African Journal of Empirical Research
Not a member yet
975 research outputs found
Sort by
The Challenges and Opportunities facing United Nations Mission and Peace Building Strategies in South Sudan
Get PDFThis article explores the challenges and opportunities that United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) faces during its operations in South Sudan. It identifies critical challenges and defines various opportunities that the mission could utilize to enhance peace-building strategies\u27 effectiveness and positive outcomes. The study borrows from liberal institutionalism and conflict transformation theory. The theories explain the collaborative approach to addressing the root causes of conflict in South Sudan. The study uses both qualitative and quantitative research methodology utilizing descriptive statistics. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 28) was used for quantitative data and thematic excerpt evaluation for qualitative data. It targeted military peacekeepers, including troops, staff officers, Military Observers (MILOBs), and Police, including both UN Police and GOSS local Police, with a target population of 3280. The sample population of 354 participants was determined by using Yamane\u27s (1967) formula. Equally cluster sampling, convenience sampling and purposive sampling were utilized. Primary data was collected from questionnaires, Focus Group Discussions (FDGs) and interview schedules while secondary data was collected through a review of various publications. The article concludes that the mission could resolve most of the critical challenges by conducting a contextual analysis of the conflict dynamic, investing in finding sufficient resources and funding for operations and evaluating the current efficacy of peace-building efforts. Equally further studies focusing on analyzing relations between mission, regional, and international agencies, establishing the differences, and identifying further multidimensional opportunities should be conducted to enhance the effectiveness and stability of peace-building programs in South Sudan
Promoting Shared Responsibilities in Developing Children’s Early Literacy and Reading Culture in Rwanda
Get PDFReading is of paramount importance in the modern era. It is an invaluable tool to instill knowledge in people and lead them to sustainable development. This study aimed to investigate the shared responsibilities of stakeholders in promoting early literacy and reading culture in Rwanda. The study was conducted in five districts in Rwanda, one in each province, including the city of Kigali. This study is conducted within the framework of the Theory of Emergent Literacy (EL) pioneered by Marie Clay (1926–2007) (Rohde, 2015; Teale, 1986; Tracey and Morrow, 2006), according to which literacy development begins very early in life and children’s early reading and writing experiences are of considerable importance in their overall literacy development. The study applied a descriptive research design, which consists of collecting quantitative and qualitative data. The target population was 437,988, which was the total number of households in the five districts. It involved 598 parents in selected households, school administrators, and local authorities. A convenience sampling technique was used to select parents, while a purposive sampling technique was applied to select school administration and local authorities. A questionnaire, interviews, and observation were used as data collection tools. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that parents carry out their responsibilities and interactions with children by cultivating a reading culture and reading stories to them before school age. Findings also showed that parents acknowledge teachers’ interactions with children through giving them take-home reading assignments. The strategies that are used to develop early literacy and reading culture include showing pictures, using games and songs, and devoting some hours to reading on specific days in a week. The study identified challenges including parents’ illiteracy and poverty preventing them from being involved in their children’s education, the lack of enough books in schools, and overcrowded classes. It is recommended that government support be increased by making reading materials more accessible to children; that parents’ role in developing the reading culture and early literacy should be more visible; and that there is a need for adult literacy education to enable parents to read to their children and monitor their reading practice
Teachers’ Professional Development and Job Performance in Public Secondary Schools of Kicukiro District, Rwanda
Get PDFThe professional development and performance of teachers in Kicukiro District are very important to ensuring quality education. Despite the responsibilities outlined in the Teachers\u27 Act, including attendance at classes, lesson planning, and student assessment, the report found that there are gaps, particularly in relation to absenteeism and planning. These problems are a threat to student achievement and school performance and show a great need for research and strategies to improve teacher performance. The aim of this study is to examine previous implementations of professional development programs, assess their impact on teaching skills, teaching methods, and subject knowledge, and identify potential barriers to their effective implementation. Through a descriptive correlational research design, primary data were collected through questionnaires, and secondary data were collected through document analysis by selecting 15 principals and 435 teachers. