African Journal of Empirical Research
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The influence of information and communication technology on Quaker worship at Kakamega Yearly Meeting
Get PDFQuaker worship is deeply rooted in simplicity, silence, and direct communion with the Divine. However, the rapid advancement of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has permeated religious practices, including those of the Kakamega Yearly Meeting (KYM). This study investigates the impact of ICT integration on Quaker worship, exploring both its benefits and challenges. This mixed-method research used the Sociotechnical Theory and involved a combination of qualitative interviews and focus group discussions in addition to quantitative surveys of 380 respondents representing 12 of KYM\u27s ICT-compliant churches. The target population was 1184 registered church members. Key informants were sampled out using the stratified random sampling technique. These included church leadership, departmental heads of the United Society of Friends Women, Quakers, and Youth Friends. Data was analyzed thematically and descriptively by the use of SPSS. Findings reveal that ICT tools such as projectors, musical instruments, and online platforms enhanced accessibility, inclusivity, and engagement in worship. However, challenges include the potential dilution of Quaker values like simplicity and silence as well as disparities in access to technology. The study concludes with recommendations for balancing technological adoption with core Quaker principles, emphasizing educational initiatives, discernment, and community inclusivity. Further research is suggested to explore ethical considerations and the reasons for breakaway movements within Quaker communities
Cost effects of assistive devices on the household welfare of persons with disabilities in Kakamega County, Kenya
Get PDFThis study analysed the relationship between the cost of assistive devices and the household welfare of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Kakamega County, Kenya. The main objective of the study was to investigate the cost effects of assistive devices on household welfare for PWDs in Kakamega County, Kenya. The study had two specific objectives: to find out the effects of the economic costs of assistive devices and labour costs of assistive devices on the household welfare for persons with disabilities in Kakamega, Kenya. This study was limited to the social model theory of disability. The period from 2020 to 2022 encompasses the onset and aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which had significant economic, social, and health impacts globally and in Kenya. The pandemic intensified challenges for persons with disabilities, such as increased costs of healthcare, limited mobility due to lockdowns, and disruptions in the supply chain for assistive devices. A descriptive survey design was adopted. The study target was the 1110 registered PWDs in Kakamega County. The proportionate sampling technique was used to get the 113-sample size. A closed-ended questionnaire was used to collect the data. A pilot study was undertaken in Vihiga County to pre-test the validity and reliability of the study. The SPSS software version 20 was used to analyse the data. Anonymity, consent and confidentiality were adhered to. The study applied both descriptive and inferential statistics. Frequency tables, percentages, as well as correlations and regressions were used to present and analyse the data. The findings generally indicated that most persons with disabilities found assistive devices unaffordable, whether for purchase, maintenance, repair, or replacement of parts. Consequently, households often faced the difficult choice between supporting their PWD siblings and participating in their own economic activities. As a result, many households experienced economic downturns, as they expended significant time or financial resources assisting their PWD siblings with assistive devices, often at the expense of engaging in other productive activities. Ultimately, households bore this cost by struggling to participate in other gainful socio-economic pursuits. These outcomes were affirmed by regression analysis, which showed that labour costs of assistive devices were significantly associated with improved household welfare (β = 0.169, p = 0.004), while economic cost was not (p = 0.695). Among demographic factors, primary disability type (β = -0.245, p < 0.001) and highest education level attained (β = 0.873, p < 0.001) significantly influenced household welfare, whereas age, gender, and marital status did not have a significant effect. The findings underscore the importance of education and the affordability of assistive devices for PWD households. The study recommends increasing the availability of cost-effective and efficient assistive devices in households. There is also a need for collective responsibility to initiate reasonable and expanded interventions that would empower vulnerable PWD households in Kakamega County
The contribution of Islam to the development of education in Kakamega County, Kenya: A case study of Kakamega Muslim Secondary School, 1983–2023
Get PDFThis study is set to examine the contribution of Islam to the development of education with special reference to Kakamega Muslim Secondary School, Kakamega County, Kenya. This study cramped itself to a period between 1983 and 2023; 1983 marked the establishment of the school, as it provides a logical starting point for examining its historical development. The 40-year span allowed for a comprehensive analysis of the school\u27s growth, contributions, and challenges over time. Ending in 2023 captured the most recent developments and ensured the availability of reliable data from the school records, policy documents, and living witnesses. What prompted the documentation of this study was the limited understanding of how Islamic education shaped educational progress in Kakamega County. While tracing the historical foundations of the school, the study was guided by the following objectives: to trace the historical development of Kakamega Muslim Secondary School, to examine the contribution of