Browsing by Author "Wakibi, Aziz"

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    Entrepreneurial Competencies and Performance of Ugandan SMEs: The mediating role of Firm
    (Cogent Business & Management, 2022) Kisubi, Moses Kisame; Aruo, Francis; Wakibi, Aziz; Mukyala, Veronica; Ssenyange, Kassim
    The purpose of this study was twofold; (1) to establish the direct influence of Entrepreneurial competencies and Firm capability on SME Performance and (2) to examine the mediating role of Firm capability between Entrepreneurial competencies and SME Performance. A cross-sectional and explanatory design was utilized to collect and analyze data from 314 SMEs in Uganda. The sample size was proportionally distributed amongst three SME subsectors; manufacturing, trade, and restaurants. A positive and significant influence of entrepreneurial competencies and firm capabilities on SME performance was established. Among the seven entrepreneurial competencies understudy, innovative competency is highly associated with SME performance than other competencies. Interestingly, firm capabilities were found to be a powerful predictor of SME performance than entrepreneurial competencies. In addition, a partial and significant mediating role of firm capabilities was also found. Theoretically, the study provides maiden evidence of the indirect influence of a firm’s capabilities on the association between entrepreneurial competencies and SME performance. In practice, managers and SME owners should address their competency deficiencies to develop more capabilities like management and marketing capabilities which could enhance SME performance. The study provides initial evidence for the mediating role of firm capabilities in the association between entrepreneurial competencies and firm performance.
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    Self-organization, networks and sustainable innovations in microfinance institutions: Does organizational resilience matter?
    (Emerald, 2024-03-21) Wakibi, Aziz; Ntayi, Joseph; Nkote, Isaac; Tumwine, Sulait; Nsereko, Isa; Ngoma, Muhammad
    Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the interplay among self-organization, networks and sustainable innovations within microfinance institutions (MFIs) and to examine the extent to which organizational resilience plays a significant role in shaping these dynamics as a mediator. Design/methodology/approach This paper adopted a cross-sectional research design combined with analytical and descriptive approach to collect the data. Smart partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to construct the measurement model and structural equation model to test the mediating effect under this study. Findings The results revealed that organizational resilience is a significant mediator in the relationship between self-organization, networks and sustainable innovations among microfinance institutions in Uganda. Research limitations/implications The data for this study were collected only from microfinance institutions in Uganda. Future studies may collect data from other formal financial institutions like commercial banks and credit institutions to test the mediating effect of organizational resilience. More still, the study adopted only a single approach of using a questionnaire. However, future research through interviews may be desirable. Likewise this study was cross-sectional in nature. Therefore, a longitudinal study may be useful in future while investigating the mediating role of organizational resilience traversing over a long time frame. Practical implications A possible implication is that microfinance institutions which desire to have sustainable innovative solutions for their business operations in disruptive circumstances may need to scrutinize their capacity to be resilient and self-organize. Social implications Microfinance institutions play a great role to the underserved clients. Thus, for each to re-organize to be able to provide services that meet users’ needs, without physical products so as to ensure long-term financial and social welfare combined with the ability to bounce back and adapt in times of economic downturn to avoid mission adrift. Originality/value While most studies have been carried out on organizational resilience, this paper takes center stage and is the first to test the mediating role of organizational resilience in the relationship between self-organization, networks and sustainable innovations, especially in microfinance institutions in Uganda. This paper generates strong evidence and contributes to the powerful influence of organizational resilience in enhancing the level of sustainable innovations based on self-organization and networks.
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    Unlocking the nexus: intellectual capital and environmental innovations among manufacturing firms in Uganda
    (Emerald, 2024-11-22) Alinda, Kassim; Wakibi, Aziz; Ahimbisibwe, Godwin Mwesigye; Andabati, David
    Purpose This study aims to investigate the intricate relationship between intellectual capital and environmental innovations among manufacturing medium and large firms in Uganda, utilizing the SmartPLS methodology. Design/methodology/approach This research adopts a cross-sectional and quantitative approach, collecting data through a questionnaire survey from a sample of manufacturing medium and large (ML) firms in Uganda. The collected data underwent analysis to identify patterns and relationships using the SmartPLS structural equation modeling (SEM) technique. Findings The findings highlight a distinct pattern: structural capital is the strongest predictor of environmental innovations, with human capital being the next most significant factor. However, the positive relationship with relational capital did not attain statistical significance, suggesting the need for further exploration into inter-firm relationships. Practical implications For managers, investing in robust organizational structures and human capital development programs can enhance firms’ capacity to drive eco-friendly initiatives, aligning with global sustainability agendas. Policymakers are encouraged to create an enabling environment that nurtures IC and incentivizes environmental innovation through supportive policies such as tax incentives and funding mechanisms for green technologies. Originality/value This study enriches the intellectual discourse on IC and environmental innovation by employing SmartPLS methodology to highlight the nuanced impact of its components, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of IC and its role in driving EI.