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Efficacy of Complicated Grief Therapy in the Treatment of Prolonged Grief Disorder among Widows from Selected Churches in Nairobi County, Kenya
No full textDoctor of Philosophy in Clinical PsychologyComplicated grief is a psychological condition characterized by prolonged and functionally impairing grief symptoms that persist for at least one month after six months of bereavement. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT) in the treatment of complicated grief among widows in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was guided by Bowlby’s Theory of Attachment and Parkes’ Psychosocial Elaborations Theory. A quasi-experimental research design using a quantitative approach was employed to select 122 widows from four churches in Nairobi County, All Saints Cathedral, PCEA St. Andrews, CITAM Valley Road, and Nairobi Baptist Church, forming the experimental and control groups respectively. Data were collected using a researcher-developed socio-demographic questionnaire and standardized instruments, including the Inventory of Complicated Grief, Beck Depression Inventory-II, and the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Findings revealed that the prevalence of complicated grief among the participating widows was 36%. Predictors of complicated grief included being aged 61–70 years, being married for 21–30 years, having been bereaved for 10 years or less, holding a certificate or diploma, and being of lower socio-economic status. Complicated grief was positively correlated with post-traumatic stress disorder (r = .760; p = 0.01), while longer years of marriage were correlated with complicated grief (r = .724; p = 0.01), depression (r = .724; p = 0.01), and PTSD (r = .619; p = 0.01). Results of the independent sample t-test indicated significant mean differences between the experimental and control groups at both midline (M = 7.061; 95% CI: -9.671 to -4.451; p < .001) and end-line (M = -13.126; 95% CI: -15.898 to -10.353; p < .001), confirming the effectiveness of CGT. The study concludes that Complicated Grief Therapy is an effective intervention for reducing symptoms of complicated grief among widows in Nairobi County. It is therefore recommended that mental health practitioners incorporate CGT in grief counselling programs targeting bereaved populations within similar urban and faith-based settings.Daystar Universit
Strategic Intelligence Practices and Performance of Faith-Based Hospitals in Kiambu County, Kenya
No full textMaster of Business Administration in Strategic ManagementDespite accounting for 60% of healthcare delivery in Kenya, faith-based hospitals face sustainability challenges that threaten their ability to continue offering care. This has led to policy maker raising urgent questions about how strategic intelligence practices might improve their performance. This study looked at how strategic intelligence—specifically risk assessment, competitor analysis and intelligence gathering—influenced hospital performance in faith based facilities within Kiambu County, Kenya. Leadership style was postulated to serve as a mediating variable. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the effect of each of the SI constructs on performance of the sampled hospitals. In this study, resource based view theory was used as the anchor theory and supplemented by dynamic capabilities theory, leader member theory and balanced scorecard framework. A convergent mixed-method design which involves integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches was utilized. The study targeted 80 respondents drawn from 20 facilities within the county. The respondents were stratified along their management level. Data collection tools included structured questionnaires for quantitative data and semi-structured interviews for qualitative insights. A pre-test of the data collection tools was done to determine their reliability and validity. Content and face validity was done by four experts while reliability analyses gave a Cronbach alpha values of 0.8 - 0.9 confirming their internal consistency. Data obtained in this study were analysed using descriptive statistics to summarize key trends and inferential statistics to explore relationships among variables. Qualitative data was transcribed and grouped into themes and presented using word bubble and direct quotations. Quantitative data has been presented using tables and charts. This study offers contributions by generating actionable recommendations to improve the performance of faith-based hospitals. Quantitative analysis of the study showed that strategic intelligence practises correlated positively with performance. Risk assessment had the highest correlation (r=0.868) as well as the strongest regression coefficient (β = 0.382). Leadership style partially mediated the relationship between strategic intelligence practices and performance. Qualitative data collaborated well with quantitative part demonstrating how the hospitals embraced strategic intelligence practices. The findings underscore the necessity of policy makers and administrators integrating strategic intelligence into the healthcare governance. Further research work ought to explore inter-sectorial differences in SIP uptake while utilizing actual financial data.Daystar Universit
Communication Strategies Used in Women Empowerment for Food Security: A Case of Yatta Cim Initiative in Machakos County.
