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Browsing Senior Theses and Projects by Subject "Accra"
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Item A business feasibility study for Equilibrium Partners: Accessing market entry into selected tertiary institutions in Accra for the development of a 500-600 student rental housing unit(2021-05) Owusu-Acheaw, Samuel SafoGiven the inverse relationship between Ghanaian annual tertiary admission rates and current tertiary student rental housing, Equilibrium Partners Limited, a leading real estate developer, is looking to develop a 500 – 600 tertiary student rental housing unit for seven selected universities in the Greater Accra Region, namely, Ghana Institute of Management & Public Administration, University of Ghana – Legon, University of Professional Studies, Radford, Lancaster, Knustford and Webster University. With the stated market opportunity, the problem, however, is readily available data on the tertiary student rental housing market, integral in assisting Equilibrium Partners Limited assess the demand and profitability of the tertiary student rental housing market. Thus, the research aims to conduct a business feasibility study on selected tertiary institutions to provide Equilibrium with data-driven market & financial intelligence, which will assist the firm in making an informed decision on market entry. The research scope focused on metrics like the available student housing within selected universities, size of the unmet demand from students, current market price point and the financial feasibility of Equilibrium's prospective development. In conducting the study, students & university officials (in charge of housing) of the selected institutions and private-owned hostel managers were representative of data sources. With a 500-sample size, the research methodology utilized was mixed methods. Given the qualitative and quantitative construct of the study, the mixed method approach allowed for tools like questionnaires and interviews to extract discrete and descriptive data from identified data sources to gain perspectives on the tertiary student rental housing market. Key insights indicated that while demand was high, given the market's low willingness to pay, it was financially unfeasible for Equilibrium to make market entry.Item An analysis of the office property market in Airport City using Porter's Five Forces Framework(2014-04) Odame-Koranteng, JeffreyReal estate in Ghana has also undergone tremendous change largely to economic stability and government's support of foreign investments. Over the past decade, the office property market in Accra has grown steadily averaging an annual 14 percent of GDP since 2010 (Setrana, 2013). This increase in demand has led to several developments being undertaken in Accra (Ghana Prime Properties, 2013). However, this paper focuses on the office property market in Airport City and uses Porters Five Forces model to make an objective assessment about the attractiveness of the market. This is because the model goes beyond a more simplistic focus on relative market growth rates in determining industry attractiveness. The main objective of the study was to assess the strength of the competitive forces in the office property market in Airport City and examine the overall attractiveness of the market. This study was largely qualitative in nature using both primary and secondary data. The study adopted an inductive approach to interpreting data by using public information about the market and also relying on statements by the interviewees to draw conclusions on questions raised in the study for the purpose of narrative analysis and thematic analysis. Overall, 75 per cent of responses agreed that supplier bargaining power was very low, 60 per cent of results confirmed that rivalry power among office property owners in Airport City was very low; 75% responses for office property owners indicated that the threat new entrants was also very low; however 72% of responses agreed that office property owners in Airport City do not have a favorable advantage advance with customers due to high buyer power. Finally 100% of responses agreed that the threat of substitutes was very low. From these results it can be drawn the Airport City is a very attractive market for investments since office property owners have a favorable advantage over four of the five forces.Item Assessing the effects of load shedding (dumsor) on SMEs and the coping strategies used to survive load shedding in Madina, Accra(2016-04) Fiawoo, Evitta ErsinamThe availability of electricity is an important factor for the improvement of any economy. However, the unreliable supply of electricity in Ghana, has led to several periods of electricity load shedding. This negatively affects the operations of businesses, especially Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SME). In Madina, a suburb of Accra, businesses seem to be surviving the effects of the current load shedding exercise (called “dumsor” in the local Twi language). The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of the recent load shedding exercise on SMEs in Madina and what they are doing to cope with the effects. The research design employed was explorative and used quantitative and qualitative data obtained through the purposive, non-probabilistic sampling of 31 SMEs located in Madina. Content and graphical analyses were used to analyse the data. Results indicated that the load shedding of electricity negatively affects the