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, correlation, and analysis using SPSS version 22.0. The correlation analysis of the variables showed a significant relationship between the different factors. For example, there is a significant positive relationship between teacher training and effective teaching practices (r = 0.611, p < 0.01), students’ performance (r = 0.940, p < 0.01), and teacher professional growth (r = 0.890, p < 0.01). Likewise, undergraduate and short courses are positively correlated with effective teaching (r = 0.598, p < 0.01), student performance (r = 0.552, p < 0.01), and teacher professional growth (r = 0.550, p < 0.01). Continuing professional development (CPD) has a significant positive relationship with effective teaching practices (r = 0.732, p < 0.01), student engagement (r = 0.431, p < 0.01), and teacher professional growth (r = 0.469, p < 0.01). In addition, seminars were positively correlated with effective teaching methods (r = 0.255, p < 0.01), student performance (r = 0.496, p < 0.01), and teacher professional growth (r = 0.521, p < 0.01). These results indicate that these training and development activities are associated with improved teaching practices, student outcomes, and teacher professional growth. Finally, the research highlighted the importance of CPD for teachers and their job satisfaction. The research recommended that the government should invest in supporting teachers and schools in providing the training and resources that are needed for teacher development, hence the performance
Peace and Security Dynamics as A Result of Conflict Intervention by United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Get PDFThe study examines chronology and nature of external interventions, including peacekeeping missions, diplomatic initiatives, and economic engagement. By assessing both positive and negative consequences, the study explored how the conflict intervention has shaped the political landscape, security dynamics, and socio-economic conditions in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Studies on or and around United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo with respect to conflict, peace and security, portray shortcomings bordering on ineffectiveness. This presents a serious paradox and a question on conflict intervention by MONUSCO’s peace and security processes. The study objective was to interrogate peace and security dynamics in the DRC as a result of the conflict intervention by MONUSCO. The study explored Liberal Theory, Power Theory and Theory of Functionalism from which a conceptual model was drawn. The study was conducted in Eastern DRC. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The target population was 49,871 with a unit of analysis of 21,105 civilians comprising 5052 refugees, 4053 internally displaced persons and 12,000 local traders, 16,161 MONUSCO staff, 7,895 from major none governmental organizations (NGOs), and 4,710 from the political class, the rebel groups, and immigration. The study adopted simple random stratified sampling, snowballing and purposive sampling strategies. The sample size was 384. The primary and secondary data were collected using questionnaires, focus group discussions, observation guides, and key informant interviews. Content analysis was done for all qualitative data; statistical data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings of the study indicate that, MONUSCO is occupational and not an interventional force and that the government forces could handle the conflict in the DRC without MONUSCO. MONUSCO is ineffective due to the long chain of command within the UN security system and that the International community wants MONUSCO to exit DRC. The study concludes that MONUSCO should exit the DRC in order to achieve peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). That MONUSCO’S presence in the DRC is both occupational and inconsequential. Therefore, MONUSCO has failed to intervene effectively in DRC and restore peace and security to a large extent. The study recommends that MONUSCO\u27s Operational Capacity be boosted to enhance its mandate to include more robust peace enforcement measures, including disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) programs for ex-combatants
Neurocognitive Approach to Successful Learning and Speaking of English Language among Day Secondary Schools in Nyagatare District, Rwanda
Get PDFLearning a foreign language, particularly English, poses challenges for Rwandan teenagers already introduced to other science subjects like mathematics, physics, and other different courses of action that have occupied their attention, or, on the other hand, disturbs their mind and hinders their learning spirit. This study aimed to investigate how the neurocognitive underpinnings of brain activation methods and integration multisensory work to activate those teenagers’ brain attention to English language learning and develop speaking skills and enable learners to overcome the neurocognitive challenges like lack of motivation, emotions, stress, and anxiety that hinder English language learning and speaking. This study was built around the multisensory theory and brain-based learning theory. Using a semi-longitudinal approach, data was collected from 40 senior two students to explore difficulties in learning English from one school in Nyagatare district. These were selected purposefully from the population of 340 students. A six-week classroom experiment from April 15 to May 23, 2024, gathered both quantitative and qualitative data on how brain activation methods enable English learning speaking. Single-group experiments and observations were used to collect data. In the experiment, the procedure of pretest-treatment-posttest was implemented. SPSS software was used to analyze the data, with results showing improved post-test scores after targeted interventions. In the pre-test, the mean score ranges between 1 and 2.5 with a standard deviation that swings between 0.405 and 0.802 for all questions, while the mean score in the post-test aligns between 3.5 and 5 with a standard deviation that wheels between 0.267 and 0.813, which significantly indicates high scores after the treatment. Therefore, the study highlights the significant impact of brain activation methods accompanied by multisensory integration as the neurocognitive approach to English language learning and speaking. The research suggests that education stakeholders and policymakers should consider this approach for successful English language learning to avoid overloading teenagers’ brains with heavy programs
