African Journal of Empirical Research
Not a member yet
975 research outputs found
Sort by
Family Business Ownership and Entrepreneurial Innovation Among the Youth in Hell\u27s Gate Ward, Naivasha Sub-County, Kenya
Get PDFEntrepreneurial innovation among Kenyan youth is crucial for addressing youth unemployment and stimulating economic growth. Despite entrepreneurship promotion efforts, only a small percentage of youth successfully transform innovative ideas into sustainable businesses. The study sought to investigate the influence of family business ownership on entrepreneurial innovation among the youth in Hell’s Gate Ward, Naivasha Sub-County, Kenya. The study was anchored on the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory and utilized the cross-sectional survey research design. The target population comprised 13,161 youths in Hell’s Gate ward in Naivasha Sub-County, Kenya. The study used convenience sampling technique to select 60 youths from a church in Hell’s Gate Ward. Data was collected using a questionnaire with closed-ended question and open-ended questions for collecting continuous data. Data was analysed using frequencies, percentages and cross-tabulation with chi-square with the aid of Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. Results showed that 39% of youth in Hell’s gate Ward had engaged in entrepreneurial innovation. This study concluded that family business ownership had a statistically significant influence on entrepreneurial innovation among the youth in Hell’s Gate Ward. The findings showed that 58.1% of youth from households that owned a business engaged in entrepreneurial innovation, compared to only 17.9% of those whose households did not own a business (X² = 9.999, p = .002). Conversely, youth from households that had operated a business for five years and above were the most likely to engage in entrepreneurial innovation (76.5%). These were followed by those from households with a business for five years or less (35.7%). On the other hand, only 17.9% of youth from households that had never owned a business engaged in entrepreneurial innovation (X² = 15.360, p = .000). The findings also show that youth involvement in family business decision-making significantly influenced their engagement in entrepreneurial innovation. Among those whose households owned a business but did not involve them in decision-making, only 28.6% engaged in entrepreneurial innovation. However, among those actively involved in decision-making, 66.7% engaged in entrepreneurial innovation (X² = 13.305, p = .001). These results suggest that both the duration of business ownership and youth participation in business decision-making play significant roles in fostering entrepreneurial innovation among young people. Based on the findings, the study recommends that policy makers and development practitioners should direct their interventions towards youths in families that do not own a business or those that have operated businesses for less than five years. Policy makers and practitioners should also develop interventions that encourage families to involve their children and youth in operating family businesses
Effect of Project Planning on Project Performance, A Case of Partnership for Resilient and Inclusive Small Livestock Markets Project in Rulindo District, Rwanda
Get PDFThe research sought to investigate the effect of project planning on project performance in Rwanda, focusing on the case of The Partnership for Resilient and Inclusive Small Livestock Market (PRISM) project in Rulindo District. It examined the effect of project communication planning, stakeholder planning, and risk planning on the performance of PRISM project in this district. The study was guded by stakeholder theory, Organizational information theory, and the theory of constraints. The study employed descriptive and correlational research designs. The target population under this study was 754 and the sample size was 87 respondents. This study employed universal and purposive sampling methods. Purposive sampling also referred to as judgmental or selective sampling, involves the researcher choosing specific individuals from the population based on their judgment. The study used questionnaires and interview and observation guides as research instruments. Descriptive and inferential statistics such as correlation and multiple regression were used to analyze quantitative data after running the collected data through SPSS. In contrast, content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Regarding specific objective one, the results revealed that project communication planning has positive and significant effect PRISM project in Rulindo District as indicated by β1 =0.162, p-value = 0.021<0.05, t = 2.347 which means that an increase of one unity in project communication planning would lead to an increase in performance of PRISM project in Rulindo District by 0.162 units. Regarding the second specific objective, the findings showed that project stakeholder planning has positive and significant effect on the performance of PRISM project in Rulindo District as indicated by β2= 0.295, p-value= 0.000<0.05, t= 3.881 which implies that an increase of one unity in project