Knowledge Transfer From Developed Nations To Local Businesses In Tanzania: A Case Of Bakhressa Group Of Companies Ltd

ABSTRACT

The Purpose of this study was to understand the knowledge transfer from developed

nations to local businesses in Tanzania. The objectives of the study were to understand the

major business conducted by Bakhressa Group of Companies (BGC), to assess the

transfer of knowledge towards production and to identify the challenges face by BGC in

adopting knowledge transfer from developed countries. Data collection methods include

structured questionnaires, Focus Group Discussion (F-G-D), Key Informative Interviews,

and researcher‟s personal field observation. A sample of 50 workers was randomly

selected from the Bakhressa companies. Data were analyzed using SPSS 16 computer

program. The main findings of the study show that BGC has established different

businesses mainly based on industrial production. Some of the products produced are such

as pure drinking water, milk, juices and carbonated beverages; also the company is

engaged in transportation services through water and road transport of passengers as well

as cargo. The knowledge transfer was noted in Bakhressa industries by comparing the

production methods which were used few years back to recently methods based on the

knowledge and skills of workers, technology imposed in the production process, kind of

raw materials used and the use of relevant machines in production. Challenges faced by

BGC in the process of knowledge transfer were identified such as less budget set aside to

cover the process of knowledge transfer such as seminars and workshops Generally

transfer of knowledge in BGC is observed hence it is a continuous processes that has no

end because as day goes on new knowledge and technology are identified by developed

countries. It is recommended that Management of the industries of BGC should increase

the budget on issues relating to knowledge acquisition and awareness to workers on the

importance of innovation as a way to penetrating international market, so that the local

products can be able to compete in International Market.