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Implementation Of The Public Procurement And Disposal Act, (2005) - Kenya And Organizational Performance
Get PDFPublic Procurement is one of the major objectives of any government striving to deliver goods and services to its people. The government is a major purchaser of goods and services that entails the application of colossal amounts of money running into billions of shillings and if the procurement process is not transparent and efficient, it results in the loss of taxpayers’ money which leads to poverty, insecurity, poor infrastructure, inadequate health services among others. Unfortunately the foregoing scenario has characterized public procurement in Kenya over the years. In an attempt to address these weaknesses, the Kenyan Government enacted the Public Procurement & Disposal Act (PPDA, 2005). Since the Act was put in place, little is available to explain the effect the implementation has had in improving the performance of public entities in delivery of services to Kenyans. The study therefore sought to determine the effect of the PPDA,(2005) implementation on performance of Kenyan state corporations. Explanatory survey design was adopted with a target population of 187 state corporations as per the list of the Taskforce on Parastatal Reforms (2013). The sample size was 125 state corporations and the study managed to get respondents from 112 corporations drawn from the five functional categories. Both primary and secondary data were used for analysis in the study. Primary data was obtained from the information in the questionnaires distributed to procurement practitioners and interview guides from the accounting officers whereas the secondary data was retrieved from existing reports of the PPOA website. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regressions. The findings of the study indicated a significant effect of the PPDA, (2005) implementation on performance of state corporations. Enforcement moderated the relationship between the PPDA, (2005) implementation and organizational performance. The study's limitation was the population as it only targeted procurement practitioners and Accounting officers in state corporations. The research thus recommends future studies to widen data coverage by involving mainstream government departments, county governments and service providers. Findings also indicated that enforcement of implementation of the rules increased levels of compliance; however, results also indicated that the compliance audits conducted by the oversight authority were very low. The implication is that policy makers should focus more on enforcement as it is an incentive for state corporations to increase implementation and compliance thus improving their performance. Study also revealed that e-procurement system had not been significantly embraced yet it highly contributed to transparency of the procurement process and increased efficiency. Policy makers in government should lay more emphasize in encouraging state corporations to invest in the e-procurement solution.Key words: Public procurement, implementation, organizational performance, state corporations, enforcement, procurement practitioners, accounting officers
The influence of gender in the relationship between Participatory Monitoring and Evaluation, and Citizen Empowerment
Get PDFParticipatory monitoring and evaluation (PM&E) has over the years been considered indispensable means to citizen empowerment. However, the validity of this claim has hardly been established empirically. This study sought, not only to establish the influence of PM&E on citizen empowerment, but also the moderating role of gender in this relationship. The empirical investigation took the form of a mixed-methods approach involving concurrent parallel design, in which samples for quantitative and qualitative components were different but drawn from the same population and data collected within the same timeframe. Two hundred and twelve participants responded to a self-administered questionnaire. Two Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were also conducted to establish the qualitative mechanisms at play in the quantitative data generated. Participants of the study were community members who participated in a World Vision International’s PM&E model dubbed ‘Integrated Programming Model’. Whilequantitative data were analysed through linear regression analyses, the qualitative component utilized interpretive technique, coding and recursive abstraction. Both the quantitative and qualitative findings support the notion that there is a positive linear relationship between PM&E and citizen empowerment; and that gender does not significantly moderate the relationship between PM&E and citizen. The study revealed that PM&E can be a tool for pacifying the effect of inequality, since the experience of empowerment outcomes is not sensitive to one’s gender.Key words: Citizen Empowerment; Participatory Monitoring and Evaluation, gende
Human Capital and Performance of Commercial Banks and Insurance Firms in Kenya
Get PDFThe purpose of the study was to establish the influence of human capital on the performance of insurance firms and commercial banks in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive crosssectional survey design and a census survey was carried out on all the 43 licensed commercial banks and 45 insurance firms in Kenya. The target respondents were the Human Resources Managers and the questionnaire was the data collection instrument that was used. Out of the 88 firms that were targeted, 54 responded, constituting a response rate of 61%. Hypothesis wastested using simple linear regression analysis. Descriptive statistics were computed for organizational data and the main characteristics of the study variables. Data was presented in form of tables. The findings revealed that the influence of human capital on non-financial measures of firm performance was statistically significant. These results are consistent withexisting literature which points out a positive effect of human capital on firm performance. A firm's human capital is an important source of sustained competitive advantage (Hitt et al.,2001) and therefore investments in the human capital of the workforce may increase employee productivity and financial results (Black and Lynch, 1996; Pfeffer, 1998; Snell and Dean, 1992). This study contributes to understanding the link between human capital and firm performance, while at the same time confirms the findings of previous studies that have found a significant link between human capital and firm performance. Organizations can enhance their human capital by embracing rigorous selection procedures and matching the right people with the right jobs. Academic qualifications and work experience should be considered during selection. Key words: Human Capital, Firm Performance, Commercial Banks, Insurance Firms,Keny