operations and growth of SMEs. The negative effects included increase in operating cost; loss of production time; loss of revenue; decrease in productivity; damage to plant equipment; increased expenditure; reduction in labour force and overnight work. The coping strategies businesses adopted to minimize the negative effects included: electric generators, reduction in labour force, early closure, solar power, uninterrupted power supply, power banks, inverters and voltage stabilizers. Given the contribution of SMEs to the economy and the significant negative impact load shedding has on their operations, Ghana’s growth will be stifled if the problem of load shedding is not permanently resolved.Item An assessment of the appropriateness of the property management practices employed by the urban roads sector in Ghana: A case of the Accra Metropolitan Area(2012-04) Owusu-Acheaw, Maame Abena OwusuaProperty management is a concept that deals with the daily management of a real property to add value to it throughout its lifespan. Real property, including buildings, roads, and land, need to be appropriately managed to ensure the developers obtain maximum returns on investment. Roads are a public real property which not only serve as a means of transportation but also serves as a major tool for the development of an economy. This real property will thus need to be managed properly to ensure a nation optimizes benefits from its road network. The road network in Ghana has been plagued with potholes, weak bridges etc. due to poor management. The question that arises is why this is the case. This research study was thus undertaken to evaluate the property management practices adopted by the Ghanaian urban roads sector. The scope of this research was urban roads within the Accra Metropolitan Area. The research was qualitative in nature and adopted an evaluative strategy. Data was from both primary and secondary sources and collection was done via a survey and document study. Analysis of collected data was done using descriptive and content analysis. From the data, it was found that the main cause of the current state of property management within the urban roads sector was the lack of funds to undertake the required road management activities. Recommendations were made to assist the sector raise the necessary funding so the urban roads within the metropolis can be appropriately managed.Item An assessment of the operations of police officers in Ghana: A case study of police officers at the Cantonments Police Station(2011-04) Agbemabiesse, Gloria EyramThe Police Service is an institution which is long over due for rebranding and should be transformed to restore a better public image; this is as a result of the negative reports that have been highlighted in relation to the service. This study assesses the operations of the Ghana Police Service using Cantonments Police Station as a case study. From the study it was concluded that very few Police Officers had educated themselves to the tertiary level leaving majority of them at the Middle school level and Senior High School Level. Other findings include some of the hindrances to operations, of Police Officers. They include non-availability of vehicles which makes mobility very difficult, lack of logistics, poor infrastructure and lack of modern equipments, discrimination, lack of motivation and poor incentives, lack of manpower and limited accommodation. Good supervision, cooperation from the public and logistics were identified as factors that helped to promote their duties efficiently. Most of the failures of the police officers were their inability to apprehend and arrest some notorious criminals. Other failures were their inability to show quick response to calls from the public. Some of the recommendations that were made were to provide training for Police Officers as a result of the poor educational background. The organisational structure of the firm should be decentralised to provide Police officers decision making power, this is because most of operations under the Cantonments Police Station is centralized, which results in Police top officials exercising most of the direct control over every organizational component. Low level officers in Cantonments Police Station should also be given the decision making power to motivate them to work harder toward predefined performance standards set inside a logical framework.Item Challenges faced by female entrepreneurs within small and medium-scale entreprises (SMEs): A study of the saloon business in Ghana(2011-04) Cham, IsatouThis study is to find out the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs within Accra, Ghana. Females have been identified as individuals that encounter more obstacles in starting and growing their businesses as compared to their male counterparts especially within informal small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) where they are pre-dominantly employed. Thus, female entrepreneurs in Danquah Circle were participants of the study in that women who owned and managed businesses in the saloon industry were interviewed to further find out the constraints they encounter in starting and growing their business. Data was gathered for this research using secondary and primary data. Secondary data involved the works of scholars and practitioners on the subject under study. Resources such as the Internet, journals and newspaper articles were sources used to collect data. On the other hand, secondary data was used to collate the data from the