THE IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION ON ECONOMIC GROWTH IN UGANDA: A CASE STUDY OF JUMIA, UGANDA
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Date
2024-10-07
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Uganda Christian University
Abstract
The focus of this research will be on the effect of technological innovation on economic growth in
Uganda using Jumia Uganda as a case study for (e-commerce) which is one frontieras recently
digitalized while maintaining utmost jest. It is well accepted that technological innovation fuels
economic growth and increases the leader's industrial productivity, efficiency, market
competitiveness in any industry. In countries such as Uganda, where traditional economic structures
tend to be inefficient, technology (specifically through digital platforms) presents revolutionary
prospects. The e-commerce platforms help in conducting business transactions remotely and helps to
serve the regions where retail infrastructure is sparse. The study sought to establish the specific
contributions of Jumia Uganda on local economy and how it is solving challenges that have existed
along credit supply terrains inhibiting economic growth.
The research will follow three specific goals: first to investigate the effect of technological
innovation on economic growth, secondly, assessing what were Jumia Uganda's contributions in
terms of solving local welfare problems and last but not least — some challenges that constrain
traditional retailing practices. We used a mixed-methods research design, incorporating quantitative
economics reports and surveys with qualitative expert interviews as well as focus groups. Statistical
analysis was conducted on quantitative data to identify trends and patterns; in-depth interviews were
analysed thematically for underlying themes of the treatment experience. Thus, the
comprehensiveness of this methodology guaranteed a strong analysis on Jumia Uganda's effects in
its economy.
The study findings have important policy implications showing that technological changes via Jumia
Uganda bring about substantial impacts on the capability of a country to increase productive
capacity and hence economic growth through productivity, market efficiency at financial inclusion.
In fact, the platform has promoted job creation while supporting small and medium enterprises
(SMEs), bosting market access – a broader economic participation along with consumer welfare. But
the report also notes major hurdles in areas such as infrastructure gaps, a lack of digital literacy and
regulatory barriers to more efficient operations. These are challenges and they impede the realization
of the full promise of technological innovation. In spite of these obstacles, Jumia Uganda scores
major economic points and could do considerably better if those challenges can be overcome.
The results of the study reveal that Jumia Uganda has contributed significantly towards cultivating
economic growth, but a combined input from both policymakers organizations as well other
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stakeholders attention is needed to overcome some barriers revealed in during this exercise. Policy
advice focuses on developing digital infrastructure; reinforcing regulatory frameworks and
improving enforcement to ensure protection for consumers in payment service provision activities,
implementing measures that promote financial education aimed at enhancing consumer confidence
among payments users, as well as launching capacity-building programmes targeting the
implementation of quantitative instruments used by SMEs. However, these strategic interventions
can magnify the operational impact of e-commerce platforms like Jumia Uganda to help in
sustainable economic development for both entrepreneurs and Ugandans on a larger scale.
Recommendations for further research include assessing the long-term effects of e-commerce,
comparative studies with other channels and a deeper understanding of consumer behavior and
trust in digital transactions. These initiatives will ensure technology innovation can transform
Uganda to a middle-income country in which no one is left behind.