Head Teacher’s Instructional Supervision in Public Primary Schools of Nyaruguru District, Rwanda: Challenges and Mitigations
Get PDFThe study aimed to investigate the challenges of head teachers\u27 instructional supervision in public primary schools in Nyaruguru District, Rwanda, and propose mitigation strategies. The specific objectives included identifying key challenges faced by head teachers, examining current instructional supervision practices, and exploring effective strategies to address these challenges. The research was significant for various stakeholders. It provided insights into the challenges of instructional supervision, informing academic inquiry specific to primary education. Education stakeholders could use the study to enhance teaching quality and student performance in Nyaruguru District\u27s primary schools. The Path-Goal Theory, postulated by Robert House in 1971, guided this study. The study utilized a descriptive research design with a mixed approach, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methods. The target population included 102 head teachers and 1769 teachers from public primary schools in Nyaruguru District. Stratified sampling was used to ensure representation from all schools, with simple random sampling to select schools and teachers. The sample size for teachers was 326, determined by the Yamane formula, and 10 primary schools and 10 head teachers were selected. Data collection instruments included a Likert-scale questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. Validity and reliability of the instruments were ensured through content validity and Cronbach\u27s alpha. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics for quantitative data, including mean and standard deviation, and thematic analysis, content analysis, and narrative analysis for qualitative data. SPSS Version 26.0 was used for quantitative analysis. Significant challenges identified included inadequate training, reported by 83.1% of respondents, insufficient time for supervision due to heavy workloads (79.1%), and limited resources and support from educational authorities. Head teachers were committed to regular classroom observations and feedback mechanisms, with 76.4% providing timely feedback and 80.3% regularly observing classroom teaching. Increased resource allocation, reduced workload, and additional instructional supervision training were among the recommended effective strategies. The need for more up-to-date training, fewer administrative responsibilities, and individualized supervisory strategies to accommodate a variety of teaching styles was further emphasized in interviews with head teachers. The study came to the conclusion that head teachers were actively engaged in improving instructional quality despite facing significant obstacles. With more robust and consistent support systems, these practices\u27 effectiveness could be enhanced. It is recommended that the government invest in comprehensive training programs for head teachers and allocate increased funding to provide essential resources, such as teaching materials, technological tools, electricity, and infrastructure improvements. Policies should be implemented to reduce the administrative workload of head teachers by hiring additional staff, allowing them more time for instructional supervision. Head teachers should pursue professional growth, foster collaboration, and conduct regular classroom observations with meaningful feedback. Future research could investigate the correlation between instructional supervision and student performance, conduct comparative studies across regions, and explore the use of technological tools in supervision practices
Restoration of Degraded Agricultural Landscapes Using Participatory Integrated Planning (PIP) Approaches: Experiences from the Manafwa Watershed Restoration Project, Mt Elgon, Eastern Uganda
Get PDFThis study assessed the determinants and constraints impeding the adoption of participatory integrated farm planning (PIP) approaches by smallholder farmers to restore landscapes on the slopes of Mt. Elgon, Eastern Uganda. Two hundred seventy-seven (277) household interviews complimented with focus group discussions were conducted with smallholder farmers in two purposively selected sites (one of which was a Manafwa Watershed Restoration project site and the other was a control). Key informant interviews were employed to gather information from technical personnel and local leaders. Field observations were used to triangulate and validate some of the data from the interviews and discussions. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed. SPSS v23 was employed to generate descriptive statistics, while chi-square tests, ANOVA, t-tests, correlation, and regression analyses were used to test for associations. Major determinants for PIP adoption were marital status, extension services, education, age, and sex of the farmers. Integration, empowerment, and collaboration principles influenced uptake of PIP, while limited knowledge, inadequate finance, limited labour, small land sizes, and low incentives constrained PIP implementation. It can thus be concluded that the PIP has the potential to promote widespread landscape restoration. However, for sustainable impact, the PIP approach ought to be extended to other areas; this will require that local governments adopt it and allocate logistical support to its extension workers
Prevalence and Demographic Determinants of HIV Pre-Exposure and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Use in Khwisero Sub-County, Kenya