outlined semi-structured interview questions. Due the primary data, the above findings were gathered to evaluate and analyze the situation of the entrepreneurs in the hair and beauty industry. Recommendations and conclusion were made based on the findings. Recommendations included banks to have a specific loan portfolio for women entrepreneurs in SMEs.Item The current situation of roads in Accra and its effects on real estate development (housing) within the city(2010-04) Larbi, Lorna LisaHousing is a one of the most fundamental rights every human being deserves for survival and existence. Every human being in one way or the other has the longing desire to own a home. A country with a healthy environment, good labor force, good infrastructure, good society, affordable and decent housing produces a good urban economy. However, in Ghana, a difficult issue most citizens are facing is the inability to afford or rent decent housing in a decent neighborhood. This study therefore seeks to assess the state of infrastructure, especially roads within the city of Accra and how the state of roads and road networks presently has a huge effect on the real estate industry within the city of Accra. This study was undertaken based on primary and secondary information. Research instruments such as questionnaires, interview guides and focus group discussions were used to gather data. The data was analyzed with tools such as Microsoft Excel, SPSS and Numbers (Macintosh). Recommendations were also made from the research findings. Among these were the enforcement of the laws of the state in accordance with the planning and building regulations by city authorities. This would ensure that the necessary road infrastructure would be provided in the various districts and localities.Item The dynamics of technology in five restaurants in East Legon, Accra(2018-04) Ohene-Ntow, JeremyThis study explores the use of technology in five restaurants in East Legon for sustainable growth. The objective is to find out how the use of technology is bringing changes in the operations of the restaurant business and how these changes are transforming restaurant business operations. Accordingly, a qualitative approach was employed to collect data using semi-structured interviews. Ten participants, made up of one manager and one employee from each restaurant, were interviewed. Data were analyzed by identifying categories and developing themes for discussion in line with research questions and objectives of the study. Responses revealed that technology had been a major factor in the changes that had occurred in the operations of their business over time. It changed the way they take orders, prepare meals and cocktails, the use of advanced equipment like pressure cookers, blenders, microwaves, hot plates, toasters, dough spreaders, and ovens with thermometers and timers, and advertising using social media, and having an online presence by means of a website. The study concludes by suggesting that restaurant operators maximize the use of technology to boost their businesses for sustainable growth.Item The effect of microfinance on the growth of female-owned businesses in Ghana(2016-04) Awortwi-Tandoh, MaryThe study explored the effect of Microfinance on the growth of female-owned businesses by focusing on how the financial and non-financial services offered by Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) affect the increase in assets, employees and revenues. It also explored factors that undermine the effect of these services on the growth of female-owned businesses. The research is a qualitative and uses purposive sampling technique. The findings of the research were based on the responses of thirty female clients of both Asa Savings and Loans, Odorkor Branch and Progressive Savings and Loans, Accra Central Branch. Branch managers of the Microfinance companies earlier stated were also administered questionnaires. Data gathered was analyzed using descriptive analysis and cross tabulation. The research revealed that MFIs have had a positive effect on the growth of female-owned businesses although some factors undermined this effect. These factors include the economic situation, the size of loans and the attitudes of the business owners. Furthermore the research showed that the advisory services offered were not being utilized by most of the respondents. However, the few who used these services observed a significant increase in management and control of their businesses which contributed to growth. Based on the findings, it was concluded that Microfinance Institutions have had a positive effect on female-owned businesses. Some recommendations provided by the researcher include a more rigorous advisory unit for MFIs, government and international grants to help increase loan sizes and also increase in market research to provide services that suit the needs of female clients.Item Enhancing bi-lingual education: A feasibility study for a French teacher training institution(2019-04) Duodu, Julia AgyeiwaaMme. Natalie N’Guessan and Mr. Sablah are a couple who wish to renovate an old family house located in Madina, Accra (57 Westland Boulevard road, Accra Ghana) and use for a teacher training college for potential and current French teachers and tutors. The main aim of this project is to determine and evaluate whether it is feasible in all aspects to establish a French teacher training institution at Madina. The market and technical feasibility analyses resulted in positive outcomes which implies the desirability of the project. The proposed solution is the use of the Business Model Canvas which gives a detailed analysis of the business idea.Item Ethics training in Ghanaian corporations.