Islam to the development of Kakamega Muslim Secondary School, and lastly, to assess the impacts of Kakamega Muslim Secondary School alumni on the community. This study was guided by policy historiography by Trevor Gale, as it helped to examine how historical and socio-political contexts shaped education in KMSS. This research also employed a historical research design, which was a qualitative approach. Due to the historical nature of this research, it employed both primary and secondary sources of data collection in order to get firsthand information. This research, however, relied on primary sources that included document analysis and interview guides that were done orally, as this helped to provide valuable insights into the role of religion in shaping the institution by emphasizing the importance of community support, religious values, and leadership in fostering the development. The target population involved the community, parents and students, the alumni, and the school administration, who were sampled using purposive sampling. These data collection processes were used to comprehend the Islamic teachings in influencing moral and ethical education by showing how the curriculum inculcated with Islamic values provided not only secular and religious education but also, in addition, the role of Muslim organizations such as religious endowments and charity donations in promoting growth and development of the school. Archival data were produced by the method of thematic analysis. This allowed to confirm information gathered via interviews by eyewitnesses. The verified data was then analyzed and presented qualitatively under themes with special reference to study objectives. In conclusion, this research demonstrated that the contribution of Islam to the development of Kakamega Muslim Secondary School played a pivotal role in ensuring its success as a center of both academic and religious learning, benefiting the local Muslim community and beyond. From the findings, the study recommends the Ministry of Education, the Muslim community, and the school administration ensure that they preserve the Islamic culture while teaching IRE, encourage active community involvement, preservethe school’s Islamic heritage, and provide government recognition and support for faith-based institutions in national education
A phenomenological investigation of how junior secondary school teachers in Trans-Nzoia County support learner self-reliance through the competency-based curriculum (CBC) in Kenya
Get PDFThis study examines how teachers in junior secondary schools in Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya, promote learner self-reliance within the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). The study is informed by the critical pedagogy proposed by Paulo Freire, which emphasizes the importance of dialogue, reflection, and action as essential aspects of education that help build independence among learners. This research employs a hermeneutic phenomenological research design, targeting junior secondary school teachers in public schools of Trans-Nzoia County. To gain a rich account of the experiences of five teachers, these teachers were purposively selected to participate in in-depth, unstructured interviews. Braun and Clarke\u27s 6-step thematic analysis was covered in the data analysis. It included familiarization with data coding, identifying themes, reviewing and naming themes, and interpreting the results. Important data can be observed, especially that teachers have encountered significant changes, such as large class sizes, resource shortages, and inadequate training. However, most of them have found a coping mechanism in the form of project-based learning, peer teaching, and utilizing community resources to foster autonomy among their students. Research shows that self-reliance in the CBC framework means constant support of teachers, institutional commitment, and the enthusiastic participation of the community. Suggestions provided include specific teacher training and a lower student-to-teacher ratio, as well as increased collaboration among schools, parents, and local communities to help develop self-reliant learners
The Role of Community Policing in Preventing Crimes in Tanzania: A Case Mkuranga District Council
Get PDFThe main objective of this study was to investigate the role of community policing in preventing crimes in Tanzania concerning the Mkuranga District Council. Community policing is a strategy that emphasizes building strong relationships between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. This approach fosters collaboration and trust, encouraging community members to participate in identifying and solving local problems actively. By engaging residents, businesses, and other stakeholders, police can gain valuable insights into the specific issues and concerns of the community. This partnership helps prevent crime by promoting proactive problem-solving rather than reactive responses. Community members are more likely to report suspicious activities and cooperate with police investigations when they feel their concerns are heard and addressed. Additionally, community policing initiatives often include educational programs, neighbourhood watch groups, and youth engagement activities, which can deter criminal behaviour by fostering a sense of shared responsibility and vigilance. Community policing enhanced safety at Mkuranga District Council by creating a cooperative environment where law enforcement and community members work together to prevent crime and improve quality of life. This study used System Theory (ST) and Community Policing Theory advocating for a society to live together in its sub-systems because the failure of one sub-system is the failure of the entire system. The study used a descriptive research design and a sample size of 123 respondents from a target population of 222,921. In addition, the study used probability sampling, where simple random sampling was used for community members, while non-probability sampling, specifically purposive sampling, was used for police officers. In this study, questionnaires were used as tools for data collection. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics analysis. The findings identified specific roles performed by community policing in preventing crimes at Mkuranga District Council. They include foot patrol, where 55 (42%) strongly agreed that it is done, prevention function, where 57 (46%) strongly agreed that it is done, providing public education, where 54 (44%) strongly agreed, coordinating community meetings, where 45 (37%) strongly agreed that it is done. This research concluded that by integrating these roles, community policing creates a collaborative framework where law enforcement and residents work together towards common safety goals, ultimately leading to a more secure and cohesive community. The study recommended the effective implementation of roles played by community policing to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of community policing at Mkuranga District Council
