African Journal of Empirical Research
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Effect of Financial Management Practices on Program Implementation: A Case of Early Childhood Development Program in Gasabo District, Rwanda
Get PDFThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of financial management practices on program implementation, a case study of early childhood development (ECDs) program. Specially, to assess the effect of program budgeting on implementation of early childhood development program in Gasabo district, to analyze the effect of financial risk management on implementation of early childhood development program in Gasabo district and to examine the effect of working capital management on implementation of early childhood development program in Gasabo district. This study was guided by the theory of budgeting, theory of constraints and cash management theory. Further, this study utilized the descriptive and correlational research design. A sample size of 338 respondents were drawn on 2187 people using Yamane formula. The study employed stratified and simple random sampling. Data collected were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential analysis. The findings show a very high mean score of 4.31 (SD=0.684) for the combined statements overall strong positive agreement that there is effect of program budgeting on implementation of early childhood development program in Gasabo district. Further, it shows a very high mean score of 4.02 for the combined statements an overall very strong positive opinions that there is effect of financial risk management on implementation of early childhood development program in Gasabo district, and a very high mean score of 4.23 (SD=0.632) for the combined statements an overall strong positive agreement that there is effect of working capital management on implementation of early childhood development program in Gasabo district. This study concludes that there is significant effect of financial risk management on implementation of early childhood development program in Gasabo district. The study suggests that program budgets should align financial resources with strategic objectives, ensuring effective allocation of funds. A well-structured budget enhances operational efficiency, accountability, and transparency. Managers should safeguard assets for long-term sustainability, identifying potential risks like market fluctuations, credit risks, operational challenges, and regulatory changes. Proactive risk assessment frameworks can help detect vulnerabilities early. Managers should maintain ECD\u27s liquidity and operational efficiency by optimizing the balance between current assets and liabilities to ensure sufficient cash flow for daily operations. Overall, a well-structured budget enhances operational efficiency and accountability
Understanding the motivating factors that influence online employee advocacy by examining the tension between personal and corporate voices at the Communications Authority of Kenya and Brandkings Kenya Limited
Get PDFEmployee advocacy is crucial for maintaining a strong reputation and effective strategic communication in the current era of a digitally enhanced work environment. The idea to enable employees as advocates or brand ambassadors has been, over the years, proven to build credibility, trust, and visibility. In Kenya, this shift is particularly pronounced in sectors such as telecommunications and corporate communication; however, there is a lack of research on what motivates employees to advocate online for their employers. This study was guided by three main theories of corporate communication; Agenda-Setting Theory, Reputation Management Theory and Organizational Culture Theory. Adopting a mixed-methods approach (70% quantitative and 30% qualitative), the research examined both intrinsic and extrinsic motivators of employee-driven brand promotion in a digital, reputation-conscious work environment. Stratified random sampling was used in determining the target respondents for the quantitative aspect of the research, and purposive sampling was employed when selecting respondents for the qualitative aspect of the research. Questionnaires were distributed via Google Forms for quantitative survey data collection, while Zoom and Google Meet were used for the qualitative interviews. The study achieved 470 responses; 24 of which could not be used, resulting in a final sample of 446. Both quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed using Excel’s Data Analysis Toolpak. In quantitative data analysis, independent t-tests and one-way Analysis of Variance [ANOVA] were conducted to examine whether there were statistically significant differences in advocacy behaviors across different job groups. Further, qualitative data were thematically inscribed, with transcripts being manually coded in Excel using conditional formatting to identify repeating themes, patterns, and key insights relevant to the dynamics of employee advocacy. To enhance understanding and ensure methodological rigor, the study used a convergent integration strategy. The findings indicate that 91% of employees are actively engaged in social media advocacy. The findings further indicate that stakeholder engagement (r = 0.75) and corporate voice (r = 0.71) have a significant influence on organizational reputation. Key motivator for online employee advocacy includes alignment with company values (31%) and personal branding (29%), both driven by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. It can be concluded that digital employee advocacy enhances brand reputation and fosters stakeholder engagement, emphasizing the importance of strategic support and clear policy. Qualitative insights reveal emotional connection, autonomy, and clear policies as key factors. The study highlights the need for strategic policies, reward programs, and communication training to promote responsible employee advocacy, contributing insights to global and regional digital engagement
Factors affecting financial performance in supply chains in Africa: A systematic literature review