stakeholder planning would lead to an increase in performance of PRISM project in Rulindo District by 0.295 units. With the third specific objective, the results showed that project risk planning has positive effect but is not statistically significant on the performance of PRISM project in Rulindo District as indicated by β3=0.032, p-value=0.616, t=0.507, the implication is that an increase of one unity in project risk planning would lead to an increase in performance of PRISM project in Rulindo district by 0.032 units. The study concludes that communication planning, stakeholder planning and risk planning significantly contribute to predicting and positively influencing the performance of PRISM Project in Rulindo District. Based on the study\u27s results, it was recommended that PRISM projects foster a culture of active communication and collaboration. This can ensure more inclusive and informed decision-making processes by encouraging open channels for employees, and stakeholders to share ideas, insights, and feedback freely. This participatory also approach fosters engagement, enables balanced decision-making, and cultivates a collaborative environment that drives better problem-solving, innovation, and overall organizational performance
Enhancing Students\u27 Understanding of Earth\u27s Spatial Relationships Using Virtual Reality: A Case Study of Secondary Schools in Nyamasheke District, Rwanda
Get PDFThis study evaluated the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) software simulations in enhancing students’ understanding of Earth\u27s spatial relationships in secondary schools. It focused on the perspectives of geography teachers in Nyamasheke District and assessed the integration of VR technology into classrooms and its impact on student achievement. The objectives were to assess the effectiveness of VR-based teaching practices, explore geography teachers\u27 perspectives on integrating VR in geography education, and evaluate the impact of VR simulations on students\u27 academic performance in Earth Science. The research was guided by Constructivist Learning Theory. A descriptive research design was adopted to provide a detailed overview of VR simulation usage in schools. The target population consisted of 116 geography teachers from secondary schools in Nyamasheke District. A census sampling method was used to collect data from the entire population. Data were collected through structured questionnaires comprising closed and open-ended questions and Likert scales. Interviews were conducted with teachers to generate qualitative data. Secondary data were sourced from government education reports and documentation from the Nyamasheke District Education Unit. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 23.0, employing descriptive statistics (e.g., frequency counts, percentages, means, and standard deviations) and multiple regression analysis to examine the relationship between VR technology use and student achievement. Qualitative data from interviews was analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that VR simulations were highly effective in enhancing students\u27 understanding of Earth\u27s spatial relationships. Immersiveness (r = .953, p < .001), interactivity (r = .874, p < .001), accessibility (r = .909, p < .001), and visual representation (r = .927, p < .001) were significantly correlated with improved conceptual understanding, spatial reasoning skills, and engagement. Geography teachers highlighted that 47% strongly agreed and 40% agreed that VR simulations improved teaching practices, while 53% strongly agreed and 37% agreed that VR enhanced student engagement. Challenges included insufficient infrastructure, reported by 47% as strongly agreed, and inadequate teacher training, indicated by 46% strongly agreeing. In conclusion, VR simulations significantly enhanced students’ conceptual understanding, spatial reasoning, and engagement, making them a valuable tool for improving Earth Science education. However, challenges such as the lack of proper infrastructure, high costs, and insufficient training must be addressed. The study recommended that schools invest in VR technology infrastructure and provide comprehensive training for teachers to maximize its potential. Policymakers should prioritize funding and technical support to integrate VR into Rwanda\u27s education system. Future researchers were encouraged to explore the long-term impact of VR simulations on academic performance across other STEM subjects and develop cost-effective strategies to scale VR technology in resource-constrained schools
Resource Theory and Family Violence: Exploring the Views and Opinions of Undergraduate Students from a Ghanaian University