(2010-04) Chele Lopez, AbelardoEthics is an essential part of employee training. Studies conducted suggest that the benefits that may be derived from the implementation of ethics training in an organization are numerous, ranging from increase in productivity to improvement in employee effectiveness. This exploratory study investigates how ethics training programs implemented in an organization may impact the performance level of the organization's employees. The study also seeks to find out some of the specific benefits that may be derived from the implementation of ethics training. The main question that this study attempts to answer is; Does ethics training have an impact on employee performance? The study is set in Ghana specifically in the city of Accra. Three interviews with key employees and 40 distributed questionnaires constitute the instruments used during the compilation of this study. Findings suggest that ethics training plays an important role in the employees' performance in an organization and is an essential ingredient if success is to be achieved. The findings also suggest that the employees themselves consider ethics training as a vital element for their personal improvement and as a necessary factor for the achievement of their targets. The findings and lessons obtained during the compilation of this study may constitute a good addition to already scarce intellectual resources on ethics training in the Ghanaian context. The findings may also be beneficial for companies trying to improve on ethics training in Ghana as well as serve as assistance in further research.Item Factors affecting the sustainability of family businesses in Ghana after the exit of first generation of founding family members(2018-04) Muithi, Fiona MuthioFamily businesses, many of which fall within the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), are the center of growth in developing countries such as Ghana as they contribute significantly to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), promote employment opportunities and serve as a means of alleviating poverty. Despite being the center of growth in developing countries, most family businesses rarely have a successful transition from one generation to the next. Majority of research done on family businesses has been carried out on succession planning, corporate governance and characteristics of the different generations running the business. The aim of this paper is to find out the various factors affecting the sustainability of family businesses in Ghana and find strategies around them to ensure long-term sustainability. A qualitative approach was employed in the collection and analysis of data. Using the Sustainable Family Business (SFB) model grounded in the systems theory, this study found out that of all the factors that affect sustainability, succession planning and family dynamics have the most impact on the sustainability of the family business, followed by founder’s syndrome. Entrepreneurial tradition had little to no impact on the sustainability of the business. This study hopes to contribute to the current family business discussion by bringing together the four unique factors that affect family businesses with the hope of finding strategies that will not only increase sustainability of family businesses but also increase the shelf-life of SMEs in general.Item A feasibility study into the establishment of a Gambian restaurant in Accra(2018-04) Jallow, SukaiTravelling to a new environment comes with experiencing new cultures which can lead to cultural shock. Food is one of the factors that cause cultural shock because it differs from one country to another. However, in this interconnected world, experiencing cultural shock because of food can be reduced because countries are now establishing restaurants all over the world where they serve their home meals. The establishment of ethnic restaurants in many parts of the world has made it possible for people to experience foreign dishes without leaving their country and enjoy their home dishes while away. However, Gambians and people who will like to try Gambian dishes are missing on this opportunity because there is no Gambian cuisine restaurant in Accra. This study, therefore, proposes a Gambian cuisine restaurant as a solution to this issue and investigates whether it will be a viable business from a demand point of view. To help achieve this, a field survey was conducted, and questionnaires were administered to 208 respondents including Gambians and other nationals aged 15 years and above, residing in Accra. Interview questions were also administered to 12 participants. In addition, the owner of an ethnic restaurants in Accra was interviewed to highlight the challenges the proposed restaurant is likely to encounter. Finally, a PESTLE analysis was conducted to assess the feasibility and challenges of the proposed restaurant. Findings from the data shows that majority of the respondents are willing to patronize the proposed restaurant. Also, from the PESTLE analysis, the proposed restaurant is feasible, and it will be a viable business from a demand point of view.Item From filthy to filthy rich: Exploring opportunities for social enterprise to improve solid waste management in the Accra Metropolitan Area(2016-04) Vorgbe, Victor KafuiCities in developing nations