African Journal of Empirical Research
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Influence of ICT infrastructure on service delivery in Turkana County Government, Kenya
Get PDFE-government is the application of digital technologies, including ICT systems, networks, and online platforms, in the modernization of service provision to the public. It was initiated in the 1990s, and it tries to enhance efficiency, transparency, accountability, and responsiveness through automation of processes, lessening of bureaucracy, and increasing access of the citizen to information and services. When properly introduced, it improves resource management, boosts the confidence of the people, and is beneficial to the citizens, businesses, and civil society by providing them with more connected and trustful governance. This study aimed to establish the influence of ICT infrastructure on the adoption of e-government on service delivery in the Turkana County Government. It was anchored on the Diffusion of Innovation Theory. A descriptive survey design and correlation designs were employed, targeting 22 senior managers, 44 middle-level managers, 40 lower-level managers, and 545 technicians involved in the execution of e-government digital platforms. The sample size included 336 respondents; 230 technicians were chosen by simple random sampling, and 106 key informants (middle-level, senior, and lower-level management) were selected purposively. Data was collected using questionnaires, surveys, observations, interviews, and document reviews. The quantitative data were studied and evaluated through descriptive and inferential statistics (measures of central tendency, Pearson, regression analysis, ANOVA) and were represented in tables. The results showed that ICT infrastructure has a significant impact on service delivery, and through the regression analysis, a positive correlation was determined between the two (r=0.705, p-value=0.000). The regression analysis showed a regression coefficient of 0.563 and a p-value of 0.000. ICT infrastructure showed a regression coefficient of 0.563 and a p-value of 0.000. The researcher concluded that there was a positive and significant impact of ICT infrastructure on service delivery. The research recommended that the county government invest in consistent and stable internet services by collaborating with service providers to increase connectivity among all the sub-counties
Strategies for reducing outpatient waiting times in urban public hospitals in Lusaka, Zambia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Get PDFDelays in outpatient waiting times are one of the major barriers to health system performance and patient satisfaction in the low- and middle-income countries. In Lusaka, Zambia, there is still endemic congestion and inefficiencies within the functioning of the first-level hospitals in the country. In order to research these phenomena, a cross-sectional study was conducted at Kanyama and Chilenje First-Level Hospitals, where 410 adult outpatients were selected through the simple random sampling method. Queuing theory guided the study. These quantitative findings are just a portion of a large mixed study that aimed at developing an operational framework for optimizing outpatient waiting time in public health facilities in Zambia. A designed questionnaire was used to gather the information on demographics, service-point waiting time, patient perceptions, and factors with regard to management. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were implemented in SPSS v26 and responses given in open-ended format to thematic coding, respectively. Almost half (46.13%) of the respondents have waited between 3 and 6 hours, with the longest waiting time at the reception, triage, and pharmacy. The shortage in human resources, especially when the restaurant is facing peak times, as well as insufficient infrastructure, has turned out to be the effective predictor of long waiting times. Even though 82 percent of the facilities stated the use of an appointment system, most visits (72 percent) were walk-ins, meaning little use of scheduling tools. The measures that were confidently supported by patients included additional staffing during the busy hours, the task-shifting towards nurses in case of routine consultations (90.7%), and the introduction of the triage and appointment systems (more than 80). A willingness to repeat the same facilities was mentioned by only 31% of patients, and their reasons were long queues, bad coordination, and slow service delivery. Generally, the systemic inefficiencies, low capacity of the staff, and lack of infrastructure are the major causes of outpatient delays in the public hospitals of Lusaka. To effectively reduce outpatient waiting times, strategic efforts should prioritize workforce optimization, improvement of triage and appointment mechanisms, digitalization of patient registration through SmartCare, and expansion of healthcare infrastructure. Embedding these initiatives within Zambia’s broader health systems management and e-health frameworks is likely to yield substantial improvements in service delivery efficiency, patient satisfaction, and overall trust in the public health system
Challenges faced by headteachers in setting school goals and expectations in basic schools: A case study of Asante Akim North Municipality, Ghana
