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Safeguarding the best interest of children in the resolution of custody and maintenance disputes - a case for child inclusive mediation
No full textFull - text undergraduate project“There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way it treats its children.”- Nelson Mandela. This quote highlights the fundamental principle that children's well-being and rights reflect a nation’s values and commitment to justice. Children are often the most affected yet the least heard participants in custody and maintenance disputes. While mediation is increasingly recognized as an effective alternative to litigation in resolving family conflicts, traditional approaches often fail to actively involve children in the decision-making process, neglecting their perspectives and opinions. This study explores the concept of child-inclusive mediation, which seeks to ensure that children’s perspectives are heard and considered in a structured and developmentally appropriate manner. The study aims to demonstrate that child-inclusive mediation enhances fairness, improves dispute resolution outcomes and ensures that decisions truly reflect the needs and welfare of the children involved. It evaluates Kenya’s legislative, policy, and institutional frameworks, identifying the gaps that hinder effective child participation in mediation. Through a comparative analysis with Australia, where structured child-inclusive mediation is more established, the study highlights the benefits of giving children a voice in matters that directly affect them. It also examines the potential challenges and considers how Kenya can develop a more inclusive, child-centered approach to custody and maintenance mediation. Ultimately, this research advocates for a more child-centered mediation process that not only resolves disputes effectively but also ensures that children’s rights and well-being remain at the heart of the proceedings
The Effects of cognitive biases on investment decisions among retail investors at the Nairobi Securities Exchange
No full textFull - text thesisFinancial markets play a crucial role in economic development through capital mobilization and allocation, yet retail investor participation in the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) remains low despite various policy interventions. While traditional finance theories such as the modern portfolio theory assume investor rationality, behavioral finance theories such as the prospect theory recognize that psychological factors significantly influence investment decisions. This research investigated the effects of cognitive biases on retail investors' investment decisions in the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE). The specific objectives were to investigate the effect of anchoring, illusion of control and loss aversion biases on retail investment decisions retail at the NSE, Kenya. The study surveyed 88 active retail investors in April 2025 in Nairobi County using structured questionnaires that were administered online. The study adopted a quantitative approach to collect and analysing data the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. The collected data was coded and classified appropriately to ensure responses were processed correctly. It was revealed that all three behavioral biases, anchoring bias illusion of control bias, and loss aversion bias had a positive significant influence on retail investors' investment decisions at the NSE. The study recommends intensified investor education programs to address these behavioral biases, collaboration among regulatory bodies and financial advisors to develop training on rational investment approaches as well as incorporation of behavioral awareness into financial literacy campaigns to help investors recognize and mitigate the impact of psychological biases on their financial choices. The study limitations were that of overreliance reliance on self-reported data, which may be subject to bias in social desirability or inaccurate self-assessment. It also focused on individual investors at the Nairobi Securities Exchange, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to institutional investors or investors in other markets.
Key terms: Cognitive biases, Investor behavior, Nairobi Stock Exchange
Factors influencing the adoption of electric vehicles in Nairobi County, Kenya
No full textFull - text thesisWhile EVs have been touted as one of the key solutions to the problem of climate change, the adoption of these vehicles is low, especially in developing countries. This study addressed disagreement and contextual gaps in the literature regarding the adoption of EVs in developing markets where adoption rates are low. The aim of the study was to examine the factors that influence the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Nairobi City County. The specific objectives were to examine the effect of technological, economic, and infrastructural factors on the adoption of EVs. The positivism philosophy guided the study. The research employed a descriptive cross-sectional design with a sample of 400 registered drivers and vehicle owners. Structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data. Analysis of the data was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics used were means and standard deviation, which were used to summarize the variables. Inferential statistics, especially multiple linear regression, was used to examine the association between the dependent and independent variables. The statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software was used to analyze the data. Findings from multiple regression analysis indicate that economic and infrastructural factors have significant positive effect while the effect of economic factors is positive but not significant. Therefore, this study concludes that economic and infrastructural factors are significant predictors of EV adoption in Nairobi City County. It, therefore, recommends the government and actors in the automotive industry to adopt industrywide strategies aimed at improving economic conditions and infrastructural factors to increase the adoption of EVs.
