed approch has been applied. Data were collected both from primary and secondary sources. Data sources have been government and non government institutions that have relevant information pertinent to this study. Primary data were collected through questioneries, key informant interview and focus group discussions. Content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data; while Herfindahl-Hirschman Index and Relative Trade Balance were applied to assess export diversification and its competitiveness respectively. Accordingly, explanatory and descriptive methods of data analysis were applied. The study found that export trends over the study period reveals positive growth in total export values;however, performances vary across different merchandise categories. Efforts to diversify the export base have resulted in the introduction of new commodities but lack significant value addition and productivity enhancements. While the number of exportable items has grown, leading to a moderately diversified portfolio of exports and destinations, specific sectors differ in destination diversification. The findings also highlight significant opportunities for Ethiopia's exports contingent on the government's commitment to crucial institutional and policy reforms at the macroeconomic and industry levels. However, challenges arise due to heavy reliance on declining primary commodity prices, limited diversification, deficiencies in skilled labor, technology, and market access hindering progress. The study concludes that importance of stakeholder collaboration to enhance Ethiopia's export competitiveness through policy reforms, innovation, improved market access, and ethical business practices need to be emphsised.. By leveraging these strategies, Ethiopia can unlock its export potential, drive sustainable economic growth, and navigate the complexities of the global trade landscape effectively.
The Impact of Urban Productive Safety Net Program on Livelihood at Household Level and Changing the Working Culture: The Case of Gulalle Sub-City
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Alemu Worku; Andualem Goshu (PhD)
This study evaluates the effects of the urban productive safety net program on household livelihoods and work cultures in the selected Woredas of Gulalle Sub-City. The study utilized both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews. Simple random sampling techniques were used to select sample respondents, resulting in a total of 378 household samples drawn randomly from participants and non-participants of the UPSNP in the study area. Both descriptive statistics and inferential research method were used to analyze the collected data. The findings indicate that out of the total respondents, 53.97% (102) of the UPSNP participants had three meals per day, while 34.90% (66) had two meals per day. The average income of the beneficiary households was 1,142 Birr higher than that of the non-beneficiary group. For the non-beneficiary groups, 90% consumed two or fewer meals daily, and only 10% consumed three meals daily. Additionally, about 83% of the treated households are savers, whereas only 10% of the non-beneficiary group are. These findings suggest that the beneficiary groups have higher current income levels, are more likely to save, and have more frequent meals than the control group. The study recommends expanding the UPSNP program in Ethiopian urban centers to reduce poverty and improve income by focusing on sustainable opportunities.
Youth Civic Engagement in Addis Ababa; the Case of Selected Woredas of Yeka and Bole Sub Cities
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Almaz Wasse; Yeshtila Wondimeneh (PhD)
Youth civic engagement has gained considerable attention from government and non-government bodies as a mechanism to mobilize youth talents and capacities in development initiatives and to foster positive youth development by building their self-esteem as informed citizens who are responsible to lead the future. In spite of such initiatives, youth are facing multifaceted challenges that hamper their participation in civic engagement activities (Suchowerska, 2013) (Wray-lake et al., 2012) (Jalata, 2014). With this backdrop, this research tried to assess youth civic engagement and the challenges they encountered in their endeavor by taking participants from selected woredas of Yeka and Bole sub cities in Addis Ababa. A mixed method design was adhered to collect quantitative and qualitative data with a survey questionnaire, which was distributed to 262 youth respondents, and individual interviews conducted with 17 youth and 8 youth experts at the woreda administrations. The data were triangulated during the analysis and interpretation phases where the qualitative data were used to enhance the quantitative data. The results indicated that youth civic engagement was low especially in voting and signing petition, advocacy and reading newspapers and magazines. Though the youth participants were enthusiastic to be engaged, they were discouraged by lack of support and opportunities. The prevailing civic engagement platforms in different settings like schools and government administrations were not designed in terms of the talents, needs and interests of the contemporary youth. Therefore, youth civic engagement opportunities need to be expanded in the community and in the administrative zones. Youth focused engagement programs should be creative and innovative to address and motivate the youth by addressing their interests. Besides, the youth should take part in designing youth programs implemented at the grassroots levels like woreda administrations.