Get PDFThe resource theory posits that in human relationships, the individuals within that relationship who possess or have access to the most needed or desired resource tend to be the most powerful and influential. This study investigates the relationship between the resource theory and family violence. Here, family violence is defined as any act or actions among family members which is intended to cause pain or harm to an individual or individuals within that family set-up. The study sought to establish the respondents’ understanding of resource theory and family violence as well as their understanding of how resource theory can contribute to family violence. The study also sought to establish the respondents\u27 experience with family violence and whether their experience can be traced to or associated with the resource theory. The study employed a descriptive research design involving ninety (90) randomly selected undergraduate students from the Department of Sociology and Anthropology of the University of Cape Coast Ghana. Data was collected using a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire with twenty-four (24) questions. Data was subsequently analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0, and the results were presented using inferential statistics. The analysis found that most respondents (62%) understood the concept of family violence. Additionally, most respondents (61%) understood the resource theory. Most students (49%) agreed that, in practice, the resource theory creates a power imbalance among family members, which may lead to violence or the use of force and aggression within the family unit. The results also established that (i) there is a statistically significant relationship between resource theory and power imbalance and (ii) there is a statistically significant relationship between resource-related power imbalance and family violence. The respondents agreed that the resource theory is a significant tool for explaining and understanding family violence. This study concluded that the relationship between the two is shaped by culture, socioeconomic status, and individual experiences. Therefore, the study emphasised the need for context-sensitive approaches and the intersection between the resource theory and other frameworks, such as the feminist and social learning theories, to understand and address family violence, highlighting the importance of reducing resource inequalities and power imbalances within households and family units
An Examination of Nature of Peace-Building Strategies Employed Among the Border Communities of Kisumu and Nandi Counties, Kenya
Get PDFThe study examined peace building strategies employed among the border communities of Kisumu and Nandi Counties, Kenya. The nature of peace building was analyzed through investigating the types of the peace building strategies, the types of actors, approaches used and the level of community participation. The study was supported by conflict transformation theory. Descriptive research design was employed. The target population of the study was the people living along the borders of Muhoroni and Tinderet constituencies. The study adopted simple random and purposive sampling to select the participants. The sample size of the study was 320. Data was collected using questionnaires, interview schedule and focus group discussion guide. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS V. 30.1. Qualitative data was analyzed using content and thematic analysis technique. The results were presented in the percentages, frequencies, tables and figures. The findings revealed that the types of peace building strategies used mostly were inter-communal dialogue (31.8%), sports and theatre (19.2%), psycho-social support (16.9%), peace caravans and crusades (13.6%), use of security personnel (10.6%) and socio-economic development projects (7.94%). The study further revealed reactive and non-reactive approaches were employed. The actors mostly involved are state (47%), non-state (32%) and Indigenous groups (21%). Finally, the findings revealed that the local community participates in the peace building process to a high extent. The study concludes that ethnic dialogue, sports and theatre, psychosocial support and counselling, peace caravans and crusades, use of security personnel and socio-economic initiatives are mostly used peace building strategies to enhance cohesion with state actors, non-state actors and the indigenous groups using non-reactive approaches and reactive approaches. These interventions are organized by the actors who always involve the local communities who are the primary beneficiary of the outcome. The study recommends that the cure to the reoccurrence inter-ethnic conflict in the study are is the collaboration between the state actors, non-state actors and the locals communities during the implementation of the initiatives to make the initiatives more effective
Influence of class teachers’ teaching experience on the self-esteem of orphaned pupils in public junior schools in Nairobi County, Kenya
