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Determinants of Cancer Care Pathways at Wajir County, Kenya: Patient Perspectives.
No full textJournal ArticleBackground: Cancer represents a major public health issue with substantial morbidity and mortality in low-resource settings such as Kenya. This study focuses on Wajir County in northern Kenya, a region with limited cancer care infrastructure and high unmet needs. Despite recent efforts to decentralize cancer care in Kenya, including establishing regional cancer centres in Garissa, Nakuru, and Mombasa, access to screening, diagnostics, and treatment remains constrained, particularly in rural areas. The absence of comprehensive cancer care pathways and a specialized oncology workforce in Wajir County exacerbates challenges in early detection, treatment, and palliative care. The study evaluated the availability of cancer care services at Wajir County Referral Hospital (WCRH), including screening, diagnostic services, treatment modalities, and referral systems. The study further explores the gaps in cancer care, focusing on patient perspectives, and proposes potential solutions to address these challenges. Methods: This study used mixed-methods (qualitative and quantitative) methods to understand cancer care from the perspective of patients at WCRH. It involved adult patients (over 18) with a confirmed cancer diagnosis who were receiving treatment or
follow-up care between February and April 2024. Data were gathered through interviews and surveys, with research assistants helping with language translation and community navigation. The study collected information on demographics, cancer types, and prevalence rates, which were analysed using descriptive statistics. The qualitative data focused on patients' experiences with cancer awareness, treatment, and care gaps, and were analysed for common themes. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was given by all participants. Results: This study involved 25 cancer patients (12 males, 13 females) receiving treatment at WCRH. The most common cancers were esophageal (44%), cervical (28%), breast (24%), and prostate (8%). Delays in diagnosis were significant, with 12% of patients waiting over 6 years, 24% waiting 4–6 years, and 40% waiting 1–3 years before seeking care. Most diagnoses were made at WCRH (64%), with others diagnosed at the Garissa Cancer Centre (22%) or in Nairobi (20%). Diagnostic tools available at WCRH included pap smears, mammograms, PSA tests, ultrasound, CT scans, and biopsies. However, access to these tools was limited, with barium swallow (32%) being the most frequently used for esophageal cancer, followed by pap smears, biopsies, and ultrasound (16% each). Patient awareness of cancer screening was higher for cervical (68%) and breast cancer (60%) but lower for prostate cancer (32%) and esophageal cancer (4%). Despite awareness, only 8% had previously undergone screening. Regarding treatment, most patients (80%) were aware of surgical options, while fewer knew about chemotherapy (28%) or palliative care (12%). When treatment was unavailable at WCRH, most patients preferred the Garissa Cancer Centre (80%) or Nairobi (52%). Financial challenges were the primary barrier to treatment for 88% of patients, and patients suggested improving local cancer care, subsidizing treatment, and enhancing early detection and screening services. Conclusion: The findings indicate a high burden of late-stage cancer diagnoses, insufficient cancer screening and treatment services, and limited access to cancer care pathways and patient navigation systems. These results underscore the urgent need for improved cancer care pathways, enhanced awareness, and increased healthcare capacity to reduce cancer morbidity and mortality in northern Kenya. This study contributes to understanding the cancer care landscape in Wajir County and provides a foundation for future health policy initiatives aimed at bridging existing gaps in cancer car
Open Science Forum| Day 2
No full textDocumentaryAn International gathering convened under FOSTER Project, themed “Advancing Open Science ecosystem for Higher Education Institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa.” The event brought together participants from Kenya, Tanzania, and Europe, including esteemed speakers from partner institutions across Africa and Europe
Exploring the Importance of Cultural Awareness in Fostering Therapeutic Alliance for Clinical Psychologists Working with Immigrants Seeking Mental Health Services in Nairobi, Kenya
No full textJournal ArticleImmigrants encounter a multitude of mental health challenges that arise from their unique migration experiences and the inherent difficulties associated with adapting to unfamiliar environments. These challenges frequently stem from various forms of trauma, including exposure to violence, persecution, and economic instability, as well as the profound emotional impacts of separation from family, community, and cultural roots.