Get PDFHuman Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) continues to be a major global public health threat despite the availability of biomedical prevention strategies such as HIV PrEP and PEP. Despite their efficacy, utilization rates are low among youths aged 15–24, who account for approximately 27% of new infections globally and 33% in Kenya. While the determinants of HIV PrEP and PEP use have been studied among men who have sex with men, female sex workers, adolescent girls, and women, research focusing on young adults is limited. Guided by the Health Belief Model, this study assessed the factors that dictate the usage of HIV PrEP and PEP among the youth between the ages of 18 and 24 years in Khwisero Sub-County, Kakamega County, Kenya. This study adopted a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional research design. The target population consisted of young adults from the ages of 18 to 24. The sample size was determined using the Taro Yamane formula, which arrived at 426 participants. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26 was used to analyze quantitative data through descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi-square and logistic regression at a significance level of 0.05. The study revealed a low prevalence of PrEP (23.4%) and PEP (22.6%) utilization. Significant determinants of PrEP use included education level (χ2 = 8.1, OR = 0.21, P = 0.04) and religion (χ2 = 5.0, OR = 0.40, P = 0.03). Factors affecting PEP utilization encompassed education level (χ2=17.76, OR=0.43, P<0.001), marital status (χ2=6.47, OR=0.33, P=0.04), and living arrangement (χ2=9.91, OR=1.95, P<0.001). Based on these findings, it is recommended that additional levels of health education interventions and culturally appropriate campaigns be carried out in order to increase the usage of PrEP and PEP among young adults
Perceived Financial Value and the Adoption of the Cashless Payment System in the Matatu Transport Sector in Nairobi County, Kenya
Get PDFCashless payment systems have emerged as a transformative force in the global financial landscape, offering convenience and efficiency in transactions. Despite their widespread development, the adoption of these systems has been uneven, with only a select number of companies in specific countries making notable progress. This research investigated the correlation between perceived financial value and the adoption of cashless payment systems in Nairobi\u27s Matatu sector. The central question was how perceived financial value influences this adoption. This research was grounded on institutional theory, the study used an explanatory research design with a target population of 1,176 Matatu SACCO managers and staff, from which a sample of 289 was selected using stratified and simple random sampling. Data was collected via a questionnaire, with validity assessed through Pearson Moment Correlation and reliability through the test-retest method. Quantitative analysis was conducted using SPSS. The findings revealed a significant impact of perceived financial value on cashless payment adoption (β=0.534, t=10.744, p<0.05) and a 67.9% positive correlation. The study concluded that a suitable legal and institutional framework is needed, requiring collaboration between the private and public sectors to support technological adoption among Matatu operators in Nairobi. In light of the study\u27s findings, the researchers recommended that the lack of a suitable legal and institutional framework for e-payments necessitates a joint effort from both the private and public sectors to establish the necessary legal and institutional structures, thereby fostering an environment conducive to technology integration among Matatu operators in Nairobi and beyond
Enhancing Financial Operations: Digital vs. Traditional Systems at Care Cove Company Limited, Tanzania
Get PDFOrganizational conflicts always happen when the management members face the dilemma of making crucial decisions with a direct impact on the company\u27s performance. Despite having a well-performing brand name in the market, Care Cove\u27s Financial Performance faces several difficulties which demand the company change its mode of financial operations. The decision to shift to a digital financial management system divided the board members as some of them preferred staying in the traditional financial management system. Each business decision comes with its risks, and delaying making a business decision harms the business\u27s growth and sustainability. Therefore, this paper provides business solutions on how the company can handle the dilemma among the management members and how the transformation from a traditional to a digital financial management system can be made smoothly. The case was guided by the theory of the Technological Acceptance Model which indicates the criteria guiding the acceptance of the new technology. The case utilized the decision case design which allows the study to evaluate the opinions of the antagonists and protagonists involved in the case before deciding on the business solutions The case employed the sample of 2 respondents from the population of 13 employees of Care Cove Company Limited who were obtained through purposive sampling, data were collected through interviews, observation and documentation. The scholar employed content and narration analysis techniques to present and analyse the opinions of the respondents who participated in the study. After the critical evaluation of the opinions from both the antagonist and the protagonist sides the case has discovered that for the best of the company, the management should transform to the digital platform financial management systems but not in full. Some of the financial operations which are not affecting the profitability of the company can be kept traditional until the other revenues and financial operations have been fully digitalized. To effectively implement the transition process without damaging the company\u27s competitive advantages, the case proposes conducting a need assessment and defining the objectives of shifting to a digital financial management system as well as evaluating the technological environments and the market of digital systems