Get PDFThe self-esteem of orphaned pupils plays a critical role in their academic performance, social development, and emotional resilience. In Nairobi County, Kenya, where a significant number of children in public junior schools have lost one or both parents, it becomes imperative to understand the role educators play in shaping their psychological well-being. Among various teacher characteristics, teaching experience is presumed to influence how effectively educators support emotionally vulnerable learners. This study sought to investigate the relationship between class teachers’ teaching experience and the self-esteem of orphaned pupils in public junior schools in Nairobi County. Guided by Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Theory (1965), Harter’s Self-Perception Profile (1985), and Self-Determination Theory by Ryan and Deci, the study employed a correlational research design targeting 192,113 orphaned pupils across 237 public junior schools. A stratified random and purposive sampling technique was used to select a sample of 400 orphaned pupils and their respective class teachers. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using both descriptive statistics and Pearson’s chi-square tests. The findings revealed a statistically significant relationship between teaching experience and the self-esteem of orphaned pupils (χ² = 169.93, p = 0.009), leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. Experienced teachers, particularly those with over 10 years in service, were found to foster higher levels of self-esteem among orphaned pupils. These teachers demonstrated greater emotional competence, consistent behavior, and adaptive classroom management styles that provided a sense of stability and reassurance for their learners. In contrast, teachers with limited experience were less effective in responding to the psychosocial needs of orphans, resulting in comparatively lower self-esteem levels among these pupils. These findings emphasize that teaching experience transcends content delivery; it contributes to relational trust, emotional guidance, and the creation of inclusive classroom environments. The study recommends that teacher training programs and education policies should prioritize equipping novice teachers with psychosocial support skills, particularly in multicultural and socioeconomically diverse settings like Nairobi County. Additionally, mentorship programs pairing less experienced teachers with seasoned educators can foster the transfer of affective teaching strategies essential for supporting vulnerable learners. Ultimately, addressing the emotional and psychological needs of orphaned students through experienced and empathetic teaching can significantly enhance their overall development and academic success
Towards optimizing outpatient waiting time through e-governance: Exploring digital registration barriers in first-level hospitals, Lusaka, Zambia
Get PDFThe issue of long queues in outpatient departments in urban hospitals is a topical challenge given the context of health facilities operating in the sphere of the state that brings the issue of patient dissatisfaction, frustration and loss of confidence in the healthcare delivery system. Such a long waiting time does not only cause inconvenience to the patients but also exposes the healthcare staff to excessive work, thus overworking the service-delivering systems. Waiting time is a major indicator of the health system performance; in the event whereby the waiting time is longer than the acceptable mark, it may contribute to the incidence of adverse health outcomes and reduce adherence to the treatment process by the patients and the overall quality of care. The latter phenomenon, in its turn, requires the consideration of reducing the patient experience and improving the health service delivery. Queuing theory guided this research. This study employed a qualitative design, the target population being those in charge of hospital managerial and operational decisions. This research involved the purposive sampling of 12 healthcare managers to give information on barriers associated with digital registration in first-level hospitals. The selected first-level hospitals were Chilenje and Kanyama First Level Hospitals, based in Lusaka, Zambia. Collection of data was done using in-depth interviews, and analysis was done using themes that were produced during the study. This study has revealed that digital systems are associated with barriers which ultimately impact patient waiting time. According to healthcare providers, the constant system malfunctioning was a major disruption of the registration process, forcing them to revert to the manual methods. In conclusion, this research recommends modernising infrastructure to maximise capacity, integrating registration with other departments to maximise patient flow, and ensuring reliable, well-maintained systems. The study further suggests a thorough focus on comprehensive staff training, supporting patient digital literacy, promoting staff adoption through change management, and increasing administrative response
Determinants of self-driven referral among clients seeking outpatient services at Bungoma County Referral Hospital, Kenya
