African Journal of Empirical Research
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Enhancing professional development in Ghanaian colleges of education: A critical analysis of needs assessment practices
Get PDFThe study investigated the predictors of professional development (PD) needs assessment in Ghana’s Colleges of Education (CoEs), prompted by growing concerns about the alignment between institutional development efforts and actual educator needs. Despite widespread discourse on professional development in education, few studies have systematically explored how PD needs are assessed within the unique institutional settings of Ghana’s CoEs. This study addressed that gap by examining the structural, task-specific, and individual-level factors influencing the effectiveness of needs assessments. Guided by Kaufman’s Organizational Elements Model and the Three-Level Needs Assessment Model, the research adopted a quantitative approach, employing a cross-sectional descriptive design. A sample of 610 lecturers, drawn through multistage sampling from 13 CoEs across Ghana, participated in the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, piloted and refined to ensure validity and reliability. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was used to explore the latent dimensions shaping PD needs whereas the multiple regression analysis was performed to examine how organizational, task-related, and individual-level variables predicted PD assessment outcomes. A key finding revealed that institutional policy clarity significantly predicted the perceived relevance and utility of PD needs assessments, suggesting that structural coherence enhances the identification of educators\u27 developmental priorities. The study concludes that effective PD planning in CoEs requires greater institutional alignment and recommends that leadership structures embed clearer frameworks to standardize and optimize needs assessment practices
Formulation and evaluation of a semi-empirical relation for estimating the thermal expansion coefficient of organic liquids
Get PDFThe thermal expansion coefficient (α), or thermal expansivity, is a fundamental thermophysical property that quantifies the volumetric response of a liquid to temperature variations. It plays a crucial role in a range of applications, including thermodynamic property estimation, chemical process design, and fluid system calibration. Moreover, it serves as a key parameter in the theoretical computation of various thermodynamic properties within the framework of statistical mechanical theories. Due to the challenges associated with its experimental determination and the demand for predictive approaches requiring minimal input data, a new semi-empirical relation has been developed for estimating the thermal expansion coefficient in pure organic liquids. The proposed relation was validated across a broad spectrum of polar and nonpolar organic liquids over a range of temperatures. Its performance was benchmarked against existing methods, with the results demonstrating strong agreement with experimental data. The analysis reveals that equations based on simplified hard-sphere models show significant deviations from experimental values, particularly at higher temperatures, due to their neglect of intermolecular forces and molecular complexity. The Stakhorsky relation provides better estimates but shows increased deviations as temperature rises. The newly proposed equation demonstrates low and consistent deviations across the studied temperature range. The accuracy, stability, and effectiveness of the model can be attributed to the inclusion of the molar volume term in the equation. This indicates the proposed relation’s reliability and practical utility for estimating the thermal expansion coefficient using minimal input data, particularly in situations where experimental data are unavailable. Empirical and semi-empirical relations for estimating thermodynamic properties, such as the thermal expansion coefficient, using minimal input data are especially valuable when experimental data are limited. Additionally, developing simplified relations based on statistical theories offers the advantage of incorporating interaction parameters, which more accurately represent molecular behavior and thereby enhance the reliability of property predictions
Synergy or Conflict? Political-Administrative Interactions in Local Governance at Kibaha Town Council, Tanzania
Get PDFThis study examines the impact of political-administrative interactions on local governance in Tanzania, using Kibaha Town Council as a case study. Drawing on the Political-Administrative Dichotomy (PAD) and the Classical Model of Public Administration, the study explores how these interactions influence decision-making, policy implementation, and service delivery at the local level. Using a case study design and a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 52 respondents, including elected officials (Members of Parliament, Councilors, and Town Chairpersons) and appointed officials (District Commissioner and Town Director). A total of 52 respondents were selected using purposive and simple random sampling techniques from a population size of 91 employee of Kibaha Town Council. Qualitative data from interviews were analyzed thematically, while quantitative data were processed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Findings reveal that 91.2% of respondents perceive political-administrative interactions as positively impacting governance, particularly in policy formulation, law-making, and development administration. However, challenges such as role ambiguity and conflicts between politicians and administrators remain significant obstacles to effective governance. This study concludes that addressing these challenges through clearer role definitions, improved communication channels, and enhanced monitoring and evaluation (M&E) mechanisms can strengthen governance structures. While the study focuses on Kibaha Town Council, its findings contribute to the broader understanding of political- administrative interactions in Tanzania’s local governance system. This research recommends the establishment of a well-defined legislative framework to streamline governance operations, ensuring that political and administrative roles complement rather than conflict with each other. Furthermore, standardized guidelines across local government authorities (LGAs) would promote consistency, collaboration and institutional efficiency