Unraveling Ethiopia’s Homegrown Economic Reform: A Rebranded Structural Adjustment Program or an Indigenous New Economic Model?
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Ashenafi Endale; Belew Dagnew (PhD)
This research work attempts examining Ethiopia’s economic development approaches in post2018 political reform, in light of Neoclassical Growth Model. Empirical reviews show successful development stories epitomized ‘Homegrown Development Models’, whether borrowed or fully home-made ideology. Drawing on stakeholders’ interviews and deconstructing policy documents, qualitative and empirical approaches employed to investigate whether the ‘Homegrown Reform Program’ is endogenous or emulated from Washington Consensus. Government respondents stressed it is endogenous, justifying it is planned by Ethiopians (‘Home-owned’) and acutely addresses Ethiopia’s economic problems. Non-governmental respondents argued it is neither ‘Home-owned’, nor ‘Home-made.’ They agree on economic open-up and shift towards market-economy, but driven by domestic private sector, not by FDI. As per Solow’s Neoclassical Growth model, open-up might be critical for Ethiopia, in a bid to boost foreign investment and technology inflow. The research affirmed needs of genuine ‘Homegrown development model’ contextualizing Ethiopia’s heterogeneous society and federal structured system, which dictates factors of productions.
Impact of the Urban Productive Safety Net Program on the Sustainable Livelihood of ‘Graduated’ Women Beneficiaries: The Case of Women in Kirkos Sub City Woreda 03, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2023-10) Sofia Said; Andualem Goshu (PhD)
This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the Urban Productive Safety Net Program on the sustainable livelihood of women beneficiaries who graduated from the program in Kirkos Sub City Woreda 03, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Primary survey data was collected from a total of 365 women respondents, out of which 243 were beneficiaries and 122 were non-beneficiaries. The respondents were selected using multiple-stage sampling techniques. To complement the quantitative data, qualitative data was collected using two FGDs with eight group members each and one key informant interview. The study used the probit regression model and the propensity score matching (PSM) methods to analyze the data. The probit regression model found that marital status, educational background, duration of residency, and house ownership had statistically significant effects on participation in the UPSNP program. On the other hand, age, economically active status, number of household members, and number of children under the age of 18 did not significantly affect program participation. Using the propensity score matching with three matching algorithms; Nearest Neighbor, Radius, and Kernel; the study found that the UPSNP program intervention in Kirkos sub-city had a positive impact on some outcome variables, including savings, skills and training, access to sanitation, health care, food consumption, and means of transportation. However, the intervention did not significantly affect several other outcome variables, such as meals per day, access to improved nutrition, adequate monthly income, income variability, income compared to expenditure, children's educational improvement, housing area improvement, housing condition improvement, access to cooking fuel, building household asset, and improving the quality of clothes compared to non-beneficiaries. The quantitative findings suggest that the UPSNP intervention did not have a significant effect on most of the outcome variables used to measure the sustainability of the intervention on the livelihood of graduated beneficiaries. This finding was reinforced by the results of the focus group discussions and key informant interviews, which indicated that beneficiaries who graduated from the program did not achieve significant sustainable improvement in their livelihoods beyond addressing their immediate problems while they were directly supported by the program. It appears that the program tended to make the beneficiaries dependent on it instead of bringing sustainable change in their livelihood.