Get PDFThis study employs a systematic literature review and content analysis to consolidate findings from studies that utilise partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) in exploring financial performance in supply chains in Africa. Based on data obtained from 9 Scopus-indexed journal articles published between 2020 and 2024, the study identified factors affecting financial performance in supply chains in Africa. The findings show that financial performance is negatively affected by internal green supply chain practices and green human resource management (HRM) practices. While, green supply chain management (SCM), supply chain environmental cooperation, green human capital, green logistics practices, supply chain collaboration, logistics and supply chain innovations, sustainable SCM, firm capabilities and green performance showed a significant positive direct impact. Mediators include green HRM, supply chain environmental cooperation, green SCM practices, green logistics practices, sustainable SCM, green radical product innovation, firm capabilities and green performance. Other factors such as ISO 14001 certification, firm size, age, and type act as control variables. Interestingly, the study revealed that only green HRM yielded contradictory findings towards financial performance. This review highlights key factors influencing financial performance in supply chains within Africa. It urges effective utilisation of the identified factors for enhancing financial performance. Also, the study calls for future research across African countries and establishing moderating variables using PLS-SEM
Sociocultural factors influencing cervical pre-cancer screening among women attending Mbagathi level four hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
Get PDFCervical cancer poses a significant global health challenge, causing around 340,000 deaths annually and ranking as the fourth most frequent cancer worldwide. The burden is heaviest in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where more than 90% of cervical cancer deaths occur, largely due to inadequate screening. In Kenya, cervical cancer is the second most frequent cancer among women after breast cancer, with 5,236 new cases and 3,211 deaths annually. Kenya’s cervical cancer mortality rates are expected to increase by 50% by 2030. Cervical pre-cancer screening, as endorsed by the WHO, stands as a crucial strategy towards the elimination of cervical cancer by 2030. Sociocultural barriers such as stigma, gender roles, and economic constraints continue to limit participation in preventive health programs. This study aimed to determine the sociocultural determinants influencing cervical pre-cancer screening uptake among women attending Mbagathi Level Four Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, using the Health Belief Model as the guiding theoretical framework. An analytical cross-sectional design was employed, targeting women aged 25–49 years. A total of 240 participants were interviewed through systematic random sampling at the hospital’s Mother and Child Health Clinic. Data was collected using structured questionnaires administered via KoboCollect and supplemented by health worker interviews. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression analyses were conducted using SPSS version 26. The study revealed the cervical pre-cancer screening rate among respondents as 39.6%. Screening uptake was shaped by multiple sociocultural factors. Insurance coverage showed a notable disparity, with 65.8% of women enrolled in NHIF while 34.2% lacked coverage. Although 69.6% reported discussing cervical cancer screening, 30.4% avoided such conversations due to stigma and cultural restrictions. Social networks exerted a strong influence on behavior, as 55.4% of the participants had friends who had undergone screening. Regression analysis revealed that sociocultural factors moderately predicted screening uptake (R = 0.413), accounting for 17.1% of variance. Participation was mainly associated with age, education, occupation, and income, but not with marital status or religion. Results demonstrate that cultural stigmas together with financial difficulties and weak awareness levels prevent screening from taking place, although individuals show strong confidence in discussing the issue (mean = 4.79, SD = 0.579). The study results also demonstrate that sociocultural variables strongly influence preventive actions in healthcare, yet unidentified elements remain important. The solution to these hurdles demands expert-crafted education, which refutes superstitions while providing monetary support to reduce affordability problems, and peer-based healthcare promotion, which activates community networks. This research reveals universal importance beyond Nairobi through its demand for local healthcare initiatives that will break down barriers and achieve health equity across similar areas. Additional future research needs to study variables beyond the findings that include systemic roadblocks alongside mental barriers so that complete strategies for sustainable screening participation and cervical cancer prevention become possible
Controlling management practices and pupils’ academic achievement in public primary schools in West Pokot County, Kenya: The moderating role of headteachers demographic characteristics
