African Journal of Empirical Research
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Power Relations and Implementation of Public Work Initiatives: A Case of Kazi Mtaani in Uasin-Gishu County, Kenya
Get PDFThe implementation of public works projects is globally recognized as an effective response to social and economic challenges. In modern times, however, public works initiatives are taken basically as a response to the bottlenecks inherent in national development processes. In Kenya, the implementation of the Kazi Mtaani projects is largely pursued devoid of an assessment of the power relation as a key antecedent factor. This study examined the contextual influence of power relations on the implementation of Kazi Mtaani projects in Uasin-Gishu County. It argued that the implementation of the projects has largely peripheralized the consideration of power relations as a factor in addressing the social and economic challenges affecting the youth. This entails consideration of the role and interrelations amongst the political elites in project implementation. The study was supported by stakeholder theory that highlights the relevance of actors especially in the project implementation phase. The study employed convergent parallel mixed method with a target population of 1430 youths, 14 employees of the Ministry of Youth and Social Welfare Services and 5 Members of Parliament. Stratified sampling was used to guarantee that all constituents are included in the research. A sample size of 314 respondents, representing 3 employees from the Ministry of Youth and Social Services and 310 youths and 1 Member of Parliament. Primary data were collected using questionnaires, interviews and Focus Group Discussions. Reliability was determined by use of Cronbach Alpha at a level of 0.7. Quantitative data were analyzed using Pearson Correlation and regression analysis. Qualitative data were thematically organized prior to reporting in narrations and quotations. The study found significant negative correlations between power relations and the implementation of the Kazi Mtaani Projects at (r= .710 p=0.01). These findings are significant for the analysis of the role political elites in project implementation. The study concluded that that power plays a crucial role for success and sustainability of public work initiatives; Kazi Mtaani not an exception. The study recommends that the Government to empower its citizenry and incorporate the youths in developmental activities which positively enhances their wellbeing in the society. In addition capacity building in all sectors should be activated to create awareness to youths on the usefulness of the short term economic activities initiated by the government
The Effect of Financial Rewards on Employee Commitment at Kinondoni Municipal Council, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Get PDFThis study was carried out to find out the effects of reward system on employees commitment in public sector in Tanzania based on Kinondoni Municipal Council. The specific objective of the study were to determine effect of financial rewards on employees’ working efforts at Kinondoni Municipal Council. The research drew from expectancy theory and Herzberg’s Two Factor theory to guide its direction, while a conceptual framework was constructed to illustrate the connections between the variables under investigation. Employing an explanatory research design, the study opted for a combination of simple random and purposive sampling methods to recruit 118 participants from the target population of 2500 staff. Both questionnaire and interview were used to gather data from the respondents. Data that were gathered through questionnaire were analysed using descriptive and regression analysis while data that were collected through interview were analysed using content analysis. It was revealed that organisation overtime pay offered by staff adequately reflects the extra effort put into work while employees have a pension plan makes them feel more secure about their future, which allows employees to focus better on their work. The study concludes that reward system, fringe benefits and recognition schemes have significant effect on employees’ working efforts at Kinondoni Municipal Council. It was recommended that there is a need to ensure that employees receive competitive salaries which attract and retain top talent at Kinondoni Municipal Council. This policy implication can lead to increased job satisfaction, motivation, and commitment among employees
The The Impact of Political Interference in Decision Making on The Performance of Local Government Authorities (LGAS) in Tanzania: Case of Temeke Municipal Council in Tanzania
No full textThis study assesses the impact of political interferences in decision-making on the performance of one local government authority in Tanzania, Temeke Municipal Council. Specifically, this research had two aims: the first one was to identify areas where political interference occurred most and the second was to assess the impact of political interferences on the social services delivery performance. In pursuit of the Wilson’s Orthodox theory in realization of classical models, this study adopted a case study research design and quantitative research approach. The study population was 358, comprising administrators and politicians. A simple random sampling method was used to select 97 administrators in the sample, while a purposive sampling method was used to select 1 Director and 91 politicians in the sample of 189 respondents. The data was collected through questionnaires and analysed quantitatively using descriptive analysis, Pearson’s Correlation and multiple regression analyses with the