Transboundary Water Resources Management Practices Comparative Analysis of Nile and Senegal River Basins
(Addis Ababa University, 2023-12) Kiram Tadesse; Yeshtila Wondemeneh (PhD)
Transboundary water resources management emerges as a difficult and explosive topic because of the conflicting interests of the involved parties known as riparians. This study examines how river basins address these conflicting interests by a closer inspection of the practices in the Nile River Basin as compared to the Senegal River Basin. The study uses a comparative study design with in-depth qualitative analysis of selected hydrological, political and socio-economic as well as developmental cases along with interviews to identify the factors that have been influencing the cooperation processes in the Nile and Senegal River basins. Upon arguing that the compound effects of hydro-ecological phenomenon, legal regimes, historical beliefs and unilateral actions of the riparians, the study has put forward some recommendations aimed at striking a ‘win-win’ solutions that could pave the way for the Nile riparians to come to a cooperative framework. These include, among others, focusing on benefits sharing than water allocations, focusing on scientific or technical issues than political, contest the legitimacy of the old-regimes through renegotiation of Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) with Egypt and Sudan, and challenging power relations in the basin.
The Challenges in the Transitional Process of Micro and Small Enterprises in Addis Ababa City
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-01) Abriham Lisanework; Belew Dagnew (PhD)
The purpose of this study is to assess the challenges in the transitional process of micro and small enterprises in Addis Ababa city. The study attempted to address challenges that micro and small enterprises faced in their transition from infancy to maturity. The study was conducted using a descriptive study design. A quantitative approach was used to collect the data. A sample size of 340 micro and small enterprise owners and operators was represented from three sub cities namely Kolfe Keranyo, Addis Ketema, and Arada sub cities. A stratified sampling method was used to select the MSEs in different levels of transition from infancy, transition, and maturity based on their years of engagement in the sector. A random sampling method was used for selecting MSE respondents for the survey. The findings of the study revealed that the majority of entrepreneurs were young, with a secondary education level. Family size also played a role in business challenges, with larger families affecting business and family responsibilities. Woodworking and construction were the dominant sectors for MSEs, aligning with Ethiopia's traditional industries and growing construction demand. The analysis also identifies key factors that affect the transitional process of MSEs. These factors include support service factors like access to financial services, market opportunities, business trainings, machinery services, infrastructure, and necessary technologies. Socio-cultural factors such as network connections, attitudes towards products, Additionally, legal and administrative factors such as government support, regulatory knowledge, political interference, and bureaucratic hurdles were identified as crucial determinants of the success and growth of MSEs.
Rural Livelihood Strategy Segments and Dynamics in Ethiopia: Evidence from Panel Household Survey
(Addis Ababa University, 2020-10) Bezaneh Alemu; Yeshitela Wondemeneh (PhD)
Rural households are heterogeneous: different socio-economic features and asset endowments of households determine their engagement in various livelihood activities resulting in different livelihood outcomes interims of income. Poverty reduction policies, wellbeing improvement, or households’ welfare policy should consider this. The study aims to detect the classification of rural livelihood strategies, investigates the interactions between livelihood strategies and outcomes, livelihood strategies transitions, and Captures the dynamics and underlying factors of long-term changes. Using Ethiopian Socio-Economic survey (ESS) three-wave panel dataset of 2011, 2013, and 2015 years based on 3639 households from the entire country, the study employed two-part model that combines households’ assets and income in order to identify different livelihoods strategy clusters and regression estimation to uncover the determinants of livelihood choices and mobility Based on a Latent Markov Model, the study identifies nine distinct livelihood strategies and analyses households’ movements between strategies through time. The study results show that over 42.2% of households change livelihood strategies between 2011 and 2015 year. A common pathway to improve household wellbeing is an intermediate step, in which household’s accumulated assets and capital through farming, Livestock rearing, self employment, wage, and migratory work and Very few households have moved directly from the least to the most remunerative strategy. The study identifies covariates that influence the choices of livelihood strategies and affect the access of households to more remunerative strategies., for instance household adults’ size, ownership of physical assets, and access to financial resources. Compared to both the asset and income method, the applied approach of combining income and assets better distinguishes the identified livelihood. These findings Indicted policy implications for improving the livelihood choices range to lower-income groups to enhance their livelihoods.