Get PDFThis study systematically analyzes the moderating role of Headteachers\u27 demographic characteristics (experience as a Headteacher, teaching experience, and academic qualifications) on the relationship between their controlling management practices and pupils\u27 academic achievement, in public primary schools in West Pokot County, Kenya. The study was guided by theories of education (functionalism, conflict, symbolic interactionism) and leadership (participative & transformational) theories. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey with a mixed-methods approach. The target population for this study comprised 320 Headteachers from public primary schools in West Pokot County that had recorded Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examinations results between 2012 and 2016, 1280 subject Heads of departments (HOD’s), 1920 class eight pupils, 4 Teachers Service Commission Sub- County Directors of Education (TSC SCDE) and One Quality Assurance and Standards Officer (QUASO). A sample size of 32 Headteachers, 128 Subject HODs, 4 TSC SCDE and One QUASO were selected purposively. Data was gathered using Questionnaires, structured interview guides, observation guides and document analysis of KCPE results for public primary schools. Simple linear regression and moderation analysis using the PROCESS macro in SPSS were employed for data analysis. Headteachers\u27 controlling management practices are reported as extensively implemented within West Pokot County schools, demonstrating a strong positive statistical correlation with KCPE mean scores from the Headteachers\u27 perspective (R² = 0.839). The moderation reduced the explained variance (R²) from 83.9% to 50.3%. Experience as a Headteacher reduced to 30.50%, teaching experience itself showed a negative significant main effect on KCPE mean scores in the moderation model. This moderation reduced the explained variance (R²) to 35.1%. The Headteachers academic qualifications also showed a negative significant main effect on KCPE mean scores. This moderation reduced the explained variance (R²) to 40.2%. The central conclusion is that the current controlling management practices and skills employed by Headteachers in West Pokot County are not effective in genuinely improving pupils\u27 academic achievement. To address this, the study recommends that Headteachers adopt a more strategic approach to controlling management practices, focusing on clear standard setting, meticulous performance measurement, thorough deviation analysis, and prompt, targeted corrective actions
Stochastic modelling of predator–prey dynamics in a three-patch ecosystem
Get PDFThis study presents a stochastic predator-prey model in a three-patch ecosystem, motivated by cage-based fish farming. Each patch hosts prey and predator populations, with inter-patch prey migration and unbounded variations in the population represented by stochastic terms. The model integrates logistic prey growth, predation, and mortality within a coupled system of stochastic differential equations. We assess stochastic stability using stochastic Lyapunov function methods. Numerical simulations confirm that when predator efficiency ei < 1, the total population remains bounded, indicating stability. However, for ei > 1, the system becomes unstable. The model also demonstrates that prey populations remain viable under low harvesting rates (ν1 = ν2 = ν3 = 0.02) and moderate noise intensities (0.10 ≤ σ ≤ 0.90). This work contributes to sustainable resource management by offering a robust framework for modeling predator-prey interactions in multi-patch environments
Challenges of climate change on revenue collection performance in Rwanda: A case of Rwanda Revenue Authority
Get PDFHigh revenue collection performance is essential for enhancing efficiency in service delivery and fostering economic development at the county level. However, numerous studies indicate that many countries encounter significant challenges in their revenue collection efforts. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of climate change challenges on revenue collection performance in Rwanda. Specifically, this study assesses the effect of loss of biodiversity on revenue collection performance in Rwanda, evaluates the effect of generation of hazardous and solid waste on revenue collection performance in Rwanda, and evaluates the effect of natural resource depletion on revenue collection performance in Rwanda. This study is guided by optimal tax theory, waste management theory, and resource depletion theory. The research utilised a descriptive research design. The study population consists of 791 employees from various departments within the RRA and a sample size of 89 respondents. This study utilised primary instruments such as a questionnaire. This study employed a quantitative research approach, utilising both descriptive and inferential statistics to analyse data. The results show that overall, a very high mean of 4.14 for combined statements indicates an overall very strong positive agreement that there is an effect of biodiversity loss on revenue collection performance, with a standard deviation of 0.903, signifying some variety in responses among respondents. In addition, the overall very high mean score of 4.20 for the blended statements deliberates an overall very strong positive agreement that there is an effect of the generation of hazardous and solid waste and revenue collection performance, with the standard deviation of 0.879 designating some variability in opinions, and the overall high mean of 3.98 for the combined statements indicates an overall strong positive agreement that there is an effect of natural resource depletion on revenue collection performance, with a standard deviation of 1.070, signifying some variety in responses among respondents. The study outlines recommendations for the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) to enhance revenue streams from eco-friendly industries and enforce environmental regulations. The suggestions include supporting renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, promoting green public procurement, integrating environmental considerations into tax policy, and fostering collaboration among government agencies to ensure a cohesive approach to sustainability and revenue generation
The relationship between students\u27 participation in hawking activities and academic performance in public day secondary schools in Ugunja Sub-County, Kenya
