African Journal of Empirical Research
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Assessment of resilient capacities of typical and entrepreneurial dairy farms in Narok-Bomet and Nyandarua counties, Kenya
Get PDFThe dairy sector in Kenya is constrained by recurrent shocks spanning from climate change, which adversely intensifies production risks, to market risks coupled with poor infrastructural and technological advancement and institutional and financial risks. A move towards a robust, reliable, adaptive intensification and resilient dairy sector would ensure sustainability of the dairy farms in the face of these constant and intense shocks. This study examined the resilience capacities of 120 typical and entrepreneurial farms in Nyandarua County, with advanced dairy growth stage, and Narok County, with dairy growth at its inception phase. It is assumed that typical and entrepreneurial farms have different resilience capacities, with entrepreneurial farms perceived to be richly endowed and skilled, conferring higher resilience scores than typical dairy farms, which are also affected by environmental contexts. The resilience theory provides a platform for comprehending how farming systems react to risks and shocks through the three resilience frameworks, namely absorptive, adaptive, and transformative capacities. The study adopted a comparative cross-sectional design, aiming to explore differences in risk perception and coping strategies between typical and entrepreneurial dairy farmers. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed statistically. Using the stratified sampling method, cooperatives were identified, and a list of farmers selling to the cooperatives was categorized as typical if they sold up to 50 liters of milk with no increase over the last 5 years. Otherwise, they were entrepreneurial farmers if they consistently sold over 50 liters of milk with growth over the same period. Indicators for resilience were captured by use of indicators for absorptive, adaptive, and transformative resilience capacities. The indicators were first standardized and then weighted through Principle Component Analysis (PCA) using SPSS version 23 and finally fitted into a fractional regression model to generate the resilience indices. Absorptive and adaptive capacities were weak in both farm groups, with information systems, social networks, and human capital indicators being underutilized, whereas physical assets contributed significantly to these frameworks. Greater transformative capacity was demonstrated by entrepreneurial farms than in typical farms, with institutional and infrastructural indicators contributing significantly to the index. The overall resilience for both farm types was below 0.5, indicating an overall systemic vulnerability. Entrepreneurial farms had statistically higher resilience scores than typical farms. Enhancing resilience across the two farm types calls for strengthened human capital, social capital, extension services, and investment in infrastructure, which supports dairy farming
Projection model of teacher requirements for the implementation of CBC in senior schools in Vihiga County, Kenya, in 2026
Get PDFThe purpose of this study was to model projection of teacher requirements for the implementation of the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) in Senior Schools in Kenya in 2026. The CBC system of 2-6-3-3-3 was launched in 2017 and it faces out the 8-4-4 system. The study was guided by the rational comprehensive (Synoptic) planning theory which allows for the evaluation that consists of procedures such as cost benefit analysis, systems analysis, and forecasting (projection) research. The study adopted a predictive research design. The sample consisted of all 161 principals and all 457 head teachers adopted using a census approach. The population of the study was, MoE County Director of Education from the sampled county, 457 head teachers and 161 principals of the sampled schools. Collection of data was done by means of questionnaires, document analysis. For teacher projections, the Ministry of Education (MoE) Pupil-Teacher Ratio of 45:1 was used. The study followed Thonstad’s Grade Transition Model for projecting the CBC enrolment trends of the 2017 Grade one cohort to Junior and eventually Senior School. The study analyzed enrollment statistics from the years 2017 to 2021. The results of this study demonstrated a steady rise in CBC enrollment up until the year 2026. The estimated enrollment in senior high school is expected to rise from 24,361 in 2026 to 26,198 in 2028 in Vihiga County. The results suggest a rise in enrolment which further results in a corresponding increase in the need for teachers. The analysis determined that there will be a deficit of teachers and anticipated insufficiency of necessary facilities as a result of the expected rise in student enrollment at the Senior Secondary level by 2026. The study therefore recommended the need to expand the physical infrastructure, the need for Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to roll out a plan to employ more teachers by 2028. With the findings of this study, the MOE, and TSC may be guided to consider adequate employment of teachers who are CBC compliant. The results of this study would also provide valuable information to policy makers, such as the TSC and Ministry of Education, to develop effective policy reforms that would improve the delivery of high-quality education in Vihiga County
Promoting information systems interoperability in enhancing compliance with maritime transport rules and regulations in Tanzania