Get PDFSelf-referred cases, where patients do not visit primary healthcare (PHC) facilities and instead consider visiting higher-level hospitals, create a negative burden on the healthcare system and jeopardise the attainment of the universal health coverage (UHC) requirements of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.8. The prevalence of self-referral has been estimated at 84.3% in Kenya, and Bungoma County Referral Hospital (BCRH) has overutilisation, which is explained by systemic PHC gaps; however, there is a paucity of empirical studies that explain the determinants of overutilisation. This research evaluated the factors that have an impact on self-referrals in outpatient clientele visiting BCRH. Using the Health Belief Model (HBM), the research operationalised the concept of self-referral by the severity of perceived illness and mistrust in PHC and perceived benefits of care at a higher-level facility. An analytical cross-sectional design was used. The study population was 1,880, with a prevalence of 84.3%, which has a sample size of 201 patients in the Outpatient Department, Antenatal Care, Mother and Child Health, and Family Planning clinics. Purposive sampling identified key informants and systematic random sampling patients. Information was obtained through a pre-test validity structured questionnaire and key informant interview (KII) guide; quantitative data were analysed with chi-square tests and odds ratios (p < 0.05) using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 27, and qualitative data were done through thematic analyses. Findings showed that self-driven referral rate in BCRH was 51.7%. Out of the 201 respondents, 71.6% were female, 73.2% were below 32 years of age and 60.2% were secondary education holders. Propensity toward self-referral was stronger among male clients (Odds Ratio [OR] = 4.418, p = 0.040) as well as those having tertiary education (OR = 0.094, p = 0.006). This study concludes that the factor of self-motivated referral in Bungoma County can be highly influenced by the systemic inadequacy of PHC, especially the insufficiency of diagnostics and the availability of medication and is also exacerbated by gender and educational gaps. This study recommends strengthening of PHC infrastructure, the guaranteeing of continuous medication availability, the coordination of insurance requirements with referral policies and the building of trust in communities asthe necessary steps in reducing unnecessary self-referrals and promoting UHC
Political masculinity and public iconography: An analysis of the autobiographies of Mandela and Obama
Get PDFThis paper examines the world of political masculinities as constructed by autobiographical narratives. It focuses on Barack Obama’s Dreams from My Father and Nelson Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom. It also explores the experiences of these two leaders to see how they narrate their life tales, shaping public perceptions and creating iconic identities. This exploration is crucial within their distinct socio-political backgrounds. The aim is to unravel how cultural, social, and political influences have influenced how these leaders define their masculinities from young boys into grown men. The study is guided by Michel Foucault’s theory of power and discourse and Judith Butler’s theory of gender performativity to dig into the narrative techniques that either push back against or reinforce the hegemonic expectations surrounding Black political masculinity. The results show some tensions between self-representation and what society expects of them, and this gives an insight into how personal stories can be a strategic way to identity formation and political image-making. Furthermore, these narratives function as strategic tools for identity formation and political image-making
Re-securitizing the borderlands of Kenya and Somalia to counter the operational influence of terrorist groups in the Horn of Africa region
Get PDFTerrorism in the twenty-first century continues to reshape state security systems, particularly in the Horn of Africa, where weak governance structures and porous borders create enabling environments for extremist groups. This paper examines the counter-terrorism strategies employed by the Republic of Kenya and the Federal Government of Somalia in mitigating the operational influence of terrorist organizations that not only conduct kinetic attacks but also seek to fill governance vacuums in marginalized border regions. Guided by neorealism and securitization theory, the study interrogates how state-centric power calculations and security discourses shape bilateral cooperation in confronting an asymmetric, transnational threat. The research engaged 313 respondents from Mandera (Kenya) and Bulahawo (Somalia) using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, supplemented with documentary and archival evidence. The findings show that institutional mistrust, overlapping jurisdictions, and persistent socio-economic marginalization curtail the impact of bilateral counter-terrorism efforts, despite their moderate operational effectiveness. These structural weaknesses enable militant groups to occupy governance gaps by providing rudimentary security, justice, and welfare functions in areas where the state presence remains limited. The study concludes that sustainable counter-terrorism in the Horn of Africa requires a paradigm shift away from heavily militarized approaches toward human-security-oriented models that integrate community resilience, coordinated cross-border intelligence, and development-focused diplomacy. Achieving long-term stability therefore depends on transforming Kenya-Somalia cooperation from a predominantly military undertaking into a security-development compact capable of restoring state legitimacy in borderland regions