Keywords: Electric Vehicles, technological factors, economic factors, infrastructural factor
Interrogating the legal and regulatory framework in Kenya for combatting deepfakes as a form of cyber violence
No full textFull - text undergraduate research projectThis dissertation examines the legal and regulatory frameworks in Kenya to address the threats posed by deepfakes, particularly in the context of cyber violence. The theoretical framework employed in this research integrates the Information Poverty Theory and the Actor-Network Theory, providing a comprehensive lens through which to analyze the interplay between technology, law, and societal impacts. The study begins by defining deepfakes and exploring their implications for individuals and society, highlighting the potential for misuse in defamation, harassment, and misinformation. It then performs a comprehensive analysis of existing laws and regulations, to identify gaps in the current legal framework that hinder effective responses to the challenges posed by deepfakes. The research employs a qualitative methodology, incorporating legal analysis and case studies to highlight the challenges faced by victims and the legal system in addressing deepfake-driven cyber violence. It critically evaluates the adequacy of Kenya's legal framework in addressing the unique characteristics of deepfake technology. The findings reveal a pressing need for a multi-faceted approach that includes not only legal reforms but also public awareness campaigns and technological solutions to combat the proliferation of deepfakes. In conclusion, this dissertation advocates for a bespoke legal framework that includes clear definitions, enhanced enforcement mechanisms, and capacity-building initiatives for law enforcement and judicial officers. By addressing the complexities of deepfakes within the Kenyan context, this research contributes to the broader discourse on cyber violence and the need for adaptive legal responses in an increasingly digital world. The recommendations provided aim to inform policymakers and stakeholders in their efforts to create a safer online environment, ensuring that the rights and dignity of individuals are upheld in the face of evolving technological threats
Factors affecting uptake of general insurance in Kenya: a case of Small and Medium Enterprises in Gikomba Market, Nairobi City County, Kenya
No full textFull - text thesisInsurance plays a critical role in risks management through risk pooling. However, in the year 2022, Kenya insurance penetration was 2.17% and major insurable risk events have happened causing enormous losses to businesses. It is therefore evident that majority the businesses affected by these frequent incidences like fires and burglaries in the recent past have been lacking insurance protection thereby affecting their recovery processes. This study sought to establish factors affecting uptake of general insurance in Kenya by doing a case study small medium enterprises (SMEs) operating within Gikomba Market, Nairobi City County, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to determine the effect personal characteristics, insurance products characteristics and insurance regulatory framework on the uptake of general insurance in Kenya. Descriptive cross sectional survey design was adopted. Businesspeople from different enterprises were sampled at the same time. The sampling frame comprised of all 4201 SME traders registered with the Nairobi City County through application of trading licenses. Stratified Simple random sampling method was used to select a total of 365 respondent from the population. Primary data was collected through a questionnaire which contained closed ended questions to standardize responses. Collected data was inspected for completeness and necessary editing done to ensure accuracy, consistency, and completeness. Incomplete data was set aside to limit distortion of the results. The study used descriptive statistics for quantitative data that included means generation, frequencies, standard deviation, and percentages to help generalize the findings. Tables and figures were used to present the data. Correlation analysis was done using Spearman rank. The three factors collectively explained significant variation in the uptake of general insurance. A one-unit increase in Personal Characteristics is associated with a significant unit increase in the Uptake of General Insurance. A one-unit increase in Insurance Product Characteristics is associated with a significant unit increase in the Uptake of General Insurance. A one-unit increase in Regulatory Framework is associated with a significant unit increase in the Uptake of General Insurance. The study recommended that SME operators need to improve their financial literacy skills to fully grasp the essence and importance of general insurance. Insurance companies need to expand their product offerings to include diverse insurance packages that cater to the unique needs of SMEs in Gikomba Market. Insurance companies and agencies should ensure active collaboration with regulatory authorities to address emerging issues and collaboratively develop innovative solutions
Striking a balance: navigating the intersection of national security interests’ and the right to privacy in surveillance practices
No full textFull - text undergraduate research projectThis research examines the balance between national interests and individual privacy rights in surveillance practices within Kenya's legal framework. The study uses the theory of proportionality to examine when fundamental rights are constrained in pursuit of state objectives. It explores Kenya's Constitution, specifically Article 31, which guarantees the right to privacy while permitting lawful limitations under certain circumstances, such as national interest. The paper exposes the gaps in Kenya's legal framework, particularly under Section 6(1) of the Official Secrets Act, which grants discretionary surveillance powers to the Cabinet Secretary for Internal Security to access data without a court order. Its major claim is that the access to data without a high court order is prone to abuse and infringes on citizens' right to privacy. The paper therefore advocates for the introduction of essential checks and balances to prevent potential abuses and ensure accountability in surveillance initiatives. The benefits and harms of surveillance measures are also examined, emphasizing the need for a principled approach to surveillance that prioritizes individual rights and democratic principles while safeguarding national interests’ effectively. The paper further analyzes the existing legal, institutional, and policy frameworks governing data surveillance in Kenya. A comparative study is conducted between the United Kingdom and Kenya. The paper scrutinizes the UK’s Investigatory Powers Act, and further advocates for the incorporation of an Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office (I.P.C.O) and Investigatory Powers Tribunal (I.P.T) to enhance oversight mechanisms. This according to the paper, when adopted in the Kenyan dimension would help prevent abuse of investigatory powers by public authorities. The paper draws critical findings which are directed towards enlightening policy makers, lawyers, adjudicators, and scholars, enriching the ongoing discourse surrounding safeguarding privacy rights amidst increasing state surveillance.