Compounding these issues are language barriers, societal discrimination, and the intense pressure to succeed within a new context, all of which can exacerbate feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression The increasing diversity among immigrant populations underlines the critical need for a nuanced and culturally sensitive approach to mental health support that takes into consideration their distinct cultural, social, and contextual circumstances. This study aimed to examine the significance of cultural awareness in strengthening the therapeutic alliance between clinical psychologists and immigrant clients. Understanding the rich tapestry of backgrounds and the varied experiences of immigrant individuals is crucial for psychologists to deliver effective, empathetic, and relevant care. This research highlights how an appreciation of cultural differences can greatly enhance communication between clinicians and clients, foster trust, and ultimately improve therapeutic outcomes in clinical settings. It reinforces the notion that culturally informed care is not merely an additive approach but an essential component of effective mental health practice that can bridge the gap between diverse populations and mental health provider
Improving the Mental Health Needs of ElderlyKenyans in Rural Areas: An Examination of Treatment Barriers
No full textJournal ArticleThis paper investigates the obstacles preventing elderly individuals in rural Kenya from receiving therapeutic treatment, recognizing their vulnerability to mental health problems. The increasing global recognition of mental health needs among older adults, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) (WHO, 2021), highlights the urgent need to address this issue. In Kenya, just like a study done in Uganda, disparities in mental health service access between urban and rural areas further exacerbate the challenges faced by older adults, who experience a range of mental health conditions (Wakida, et al., 2018). Understanding the obstacles hindering their access to therapeutic treatment is crucial for developing effective policies and interventions. This scoping review aims to map the existing literature on these barriers, identifying key areas for intervention and informing future research. It is important to note that the review, is designed to provide a broad overview of the available literature, rather than a systematic review, which involves stricter inclusion criteria and quality assessment. Using a defined search strategy across multiple databases and grey literature sources, this study identified healthcare system, socio-cultural, and logistical barriers. Implementing these interventions in Kenya requires careful consideration of infrastructure, resources, and community needs that have been interrogated in this paper
Prevalence of Prenatal Stress Among Pregnant Women Attending Selected Antenatal Clinics in Nairobi County, Kenya
No full textJournal ArticleGlobally, preterm birth is the most common pregnancy complication, and though preventable, prenatal stress remains its leading cause. Despite this, prenatal stress goes undetected because it is not one of the assessments in the antenatal care visits leading to under diagnosis of this condition. In Kenya, the prevalence of prenatal stress remains unclear due to limited research. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of prenatal stress among pregnant women in Antenatal Care (ANC) Clinics in Nairobi County. In this study, cross-sectional research design, stratified and systematic sampling techniques were used. 264 respondents from two selected level three hospitals were recruited. The study used Perceived Stress Scale 10 (PSS 10) tool to collect data while the analysis descriptive data analysis. The prevalence of prenatal stress was 48.9%,cohabiting women had a prevalence of 100%, single 62.9%, women above 35 years had 77.8% prevalence, those with primary level of education had 61.2% and self-employed at 57.1%. This study highly recommends continuous assessment of prenatal stress during routine ANC clinic to mitigate its effects on pregnant women.Daystar Universit
Integrating Digital Transformation and Technological Innovation for Sustainable Renewable Energy Systems: The Role of AI, IoT, and Blockchain in Enhancing Efficiency and Grid Stability
No full textJournal ArticleRenewable energy and grid stability systems are transforming because of digital innovation and novel advancements. This necessitates studying advancements within the renewable energy sector through digital technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain. The advancements allow real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and decentralized energy management, thus increasing renewable energy systems' efficiency, sustainability, and dependability. This review was based on how AI integrated with IoT technology and blockchain improves the operational efficiency of renewable energy systems. The PRISMA 2020 guidelines were adopted in this systematic review, and 433 articles from databases such as IEEE Xplore, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Springer Link were retrieved. After the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 10 (n=10) articles were selected. The quality assessment of the studies was done using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) tool. Among the included studies, 70% (n=7) demonstrated that AI achieved efficiency improvements, IoT role optimization of grids was shown in 60% (n=6) of studies and blockchain impact on energy trading in 50% (n=5). In addition, cost reductions were documented in 80% (n=8) of studies, while 90% (n=9) reported security and regulatory challenges during implementation. The findings revealed that the efficiency of renewable energy and grid stability was improved by adopting digital solutions such as AI, IoT, and Blockchain. However, the gaps demonstrated in the study prompt the need to develop policy interventions and conduct further research to reduce technological and regulatory barriers to a sustainable energy transition