Get PDFThis study explored leadership barriers to goal framing and setting expectations in public schools in Ghana, focusing on headteachers’ experiences and the institutional constraints they face. Public schools in Ghana are frequently characterized by unclear, multiple, or absent goals, hindering effective planning and learner achievement. Headteachers, as key leaders, are responsible for establishing school goals and expectations; however, heavy workloads, diverse stakeholder interests, and systemic constraints present significant challenges. Adopting a phenomenological approach and a qualitative research design, the study utilized purposive maximum variation sampling to capture a broad range of perspectives across junior high, primary, and kindergarten levels in the Asante Akim North Municipality. Schools were stratified by educational level and rural-urban setting, with participants categorized as headteachers, School Improvement Support Officers [SISOs], and lead teachers. From a population of 129 staff across 69 public schools, 23 headteachers, 5 SISOs, and 22 lead teachers were selected. Responses were obtained from 11 headteachers, 4 SISOs, and 10 lead teachers, each with over 15 years of professional experience. Data were gathered via semi-structured questionnaires and interviews. Guided by an interpretive philosophical approach, the responses were transcribed, coded, and analyzed to identify emerging themes. Findings indicated that inadequate coaching and orientation limit teachers’ ability to contribute to goal development. Additional challenges included unsustainable government policies, poor dissemination of school mission and vision statements, and difficulties in formulating Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound (SMART) goals. Financial constraints and limited expertise further undermined effective goal-setting. The study recommends targeted orientation programs on goal-setting policies, as well as workshops and seminars to enhance skills in developing school goals, objectives, mission, and vision statements. Furthermore, regular monitoring should be instituted to ensure that schools set and adhere to realistic, achievable goals
Exploring strategies employed by geography teachers to implement learner-centred approaches in secondary schools in Temeke District (Dar es Salaam Region) and Kilwa District (Lindi Region), Tanzania
Get PDFThe implementation of learner-centred approaches (LCAs) is essential for fostering students’ engagement, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities in secondary school geography. Guided by Constructivist Learning Theory, this study examined the strategies used by teachers to implement LCA, the factors facilitating its use, and the barriers hindering its application in Tanzanian secondary schools. The study was conducted between August and November 2021 in four schools—Wailes and St Antony Mbagala in Temeke District, and Kilwa Kivinje and Kilwa Masoko Islamic in Kilwa District—representing public and private institutions in both urban and semi-rural contexts. The target population included geography teachers and Form Three students. A mixed-methods approach was employed. Quantitative data were collected from 200 students using structured questionnaires, while qualitative insights were obtained through classroom observations, interviews, and focus group discussions. Purposive sampling was used to select schools and teachers, whereas simple random sampling was used to select students. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were thematically analysed. Findings revealed that group discussions, question-and-answer sessions, and contextualised examples were the most commonly used learner-centred strategies. However, Information and Communication Technology [ICT] integration and fieldwork were rarely practised due to resource limitations. Qualitative data further indicated that collaborative learning, teacher motivation, and availability of instructional materials facilitated LCA implementation, while overcrowded classrooms, limited resources, examination pressure, and inadequate professional development constrained its consistency. The study concludes that although teachers are motivated to adopt LCA, systemic and contextual challenges hinder effective implementation. It recommends strengthening teacher training, improving access to learning resources, reducing class sizes, and enhancing school leadership support to promote sustainable, learner-centred pedagogy in geography education
Influence of the collaborative roles of human resource and line managers on organizational performance: A systematic review
Get PDFThe collaborative roles of Human Resource (HR) practitioners and line managers have garnered significant attention in management research, particularly for their potential to enhance organizational performance. Despite this interest, there is a lack of systematic investigation into how HR-line manager collaboration specifically influences organizational outcomes. This study explored the nature of HR-line manager collaboration and assessed its impact on organizational performance. Using a systematic review of scholarly articles published between 2018 and 2025 (following [Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses] PRISMA protocols) from reputable databases, combined with semi-structured interviews conducted with 15 key informants from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), the study provides comprehensive insights. The findings indicate that strong HR-line manager collaboration is positively linked to improved employee engagement, productivity, and retention. Qualitative analysis identifies significant challenges such as role ambiguity, inadequate training, and a deficiency of empathy among HR personnel. Conversely, effective collaboration is facilitated by clearly delineated roles and focused capacity-building initiatives. The study contributes practical recommendations for HR practitioners and policymakers by highlighting strategies to overcome collaboration barriers and optimize HR-line manager partnerships, ultimately promoting sustainable organizational success
Relationship between Personal Support and Performance of Students Enrolled in Distance Learning in Selected Public Universities in Kenya and Senegal