round the world cannot keep up with the vast quantities of solid waste they produce daily. In Accra, Ghana’s capital, despite the fact that about 100% of the waste collection function has been ceded to private waste contractors, about 30% of the waste produced remains uncollected, ending up in gutters, choking drains and blocking waterways. This poses a health risk to the people of Accra Ironically, waste holds economic, environmental and social value, hence its potential benefits are worth exploring and exploiting. Current literature has largely ignored the role of social enterprises in improving waste management in the major cities of developing countries such as Accra. This paper uses the UN-Habitat Integrated Sustainable Waste Management benchmarking methodology, to evaluate waste management in Accra and to identify opportunities for social enterprises to contribute to improved waste management. It was found that there is a lot more that can be done in Accra to improve its current waste collection coverage, controlled disposal as well as recycling rates, which are lagging behind the international median for lower-middle income regions. There is also a vibrant informal sector which social enterprises can organize and integrate into existing waste management structures to contribute to waste segregation, composting and recycling. There are however gaps in the policy framework and legislation for social enterprises which continue to hinder the scope and magnitude of their goal of positive social value creation.Item Improving efficiency through layout optimization for Les Klar Couture.(2019-04) Boateng, Clara Akosua NyantakyiwaaLes Klar Couture is a fashion company located in Ghana and noted for its simple, decent but classy designs. Selling at affordable prices, Les Klar hopes to expand its operations worldwide, a few years to come. It, however, focuses on empowering its clients to have confidence in themselves and to dress to suit their body sizes. The company currently runs its main branch at North Industrial Area and is yet to operate at its new branch in Kasoa. However, after conducting a needs assessment test, it was realized that the layout plan adopted in the old branch does not allow the workers to be very efficient due to lack of space. The owner is therefore unsure of which layout plan to adopt for the new branch. Thus, intensive research was carried out to explore and understand how the layout strategies adopted by firms, influences the efficiency of workers. Again, this can have a large influence on the perceptions clients create about a brand. A well designed layout also prevents casualties that may occur in the workplace. Thus, Les Klar adopted a layout plan that encompasses both the office layout and the process-oriented layout for the new branch. An implementation plan in a 3D format was created for the company to enable them to operate the new branch. Part of the solution was however implemented by the company but could not be fully implemented due to unavailability of the remaining equipment. For this solution to work effectively, the company should employ experts to aid with an inventory management system to help them minimize cost and to increase their presence on social media through various forms of advertisements.Item Influence of financing methods on the value of commercial properties: A case of Airport City(2013-04) Ba-Taa-Banah, TracyThe real estate industry is lucrative industry as the developing economy continue to boom. It has being likened to the rise and fall of most economies. In Ghana, the industry is a relatively young one, and has shown signs of growth and expansion. It is a capital intensive industry, where availability of finance is crucial in determining the viability of any development. In valuing real estate developments, focus is placed on four main factors, that is: location, structural quality, use/purpose and legal ownership. Even though the industry is capital intensive, the mode of financing is considered in the valuation of developments. The focus of this thesis was thus to investigate how the methods of financing influence the value of commercial properties, using Airport City, Accra, as a study area. It sought to establish a relationship between the methods of financing and the valuation of commercial properties. The research also considered the methods of financing and valuation at Airport City, Accra, and concluded by making recommendations for developers and Valuers. Having analysed data collected using thematic and narrative analysis, it was found that, for developments within the study area, there is indeed a relationship between the method of financing and the value of commercial properties. It was thus recommended that developers consider what method of financing they adopt in determining the value of their properties.Item Investigating the desirability and feasibility of the ‘Old People’s Home’ as a viable business in Ghana(2016-04) Akinny, Wendy DzidzorGhana’s population is ageing at the same time that its extended family system is collapsing. The Ghanaian government is however, not making sufficient efforts to cater for the long-term needs of the elderly. This study therefore proposed the “Old People’s Home” as a solution to elderly care problems and investigated whether it will be a viable business in Ghana. To help achieve this objective, factors that can influence profitability of the Old people’s home in Ghana were identified and discussed. Data collection was limited to Accra. A 3-pronged