An Evaluation of the Effect of Introduction of Mobile Phone Use in Ante-Natal Care (ANC) in Ikolomani Sub County, Kakamega County, Kenya
Get PDFMobile phone technology has revolutionized communication, making information and services more accessible, and fostering innovations in healthcare, particularly in maternal and child health (MCH). Timely interventions in healthcare can significantly improve outcomes for mothers and newborns. However, maternal and neonatal mortality rates remain high worldwide, with approximately 830 maternal deaths daily due to pregnancy or delivery complications. Almost all maternal deaths occur in developing countries, with rural and poorer mothers at greater risk. Additionally, around 2.8 million newborn deaths happen annually within the first 28 days of life, accounting for 45% of all under-five child deaths. This study aimed to assess the impact of introducing mobile phone use in antenatal care (ANC) in Ikolomani Sub County, Kakamega County, Kenya. Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) theory guided this research. The research utilized a correlational design, employing correlation and regression analysis to examine the relationship between mobile phone interventions and maternal health outcomes. The target population consisted of women of reproductive age in Ikolomani Sub County, with a sample size of 298 drawn using the Cochran Formula from a population of 32,803. Data were collected using the Kenya Health Information System (KHIS), ensuring a comprehensive and representative dataset. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and Chi-Square tests were used to determine the association between mobile phone use and ANC outcomes. The findings indicated a positive trend, with 74.7% of participants confirming the use of mobile phones for ANC data capture. Regression analysis showed a significant positive association between mobile phone usage and ANC attendance (B = 0.285, p < 0.001), with mobile phone use accounting for 42.5% of the variation in ANC attendance. These results highlight the potential of mobile health interventions to enhance maternal healthcare delivery. This research concluded that introduction of mobile phone use has positively impacted ANC attendance in Ikolomani Sub County. Based on the positive impact observed, it is recommended that mobile technology be further integrated into maternal health services to improve data capture and accessibility for pregnant women
Corporate Governance and Performance of Financial Institutions in Uganda
Get PDFThis paper investigates the impact of Corporate Governance (CG) measures on financial institutions\u27 performance. The study aimed to examine corporate governance\u27s influence on financial institutions\u27 performance in Uganda and determine the relationship between corporate governance and the performance of financial institutions. It also sought to provide a unified framework for understanding how these performance concepts relate to each other. The study was based on Stakeholder Theory. The research design used in this study was cross-sectional. The population of the study comprised 1,229 registered financial institutions in Uganda. Using Yamane\u27s (1967) formula for sample size determination, a total of 400 respondents were selected. A stratified random sampling technique was employed to ensure proportional representation across different tiers of financial institutions, including commercial banks, credit institutions, Microfinance Deposit-Taking Institutions (MDIs), and Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) registered as Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), companies, and Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs). The findings confirmed that CG and the performance of financial institutions have a mutually supportive relationship. The Pearson correlation coefficient indicates a significant positive correlation between corporate governance and firm performance (r = .649; p < 0.01), meaning that increased corporate governance in Ugandan financial institutions is associated with positive firm performance. Based on these dimensions, the study proposes a re-conceptualization of the linkage between CG and financial institutions\u27 performance. The study concludes that the robust performance of financial institutions is associated with well-built corporate governance structures. The study recommends that, in the current financial age, financial institutions in Uganda should prioritize key strategies aimed at enhancing growth by training staff and creating a reliable and trusted environment to attract foreign investment
Determinants of Tanzanian Youth Entrepreneurs\u27 Financial Inclusion: Empirical Evidence from a Baseline Survey in Selected Regions in Tanzania