Get PDFThis study was conducted to investigate how information systems interoperability can enhance maritime transport compliance monitoring and evaluation in Tanzania, specifically to identify the challenges posed by non-interoperable information systems and to investigate the barriers to achieving interoperability in maritime transport compliance monitoring and evaluation. The Responsive Regulation Theory and the Socio-Economic Theory of Regulatory Compliance guided this research. The study employed a convergent or concurrent design using a mixed-methods approach (qualitative and quantitative research approaches). Simple random sampling was utilized to select 171 respondents using Yamane’s formula for the quantitative component and eleven (11) participants through the purposive sampling technique for the qualitative component. The population comprised 300 individuals from Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) as the maritime transport regulator authority and regulated entities, from which, out of the 171 questionnaires issued, 160 were returned, resulting in a response rate of 93 percent, and based on data saturation and consultation with experts, in-depth semi-structured interviews with eleven (11) TASAC employees and compliance officers from regulated entities were used to collect qualitative data. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis and analyzed using thematic analysis, descriptive analysis, and inferential analysis through ordered logistic regression. Delays in data retrieval, inconsistencies and inaccuracies across information sources, and inefficiencies in compliance reporting are among the critical challenges identified due to non-interoperable information systems. Furthermore, barriers such as information security risks, institutional information system fragmentation, and a lack of harmonized standards were found to significantly hinder the achievement of interoperability. The findings provide valuable insights for the Tanzania Maritime Regulatory Authority (TASAC), policymakers, and industry stakeholders on the need to have collaborative efforts for fostering secure, transparent, and efficient maritime operations through regulatory frameworks alignment, standardizing reporting procedures, integrating platforms such as the National Maritime Single Window (NMSW) and the Port Community System (PCS), and making governance structures more effective to ensure accountability and sustainability. By establishing an interconnected and secure digital environment, compliance monitoring and evaluation can become more efficient, transparent, and reliable
Effect of women economic empowerment on socio-economic development of Kabale Municipality, Uganda
Get PDFWomen\u27s economic empowerment has become a foundation for development strategies, and it has increasingly been recognised for its important role in the socio-economic development of many countries. This study examined the effect of women’s economic empowerment on socio-economic development in Kabale Municipality, Uganda. The study was anchored on Sen’s Capability Approach theory and the Human Development Theory. A cross-sectional survey design employing a quantitative approach was adopted to evaluate relationships between the study variables at a single point in time. A sample of 153 respondents was selected from a total population of 203 using the stratified random sampling technique. Primary data was collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive and regression statistics on SPSS Version 25.0. Quantitative findings presented through descriptive statistics and regressions revealed that women’s economic empowerment positively affects socio-economic development (R² = 0.763 and p = 0.000 ≤ 0.005). The study concluded that economic empowerment of women positively and significantly contributes to socio-economic development in Kabale Municipality. Finally, the study recommended that efforts to empower women across the economic dimensions be prioritised to enhance socio-economic growth in the region
The contribution of Bethwell Allan Ogot to the development of higher education in Kenya (1964–2013)
Get PDFThe study looks at the contribution made by Professor Bethwell Allan Ogot towards the development of higher education in Kenya between 1964 and 2013. It fills a wide gap in the historiography of post-colonial development in postwar Kenyan academia, especially in its significance to the academic career of major participant Ogot, whose contribution to university education, the advancement of Africanist scholarship, and the restructuring of institutional arrangements in Kenya are addressed. The study aimed at knowing the role of Ogot in policy formations, governance, curriculum reconstruction, and intellectual hegemony within a transition period in Kenyan history of education. The research paradigm upon which the research has been founded was interpretive research and incorporated the historical approach of data collection and analysis. This study adopted a qualitative research design. Primary and secondary data were utilized. The main sources of primary data were face-to-face interviews and archival facts available in different institutions such as the Kenya National Archives, the University of Nairobi, and Maseno University. Secondary sources entailed scholarly books, articles, and institutional reports. The respondents were sought purposively and through snowballing methods. Theoretical guidance was supplied by critical policy historiography and development theory that placed Ogot within the context of bigger national and ideological movements. The findings indicate that Ogot was instrumental in the restructuring of the university management of affairs, the indigenization of academic curricula, the training of the academic, and the statements about the relevance of the African knowledge systems. His leadership was very influential to the education sector in Kenya, and his input to this sector has become part and parcel of academic policy and intellectual self-determination. To Kenya, Professor Ogot made a revolutionary contribution to the field of higher education, especially on innovative curriculum development, leadership, and mentoring. His position on African-centered education and education reform has influenced the education sector in Kenya. In order to sustain his legacy, strengthening the use of African-centered curricula in all disciplines, an increased decentralization of education by universities to underserved areas, and institutionalization of mentorship programs are advised. Moreover, international academic relationships that are encouraged will improve Kenyan scholarship and expand the intellectual vistas to remain relevant in the field of African studies and development
Extent to which self-regulation behavior influences student online learning outcomes in public universities of Western region, Kenya