Get PDFDistance learning has emerged as a pivotal mode of education post-COVID-19, addressing challenges such as geographical and infrastructural limitations. This study evaluates the influence of personal support on the academic performance of students enrolled in distance learning at the University of Nairobi (UoN) in Kenya and the University of Cheikh Anta Diop (UCAD) in Senegal. The study was grounded in Moore\u27s Transactional Distance Theory, which defines transactional distance as the gap between two parties in a learning relationship. The study used a descriptive research design and a sample of 240 students drawn from a target population of 12,022 students. The researcher used purposive sampling to select the two universities for the study. In addition, the researcher used proportionate sampling to select students from each faculty, and simple random sampling technique to select students from each faculty. The researcher used standardized questionnaires to collect data from the participants. The questionnaires were administered with the help of research assistants. The researcher applied both descriptive and inferential statistics in data analysis. The researcher also used regression analysis, goodness-of-fit evaluation, and correlation analysis. The data analysis outcomes were presented using tables and graphs. The research identified a significant positive correlation between personal support and learner performance, with UoN exhibiting an R-squared value of 62% and UCAD 52%. Regression analysis revealed that a unit increase in personal support led to a 0.78 performance improvement at UoN and 0.72 at UCAD. The study underscores the importance of robust personal support systems, including mentorship, counselling, and academic guidance, in enhancing the effectiveness of distance learning. It was established that there exist a positive and significant relationship between personal support and learner performance. Recommendations include strengthening institutional frameworks and exploring longitudinal impacts of support mechanisms
ICT Integration in Rwandan Education: A Scoping Review of Opportunities and Challenges
Get PDFThis review paper examines the opportunities and challenges of integrating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into Rwanda\u27s education system. It aims to identify the potential benefits of ICT in teaching and learning, while also addressing the barriers that impede its effective use. Using the Diffusion of Innovation Theory, the study analyzes 17 publications from Google Scholar, ERIC, and Scopus, highlighting Rwanda\u27s efforts to transition to a knowledge-based economy through substantial ICT investments. The review identifies key opportunities such as improved teacher professional development, enhanced learning outcomes, increased access to educational resources, better school administration efficiency, and support for inclusive education. However, challenges remain, including limited internet access, a shortage of skilled human resources, inadequate project governance, and insufficient maintenance of ICT equipment. To overcome these issues, the paper recommends increased funding for ICT device maintenance, expanded ICT training for teachers and students, enhanced regulatory frameworks for emerging technologies, and greater equity in access and awareness. These measures aim to close existing gaps and optimize ICT integration in Rwanda\u27s education system
Assessing strategic alliances’ influence on performance of commercial banks, Kenya
Get PDFPerformance of Commercial Banks in Kenya has been on the decline in the last one decade with majority of the banks making minimal profit while others experiencing a yearly decline of more than 10% in profitability. This is against high cost of business operations; increased competition forms the digital space among others. Consequently, most of the banks have been experiencing a shrinking market share due to closure of some of their branches. Given the changes in the business environment such as entrance of new competitors, dynamic innovations, legislative and economic dynamics, organizations need to move with speed and make choices that add value to customers and those which will enable the organization remain relevant in such a dynamic business environment. It is on this context that this study sought to analyze the influence of strategic alliance on performance of Commercial Banks in Kenya The study was guided by the Resource-Based Theory of Strategic Alliances. This theory was appropriate since its major focus is on the rationale, formation and organizational preferences that have value addition for excellence. To achieve the objectives of the study, explanatory research design was used. Both primary and secondary data were collected. Primary data was collected using questionnaire while the secondary data was collected from relevant literature materials, organization’s annual reports and website. Cronbach’s Alpha co-efficient was used to test the reliability of the data with an acceptable level of 0.7 at a confidence level of 95%. The study targeted tier 2 Commercial Banks in Kenya with the top management bank employees as the key respondents. These tier 2 banks have been in existence for more than 20 years and controls over 17 % of the market share in the banking industry. These banks are capable of advancing to tier 1 category if the right strategies are put in place. The study employed census targeting the entire population of the 162 top management bank employees. 18 respondents drawn from the top management team at Family Bank Limited which is one of the Tier 2 banks were considered for pilot study through convenience method. The pilot respondents were excluded from the main study leaving out 144 respondents from the other 8 Tier 2 banks who were considered in the main study. Out of the 144 respondents, 120 top management employees responded the questionnaire hence result findings were based on the 120 respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used in analyzing the data. Descriptive statistics entailed the measure of central tendency (mean) and the measure of dispersions (standard deviation). The statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) was used to generate the data. Inferential statistics entailed regression and correlation analysis. Data was presented using tables. The study established that there was a significant influence on Product and processes through strategic alliances on performance of commercial banks in Kenya. The study concluded that, firstly, mobile banking and internet banking has enabled customers to access essential services at the comfort of their homes or offices. Secondly, big data solutions facilitate safeguarding of customers’ information. Thirdly, banks targets different categories of customers and uses differentiated channels in order to reach out to them hence the researcher recommends that banks need to adopt strategic alliances to reduce costs, ride on strengths, innovations and resources of key strategic partners in order to enhance performance