Teacher Preparedness in Junior Schools in Kajiado North Subcounty
No full textMASTER OF EDUCATION in Leadership and Policy StudiesKenya’s successful transition to the Competency-Based Education (CBE) represents a major educational reform aimed at equipping learners with 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and problem solving. The successful implementation of CBE at the Junior School (JS) level depends heavily on the preparedness of the hired teachers to adopt learner-centered pedagogical approaches and content delivery. Despite government efforts to recruit and train teachers for JS, concerns persist regarding their readiness to implement CBE effectively. This study assessed the level of preparedness among the JS teachers in Kajiado North Subcounty, Kenya. The objectives of the study were to (1) Assess the level of pedagogical preparedness of Junior Schools teachers and how it influences their delivery; (2) Identify existing training gaps for the Junior Schools teachers; (3) Establish the challenges faced by JS teachers in implementing CBE. The study was guided by Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) theory and the concept of “self-efficacy from Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). The research employed a mixed-methods research design targeting junior schoolteachers and administrators. Data was collected from a sample of 84 teachers and 30 administrators using structured questionnaires and interviews, respectively. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses were analyzed using a combination of thematic analysis and content analysis. Findings show that most teachers (95%) reported preparedness for CBE, yet administrators highlighted initial preparedness gaps. Technology (88%) and mentorship improved effectiveness, though curriculum complexity exceeded learners’ capacity. Misalignment persisted, with 88% citing poor training fit, 80% weak lesson design, 72% lack of specialization, and limited parental support. Teachers also faced mismatches (67%), scarce professional development (83%), and acute resource shortages (94%). The study concludes that teachers’ self-perceived preparedness contrasts with administrators’ views, revealing discrepancies in CBC readiness. Technology boosted delivery, but unequal access and low digital literacy constrained impact. Professional development remained shallow, reactive, and inconsistent. Teachers struggled with inadequate training alignment, limited resources, overcrowding, and excessive workload. Persistent shortages of materials, infrastructure gaps, and rigid curricula undermined CBC implementation, while heavy teaching demands reduced motivation and instructional quality. The study recommends embedding CBC-specific training in teacher education through institutionalized, practical, ministry-funded CPD. Curricula should integrate lesson design and specialized CBC modules, alongside structured CPD and monitoring systems. Strengthening parental sensitization, mentorship, and ICT integration can address preparation gaps. Scaling CPD, timely resource disbursement, and targeted teacher recruitment are critical for easing overcrowding, improving teacher welfare, and sustaining effective CBC implementation in junior schools.Daystar Universit
Ecological Awareness in Faith-Based Academic Institutions: Theological Perspective on Laudato Si’
No full textConference PaperThe ecological crisis has emerged as a global threat in the 21st century, affecting not only the environment and ecosystem but also humanity's moral and spiritual well-being. In line with the biblical mandate for humanity to cultivate and care for creation, Pope Francis, in his Encyclical ‘Laudato Si’, meaning ‘Praise be to you,’ echoes the same call for an integral ecology and urges all peoples to be stewards of creation. While various stakeholders worldwide are responding to the call for environmental responsibility in diverse ways, many faith-based academic institutions are yet to integrate ecological awareness into their educational and overall institutional strategies. Using qualitative research methods, including semi-structured interviews and the Theory of Planned Behavior, this study aims to explore how faith-based academic institutions interpret, promote, and implement the teachings in Laudato Si’, the extent to which they are committed to ecological stewardship, the extent to which these institutions foster ecological awareness, the integration of ecological themes in curricula, extracurricular activities, and institutional policies, and the theological motivations driving ecological awareness, and the challenges faced. The study will use a purposive sampling technique focusing on three East African countries: Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The collected data will be transcribed, coded, and analyzed thematically using NVivo software. This study will contribute to a deeper understanding of how Laudato Si’ informs ecological education and the nurturing of faith-based environmental stewardship.Daystar Universit
Efficacy of Resilience Building Programme on Drought in Kakuma, Turkana County: A Case Study of World Food Programme