Assessment on Budget Implementation and Controlling System in Addis Ababa City Administration: Evidence from the Cases of Sub Cities Revenue Branch Offices of Addis Ababa Revenue Bureau
(Addis Ababa University, 2020-10) Biniyam Getu; Filimon Hadaro (PhD)
This study has been conducted with the aim of assessment on the controlling and implementation of budget management. In order to achieve this objective and support by substantive evidence the case of selected AACARB Evidence from sub-cities revenue branch office were observed. Methodologically, the study adopted a descriptive research design and stratified sampling technique. A questionnaire was distributed to 69 internal auditors, planning and budget department and procurement and finance section employees of the selected revenue branch office, of which 57 were collected with a response rate of 82.6%. The descriptive research design with 5 likert like scale was adapted to observe and measure variables specified. The qualitative data collected by interviews were analyzed by grouping thematic patterns. The quantitative data that were collected by questionnaire were analyzed using STATA-12 software. The study has found out that collaboration of departments, use of budget, procurement planning and transparency, weak internal control system, lack of skilled and experienced man power and top-down leadership were the most challenges for budget implementation and controlling system. The study recommends that policy measure has to be put in place that can solve the challenges that found by this study
Assessment of Private Domestic Investment Challenges and Prospects in the Service Sector in Addis Ababa Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-02) Buraka Tujuba; Andualem Goshu (PhD)
This study aimed to examine the landscape of domestic private investment in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, by focusing on the challenges and Prospects. The study used mixed study design. The data was collected from 298 investors operating in Addis Ababa. Among the significant challenges were issues related to macroeconomic stability, with concerns over access to foreign currency and fluctuations in exchange rates standing out prominently. The dominance of micro and small enterprises in certain sectors such as transport, waste management, and media were noted, contrasting with larger firms' prevalence in the real estate, health, and hospitality industries. High loan costs posed another substantial obstacle, alongside challenges stemming from inflation, an unreliable electricity supply, and contraband activities. While taxation and corruption were perceived as manageable, policy uncertainty and political instability emerged as growing concerns. Despite these challenges, key service industries like finance, education, and ICT were identified as holding potential for private investment, albeit with access barriers. Moreover, Prospects for expansion in credit extension and insurance were noted, albeit modestly. The quality of public infrastructure, particularly in power, water, and telecom reliability, was deemed in need of improvement. Workforce gaps, especially in skilled labour availability and raw material access, were also highlighted. Challenges in Addis Ababa's investment landscape include macroeconomic instability, high loan costs, and infrastructure deficiencies, while Prospects lie in key service sectors like finance, education, and ICT. Addressing these challenges and capitalizing on Prospects requires stabilizing the macroeconomic environment through comprehensive reforms and targeted initiatives across strategic sectors to foster a conducive ecosystem for inclusive growth and job creation.
Assessment of Employability of TVET graduates: the case of graduates of two TVET Colleges in Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-05) Samuel Atalel; Kumela Gudeta (PhD)
The objective of this study was to assess the employment status of TVET graduates in Addis Ababa and how the employers see the strengths and weaknesses on the program in terms of Knowledge, Skill and Attitude. Education in general and TVET education specifically, is one of the pathways towards a better urban decent life that encompasses the acquisition of important tools and competencies to demonstrate in the world of work. For many years, the role played by TVET has been overlooked due to mainly attitudinal and design of the system. Nowadays it‟s becoming more of related with development agenda comprised with employment opportunity, livelihood improvement and source of manufacturing industries. A sample of 257 graduates, 28 employing companies, 15 trainers‟ and 4 key informants were taken for the study. Primary data was collected by questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Entoto and Misrak Polytechnic Colleges are the prominent TVET institutes in Addis Ababa and in Ethiopia at large. They have the highest enrollment and graduating centers with frequent work relationships with employers/industries. Qualitative and quantitative methods of analysis were used in this study. The interview responses obtained from the management bodies and interviews were analyzed qualitatively. Quantitative data collected was analyzed using SPSS expressed in frequencies and percentages and presented using tables and figures. According to the findings of this study 68.5% got employed mainly by private companies (48%). Also 70% of graduates employed in private sector followed by the government (14.8%). With 60% of employers are on the sector of manufacturing sector over 60% of them got knowledge, skill and attitude of graduates above good and very good. Also the research indicated that there are no huge gaps in those areas, the result of the study point out that the skills delivered by the colleges are not essentially and expectation based on the standard of the employers. 46.4% and 28.6% of employers believe that the competency of graduates is satisfactory and very satisfactory. But there are also 21.4% of companies who believe their competency is unsatisfactory. This creates, employers indicated, another resource wastage incurred by the employers to make graduates „complete‟. Also the study indicates that the core competency of trainee‟s is initially questioned during the cooperative training or internship period by which the trainees get more practical training inside the industries.