Evaluation of Steroid Utilization in Management of Asthma in a Tertiary Hospital in Northern Nigeria
No full textBackground: There are concerns about the rational use of corticosteroids in asthma as they are associated with serious adverse drug reactions, abuse and are rarely evaluated in clinical settings. Objectives: The study set out to evaluate the drug utilization parameters of corticosteroids in the management of chronic asthma in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Nigeria. Method: A Retrospective study employing structured data collection form to obtain data from randomly selected folders of 120 asthmatic out-patients in a tertiary health care facility between July 2011 and June 2012. Prescribing, facility and complimentary drug use indicators were analyzed using descriptive and Chi-Square statistics. Results: Females accounted for 80% of study population, mainly housewives (51.6%). While 59.1% were aged 21-50 years. Mean number of drugs per prescription was 4.46±0.098. Generic prescriptions were 45.5% while antibiotics and injections were 30% and 28.4% respectively. The medications most utilized include inhaled Fluticasone/Salmeterol fixed combination in 71% and inhaled Salbutamol in 77.7% of patients respectively. Oral corticosteroid (prednisolone) was used in 25% of patient. The average cost per prescription was N5080 ($31). There was no significant association between severity of asthma and use of inhalational steroids (Chi-Square P>0.05), in contrast to a statistically significant difference (P=0.01) in use of oral corticosteroids. Conclusion: Sub maximal utilization of steroids in asthmatics as inhalational therapy was observed. Recommendations on the use of therapy that suit local conditions with respect to cost will promote adherence and ultimately improve rational drug use and outcomes in patients Key words: Steroid Utilization, Chronic Asthma, Fluticasone/Salmeterol, Salbutamo
Comparison of variously prepared Momordica charantia aqueous leaf extracts on the isolated mammalian heart
Get PDFBackground: Mormodica charantia is indigenous in tropical and subtropical regions. It is commonly used for its medicinal properties including management of measles and lowering blood glucose. Despite wide consumption of its aqueous leaf extracts that are prepared and stored under various conditions, their pharmacological activities on the heart are yet to be analyzed. Objectives: The objective of the study was to show the effect of Momordica charantia aqueous leaf extract stored under various conditions on the isolated mammalian heart. Methodology: Six healthy rabbits were included in the study. Each rabbit was sacrificed and the heart mounted on the Langerndorff apparatus. Baseline rate and force of contraction were taken, after which each of the various aqueous leaf extract was administered in increasing doses and changes in rate and force of contraction noted. Paired T-test and repeated measures ANOVA were used to test for statistical significance. P values less than 0.05 indicated statistical significance. Results: A significant (P<0.001) dose depended increase in myocardial rate and force of contraction with the administration of the various extract preparations was noted. However, there was a larger increase in force as compared to rate of contraction. Discussion: Momordica charantia aqueous leaf extract solution stored in various conditions have different dose related effects on myocardial contraction. The current study demonstrated a pattern of increase in force and rate of contraction after the administration of the various doses of the extracts. Keywords: Momordica charantia, various extract, heart
Incidence and Risk Factors of Renal Dysfunction in Patients on Nevirapine-Based Regimens at a Referral Hospital in Kenya
No full textIntroduction: Nevirapine-based regimens are the most commonly used ART in Kenya. There is little literature on the renal toxicity of NNRTIS in Kenyan settings. Some studies in Asia have demonstrated an association of NNRTIs and renal toxicity. Given that NNRTIs may cause renal toxicity, clinical studies on their contribution to the same are required. Objectives: To evaluate the incidence and risk factors for renal dysfunction in HIV adult patients on Nevirapine based regimens. Methodology: The design was a descriptive (right censored arm) hospital based retrospective cohort study carried out at a national referral hospital. Ethical approval was obtained. The study population was patients on Nevirapine based regimens seen between May and August, 2014. Convenient sampling was used to recruit 241 patients. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formula. Patients with eGFR < 50ml/min/1.73m2 were considered to have renal dysfunction. Data obtained by the patient interviews and abstraction of patient files and was analyzed using STATA software. Ordered Logistic regression was used to identify covariates that determine the severity of renal dysfunction. Results: The incidence of renal dysfunction was 4.3% (95% C.I, 1.68-6.94).Five (2.1%) patients had a low eGFR at baseline, while ten (8.3%) patients had elevated serum creatinine (above 120µg/l). None of the patients developed severe renal dysfunction. Seventy (32%) and ten (4.6%) had mild and moderate renal dysfunction respectively. The females had a higher risk of developing renal dysfunction (adjusted O.R 0.48 (95% C.I 0.24-1.04; p=0.04). Alcohol consumption was a significant predictor of renal dysfunction (adjusted O.R 1.84 (95% C.I 1.01-3.29; p=0.04).All fifteen patients with a BMI of over 18.5 had elevated eGFR of below 50ml/min/1.73m.2Patients who had been initiated on stavudine based regimens had the highest incidence of renal dysfunction. Conclusion: Routine eGFR calculations should be done at each clinical visit. Early detection of risk factors and systematic screening should be advocated for improved patient care. Key Words: Body Mass Index, Renal dysfunction, Stavudine, Nevirapin