strategy was employed in answering the research questions and in achieving the research objectives: (i) Questionnaires and interviews were administered to 60 potential family caregivers, aged between 25 and 59. (ii) The owner of an existing Old people’s home in Accra was interviewed to highlight challenges faced and evaluate the sustainability of such a venture and (iii) PESTLE and financial analyses were conducted to assess the feasibility of a hypothetical Old people’s home. Findings indicated that, majority of the respondents did not want to patronize Old People’s Homes as a result of their attitudes, cultural beliefs and the general economic hardship. However, the “Old People’s Home” may be viable if people’s views about care homes change over time. The PESTLE and financial analysis, however, concluded that the Old People’s Home could be sustained as a business as long as there were at least 15 customers under care. However, given the difficulty in attracting customers and the steep marketing expenditure that will be needed to change people’s views about Old People Homes in Ghana, the study finds evidence against such a venture, at least in the short term.Item An investigation of the branding practices of Ghanaian owned hotels in Accra(2011-04) Sasu, SusanThis dissertation investigated the branding practices of Ghanaian owned hotels in Accra. This was done through a combination of qualitative and quantitative studies of fifty (50) selected hotels, which are owned by Ghanaians. Aaker’s Seven Ps model, developed in 1996, states that a business must address seven Ps (Product, Price, Place, Promotion, Process, People and Physical environment) in its business in order to achieve effective branding. Dobree and Page (1990) also postulated a service branding model which asserts that in branding a service, five key steps should be followed. A combination of Aaker’s model and Dobree and Page’s model served as the theoretical framework for this study. The use of interviews and questionnaires were instrumental in determining which branding practices were adopted by the selected Ghanaian owned hotels and the findings of this research were used to make generalizations about the entire Ghanaian hotel industry. Interesting relationships were found among some of the variables in this study. Such direct relationships found were between the extent to which branding is used by the hotels and their occupancy rates. Additionally, a direct relationship was found between how the hotel has positioned itself and the extent to which branding is used. Some challenges of these hotels were also examined and recommendations were made to that effect. This research was indeed successful in establishing that many Ghanaian owned hotels engage in some branding practices as put in the context of the theoretical framework adopted in this study.Item An investigation on the entrepreneurial opportunities in the ornamental plants industry in Accra, Ghana(2018-04) Tabbicca, Amiineh KizitaAgriculture is the backbone of the economy of Ghana (Ghana Statistical Service, 2016). However, Ghana’s agriculture mainly focuses on the production of staple foods such as cassava, cocoa and not high value crops like ornamental plants and spices (Index Mundi, 2018). This research study aimed to investigate the entrepreneurial opportunities in the ornamental plants sector in Accra- Ghana, which could help reduce the high rate of unemployment, 11.9% in Ghana (Ghana Statistical Service, 2016) The study further probed into how entrepreneurs could recognize and effectively exploit the opportunities identified in the industry to maximize profits. In answering these questions, a total sample of 16 small- scale florists in Accra were engaged in an in-depth- interview into the topic studied. The results of these interviewed revealed the primary challenges in the industry to be resource constraints and low levels of qualification. Further probing in the interviews exposed creativity, location of business, after-purchase services and education as recognized entrepreneurial opportunities by the small scale florists in the ornamental plants industry. To exploit these entrepreneurial opportunities, the necessary qualities required by an entrepreneur expressed by the respondents included entrepreneurial intention, employment creation, personal traits, and the goal of satisfying the need of customers. These attributes facilitates the exploitation of these opportunities to make profits. It was found that, potential entrepreneurs can capitalize on these opportunities in various fields in the industry to create jobs for graduates, florists and the unemployed in the country.Item Market research for SWoove(2019-04) Blankson, Kevin KwameThis capstone project sought to provide the client with an in depth understanding of the delivery space of Ghana, the various interactions between the businesses in this space, individuals and the major players in the delivery space I.e. logistic and delivery service personnel. It achieved this by conducting interviews and through the administration of surveys to the general public through platforms like WhatsApp and Twitter and Facebook. It did not however include an evaluation of the competitors and their individual strengths and weaknesses. It did this by conducting an in-depth interview between the above mentioned. It also sought to find out if the proposed operational plan of the firm is a good fit for the local industry and finally if their proposed strategy for entering the market is a sound one.