help of SPSS software. The study found that the political interference was statistically significant (with p ≤ 0.05) in hiring of technical experts, revenue collection & expenditure together with developing social services, and taking disciplinary measures. The research also found that the political interference in the decisions of local government namely budgeting and budget allocation, revenue collection and expenditure, developing social services, taking disciplinary measures, and reporting positively influence social service delivery at the Municipality. There were exceptions when it comes to the political interference in the hiring of technical experts as the results show that it negatively affects the social service delivery of the local government. The research concluded that the interference or rather the interaction between the politicians and administrators in the local governments should be guided by laws so as to tap the benefits which lead to the advancement of Temeke Municipality
A Between-Host Cholera Mathematical Model Incorporating Temperature Dependence
Get PDFThis paper establishes a between-host cholera model with temperature dependent parameter. This is done using system of ODEs to analyse the effect of temperature change on cholera disease. The model analysis reveals that when R0 < 1, the disease free equilibrium point is locally and globally asymptotically. It is also noticed that if R0 > 1, the endemic equilibrium point is locally and globally asymptotically stable. The sensitivity analysis of model parameters shows that R0 depends intensively on infection rate of pathogen α1 normalized with temperature. An increase in infection rate of pathogen α1 that is dependent on temperature by 10% would increase R0 by 10% and decreasing it by 10% reduces R0 by 10%; hence, increasing the temperature of the environment where the pathogen lives would help reduce the rate of infection of the pathogen, thus reducing the reproduction number R0. We conducted numerical simulation of the model in response to temperature changes, and the results indicate that Vibrio cholerae pathogens multiply faster at 23°C but between 23°C < T ≤ 43°C the pathogen multiplication is hindered, therefore, at 23°C, more pathogens are active to cause infection compared to high temperatures
Examining the Role of Cultural Diplomacy in Enhancing Global Presence and National Identity: A Case of the Ethnographic Museums of Rwanda (Huye and Nyanza) and Itorero ry\u27Igihugu
Get PDFThis study aims to evaluate the impact of the Ethnographic Museums and Itorero ry’Igihugu on Rwanda’s international standing, guided by Soft Power Theory and Cultural Exchange Theory. Specifically, it examines how these institutions act as conduits for cultural diplomacy and project Rwanda’s unique narrative both locally and globally. Additionally, the study explores their role in reinforcing Rwanda’s cultural identity and assesses their impact on international relations, shaping Rwanda’s image abroad and supporting its diplomatic endeavors. The research employed a qualitative case study approach, focusing on qualitative data. The overall target population consisted of museum personnel, government officials, local community members, and visitors. Data were collected from a sample of 60 participants, including museum personnel and visitors (12), government officials in charge of cultural affairs (8), and local community members (40). Snowball and convenience sampling techniques were utilized to ensure representation from key groups involved in Rwanda’s cultural and diplomatic sectors. Data collection methods included semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, participant observations at museum exhibits and Itorero ry’Igihugu ceremonies, and document analysis of museum records and official publications. Data were analyzed using a combination of thematic analysis for qualitative data and descriptive statistics for quantitative data to identify patterns and trends in the findings. Key findings indicate that the Ethnographic Museums and Itorero ry’Igihugu significantly contribute to cultural diplomacy by fostering a positive national identity and enhancing Rwanda’s visibility on the global stage. These institutions serve as platforms for intercultural exchange, reinforcing Rwanda’s image as a country rich in culture and history, while also playing a role in nation-building through the preservation of cultural values. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of cultural institutions in projecting national identity and promoting diplomacy. The findings suggest that Rwanda’s international presence can be further enhanced through greater investment in cultural diplomacy programs, particularly in promoting the Itorero ry’Igihugu’s values globally. Recommendations include developing strategic partnerships with international cultural organizations and expanding the global reach of Rwanda\u27s museums through digital platforms to attract a wider international audience
Evaluating the Role of Electronic Security Surveillance in Enhancing Safety in Secondary Schools: A Case Study of Trans Nzoia County, Kenya