Comparative analysis of utilization of birthing position among parturient women in western Kenya
Get PDFMaternal and neonatal outcomes during the second stage of labor depend heavily on the positions women choose to adopt. Despite global and regional evidence supporting the benefits of alternative birthing positions: In Kenyan healthcare facilities the lithotomy position continues to be the main birthing position despite research supporting alternative positions like squatting, kneeling, and side-lying. The persistence of certain birthing positions is primarily caused by a lack of awareness among mothers about alternatives and healthcare systems that fail to endorse non-standard positions. The status of birthing position utilization plays a key role in advancing evidence-based maternal care practices. The research seeks to evaluate differences in birthing position utilization during the second stage of labor across two Kenyan regions, Kakamega and Bungoma. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was employed. The research study enrolled 481 pregnant women from antenatal clinics located in the two referral hospitals of Kakamega and Bungoma. Researchers used systematic sampling to choose participants and gathered data through structured questionnaires and observational checklists. Data analysis was conducted through descriptive statistics and chi-square tests while maintaining a significance threshold at p < 0.05. Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory provided the framework for this study because it emphasizes how observational learning and self-efficacy combined with environmental factors shape health behavior. Results: The majority of women who gave birth in the Bungoma district did so in the lithotomy position at a rate of 94.6%, compared to 93.3% in Kakamega district. Fifth point three percent of Bungoma participants and six-point seven percent of Kakamega participants had used alternative birthing positions. The chi-square test results indicated no statistically significant difference between the two study areas (χ² = 0.19, p = 0.663), confirming that they were comparable before the intervention. Conclusion: Research results indicate that the lithotomy position remains the predominant choice for women during the second stage of labor in Western Kenya. The research reveals significant gaps in maternal understanding and shows how healthcare system limitations prevent the usage of alternative birthing methods. Recommendation: Healthcare authorities need to update national maternal health resources and personal birth plans to provide information about birthing posture options. Healthcare providers require training while health facilities need proper equipment to accommodate multiple birthing positions
Relationship between entrepreneurship training and self-employment behaviour among the youths trained in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions in Kiambu County, Kenya
Get PDFThe study analysed the relationship between entrepreneurship training in Technical and Vocational Education Institutions (TVET) and self-employment among the youth in Kiambu County, Kenya. The focus of the study was to determine the effect of entrepreneurship training pedagogy, trainer traits, content and the social-economic background of the trainee and the tendency to be in self-employment. Positivism research philosophy and explanatory research design approaches were used. The theory of planned behaviour and social capital theory served as anchors for this study. The target population was 1960, composed of 1914 students and 46 trainers and management. By using the stratified simple random sampling method, 329 respondents made up the sample size. We collected data through questionnaires from 329 respondents, who included final-year students, entrepreneurship trainers, and management from public technical training institutions in Kiambu County. The results from the reliability analysis indicated that a Cronbach\u27s alpha above 0.7 for all items was achieved, which means the items are considered reliable and accepted for further study. Descriptive and inferential statistical tools were used to analyse the data. Specifically, mean, standard deviation, percentage, correlation and linear regression model were utilised while p-values tested the hypothesis. The results were presented as narratives, graphs, and tables. The results of the hypothesis testing showed a strong positive relationship between the content of entrepreneurship training (p=0.000<0.05), teaching methods (p=0.004<0.05), learning materials (p=0.029<0.05), and the entrepreneurial behaviour of TVET students in Kenya, as seen in their self-employment. There was a statistically significant positive relationship between trainer attributes (p = 0.093 > 0.05) and entrepreneurial behaviour in the referenced group. The occupation of the father, mother, or guardian (p = 0.122 > 0.05) had a significant positive moderating effect on the relationship between entrepreneurship training and entrepreneurial behaviour among TVET students in Kenya. The study thus concluded that entrepreneurship training content, entrepreneurship pedagogies, trainer attributes, and learning resources can be used as predictors of the entrepreneurial behaviour of technical and vocational education and training students in Kenya. We recommended a multi-agency approach and collaboration in the implementation and management of entrepreneurship training. There is a need for stakeholders to undertake holistic intentional measures aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship training. Additionally, it would be beneficial to conduct a tracer study to determine the proportion of TVET students who apply their entrepreneurial training skills in their daily lives