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Research Article
Bridging Gender Gaps in Entrepreneurship: A Conceptual Model for Tailored Digital Support Mechanisms
Rachid Samkane*,
Loubna Chag
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
22-35
Received:
23 March 2026
Accepted:
1 April 2026
Published:
16 April 2026
Abstract: Women’s entrepreneurship represents a significant driver of economic, social, and technological development. However, female entrepreneurs often face structural, social, and contextual barriers that limit their access to resources, professional networks, and entrepreneurial opportunities. To address these challenges, this study adopts an integrative literature review and conceptual synthesis to examine how digital support mechanisms can be designed to better meet the specific needs of women entrepreneurs. Based on the analysis of prior research, the study develops an integrative conceptual framework linking women entrepreneurs’ individual and contextual characteristics with four key digital support mechanisms: modular digital training, personalized mentoring, specialized digital platforms, and inclusive virtual communities. The framework highlights the role of moderating factors such as personalization, accessibility, continuous support, and participatory feedback in shaping the effectiveness of these mechanisms. By emphasizing a user-centered socioconstructivist perspective, the model explains how digital mechanisms can foster skill development, entrepreneurial empowerment, and the expansion of digital social capital. The study provides a theoretical contribution by integrating fragmented research streams on women’s entrepreneurship and digital support mechanisms, while also offering practical implications for policymakers and entrepreneurial support organizations seeking to design more inclusive and effective digital support programs.
Abstract: Women’s entrepreneurship represents a significant driver of economic, social, and technological development. However, female entrepreneurs often face structural, social, and contextual barriers that limit their access to resources, professional networks, and entrepreneurial opportunities. To address these challenges, this study adopts an integrativ...
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Research Article
Assessment on the Impact of Trade Tariff on Procurement and Supply in Sierra Leone
Albert Caulker*,
Sharka Satto Makieu
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
36-51
Received:
11 May 2026
Accepted:
25 May 2026
Published:
10 June 2026
Abstract: Trade tariffs are a crucial policy tool in Sierra Leone for raising money, controlling imports, and safeguarding homegrown businesses. Tariffs, however, provide difficulties for supply chain and procurement operations even though they might promote economic expansion. Improving supply chain operations and guaranteeing efficient public service delivery depends on an understanding of how tariffs affect procurement. Targeting various levels of authorities, including procurement officers, suppliers, and logistics specialists within the MTI, a cross-sectional design was used. Out of 57 employees, 50 responders were chosen by stratified random sampling. Structured questionnaires were used to gather the data, and SPSS version 26 was used for descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation analysis. The results indicated that for the majority of respondents, tariffs—especially Value-Added Tax (38%) and excise charges (30%)—significantly raised procurement costs by 20–30%. Tariffs "always" cause delays in procurement timeframes, according to 58% of respondents. Additionally, 40% of respondents said that budget planning was frequently disrupted, and 52% said that tariffs significantly restricted access to overseas suppliers. In Sierra Leone, trade tariffs seriously impede supply chain and procurement activities, especially in the MTI. In the end, they undermine efficiency by raising prices, delaying deadlines, and limiting supplier possibilities. Building supplier and procurement officer capability, standardising tariff laws, investing in digital tariff-tracking systems, and establishing exclusions for necessities are all necessary to address these issues. These changes could improve the effectiveness of procurement and promote more general economic growth.
Abstract: Trade tariffs are a crucial policy tool in Sierra Leone for raising money, controlling imports, and safeguarding homegrown businesses. Tariffs, however, provide difficulties for supply chain and procurement operations even though they might promote economic expansion. Improving supply chain operations and guaranteeing efficient public service deliv...
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Research Article
Translating Digital Business Models into Operational Practices: An Integrative Perspective on Organizational Transformation
Fahssi Laila*,
Bourkha Bilal
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
52-60
Received:
20 May 2026
Accepted:
1 June 2026
Published:
18 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijebo.20261402.13
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Views:
Abstract: Digital transformation has emerged as a critical strategic challenge for organizations due to its profound implications for value creation, operational processes, and organizational structures. This article examines how organizations translate the promise of digital business models into effective operational practices by considering the interplay among digital technologies, collective routines, governance mechanisms, and industry-specific constraints. Drawing on an integrative review of the literature, the study synthesizes key conceptualizations of digital transformation and identifies limitations in prevailing approaches, which have largely emphasized technological and process-related dimensions while overlooking broader organizational dynamics. The analysis suggests that digital transformation extends beyond the adoption of digital technologies and should be understood as a systemic process involving the simultaneous reconfiguration of strategy, value creation mechanisms, organizational structures, and collective capabilities. Findings highlight the central role of the operating model as a critical mechanism through which the strategic intent embedded in digital business models is translated into coordinated organizational action. The study further emphasizes the importance of collective technology appropriation, organizational learning, governance arrangements, and the co-construction of practices in shaping transformation outcomes. By adopting a socio-technical perspective, the article develops an integrative framework that links strategy, business models, operating models, and human capabilities. This framework underscores that value creation and transformation success depend on the continuous interaction between technological systems, organizational actors, and contextual conditions. The article contributes to the digital transformation literature by advancing a more holistic understanding of its organizational determinants and by providing a conceptual foundation for future research and the effective implementation of digital initiatives in complex organizational environments.
Abstract: Digital transformation has emerged as a critical strategic challenge for organizations due to its profound implications for value creation, operational processes, and organizational structures. This article examines how organizations translate the promise of digital business models into effective operational practices by considering the interplay a...
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Research Article
Analysising the Impact of Exchange Rate on Economic Growth in Sierra Leone
James Legbeli Sumo Kollie*,
Ernest Udeh
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
61-71
Received:
21 February 2025
Accepted:
8 March 2025
Published:
26 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijebo.20261402.14
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: This study examines the impact of exchange rate on economic growth in Sierra Leone from 1994 to 2023 using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression technique. The analysis reveals that exchange rate significantly impacts Sierra Leone economic growth, with fluctuations in the domestic currency's value exerting a negative influence. This finding aligns with economic theories that suggest exchange rate movements affect trade balances and investment flows. Interest rate also emerges as a significant determinant, where higher rates negatively influence economic activity, emphasizing the role of monetary policy in managing inflation and fostering growth. Inflation is identified as a crucial factor affecting economic growth, with high and volatile rates having a substantial negative impact, underscoring the need for price stability for sustained development. Conversely, the degree of openness, measured by trade and investment flows, exhibits a positive association with economic growth, indicating that policies promoting international trade and investment can enhance growth through technology transfer, competition, and market access. Government expenditure shows a nuanced relationship with economic growth. While it is expected to stimulate economic activity, findings suggest that inefficient spending or high debt levels can crowd out private sector investment, reducing overall economic growth. Policymakers must manage exchange rate policies to mitigate adverse effects on trade and investment, maintain price stability through effective inflation management, and promote openness to international trade and investment. Additionally, prudent management of government expenditure is crucial to avoid crowding out private sector investment and ensure fiscal sustainability. Efficient allocation of public resources and effective public investment are essential for maximizing the impact of government spending on economic development.
Abstract: This study examines the impact of exchange rate on economic growth in Sierra Leone from 1994 to 2023 using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression technique. The analysis reveals that exchange rate significantly impacts Sierra Leone economic growth, with fluctuations in the domestic currency's value exerting a negative influence. This finding align...
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