Get PDFFinancial inclusion is crucial for both developed and developing countries, sparking a worldwide debate on the key factors for success. This study investigates the determinants of financial inclusion among youth entrepreneurs in Tanzania. The study is guided by financial inclusion theory, which emphasizes access, usage and quality of financial services which focuses on enhancing economic outcomes. Understanding these determinants and the factors influencing youths’ decisions to engage with the financial system will aid in developing appropriate policies. This study adopted a cross-sectional design. Due to the unavailability of a comprehensive sampling framework, the study relied on the database of entrepreneurs registered with the Small Industries Development Organization (SIDO). Convenience sampling was used to select youth entrepreneurs aged 15–35 years across five regions in Tanzania. The study aimed to collect data from 2,300 youth entrepreneurs, with 1,949 contacted and 1,906 providing reliable data for analysis. The questionnaire data includes key information such as youth demographic characteristics, firm-specific characteristics, access to financial services, barriers to financial inclusion, and levels of crowdfunding awareness. A logistic regression model was developed to analyze the determinants of financial inclusion among youth entrepreneurs. The results revealed that financial inclusion among youth entrepreneurs is influenced by gender, age, financial knowledge, education level, awareness of financial institutions, and entrepreneurial loan advancement intention. The study further found that low business revenue hinders the decision to open a bank account. Other barriers include unawareness of available services, disinterest, and fear of bank charges. This study recommends the implementation of policies aimed at enhancing financial literacy, increasing awareness of financial services, and developing tailored financial products to address the unique needs of youth entrepreneurs
Assessing the Availability of Commercialized Toilets in Kakamega Town, Kenya
Get PDFHuman waste management has been and continues to be a major global challenge facing urban growth. Even though sanitation is a human right, managing sanitation level is still a challenge. Most public toilets are in a mess and unhygienic forcing governments in different countries to incorporate private organizations into provision, management and maintenance. The main objective of this study was to determine availability of commercialized toilets in Kakamega town. The research was carried out utilizing the Contract Theory. The study adopted descriptive research design carried out in Kakamega Town. The target population comprised residents of Kakamega town and those on daily transit thus 63,426 residents in addition to those in transit. Purposive sampling was done for Kakamega County town and key informants, while Simple random sampling was done for town residents and business people. Systematic sampling was conducted on individuals using public toilets. A sample size of 384 participants was used and data was collected using observation, interviews, questionnaires and document review. Data analysis utilized Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and qualitative data thematically. Majority of the respondents, 207 (58.97%) were of age bracket 21-30 years and males, 254 (72.36%). A total of 14 public toilets were located within the vicinity of Kakamega Town with 57.14% being commercialized and were not adequate. The rest were free to use public toilets. 265 (75.5%) of respondents knew of public toilets and their location with only 25.9% of females being very often users. Majority of respondents 256 (72.9%) chose public toilets because of their cleanliness and appearance. In conclusion, commercializing public toilets provided revenue and improved hygienic as well as aesthetic value of the town. The study recommends the town to increase the number of commercialized toilet facilities within Kakamega Town. Since establishment of new counties in Kenya, such a study is yet to be done in Kakamega County and, therefore, would provide necessary baseline information to the county for policy implementation
Effect of Business Advisory Services on the Success of Entrepreneurial Projects in Gasabo District, Rwanda
Get PDFThe purpose of this study was to assess the effect of business advisory services on the success of entrepreneurial project implemented by Bank of Kigali Urumuri in partnership with Inkomoko. The study focuses on examines the impact of Training and Financing services, Connectivity and Coaching Services and Inclusion Advocacy services on success of the Urumuri project. The study was guided by Social Capital Theory, Knowledge Based Theory and Entrepreneurial Theory. The study employed descriptive and correlational research designs. A sample size of 162 was drawn from a target population of 276 individuals. This sample size was determined utilizing Yamane Taro’s formula. Both simple random sampling and purposive sampling were used. The study employed questionnaire and interview guide for data collection. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that there is positive and significant effect of (t=14.462, p-value=.000˂0.05) Training & Financing services on success of Urumuri project in Gasabo district, further, there is positive and significant effect of (t=9.237, p-value=.000˂0.05) Connectivity & Coaching services on success of Urumuri project in Gasabo district, additionally, there is positive and significant effect of (t=2.909, p-value=.005˂0.05) Inclusion Advocacy services on success of Urumuri project in Gasabo district. The study concludes that The study concludes that Training & Financing services, Connectivity & Coaching services and Inclusion Advocacy services significantly contribute to predicting and positively influencing the success of Rwandan entrepreneurial project implemented by Bank of Kigali Urumuri in partnership with Inkomoko. The study suggests that project managers should strengthen training programs by incorporating industry-specific mentorship and hands-on financial management skills would equip entrepreneurs with practical knowledge, reducing business failures due to poor financial planning. Further, project managers should expand these services to include digital platforms, ensuring a wider audience, including entrepreneurs in rural and underserved areas, benefit from expert guidance. Additionally, project managers should address inclusion policies such as tax incentives for businesses that support inclusive entrepreneurship, grants targeting underrepresented entrepreneurs, and tailored capacity-building initiatives should be introduced