Get PDFSecondary school safety is critical to sustaining comparable academic performance outcomes. However, there are so many threats that affect the safety of schools that make up this necessity throughout the world. Security challenges in secondary schools in Kenya includes fires, theft and radicalization have been witnessed in school. Nevertheless, the application of electronic security surveillance systems still remains rather low. They work under very high risks and many schools in Trans Nzoia County are especially vulnerable leaving the school community at risk. This research aimed at evaluating the extent to which these systems enhance safety. Based on Situational Crime Prevention Theory and Contingency Theory, the study adopted descriptive survey research design and targeted 14 second schools with previous security threats and deployed with surveillance systems. Participants were 14 principals, 14 boarding teachers, 14 security personnel, 70 students- 10 students from each of the 7 schools, County Director of Education, and the Chief Fire Officer. The sample size for the study was 128 respondents. Data was collected using questionnaires, interview schedules and Focus Group Discussions. The data was analysed through using Social Package for Social Sciences version 25. Regarding electronic surveillance system improvement of school security, 80.8 percent of respondents supported its effectiveness. When national ICT and school safety policies had been included, it was found that the improvement of these systems for the safety of schools has proved 40.9% different (R² = 0.409, F (2, 75) = 26.003, p = 0.000). Of all the forms of surveillance, the study noted that CCTV cameras were the most widely used in secondary schools. That being said, the efficiency of their use in achieving safety objectives was somewhat hampered by operational obstacles. The study therefore suggests that while emphasizing on the use of additional technologies like fire alarms, burglar alarms, Metal detectors and Biometric systems, the school management boards in collaboration with Ministry of education and ICT should devise way of extending the use of such gadgets. Secondly, to guarantee full coverage of the school premises, it is necessary to step up investment in electronic security systems, and improve the support of personnel pertaining to the detection of threats
Teachers’ Stress Level as a Correlate of Deviant Behaviours among Form Two Students in Machakos County, Kenya
Get PDFDeviant behaviors among secondary school learners have continued to be a global issue and Machakos County is not exceptional. There are limited Studies showing the relationship between teacher level of stress and students’ deviant behaviors. This study was designed with the aim of exploring whether students’ tendency to engage in deviant behaviors is related to teacher levels of stress. The Cultural Deviance theory by Shaw and Mckay which views deviant behavior as a result of escape from freedom was used. The researcher used a correlational research design. The target population was 53 public secondary schools with 280 teachers. The study’s locale as well as the targeted schools were purposively selected. The sample from which data was gathered comprised of 160 teachers. The number of participants in each school was sampled proportionately. Stratified sampling technique helped in grouping the schools into distinct categories from which sample size was drawn from. The questionnaire which the researcher adapted from an existing instrument was filled to yield the data for the research. Piloting was done before the main data collection exercise to ascertain the validity of the adapted tool and enable testing the appropriateness of the data analysis technique. Quantitative data was analyzed through Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) (Version26). Pearson product moment correlation was applied to test the null hypothesis. The study found out that the higher the levels of teacher’s stress the higher the student’s deviant behavior and the lower the levels of the teacher stress the lower the student’s deviant behavior (152) =.49, p=00. The study concluded that teachers’ gender and working experiences were not significant predictors of students’ deviant behavior. The R Square value indicated that the predictor variable (teacher level of stress) accounted for about 53% of the total variance in students’ deviant behavior. The study recommended that there was need to effectively implement teacher performance, appraisal, and development fully and facilitate capacity building to ensure that the teachers’ efficacy skills were improved to reduce students’ deviant behavior in secondary schools
Evaluation of the Opportunities Presented by the Adoption of E-Government in Enhancing Local Government Authority Performance at Kinondoni Municipal Council in Tanzania
Get PDFThe study was done to assess the opportunities presented by e-government to improve local governance in KMC A sample of 78 respondents was drawn from 348 employees across various departments. The objective of the study was to determine how of e-government has improved performance of the local government. Five specific targets were examined where it was found adoption of e-government has significantly improved administrative efficiency and service delivery. Institutional and Resource Based View theories were used to give more explanations on the subject. A case study design was used in this study and data was collected using interviews, questionnaires and document review. Simple random sampling technique was used to obtain the non-administrative employees working from different departments of the KMC Office and purposive sampling method was be used in obtaining the administrative employees who are be the heads of departments of the KMC. Questionnaires, interview and documentary review are data collection methods which were used and analysis was carried out using Microsoft Excel and results were presented in the form of descriptive statistics. It was found that e-government improves the efficiency of social service delivery, improve accountability and transparency. Also it simplifies the decision-making process by improving information flow, allowing faster and more informed decision-making and improves information flow and data security. While e-government has improved communication and public service delivery, challenges such as outdated systems, financial constraints, technical issues, and legal and security concerns were identified as significant obstacles. In order to sustain its improvements there must be enough funding, provision of thorough training, the acquisition of sufficient resources, and the execution of efficacious change management tactics