Capacity Development for Effective Police Prosecution in Ghana: Promoting Due Process of Law
Get PDFThis study aimed to document, describe, and examine the extent to which capacity development is utilized to ensure effective police prosecution in Ghana. It is argued that ineffective capacity development of police prosecutors undermines the due process of law and distorts prosecutorial activities within the justice system. The Social Learning Theory (SLT) was used as a lens to explain the capacity development of police prosecutors. This study used phenomenology as a research design. The qualitative approach of interview was used as a strategy for data gathering. Using convenient and purposive sampling techniques, 22 police prosecutors were interviewed. In addition to the interviewed data, the study made use of some news articles. The data was analysed based on themes. The analysed data revealed that the successful prosecution of cases by the police in Ghana relies heavily on robust capacity development. This entails the development of personal, interpersonal, professional, and organizational skills of police prosecutors. Prosecutors require a solid grounding in law, analytical abilities, critical thinking, time management, technological proficiency, and organizational values such as accountability and transparency. Capacity development initiatives greatly bolster prosecutors\u27 confidence and skills, resulting in higher conviction rates, improved engagement with stakeholders, and a deeper comprehension of intricate legal principles. Neglecting capacity development carries serious repercussions, including compromised delivery of justice and diminished morale. Inadequate training undermines prosecutors\u27 capacity to prepare cases, handle evidence, and navigate court procedures, eroding public trust in the criminal justice system. We conclude that Ghana can strengthen its criminal justice system, and promote fairness, efficiency, and public confidence through effective capacity development. Among the recommendations, authorities must prioritize capacity building by offering consistent training and resources to facilitate the professional development of police prosecutors
Challenges and opportunities for management of aggressive intractable inter-ethnic conflicts between the Turkana and Pokot people in the north-western region of Kenya
Get PDFThe North-Western of Kenya has endured persistent, belligerent inter-ethnic conflicts. These battles are particularly between the Turkana and Pokot communities. The conflicts are rooted in historical marginalization and competition for scarce natural resources. Additionally, cultural validation of warriorhood and widespread availability of small arms have contributed enormously to the exacerbation of the skirmishes. Earlier interventions have been unsuccessful resulting from weak state presence, politicization and insufficient community ownership. This study identified and analyzed the main challenges hindering effective conflict this two communities. It also explored feasible and locally driven opportunities for sustainable peacebuilding. The study is guided by the Conflict Transformation Theory of John Paul Lederach. This theory emphasizes the need to alter structural injustices, associations, narratives and institutions for durable peace. A mixed-methods design was adopted. It integrated descriptive survey and phenomenological approaches. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis. A stratified sample of 400 respondents (Turkana: 60%; West Pokot: 40%) participated. Instrument reliability exceeded a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.76. Quantitative data that was categorical was analyzed by Chi-square test. Qualitative data was thematically analyzed and implied collective meaning reported. Findings revealed that the conflict is sustained by the proliferation of firearms, inadequate security services, political manipulation and cultural endorsement of violence (notably in Turkana). Over 53% of respondents reported increased conflict since 2017. Turkana respondents experienced more frequent attacks and upheld the “heroic warrior” ideal more than their West Pokot counterparts. Structural variables such as poverty, unemployment among the youth, and marginalization were just as crucial in driving conflict continuity. While institutions of customary conflict resolution are in retreat, communities were keen to be engaged in peace processes. Cultural dispositions and exposure to conflict variability point towards region-based intervention. The community trusts its capacity to solve problems, offering a window of opportunity for bottom-up peacebuilding. Turkana–Pokot conflict is deeply rooted, multi-layered and mounting. Strength and resilience of the people are a fertile ground for radical peacebuilding grounded in local contexts and participatory governance. There ought to be a multi-sectoral intervention: institution strengthening of people-owned peace structures, equitable disarmament, participatory governance, focused peace education on particular alternative masculinities and investment in public infrastructure. State action has to be centered on trust-building, early warning and psychosocial healing to enable sustainable change of conflict
Ogbunike cave in Anambra state, Nigeria, as a symbol of African heritage: A study on its tourism potential and the role of agencies in preservation