Factors Affecting Gender Equality and Women Representation in Leadership Position: The Case of Selected Banks in Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2021-09) Martha Adefris; Filimon Hadaro (PhD)
The Banking Industry is the biggest financial institution in Ethiopia. In spite of the fact that the number of both female and male workers of the bank expanded over time, the participation and representation of women in leadership position is less than men. The purpose of the study is to figure out the major variables (individual, organizational and societal factors, representation and gender inequality of women in leadership position) that have impact on gender disparity. The study had utilized mixed method which is (quantitative and qualitative) investigative approaches. Primary data was gathered from 6(six) private and 1(one) governmental bank at Head office level. Human Resource (HR) directors and experts in number 169 were participated, out of 169, 7 where Human Resource Directors have been participated through organized survey to look at the variables (constraints). Moreover, 7 HR Directors from each bank were purposively chosen to explore the primary and secondary information. The collected information was analyzed using statistical tools of SPSS version 23. The finding shows that 54.3% of combined factor of individual, organizational and societal variables influence the representation of women in leadership position. Women’s interest in leadership position influenced by a combination of Individual, organizational and societal factors. In addition to above reasons, parenthood is other major barriers of women to come to leadership positions. Hence, to improve representation of women and gender inequality within the financial industry, the administrations can be committed to actualize in the agreed activity, mindfulness creation programs. Those programs can be useful to incorporate women participation.
Assessment of E-Service Practice and Quality from Users’ Perspectives in the Case of E-Service Platform, the Eservice.gov.et of Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-02-05) Robson Zelalem; Filmon Hadaro (PhD)
This research was conducted with a key objective of assessing and analyzing the e-service quality and practices and evaluating the change e-service has brought about on public service delivery from the evidence of selected federal organizations on e-service delivered @eservices.gov.et. To that end, the study employed a mixed research approach with sequential exploratory and concurrent triangulation research design. It began with collecting qualitative data gathered through four different observations accompanied by unstructured interviews with two key informants to explore the eservice practices followed by unrepresentative survey data collected from fifty users on their perception of the e-service quality based on the adopted D&M IS success model as well as validated on-site. Qualitative findings have revealed that apart from problems related to language and code acquisition the system is showing relative success for the selected organizations. This in another way has been manifested in the quantitative findings which have revealed that all the six variables were quite successful and validated the qualitative finding with relatively lesser results scored on components of information quality (86% completeness, 76% up to date and 92% comprehensibility) and system quality (usability 68%, adaptability 72%, availability scored 80% positive). While time factor, security concerns and convenience generally influence e-service usage, yet in the case of this research security concern was not a point of concern for the users. Adaptability, language barriers and non-automation of back-office processes were identified to be the major problems with the e-service system. Furthermore, the e-service practice showed that the system is only translating the paper process to electronic public service delivery and hence no automation per se of the back office process falling short of transformation. This implies that the eservice system did not achieve the vision of transforming public service delivery as envisaged in the e-government strategic plan 2020 in its current state. Based on this the research recommends among other things; the need for additional language on the portal, careful strategy to phase-out paper version, a body with clear mandate, responsibility, and diligence to coordinate and facilitate integration and interoperability of the e-services and more investment on key ICT infrastructures. Finally, future areas of study considering the context and realities of Ethiopia have been suggested.