Geophysical investigations of Suyien Earthdam in Maralal, Samburu County, Kenya
Get PDFThe Current economic and population growth has increased the water supply gap in Maralal, Samburu County. Water sources include boreholes, pans and the Suyien dam. Despite the high rainfall in the area, Suyien dam has never filled since its construction in March 2010. This study investigated the geological factors hindering the dam’s impoundment of water. The aim was to determine the characteristics of the subsurface compromising this process. A desk survey of existing geological and hydrological reports as well as topographic and geological maps was undertaken. Analysis of laboratory tests, aerial photographs, electrical resistivity and trial pits was done. Results showed that the topography, dotted with several sinusoidal hills comprises Mozambiquan rocks, igneous intrusives, and Paleogene-Quaternary volcanics and sediments. Neo-Proterozoic and volcanic formations had surface joints and fractures implying secondary porosity and permeability. Hydrogeological information showed boreholes sited near rivers or laggas, yield about 1.4-2.5 m3/hour and about 4 m3/hour in volcanic rocks. Geophysical investigations showed subsurface rock sequences were fractured allowing groundwater leakage. Sediment deposition and vegetation growth at the dam's entrance also block water drainage into the dam. Suggested mitigation include, unblocking the dam’s entrance to allow in surface runoff and the sealing of fractures with waterproof cement
Relationship Marketing And Customer Loyalty In Mobile Telecommunication Industry In Nairobi, Kenya
No full textRelationship marketing is a strategy designed to build customer loyalty, interaction andcustomer long-term engagement through provision of information and opencommunication that suits customer needs. The broad objective of the study was to analyzethe relationship between customer relationship marketing and customer loyalty in themobile telecommunication industry in Nairobi, Kenya. The study employed a descriptivesurvey design. The population comprised individual customers of the four mobiletelecommunication companies in Kenya. A sample size of 384 respondents was utilized.Proportionate stratified sampling method based market share of each company was used.Primary data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire while descriptivestatistics and simple regression analysis was used to analyze the quantitative data. Thefindings were as follows, quality of a service is subjectively perceived by customers duringthe interactions with a firm and has critical impact on customers' evaluation of servicequality; effective communication of pricing policies as well as flexible pricing for variousservices offered play a great role in customer loyalty; positive brand image makes it easierfor a firm to convey its brand value to consumers and also generates favorable customerloyalty among people; Businesses operating in an intensely price based competitiveenvironment, dependent on high economies of scale and with low levels of staff-customerinteraction are bound to suffer shocks in their market positions and profitability, Howeverlarge investments on relational strategies like building trust, commitment, communicationand satisfaction can turnaround the shocks
An Empirical Analysis of Board Activity, Corporate Governance Mechanisms, and Firm Value
Get PDFWe studied the relationship between board activity, a firm’s existing corporate governance structures and mechanisms, and firm value. The association between board activity and corporate governance variables is complex and multi-faceted. The two testable propositions in the study were that: an association exists between board activity and an array of corporate governance mechanisms; and that board activity adds value to the firm and by inference to shareholders. Board activity, measured by the frequency of board meetings, had a negative but lagged relationship with financial performance, a negative relationship with the size of the board, a negative relationship with insider ownership, a positive relationship with both the number of block holders and the number of other directorships held by directors, and insignificant relationships to both board independence and the number of committees. This confirms that other ownership and board composition characteristics could substitute board activity. The analysis of the interaction between board meetings frequency and the value of the firm is lagged but positive, implying relatively low market valuations triggers intervention of the board through frequent meetings that apparently impacts positively on firm value.Key Words: Board, Board activity, corporate governance, Governance mechanisms, Firm value
Financing and Availability of Essential Medicines Before and After Introduction of the National Hospital Insurance Fund Civil Servants and Disciplined Services Medical Scheme At Webuye District Hospital, Kenya
No full textBackground: Financing is an important determinant of access to essential medicines. In Kenya, the National Hospital Insurance Fund Civil Servants and Disciplined Services Medical Scheme is a key contributor to financing the procurement of essential medicines. Main Objective: To compare availability and funding of essential medicines at Webuye District Hospital, Kenya before and after implementation of the new National Hospital Insurance Fund Medical Scheme. Methods: This was a longitudinal before-after study of four years (January 2010-December 2013); the latter two of which the scheme was in operation. Results: After introduction of the scheme, there was a higher allocation for the medicines budget from the Facility Improvement Fund, which hosts finances from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (p=0.008). The actual expenditure on essential medicines was also higher. Expenditure on essential medicines by the government, reduced (p<0.0001). The stock out rate decreased by 2.28% though this change was not statistically significant (p=0.099). The Facility Improvement Fund expenditure on essential medicines was a significant negative predictor of stock out rate. Conclusion: Although financing of medicines through the facility improvement fund increased after introduction of the new scheme, there was no change in the stock-out rate. Key words: financing, availability, essential medicines, insuranc