No full textMASTERS OF ARTS in Diplomacy, Development, and International SecurityClimate-related disasters, particularly droughts, have had a major impact on the socioeconomic growth and stability of Kakuma in Turkana County, Kenya. The World Food Programme (WFP) through the Resilience Building Programme has responded by putting a number of plans into place to improve the region's resistance to drought. It has implemented climate-resilient agriculture Initiatives, cash transfer programs, and Water and Sanitation project as a social safety net to improve economic stability and food security. Despite effort of WFP to improve drought resilience, there is still a lack of documented data on the efficacy of social protection programs. This study offers a critical analysis of the contributions of these interventions to social protection systems. The main objectives for this study are; to evaluate WFP’s social protection initiatives for drought resilience among communities in Kakuma, to examine the effectiveness of WFP’s social protection initiatives on communities’ resilience to drought in Kakuma and to explore strategies for strengthening and sustaining social protection systems among communities in Kakuma. The theories used in this study include the Human Environment Relations Theory, Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) Theory and the Social-Ecological Theory. To critically evaluate the WTP’s role of enhancing social protection and drought resilience in Kakuma, a qualitative study was carried out. Key stakeholders, representatives of the Turkana County Government, Staff members of WFP, IConnect Kenya Initiative staff, and lastly smallholder farmer in Kakuma area. The goal of the qualitative method was to learn more about local perspectives, experiences, and the efficacy of WFP activities. The study comes to the conclusion that while WFP's resilience-building initiatives in Kakuma, which include cash transfers, climate-smart agriculture, and WASH programs, have improved drought resilience, they remain constrained by inequality in gender, sustainability gaps, geographical limitations and unequal funding. This emphasizes the need for social protection systems that are more inclusive and well-coordinated. The study offers practical suggestions to strengthen the WFP's role in fostering social protection and climate resilience in Kakuma.Daystar Universit
The Role of Women in Counter-Radicalization Efforts in Kenya: A Case of Kamukunji Sub-County, Nairobi, Kenya
No full textMASTERS OF ARTS in Diplomacy, Development, and International SecurityThis study aimed to examine the involvement of women in counter-radicalization within Kamukunji Sub- County, Nairobi County, Kenya. The objectives were to explore existing counter-radicalization programs that engage women, identify the hurdles they experience, and evaluate the level of their engagement. The study adopted a concurrent mixed-methods research design, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon. The rationale for the study was informed by the limited empirical research on women’s participation in preventing violent extremism in Kenya, despite their crucial role in promoting community resilience and peacebuilding. The study targeted a population of 120 respondents, representing 30% of the 400 individuals sampled from Kamukunji Sub- County. Participants included men and women aged above 18 years drawn from various sectors, including local government officials, civil society representatives, youth groups, women’s organizations, police officers, and community members. The study was guided by two theoretical frameworks: the Socialist Feminist Theory and the General Strain Theory, which together provided a lens for understanding the intersection between gender, social inequalities, and radicalization dynamics. Data were collected using both qualitative and quantitative methods, including self-administered questionnaires, surveys, and case studies. The mixed-methods approach enabled the triangulation of data to strengthen the validity and depth of findings. The literature review emphasized the multifaceted roles of women in counter-radicalization, from community mobilization and peace education to intelligence sharing and early warning efforts. However, it also highlighted significant barriers such as gender bias, limited access to decision-making platforms, insufficient resources, and socio-cultural constraints that impede their full participation. The findings revealed that while women in Kamukunji Sub- County play important roles in grassroots peace and security efforts, their participation in formal counter-radicalization initiatives remains minimal. Most existing programs are male-dominated and do not fully integrate women’s perspectives or experiences, resulting in underutilized potential for effective prevention of violent extremism. Additionally, challenges such as lack of awareness, minimal institutional support, and patriarchal attitudes continue to hinder women’s empowerment and active inclusion in security discourse. Based on these findings, the study recommends enhancing women’s involvement in counter-radicalization initiatives through policy reform, strategic capacity building, and community engagement. Policy reforms should ensure gender-sensitive approaches in security planning and decision-making processes, while capacity-building programs should provide women with relevant skills and leadership training to participate effectively in prevention efforts. Community engagement should promote collaboration among government institutions, civil society, and local communities to create inclusive and sustainable counter-radicalization strategies. Strengthening women’s participation will not only foster gender equality but also enhance community resilience against extremist ideologies. The study therefore, underscores that empowering women as key stakeholders in counter-radicalization is essential for long-term peace and stability. Their inclusion, leadership, and protection from systemic barriers can transform the effectiveness and sustainability of counter- radicalization interventions in Kenya.Daystar Universit