Key words: Surveillance, Privacy, National Interest, Official Secrets Ac
A Philosophical critique of the Marxist utopia through Dostoevsky’s notes from underground
No full textFull - text thesisGoing back to antiquity to the present, men have dreamed of an ideal state that provides the necessary conditions for the flourishing of universal happiness. From the biblical Garden of Eden to Xenophon’s Krypoaedia and Plato’s Republic, men have advanced the notion of the ideal state purposely designed to assure mankind eternal bliss. The 19th Century witnessed utopian narratives that sought to situate utopia within the course of history as the final act. The course of history would culminate in a utopian society. The construction of utopia entails the total subordination of society to human will. This refers to man's capacity to dominate his external environment and exert conscious rational control over his external environment. The realization of utopia will usher in the kingdom of freedom. The unity of mankind would be restored as human individual existence would be reconciled with human species essence. However, what started as the promise of collective earthly salvation degenerated into tyranny. The conscious striving to implement the perfect future edifice led to totalitarianism. Unrestricted freedom quickly transformed into unrestricted despotism. This research examines The Communist Manifesto in relation to Dostoevsky’s Notes from Underground. The analysis aims to establish a correlation between Dostoevsky’s ideas and the unethical malevolence of The Communist Manifesto. The Manifesto’s utopian character is based on its advancement of a visionary system of social perfection. The analysis is based on the form of existentialism known as the anarcho-psychological tradition
Effect of emerging leadership styles of branch managers on performance of commercial banks in Nairobi County
No full textFull - text thesisThe global banking sector is experiencing rapid transformation, driven by technological innovation, evolving customer expectations, and increasing regulatory demands. In Kenya, these changes are particularly evident among Tier 1 commercial banks, which dominate the sector in assets, deposits, and profitability. Branch managers are central to this transformation, as their leadership styles critically influence banks’ ability to adapt, innovate, and achieve sustainable performance. This study investigates the effect of emerging leadership styles-digital, hybrid, agile, and ethical-on the performance of commercial banks in Nairobi County, Kenya. The research is motivated by the recognition that traditional leadership models may be inadequate for addressing the complex challenges of the modern banking industry, and that empirical evidence on the impact of new leadership paradigms in the Kenyan context remains limited.
The study addresses the gap in empirical research regarding the influence of contemporary leadership styles on bank branch performance in emerging economies. Digital leadership, characterized by the strategic use of technology to enhance efficiency and customer experience; hybrid leadership, which balances traditional management with modern innovations; agile leadership, emphasizing adaptability and rapid response to change; and ethical leadership, focusing on integrity and social responsibility, are all gaining traction globally. However, their specific effects on operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, staff engagement, and financial outcomes within Kenyan commercial banks had not been systematically examined prior to this study. The central research question is: How do digital, hybrid, agile, and ethical leadership styles adopted by branch managers affect the performance of commercial banks in Nairobi County?