Challenges of Micro and Small-Scale Enterprises in Adiss Ababa: In Case of Akaki Kality Sub-City
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-06) Hanna Tilaye; Teshome Tafesse (PhD)
Micro and Small-Scale Enterprises (MSE) are important in almost all developing economies in the world, which is characterized by unemployment, import dependency, and income distribution challenges. The study investigated evidence on the occurrence of challenges of Micro and small-scale enterprises, that were different from one place to another place from the survey of 170 sample data collected from three wederas. This study covered MSEs around Akaki Kality Sub-city area in Addis Ababa. The study was confined to the service and manufacturing provision of Akaki Kality MSEs sectors, using mixed methods research. On top of that, the study area was chosen because of its better center of industrial business activities in the capital city. The general objective of this study was to assess the Challenges of micro and small scale enterprises in the case of Akaki kality sub-city, Addis Ababa Ethiopia. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative data. Also, it was used descriptive and inferential statistics to assess the Challenges of a micro and small-scale enterprise. Furthermore, the major factors that affect the growth of MSEs are sufficient capital, adequate market, Customer attitudes; shortages of premises, quality of the product, shortage of raw materials, poor planning, and lack of sufficient capital were the major challenges of MSEs in Akaki Kality Subcity. From the study result researcher recommends that government bodies must give to advance providing financial access, and working premises, create an adequate market, reduce the interest rate and give awareness to the society that affects the growth of MSEs in the city.
Qualitative Analysis of Ethiopia’s Readiness to African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-07) Ibsa Chemeda; Andualem Goshu (PhD)
The research paper analyzed Ethiopian readiness to AfCFTA, to conduct this study, qualitative approach was employed. A total of 33 respondents were selected and involved as sample respondents in the study. Semi structured interview technique and both primary and secondary data sources were used. The study used non probability sampling procedure specifically purposive sampling technique in undertaking this research. The collected data were analyzed by thematic analysis method. The findings of this study show SMEs in Ethiopia aren‘t ready to AfCFTA. Awareness wise, majority of the Small-to-Medium Enterprises haven‘t heard about the CFTA, the requirements to participate in it and have not received training about the CFTA. Institutions like AACCSA, ECCSA and MoTRI are not giving equal attention to SMEs as they give big businesses and corporations. The research found in trade facilitation aspect Ethiopia is ready for AfCFTA. Almost all requirements set by AfCFTA about trade facilitation are implemented or are in the project phase. The research also found Ethiopia is ready to AfCFTA in macroeconomic policies aspect, the plans government hasn‘t been finished yet and projects in initial stages are hope givers. In digitalization, supply chain, national studies for the CFTA, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and industrialization related macroeconomic activities: Ethiopia is doing well to be ready while infrastructure, private sector, and sub-committee related policies and actions need better focus to be ready for the CFTA. Recommendation and future studies are forwarded.
The Effect of Work Environment on Employee Performance: The Case of Beautifying Sheger Project
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-06) Endashaw Belachew; Teshome Tafesse (PhD)
The main objective of this study was to assess the effect of work environment on employee performance in the case of Beautifying Sheger Project. It also tried to examine the impact of physical work place environment aspects, reward aspects of the job, and training and development opportunities in the work place, work life balance on the performance of these employees. Quantitative research approach with explanatory research design was adopted in carrying out this research. A survey method was used to gather data from the employees, after questionnaire data were collected, percentage, frequency, mean and standard deviation were used as a tool for descriptive methodology as well as regression and correlation analysis was used from inferential statistics. Convenience sampling was used to select the specific individuals. The correlational results of this study showed that physical work place environment (r = .122), reward aspects of the work (r= .643) and work- life balance have been were positively and significantly related with performance of employees of Beautifying Sheger Project. The study also found working conditions are important factor of overall perceived performance of for employees of Beautifying Sheger Project. In addition, the regression model resulted that, 53.3% of variance in employees’ performance is due to work environment conditions (Physical work place environment, Reward aspects of the work, Training and development opportunities and Work- life balance). Moreover, it can be observed from the results of this study that working conditions correlation with performance of employees. This paper suggests the project managers to work towards improving working environment and building good relationships with their employees. This friendly and positive interaction of employees will craft innovative and creative staff.

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