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Impact of Climate Change on Vector-Borne Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review
No full textConference PaperThe aim of the research is to examine how climate change is facilitating the rising expansion of vector-borne diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa. By exploring the interconnection between environmental change, namely temperature rise and altered precipitation patterns, and disease transmission, the study offers adaptation guidance in public health systems. The research fills a fundamental gap in integrated climatehealth policy formation in the region. It emphasizes the necessity of understanding the climate-related health vulnerabilities of the already vulnerable populations. The study used a systematic review and meta-analysis of 45 peer-reviewed publications from the years 2015 to 2024 was conducted, according to data from PubMed and Scopus. The review was conducted according to climatic variables and their relationship with the occurrence of diseases like malaria and dengue. Inclusion criteria ensured regional applicability, seeking empirical studies correlating environmental data and disease trends. Meta-analytic software (Comprehensive Meta-Analysis or CMA software), random-effects models, and I² statistics measured effect size variability and heterogeneity. The study revealed a 15% increase in malaria transmission in areas with long rainy seasons, and a 20% rise in dengue cases with a concurrent 1.5°C increase in temperature. Vector habitats have also been displaced northward by up to 200 km. These shifts are being felt most in semi-arid areas that previously had low disease incidence. Climate-sensitive vector expansion is growing beyond the capacity of existing health infrastructure and enhancing population exposure risks. These findings provide strong evidence supporting the inclusion of geospatial climate models within public health surveillance systems.Daystar Universit
Determinants of Investment Decisions by Sacco Members: A Case of Imarisha Sacco, Kenya
No full textJournal articleBackground: Investment decision by SACCO members is influenced significantly by many variables; Arbitrary or well-founded. It is not known to what extent emotional biases and financial literacy influence such decisions. In this paper, we seek to empirically estimate the contribution of emotional biases and financial literacy to financial decisions.
Objective: To empirically evaluate the influence of financial literacy and emotional biases on investment decisions by SACCO members.
Method: Data was collected from July 28th to 31st 2025 among 284 Imarisha SACCO members in Kericho Couty, Kenya. The data was cleaned, coded, tested for normality before analysis. To estimate
the influence of financial literacy, herd behavior bias, overconfidence bias, loss aversion bias and
investment decisions, a multiple linear regression followed by multiple logistic regression are
estimated. The models were evaluated for validity. Then, results were obtained and interpreted.
Results: The findings from both multiple linear and logistic regression analyses demonstrate that
emotional biases and financial literacy significantly shape SACCO members’ investment decisions. In
this regard, the linear regression results indicates that investment decisions increase by 28.6% when
emotional biases and financial literacy are held constant. A unit increase in emotional biases and
financial literacy enhances investment decisions by 51% and 38.2%, respectively. Confirmatory
analysis using logistic regression model corroborate the joint influence of emotional biases
(overconfidence, loss aversion, and herd behavior) and financial literacy, with the latter contributing an
additional 16.1% improvement in investment outcomes.
Conclusions: Both emotional biases and financial literacy influence investment decisions. There is
both tradeoff and synergies in the influence of the considered variables
Assessment of Attitudes Towards Infidelity and Family Dysfunction among Married Christian Individuals: Case of Selected Seventh Day Adventist Churches, Nairobi, Kenya
No full textMASTERS in Clinical PsychologyThis research paper examined the connection between infidelity attitudes and family dysfunction in married Christian adults in the chosen Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) churches in Nairobi, Kenya. Infidelity is still a problem that jeopardizes family stability, which is in contrast with the belief on the importance of fidelity in marriage as set forth by the church. However, it still reveals a discrepancy between institutional viewpoints on religious beliefs and practice. A quantitative design (cross-sectional) was used to collect data using standardized measures (Attitudes Towards Infidelity Scale (ATIS) and Kansas Marital Satisfaction Scale (KMSS)) with the help of a demographic questionnaire, comprising 113 married SDA members. SPSS Version 26 was used to analyze the data and to apply descriptive statistics, correlations, and regression analyses to examine relationships among variables. The research was based on the theories of Social Learning, Attachment, and Religious Commitment, which provided a multidimensional conceptual base to interlink attitudinal processes, learning behavior, emotional interrelationships, and faithfulness commitments to constitute a matrimonial result. The results indicated that the respondents strongly condemned infidelity and generally reported high marital satisfaction. The leading causes of infidelity were singled out as emotional abandonment, lack of communication, and spiritual depreciation. The results of the correlation analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between adverse reactions to infidelity and marital satisfaction (r = 0.482, p < 0.001). Additionally, higher moral beliefs correlate with greater family functioning. These findings support the fact that religious devotion not only influences moral attitudes but also enhances the stability of mutual belief and spiritual responsibility. The research concludes that faith-based interventions used in combination with psychological/relational counseling may be effective in addressing the problem of infidelity roots and ensuring long-term marriage stability. The study has added to theological and psychological literature by providing empirical data on the role of spirituality in attitudes and family well-being within an African Christian setting. It has been suggested that SDA marriage ministries be strengthened by incorporating interdisciplinary approaches grounded in pastoral-psychological counseling, encouraging emotional intelligence and digital ethics in relationships, and creating specific premarital and post marital interventions to reduce relational risk factors.Daystar Universit