Get PDFHigher education institutions are undergoing radical transformations driven by the need to digitalize education and training processes rapidly. Universities continue to prioritize online learning as a means of meeting the diverse needs of students, ensuring accessibility, flexibility, and continuity in education. However, for students to effectively benefit from online learning, two crucial constructs play a pivotal role: academic motivation and self-regulation. These factors significantly influence students’ ability to engage with, persist in, and succeed in online learning environment. Despite the growing emphasis on online education, many students in public universities in the Western region of Kenya face challenges related to self-discipline which affect their learning outcomes. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of self-regulation strategies on students’ online learning outcomes. This study was guided by self-regulation theory. A mixed-methods research design was employed, targeting 4,551 respondents, comprising 4,475 undergraduate students from the Department of Education, 24 heads of the Education Department, 39 instructors, and 4 ODEL administrators. Data was collected using questionnaires and key informant interview schedules. A pilot study was conducted to ensure reliability, with Cronbach’s alpha used to test the internal consistency of research instruments. Face, content, and criterion validity of the instruments were ascertained. Data analysis involved correlation to assess relationships between variables and multiple regression to predict their interactions. The qualitative results from the interview showed that self-regulation influences students’ online learning outcomes in public universities within this region. The results showed a strong positive relationship (correlation coefficients of 0.821, respectively) between students\u27 online learning outcomes and self-regulation behavior. According to linear regression analysis, students\u27 online learning results were positively and significantly impacted by self-regulation behavior (regression coefficients of 1.271, respectively) The study found that self-regulation explained around 55.2% of the variance in students\u27 online learning results. For education stakeholders, these findings have important ramifications, especially when evaluating readiness for the competency-based curriculum (CBC) in Kenya by 2026, which includes the use of online learning techniques. The Teachers Service Commission (TSC), Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), and Ministry of Education (MOE) may utilize these findings to create efficient teacher training plans for online instruction and to address challenges hindering the adoption of online learning. Enhancing students\u27 academic motivation and self-control will be key to a successful digital learning experience
CRB integration and non-performing loan risk at platinum credit limited, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Get PDFThis business case focuses on the integration of Credit Reference Bureau (CRB) systems within Platinum Credit Limited, one of the leading microfinance institutions in Tanzania, and their effectiveness in tackling the ongoing challenge of non-performing loans (NPLs). Platinum Credit Limited found itself at a strategic crossroads on the potential benefits of the credit reference bureau services versus the impact of CRB on mitigating the risk of the non-performing loans. This dilemma required a strategic approach, as the problem mentioned lies not in the existence of CRB systems but in their partial or ineffective implementation at the institutional and employee level. The case utilises a descriptive approach supported by qualitative interviews and document analysis to identify institutional, technical, and behavioral obstacles to CRB usage. The case highlights the strategic decisions and interventions implemented by Platinum Credit Limited, grounded in theories such as information asymmetry, adverse selection, and moral hazard, supported by insights collected from the best practices of Tanzania’s finance industry. Through qualitative data, including interviews and document analysis, this case study presents a detailed narrative of Platinum Credit Limited’s efforts to navigate the challenge of non-performing loans (NPLs) through CRB integration. This case study provides essential strategies to address the integration of CRB in response to the rising of the non-performing loans (NPLs). The proposed solutions combine policy, technology, human capacity, regulatory cooperation, and borrower engagement. Each solution includes operational benefits with its estimated cost, clear justification, measurable targets, risks, and mitigations. The business case concludes that substantial CRB adoption should go beyond mere compliance to encompass operational integration and strategic alignment. In this way, Platinum Credit can considerably lower NPLs, improve credit quality, and secure sustainable growth within a competitive financial market
Coping with pregnancy in an academic environment: The case of pregnant student-teachers in Enchi College of Education, Ghana
Get PDFPregnancy in an academic environment poses exclusive challenges for student expectant mothers, requiring them to balance academic responsibilities with the demands of the pregnancy. Guided by Lazarus and Folkman’s stress and coping theory as well as Cohen and Wills’s social support theory, this study explored the coping experiences of pregnant student teachers in the academic environment, their causes, and their effects on educational attainment. A qualitative research approach was used for the study. The study employed an explorative research design, which helped the researchers to gain a deeper understanding of the phenomenon under study. The target population for the study was all pregnant student-teachers in the college who were at least eight weeks pregnant at the time of the research. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 15 pregnant student-teachers for data collection through a semi-structured interview guide, and the data were analyzed thematically. The study found that student-teachers used suppression and self-motivation, as well as family support and encouragement, as coping strategies. College did not expel pregnant student-teachers as previously done because of requests from mothers to have at least a child before completing college and the desire to have a child since younger generations in society were giving birth; to secure a relationship with partners was identified as a cause of pregnancy on campus. The study found effects including re-sitting examinations, poor concentration, difficulty in studying, and difficulty in attending lectures and Supported Teaching in School (STS) activities. The study recommended that society should be sensitized to stop putting pressure on women in school to avoid most of them sacrificing education for childbirth. A further study could also be conducted to examine the effectiveness of the coping strategies employed by student-teachers on their academic attainment