A descriptive research design was adopted, targeting all 337 branches of the nine Tier 1 commercial banks in Nairobi County. Using stratified random sampling, a representative sample of 77 branches was selected to ensure coverage across different banks and locations. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to branch managers, capturing both self-reported leadership styles and objective branch performance indicators. The questionnaires were developed based on established leadership and performance measurement frameworks, with reliability confirmed through pilot testing and Cronbach’s alpha analysis. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS, employing both descriptive statistics and inferential techniques, including correlation and multiple regression, to assess the relationships between leadership styles and branch performance. Diagnostic tests for normality and multicollinearity were also performed to validate the models.
The findings reveal that digital leadership is a significant predictor of branch performance, with managers who champion digital tools, promote digital literacy, and foster innovation reporting higher operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and revenue growth. Hybrid leadership also shows a strong positive association with performance, as managers who balance traditional customer service with digital solutions achieve superior staff morale, customer retention, and financial results. Agile leadership, while positively correlated with performance, has a more context-dependent impact, being less significant in highly regulated or rigid environments. Ethical leadership demonstrates a direct and significant effect on both financial and non-financial performance indicators, with branches led by ethical managers reporting greater employee engagement, customer trust, and reputational capital.
The study offers actionable recommendations for bank executives and policymakers, advocating for the institutionalization of digital and hybrid leadership training, context-specific application of agile practices, and reinforcement of ethical standards. It underscores the need for regulatory frameworks that support innovation while safeguarding ethical conduct and financial stability. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the understanding of leadership in the Kenyan banking sector by empirically demonstrating the positive effects of emerging leadership styles on branch performance, and recommends further research on their long-term and cross-sectoral impacts
Factors influencing newspaper readership in Kampala, Uganda
No full textFull - text thesisGlobally, newspapers are in a crucible of challenges, from fluctuating, and declining reductions to drops in advertising revenues. There are different reasons why individuals choose to read newspapers. This research extended to the demographic, socioeconomic, technological and content perception facts that influence newspaper readership in Kampala, Uganda. Uses and Gratifications Theory formed the major theoretical pillar while Media Dependency Theory buffered up as a support theory. The research was conducted cross-sectionally and utilized means such as measures of central tendency to describe the outcomes. Those in Kampala aged 19 and 59 years across the five divisions constituted the targeted population. A questionnaire was issued out to enable the collection of data on a 1 to 5 scale of agreement and thereafter the data analysed with STATA. Findings revealed a positive relationship between demographics, technological aspects, content factors and newspaper readership. The highest impact in newspaper use in Kampala is attributable to content perceptions. From these outcomes, media content standards have been informed while journalistic skill enhancement is also suggested. Other factors beyond those examined ought to be influencing why people use newspapers in Kampala. Additional research should follow in this aspect. Limitations from pursuing a cross-sectional design could be mitigated by a longitudinal approach to better appreciate the dynamics around readership in Kampala
The Effect of corporate culture on organizational performance: a case of Basecamp Explorer Kenya
No full textFull - text thesisThe study explored how organizational culture affects performance following a corporate merger, using Basecamp Explorer - a tourism company formed from the merger of Basecamp Explorer Kenya and Old Boma Ltd - as the case study. The research was anchored in the Competing Values Framework (CVF) and the Balanced Scorecard (BSC), offering a comprehensive model for analyzing both culture and performance. The study sought to: (1) assess the impact of Clan Culture on performance; (2) explore how Adhocracy Culture influences outcomes; (3) evaluate the role of Market Culture; and (4) examine the effects of Hierarchical Culture. A quantitative methodology was adopted, with data collected through structured questionnaires completed by 152 employees from diverse departments and roles at Basecamp Explorer. Descriptive statistics were used to outline respondent characteristics and summarize the cultural dimensions, while regression analysis examined the relationships between different culture types and organizational performance. The analysis showed that Clan and Adhocracy Cultures significantly contributed to enhanced collaboration, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Market Culture was strongly associated with achieving goals and maintaining a competitive edge. Conversely, Hierarchical Culture promoted order and control but was seen as restricting adaptability and creativity. The findings offer strategic insights for Basecamp Explorer and similar firms undergoing post-merger transitions, emphasizing the value of fostering team-oriented, innovative, and performance-driven cultures to boost success.
Keywords: Organizational Culture, Organizational Performance, Competing Values Framework, Balanced Scorecard, Post-Merger Integration, Tourism Industry, Kenya