Get PDFThe Ogbunike Cave in Anambra State, Nigeria, is a sacred and historically significant cultural heritage site in Igbo culture, and yet it remains underdeveloped as a heritage tourism destination due to poor infrastructure, weak policies, and inadequate preservation. This study examines the cave’s role as a symbol of African heritage, focusing on its cultural importance, tourism potential, conservation challenges, and critically analyzing the roles of governmental and non-governmental agencies in its management. This study applies two key theories Cultural Heritage Theory and Sacred Place Theory, with a primary emphasis on Sacred Place Theory due to its focus on the spiritual and cultural relevance of heritage sites in African traditions. Employing quantitative method of research, data collection for the study was carried out by surveying 120 participants in Anambra State, Nigeria within Ogbunike cave locality which included residents, tourists, and heritage site managers. Findings were interpreted using descriptive statistics and the research outcome revealed a strong recognition of the cave’s cultural, historical and touristic value, with most respondents acknowledging its appeal to both local and international visitors. However, key challenges identified such as inadequate management practices, environmental degradation within the cave area, and poor infrastructure hinder its conservation and tourism appeal. While government and non-governmental agencies are involved, their efforts were deemed insufficient by the respondents requiring stronger collaboration for effective management. The study concludes that a collaboration between governmental and non-governmental agencies is essential to enhance the cave’s tourism development and management as well as actively engaging local communities through awareness of its cultural, historical, and economic significance
Effectiveness of BëST social support model on mental health outcomes among university students in western Kenya: A quasi-experimental design
Get PDFIntimate partner violence (IPV) is a form of abusive behaviour that can occur in marriage, cohabitation, or any other type of partnership and includes physical, sexual, or psychological abuse. Numerous studies have established the detrimental effects of intimate partner violence on mental health. There is growing evidence that social support may help alleviate these negative effects; thus, this study examined the BeST (Belongingness, Evaluation/Appraisal, Self-esteem, and Tangible) support model derived from the social support theory in alleviating the effects of mental health. This study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of the BëST support model and factors that influence its effectiveness among victims of intimate partner violence in universities in Western Kenya. This study adopted a quasi-experimental design that recruited university students from the four public institutions in Western Kenya who had experienced any form of IPV since admission to the university. The study enrolled 426 participants: 210 in the treatment group and 216 in the control group. Two universities with the highest prevalence rates were recruited into the intervention group, while those with lower prevalence rates were recruited into the control group. The participants were recruited through snowball sampling, and data was collected at baseline and one and three months post-intervention using a self-administered questionnaire that had screening tools for anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD). The control group went through unstructured group counselling, while the treatment group underwent the BëST model twice weekly for a period of four weeks; in addition, a counsellor was present during the study period. Data was analysed by use of Statistical Analysis Software, where an Analysis of Variance was used to assess mental health outcomes at baseline, one- and three-months post-intervention, and multiple regression was done to identify factors that affect the model’s effectiveness in improving mental health outcomes. There was a significant decrease in mean scores in all the mental health outcomes from baseline to 3 months post-intervention. The average scores for depression went down from 9.90 to 3.41, anxiety from 7.84 to 2.68, and PTSD from 1.6 to 1.1 in the treatment group, with both the treatment and control groups showing a significant change over time in anxiety and depression (p<0.0001), but not in PTSD. There was a lower likelihood of depression among those who never used illegal drugs, while PTSD was low among participants who never consumed alcohol. This study found that the BëST support model was effective in alleviating anxiety and depression; however, it was not effective in alleviating PTSD. In addition, the use of illegal substances and alcohol affected the model\u27s effectiveness. Recommendations: This study recommends adoption of the model and identification of complementary interventions for IPV victims with PTSD
Podcast influence on radio content: A case study of Capital FM journalists, Kenya
Get PDFPodcasting as a means of representation of diverse content provides a viable opportunity for greater interaction, powerful expression, and personal empowerment. It enables subscribers to listen to audio content anytime, anywhere on their devices via the internet— its consumption has increased, leading traditional radio stations to experiment with creating content using this technology. Against this background, through a Case Study method, within the qualitative approach, the study examines the extent to which podcasting has impacted content selection, production techniques, and audience engagement strategies at Capital FM — an urban English radio station which explores the digital space, including the introduction of podcasting. Utilizing the construct of perceived usefulness of Technology Acceptance Model, the study seeks to answer the question: How has the production of podcasts influenced radio journalists in creating content? Twenty (20) participants out of 110 employees from Capital FM Kenya were sampled purposively, where the 15 interviewed comprised four heads of department from Programs, Editorial, Digital, Marketing, as