Exploring The Complexities in CBC Pedagogical Transition: A Case Study of Langata Sub-County
No full textMASTER OF EDUCATION in Leadership and Policy StudiesThis study explores the complexities of the pedagogical transition to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Primary Schools in Lang’ata Sub-County, Kenya. The objectives were: to assess teacher pedagogy readiness to implement CBC effectively; evaluate the adequacy of infrastructure, instructional resources, and support systems necessary for CBC implementation; and to investigate the challenges associated with assessing student learning within CBC, including the adoption of appropriate tools and methodologies. Guided by Constructivist Learning Theory, as advanced by John Dewey and Jean Piaget, the research examined how teachers could be better prepared to foster active and autonomous learners. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. The target population comprised teachers, headteachers, curriculum developers and teacher trainers from selected schools in Lang’ata Sub-County. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Findings revealed that most teachers demonstrated theoretical understanding of CBC pedagogy and expressed confidence in implementation. The study concluded that while teachers were conceptually prepared for CBC, systemic challenges hindered effective implementation. It recommended continuous, practical CBC training; investment in infrastructure and resources; reduced class sizes; strengthened teacher support systems; development of standardized CBC-aligned assessment tools; and improved parental engagement. Further research was recommended on long-term CBC impacts, rural-urban implementation differences, and ICT integration in CBC assessment.Daystar Universit
Governance, Policy and Laws on Climate Change and Planetary Health
No full textConference PaperThis paper examines emerging Kenya’s environmental jurisprudence by comparing the Owino Uhuru v. Metal Factory decision and similar precedents to the Dutch landmark Urgenda v. Netherlands judgement. The analysis underscores how judicial activism blends local realities with global legal standards to develop global environmental jurisprudence and promote ecological integrity. Building on Kenya’s constitutional protection of environmental rights, the Owino Uhuru case held public authorities and private entities accountable for environmental harm caused by industrial pollution. Relying on principles such as precautionary measures and the polluter pays doctrine, the judgment authorizes financial redress and remediation actions by polluters. By declaring government inaction on greenhouse gas emissions, a violation of fundamental human rights, the Urgenda case compelled the state to adopt more stringent mitigation measures for environmental harm. The judgement has subsequently inspired global climate litigation based on adoption of international human rights norms and use of scientific evidence. This paper adopts a doctrinal research methodology, critically analyzing policy instruments, constitutional provisions, statutes and judicial opinions to trace the trajectory of climate justice litigation in Kenya. Such analysis provides valuable insights into the transformative potential of judicial interventions, offering blueprints for policymakers, legal practitioners, scholars and other climate justice activists to advance climate justice on both national and global arenas.Daystar Universit
From Fiction to Reality: Parallels between Ng’angá Mbugua’s Terrorist of the Aberdare and Different Colours, and Kenyan Media Coverage of Climate Change
No full textConference PaperFiction often serves as a mirror to reality, and in the context of this paper, it not only reflects the reality of climate change but also plays a crucial role in shaping how we perceive and respond to it, explore the consequences, propose innovative solutions, influence public discourse and shape societal attitudes towards climate change. This paper therefore explores the parallels between Ng’angá Mbugua’s novels, Terrorist of the Aberdare and Different Colours, and the Kenyan media's coverage of climate change. By juxtaposing fiction with media reportage, this study underscores the role of literature in shaping public discourse on climate change and illustrates how fictional narratives can reflect and influence real-world environmental concerns. Using ecocriticism as a literary framework and framing theory in media, this study explores the parallels between Ngángá Mbugua’s fictional works and Kenyan media coverage of climate change between August and October 2024. This will include textual analysis of Mbugua’s novels and content analysis of Kenyan media reports on climate change. The key findings will emphasize the importance of integrating literary and media approaches to enhance climate change communication and advocacy.Daystar Universit
Sequential Exposure to Multiple Antibiotics Depleted Glutathione in Hepatocytes, Disrupted Hematological Profile, and Inflammatory Responses in A Mouse Model
No full textJournal ArticleAntibiotic misuse is considered a global threat due to drug-induced microbial resistance and disruption of vital biochemical and physiological processes. The aim of this study was to elucidate the impact of antibiotic-elicited dysbiosis on gut microbiota, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses in a mouse model. Our experimental design simulated a poly-pharmacy situation where people are exposed to multiple antibiotic regimes over a prolonged period. Mice were allotted into six groups: group one was the control; group two was treated with amoxicillin 9.62 mg/kg; group three was treated with amoxicillin-clavulanic acid 17.53 mg/kg; group four azithromycin 15.38 mg/kg; group five received amoxicillin 9.62 mg/kg, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid 17.53 mg/kg, and azithromycin 15.38 mg/kg successively (sequential administration of the selected antibiotics); and group six received same treatment as group five but with probiotics being administered daily during the 7-day interval between each course of antibiotic treatment. The experiment lasted 49 days, during which samples were collected for analyses of gut microbiota, organ weights, hematological parameters, liver and kidney function tests, reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, cytokines (via ELISA), and histology. The results showed that antibiotic-induced dysbiosis altered body weight and caused amoxicillin-related splenomegaly. Successive exposure to antibiotics decreased RBCs, hematocrit, and hemoglobin levels but elevated WBCs, lymphocytes, and monocytes. These changes were restored upon co-administration of probiotics. Antibiotic-induced dysbiosis caused dyslipidemia. Furthermore, exposure to antibiotics led to a depletion of reduced GSH in the liver and gut, indicative of oxidative stress. The pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ in serum were increased during concurrent administration of antibiotics, indicating inflammation. Liver function enzyme markers ALT and AST were elevated, signifying liver injury. All these effects were ameliorated in the group co-treated with probiotics. The findings from this study provide compelling evidence that exposure to multiple antibiotics over some time results in gut dysbiosis. This disrupts normal microbiota growth, affects the hematological profile, alters cytokine balance, increases oxidative stress, and impacts immune functio
Petals of Persistence: The Gallant Flower’s Fight Against Climate Change
No full textConference PaperAvailability of feeds for livestock production has proved to be a major constraint to farmers in semi- arid areas. The objective of this study was to introduce gallant flowerbased feed formulation for livestock production as a nature solution to climate change. The research study was conducted at Daystar University farm to analyze nutritional value of Galinsoga Parviflora (Gallant flower) as an alternative poultry feed. Gallant flower is a common annual weed found almost in all ecological zones in Kenya. Its seeds can easily be propagated by wind with a short growing period of 50 days to easily escape climate change impact of drought. The experiment was piloted at Daystar University for three months on 829 layers and egg production performance. The field trials established that gallant flower matures in 45 days and can be utilized in fresh, powder and pellet form. Chicken consumed 80gms of gallant flower daily. Gallant flower feeds reduced cost of feeds by 57 % and increase egg production by 32%. Data collected consisted of amount of gallant flower per day, egg size and weight, number of eggs laid as performance indicators. The research study results confirmed the suitability of gallant flower as a nature-based technology which can be fortified in livestock feeds because of its nutritious value to ensure food security and climate change resilience.Daystar Universit
Guardians of Health Discourse: Analysis of Sourcing Practices of Foreign Correspondents in The Coverage of Covid-19 Pandemic in Africa.
No full textJournal ArticleThe scholarly fascination with sourcing practices is a long tradition in media and communication studies due to the influence of sources over the production of news stories and in shaping the news narratives. In health journalism, the sourcing techniques often pit expert sources against citizen voices. In this study we investigated the sourcing practices of foreign correspondents and the challenges of reporting the COVID-19 crisis in Africa. The journalists (n = 18) interviewed for this study were drawn from various international media organisations that cut across radio, television, print and wire services with strong presence in Nairobi, Kenya. Using an inductive thematic analysis approach, the results showed that the reporters relied mainly on official sources that prioritised the use of statistical evidence of mortality and infection rates to frame the pandemic narratives on the continent. Although the journalists acknowledged the significance of lay persons as sources, they were used sparingly to mostly (in)validate government claims and highlight the impact of the pandemic on the people. Furthermore, criteria used by the reporters to select framers of the health discourse differed from expert and non-expert sources. The sourcing and reporting challenges in the pandemic coverage ranged from limited training of most journalists on health journalism to difficulty in getting some sources to adapt or adjust to changes in journalistic routines occasioned by the pandemic. The findings illuminated and demonstrated the need for balanced sourcing practices in health journalism and the implication for health communication and public understanding of science in crisis moments
Effects of Capacity Development on Monitoring and Evaluation Practices in the Egerton University Youth Agribusiness Incubation Projects in Kenya
No full textJournal articleDeveloping capacity in Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) is essential for M&E professionals and their organisations, as it enhances skills, improves data quality, and supports effective programme execution and informed decision-making. However, despite its growing importance, many still face gaps in skills, systems, and supportive environments. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of capacity development on Monitoring and Evaluation practices through a case study of youth agribusiness incubation projects at Egerton University. It was grounded on the Human Capital Theory (HCT) and the Institutional Theory. The research adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design and used stratified simple random and census sampling techniques. Data was obtained from 311 respondents, including 275 youth and 36 project staff. Primary data was collected via online questionnaires and analysed using SPSS. Regression analysis and thematic analysis was performed to assess support for the hypothesis. The results of the data analysis revealed a positive relationship between capacity development and M&E practices. Practical experience through internships and formal education were identified as key sources of M&E knowledge. Moreover, capacity development strategies within the agribusiness projects significantly enhanced the accuracy, efficiency, and effectiveness of M&E practices. This study contributed to existing knowledge by empirically confirming that capacity development has an effect on monitoring and evaluation practices. It is recommended that organisations encourage self-directed learning, expand youth participation in M&E, and enhance training initiatives for stakeholders. It also proposed investing in technological infrastructure and creating mechanisms to reward innovation in M&E practices. The Kenyan government was urged to support innovation through financial incentives and recognition programs to foster continuous improvement in M&E