Get PDFEducation has been recognised as a critical component of economic and social growth in society because of its connection with social, political, and economic development. It plays a key role in reducing poverty levels, enhancing productivity, eliminating hunger, reducing mortality rates, and promoting gender equality. Because of these, developed countries have perfected their education systems to achieve their full benefits. However, most developing countries, like Kenya, are still struggling due to their economic and social statuses. This study investigated the relationship between students’ participation in hawking activities and their academic performance in Ugunja Sub-County, Kenya. The study tested the null hypothesis, Ho: There is no statistically significant relationship between students\u27 participation in hawking activities and their academic performance in public day secondary schools in Ugunja Sub-County, Kenya, to explain this relationship. Basu and Van\u27s theories about the economics of child labour guided the study. The study was conducted through a descriptive survey design that targeted 1498 public day secondary school students who engaged in hawking activities in Ugunja Sub-County. We used Krejcie and Morgan\u27s formula to select a sample of 306 students, reaching them through snowball sampling. A structured questionnaire and a Document Analysis Guide (DAG) were used to collect the data, which were analysed descriptively using SPSS version 23 to arrive at means and standard deviations and inferentially using Pearson’s correlation at a 0.05 alpha level of statistical significance. The findings revealed a moderate negative correlation of r = -0.584, at p = 0.008, between students’ participation in hawking activities and their academic performance. The study concluded that hawking activities negatively influence secondary students’ academic performance. This suggests that hawking activities may hinder the achievement of the SGD\u27s education goals if the current situation persists. The study recommends that the Government of Kenya increase the capitation of secondary schools and implement stricter rules to protect children’s right to quality basic education
The challenges of competence-based training pedagogical approaches in improving English communication in secondary schools in Tanzania: A case of Temeke municipality
Get PDFThis study assessed the challenges of implementing Competency-Based Training (CBT) instructional methods for improved English communication skills in Tanzania\u27s Temeke Municipality high schools. The study was guided by the two theories, namely social learning theory and diffusion of innovations theory. It also adopted a convergent parallel mixed-methods design by applying qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection. Further, data were collected through surveys, interviews, and classroom observation from the sampled 100 secondary school teachers in the municipality. The data were analyzed by using SPSS for quantitative data and NVivo for qualitative data, whereby descriptive and content analysis were employed, respectively. Results indicated that even though CBT has the potential to improve students\u27 communication of English, several challenges hinder its effective application. Such challenges included insufficient teacher training, lack of teaching and learning materials, and unsuitable classroom environments. The majority of the teachers reported that they were not adequately trained to implement CBT in an effective way, and a critical shortage of materials such as textbooks, multimedia tools, and technology for interactive learning was reported. The study also pointed out that the traditional classroom settings, which were not very flexible to accommodate cooperative activities, also restricted the effective application of CBT methods. On this foundation, the study suggested improvement in the training of teachers, provision of resources, classroom organization, and policy formulation to facilitate the adoption of CBT in secondary schools. The suggestions are to close the gaps noted and foster better adoption of CBT to enhance English communication skills among secondary school learners in Temeke Municipality
Coaching and Organizational Performance in Rwandan Local Government Entities: Assessing Effects of Coaching Programs between 2016 and 2019 in Rwamagana District
Get PDFCoaching is considered as a great tool for employees in any organization to understand the goal so as they can work towards it which turns into good performance of the organization. Coaching program was introduced in Rwandan local government entities to see whether employees can improve on these entities’ performance regarding performance contract Imihigo. The present paper intends to study effects of coaching programs in the Imihigo region of Rwamagana district. Researchers applied a case study research design through which a case study was selected and qualitative data were then collected. Information collected by the use of interviews and the content from documents was thematically analysed. The GROW (goals, reality, options and will) model was considered as a theoretical guide for the study. The total of 108 Local government employees from Rwamagana district was the target population from which 85 employees were purposively selected. Saturation was applied as a sample elements selection technique. The findings of the paper showed that there are positive effects of coaching programs on the good performance of Rwamagana district in “Performance Contracts” termed as Imihigo. It was revealed that, there are changes manifested due to collaboration existing between the Coaching Program and Local Government institutions in the budgetary years 2017-2019 when this approach was implemented in all Districts. Coaching interventions administered on organization employees showed their influential effects in performing very well in Imihigo contract of Rwamagana district. Based on the aforementioned findings, the study concluded that the coaching intervention, among other factors, was identified as an agent of significant effects manifested in three consecutive financial years towards better performance of Imihigo of Rwamanagana district. As suggestions to central, local government and partners, there is a need to undertake coaching initiatives to continue enhancing local government entities’ capacity to effectively deliver to their mandate. The national, local government and stakeholders must raise enough money to sustain the implementation coaching approach since it proved to be of importance for local governments. Recipients of the program are supposed to also make the program theirs for its effectiveness and sustainability