Investigating the Implementation of English as the Medium of Instruction Policy at the Lower Primary Level: A Case of Nyabihu District in Rwanda
Get PDFThis study investigated the implementation and effectiveness of the English as the Medium of Instruction (EMI) policy in Rwanda\u27s lower primary education system, specifically from primary one to primary three. The introduction provides a context for Rwanda\u27s language-in-education policy, which mandates English as the primary instructional language. The study aimed to assess whether this policy is followed in practice and to identify challenges and pedagogical practices associated with its implementation. The theoretical framework was based on Krashen\u27s comprehensible input hypothesis, emphasizing the importance of using the target language in classroom interactions to aid language acquisition. The research design adopted was a qualitative case study focusing on Nyabihu District, involving a study population of lower primary school teachers and students. Purposive sampling was the method employed in order to use a small population to gain a thorough understanding of the case. Teachers with at least two years of experience in the classroom were used in the study. The researcher needed teachers who were familiar with the language policy of instruction in Rwandan schools and had firsthand experience with the phenomenon, so this was necessary. The study involved 75 participants in total, including 25 teachers and 50 students or pupils. Data were collected through classroom observations, interviews, and analysis of policy documents. Data analysis revealed a significant gap between the theoretical policy and actual classroom practices. Despite the policy, teachers frequently used both Kinyarwanda (L1) and English (L2) in their instruction due to students\u27 limited English proficiency. The study identified several challenges, including lack of policy enforcement, the monolingual nature of classrooms, and teachers\u27 preference for using the Rwandan language. Common pedagogical practices included safe talk, code-switching, simultaneous use of both languages, and translation. Key findings indicated that the EMI policy is not strictly adhered to in practice, and several factors hinder its effective implementation. The study recommends stricter policy enforcement, improvements in English language instruction, increased use of L1 as the medium of instruction, and the creation of an English-friendly learning environment to enhance English usage at the lower primary level. The study\u27s findings provide valuable insights for educators and policymakers, highlighting the need for practical solutions to address the challenges of implementing EMI in Rwanda\u27s lower primary education system
Effect of Institutional Resources on Student Academic Achievement in Kakamega County, Kenya
Get PDFThe school environment has a substantial impact on the quality of education. A well-resourced, supportive, and positive environment can result in enhanced student outcomes, both academically and personally. This study sought to investigate the effect of institutional resources on student academic achievement Kakamega County, Kenya. The research employed the production function theory. The study was conducted using a descriptive correlational research design. This study took place in Kakamega County, which has thirteen sub-counties. The study focused on 423 secondary schools, which included 2 national schools, 2 national special schools, 28 extra county schools, 45 county schools, and 346 sub county schools. The target population included 423 Principals, 5514 teachers, and 182,893 learners, for a total of 188,830 respondents in Kakamega County secondary schools. Purposive sampling was used to choose special and national schools. The Yamane formula was used to determine a sample of 440 respondents. The study gathered data through interviews and questionnaires. A pilot study was conducted in Bungoma County to test the instruments\u27 validity and reliability. Cronbach\u27s alpha was employed as a statistical tool to assess reliability. The study analyzed quantitative data using Regression analysis. Qualitative data was analysed thematically. The results indicated that most of the institutions have resources that included classrooms, laboratories, libraries and others however they were not adequate. The results further revealed that most of the schools have adequate number of teachers while a sizeable were still struggling with fewer teachers. On the study’s hypothesis, H01 that states that there is no statistically significant effect of institutional resources on student academic achievement in Kakamega County, Kenya was rejected at p=0.003. The study concluded that there is a significant positive relationship between institutional resources and student academic achievement in Kakamega County, Kenya. The study thus recommends that the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders to enhance funding for school infrastructure, learning materials, and teacher training to improve student achievement. Implement strategies to boost student achievement and optimize teacher-student ratios like recruiting more teachers and teacher interns to fill the gaps