JOURNAL ARTICLE

Innovation capabilities and market performance in the Zimbabwean telecommunications industry: The mediating role of individual activity.

  • Published In: International Journal of Entrepreneurship & Innovation, 2026, v. 27, n. 1. P. 151 1 of 3

  • Database: Business Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Makumbe, William; Tapfuma, Florence 3 of 3

Abstract

This article investigates the impact of innovation capabilities on market performance within Zimbabwe's telecommunications sector, focusing on the mediating role of individual activity—defined as employees' innovation-related behaviors. Using survey data from 170 telecom managers and Structural Equation Modelling, the study found that participatory leadership culture significantly enhances market performance both directly and indirectly through individual activity, while work climate and well-being showed no significant effect. The research contributes to innovation literature by validating these relationships in a sub-Saharan African context and highlights the importance of leadership style and individual creativity in driving firm-level market outcomes. It suggests that telecom companies in developing economies should foster participatory leadership and support individual innovation activities to improve competitiveness and market success.

Additional Information

  • Source:International Journal of Entrepreneurship & Innovation. 2026/02, Vol. 27, Issue 1, p151
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Communication and Mass Media
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:1465-7503
  • DOI:10.1177/14657503231186484
  • Accession Number:191423972
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of International Journal of Entrepreneurship & Innovation is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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