Significant fibrosis burden among hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency virus co-infection among injection drug users [IDUs] from Mombasa County, Kenya
Get PDFGlobally 36.7 million people have HIV, and in Kenya it is estimated that 1.5 million are infected. The HCV burden is estimated to be 32 million in sub Saharan Africa with Kenya having a prevalence of less <1%. In Kenya Injection Drug Users [IDU’s] are estimated to be 50,000. There is increased public concern on the rising cases of injection substance users, which has also led to increased HIV prevalence in Mombasa County, which stands at 8.6%. This is above Kenya’s prevalence rate, which is at 6.3%. Lymphopaenias among the HIV and HCV co-infected IDU’s has also not been explored and therefore this study was aimed to address this gap. Through this study significant fibrosis and lymphopaenias among HIV- and HCV-co-infected injection substance users were determined. While HIV promotes acceleration of HCV infections towards fibrotic liver disease, HCV increases immunosuppression in HIV infections, leading to early acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and death in untreated cases. Liver disease related to hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection may affect the immune status of the injection substance users. Limited data exists on significant fibrosis and lymphopaenia among human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus co-infected injection drug users. This was a cross-sectional study involving consenting adult (≥18 years) IDUs at Bomu Hospital, Mombasa, Kenya. The study groups were HCV-/HIV- IDUs (n=114); HCV-/HIV+ IDUs (n=73); HCV+/HIV- IDUs (n=19); and HCV+/HIV+ co-infected (n=17). A total of 223 participants were recruited. Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics data were collected using a pre-tested structured participant questionnaire. Consenting participants were serologically screened for the hepatitis C virus and also screened for the human immunodeficiency virus using the national algorithm of testing. Immunological status was tested by the BD FACS Calibur flow cytometer. Immunologic staging was based on the CD4 count, where lymphopaenia was a count of <500 cells/µl. Platelets alongside aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were also determined. The aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI), fibrosis 4 index (FIB 4) and non-alcoholic fatty liver score (NAFLD) were used to determine significant fibrosis. APRI approached significant difference (P=0.054) across the groups. Age showed significance P 0.001 and gender P<0.0001. The AST levels across the groups are P=0.001. In immunological staging, lymphopaenia was more profound in HIV mono-infected injection drug users (65.8%), HCV/HIV co-infected injection substance users (41.2%), HCV/HIV uninfected (21.1%) and lastly HCV mono-infected injection substance users (15.8%). From the results it can be concluded that HCV/HIV co-infection among IDU’s, is associated with high burden of significant fibrosis and lymphopaenia. Significant fibrosis was more pronounced across groups with HCV mono-infected IDUs leading, while lymphopaenia was most severe in HIV mono-infected IDUs (65.8%). The HCV/HIV co-infected burden of both significant fibrosis and lymphopaenia (41.2%) is progressively high. These findings highlight the profound impact of HIV and HCV on liver disease progression and immune suppression. This emphasises the urgent need for early screening, monitoring and integrated management of co-infected individuals to reduce morbidity and mortality in this vulnerable population
The community lived experiences of sanitation in the peri-urban areas of Lusaka, Zambia
Get PDFThe study is significant as it contributes to Sustainable Development Goal number 6, for which countries are expected by 2030 to achieve sanitation services for all the citizens. In response to the global vision and also in alignment with the National Water and Sanitation Policy, the government has implemented a number of sanitation interventions across the country and in Lusaka peri-urban areas. The objective of this paper was to identify stakeholders\u27 perceived sanitation challenges in Lusaka’s peri-urban areas. The study adopted an interpretive phenomenological paradigm, anchoring on the relativist ontology, which posits that there is no single reality but rather multiple realities in the understanding of sanitation challenges. The paper was informed by the 29 participants, disaggregated as 10 males, 15 women, and 4 key informants. The data was analyzed using a reflexive thematic analysis, which was used in line with Braun and Clarke\u27s framework for thematic analysis. The study found that due to limited demand for the pit emptying services, the pit emptier’s are sometimes forced to move to other to leverage business opportunities hence they are expected to get either new operating license for that area or probably sign a new service contract; hence, this raises the cost of doing business. Moreover, the study disclosed that there are no dedicated structures to deal with sanitation, given that the community-level structures, such as the D-WASH, Water and Sanitation committees, are neither well-coordinated at the community level nor integrated into the sanitation programs. Moreover, the study uncovered that culture is embedded in sanitation and affects pit emptying services because women use pit latrines to dispose menstrual pads, hence when they fill up, the women tend to be uncomfortable to allow emptying of the toilets. The study concludes that there is a need for policymakers to consider a single operating licensing regime to ease the cost of operations for the service providers. This policy direction will improve sanitation in most of the peri-urban areas of Lusaka