well as nine reporters and two program assistants. An interview guide was designed with the questions structured to address the key issues from the research question. The data generated was transcribed and analyzed thematically. Findings indicate that radio journalists embrace podcasts in creating content since it provides a platform for them to share ideas/opinions without restrictions, such as the editorials and columns on print newspapers, and can grow an audience that subscribes to their content. The study recommends that with internet access, acquirable production tools, and innovative applications, podcast compositions are a viable way to create content for radio journalists. Findings support the conclusion that podcasts in radio newsrooms are highly dependent on the availability of specific content and therefore, radio journalists can create in-depth content at a time of their convenience, unlike normal radio programming that has specific timings
Prevalence and individual factors associated with first maternal delay in Nakuru County, Kenya
Get PDFGlobally, about 700 mothers die daily during pregnancy, labor, or childbirth, a steadily increasing trend, where 40% of the cases were linked to first maternal delay. Mothers who are experiencing a first delay are at risk of facing a number of health problems, accelerating other forms of maternal delays. The research seeks to determine the prevalence and the associated individual factors of first maternal delay in Nakuru County, Kenya. This will help to formulate strategies for reducing cases of preventable maternal mortality. A cross-sectional study design was employed. The research employed 211 antenatal mothers located in eight level 3 health center facilities in Nakuru County. Conveniently, study participants were selected based on inclusion criteria and data collected using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted through descriptive statistics and chi-square tests while maintaining a significance threshold at p < 0.05. Results: 82.5% of the mothers experienced first maternal delay, while some were exposed to either second (35.6%) or third (29.4%) maternal delay, implying that the 3 types of maternal delays are interconnected and dependent on each other. It further established that it was not only necessary for one to have experienced any form of complication to be linked to first maternal delay. The statistically identified individual factors included attendance of antenatal clinic (ANC) (aOR 4.1, 95% CI = (1.03-17.05), p < 0.010); past negative experience (aOR 0.15, 95% CI = (0.03-0.64), p < 0.010); and prolonged time taken to make the decision to seek care (after 1 hour, aOR 3.26, CI = (1.32-8.02), p < 0.010). Contrary: personal decision-making of when to seek care during an emergency (aOR 0.34, 95% CI=(0.12-0.97)); time taken to decide to seek care after realizing a health issue (immediately, aOR 0.03, 95% CI=(0.01-0.21) & after 30 minutes, aOR 0.07, 95% CI=(0.01-0.66)); and knowledge of maternal delay to be a protective individual factor for not experiencing first maternal delay. Conclusion: The study confirmed that several individual factors were significantly associated with first maternal delay. Recommendation: The health authorities need to develop policies supporting mothers’ autonomy and empowerment to enhance and promote their own care-seeking decision-making and to inject more resources targeting ANC mothers to ensure timely utilization of ANC and delivery services and improve ANC uptake to reduce maternal mortality related to first maternal delay. This initiative will aid in achieving the set WHO target by 2030 and improve maternal outcomes and increase the quality of life for both the mother and that of the infant(s)
The uneven road to digital transformation: Information systems use in civil society project management
Get PDFThis study investigated how Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Tanzania adopt Information Systems (IS), with a focus on their shift from paper-based methods to digital tools in project management. Based on the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework and institutional theory, the research examines how technological capabilities, organisational conditions, and external pressures influence patterns of IS use across key functional areas. Data were gathered through a cross-sectional survey of 272 CSOs across five Tanzanian regions, representing a variety of geographic and operational contexts. Using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance (ANOVA), the study assessed IS adoption levels in both internal and external project functions. The findings reveal a fragmented and selective landscape of adoption. Offline systems still dominate in internal areas such as planning and budgeting, while manual methods remain common in resource and cost management. Conversely, internet-based tools, especially social media, are widely adopted, mainly driven by donor visibility and reporting needs. However, specialised project management systems are seldom used due to financial limitations, technical complexity, and a mismatch with existing workflows. Although device allocation tends to favour externally focused functions, most organisations configure and adapt digital tools across different departments. The study concludes that IS adoption among Tanzanian CSOs is flexible but mainly influenced by external factors, with digital tools often fulfilling compliance and communication rather than boosting internal efficiency. These findings highlight the importance of a more balanced and strategic digital transformation, backed by targeted capacity-building, donor alignment, and fair infrastructure investment. The study recommends that Tanzanian CSOs pursue strategic digital transformation by strengthening internal systems, enhancing staff digital skills, and adopting suitable IS technologies to bridge the internal and external digital gap, improve operational efficiency, and support sustainable, organisation-wide digital integration