No full textMaster of Arts in Development CommunicationDespite women constituting a significant proportion of the agricultural labor force, structural barriers such as unequal access to resources, climate hazards such as prolonged droughts, limited decision-making power, and restrictive cultural norms continue to undermine their contributions to household and community food systems. Guided by participatory communication theory, this study explored how communication strategies can enhance women’s agency, strengthen food security, and reduce reliance on aid in semi-arid areas. Using a qualitative case study design, the research engaged 15 participants: 12 women who were beneficiaries of the Christian Impact Mission (CIM) initiative and three key informants, comprising a program manager, a community leader, and the project director in Kinyaata village, Yatta. Data was generated through in-depth interviews and key informant interviews (KIIs), and was analyzed thematically in alignment with research objectives which include: To identify the communication strategies that promote the empowerment of women in relation to food security, to assess the impact of women's empowerment initiatives on household food security and nutritional outcomes and to examine the relationship between women's empowerment and food security from a development communication perspective. Findings revealed that participatory and culturally sensitive communication strategies such as community dialogues, church gatherings, women’s groups (chamas), and model farms were central to the success of empowerment initiatives. These platforms facilitated knowledge sharing, peer learning, collective agency, and the redefinition of gender roles. The study further established that women’s empowerment directly contributed to improved household food production, dietary diversity, and resilience against recurrent drought. By shifting dynamics from dependency on relief food to self-sufficiency through climate-smart agriculture, the Yatta CIM initiative demonstrated the transformative potential of communication in fostering sustainable development. The findings emphasize that empowerment and food security are mutually reinforcing; when women’s voices are amplified, household food outcomes improve. The study concludes that participatory communication is an indispensable tool for empowerment and recommends its institutionalization in development interventions. Policies should integrate gender-responsive and culturally grounded communication strategies to strengthen women’s roles in food security. Further research could examine the long-term sustainability of such initiatives, the role of men in empowerment processes, and the intergenerational impacts of women’s empowerment. The study contributes to existing scholarship by situating communication not merely as an information-dissemination tool but as a participatory process that nurtures inclusion, dialogue, and co-creation of knowledge within rural communities. By embedding empowerment within everyday communication structures such as faith-based networks and farmer learning groups, the research highlights how locally embedded communication strategies can challenge patriarchal systems and strengthen women’s decision-making capacities. This approach aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on gender equality and zero hunger, reinforcing the argument that sustainable food systems require deliberate and inclusive communication frameworks that position women as active agents rather than passive beneficiaries.Daystar Universit
Budgetary Control on Financial Performance of Listed Commercial Banks in Kenya
No full textMaster of Business Administration in FinanceThe study aimed to examine the effect of budgetary control on the financial performance of listed commercial banks in Kenya. The research was guided by three objectives: to explore the budgetary controls employed by listed commercial banks, to analyses their financial performance, and to assess the relationship between budgetary control and financial performance. The study focused on commercial banks listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), analyzing the influence of budget planning, committee participation, and monitoring and evaluation on financial performance. According to the NSE, 11 commercial banks were listed in the banking sector since 2022, and this study targeted their finance department leaders as key respondents. Both primary and secondary data were used, with structured questionnaires being the main tool for primary data collection. The theoretical framework was anchored on three key theories. Agency Theory emphasized the importance of effective budgetary control mechanisms to align the interests of managers (agents) and shareholders (principals), thereby minimizing financial mismanagement and enhancing profitability. Financial Intermediation Theory supported the study by illustrating that listed banks, as financial intermediaries, depend on prudent budgetary practices and planning to allocate resources efficiently, manage risks, and maximize returns. Goal Setting Theory was applied to show how clearly defined budgetary objectives motivate employees to perform better through accountability and measurable financial outcomes. Together, these theories underscored how systematic budgeting processes contribute to improved financial performance in the banking sector. The study adopted descriptive, correlational, and explanatory research designs to provide a comprehensive analysis. The sample size was 147 respondents across twelve listed commercial banks in Nairobi. Data was collected using questionnaires, interview guides, and secondary data collection sheets to capture both quantitative and qualitative insights. The findings showed that 68.3% of the variance in financial performance was explained by budget planning, monitoring, motivation, and participative budgeting (R = 0.827, R² = 0.683). Notably, motivational (β = 0.259, p = .000) and participative budgeting (β = 0.360, p = .000) exerted the greatest influence. Interview responses showed that financial managers favored a collaborative budgeting process involving all departments, supported by rigorous planning, real-time monitoring, and variance analysis to ensure responsiveness and transparency. The study concluded that budgetary control was not a routine administrative task but a strategic function crucial to shaping financial outcomes in listed commercial banks in Kenya. It enhances decision-making, promotes fiscal discipline, and supports long-term financial sustainability. A key recommendation was that banks should invest in continuous capacity-building programs focused on both technical and interpersonal aspects of budgeting. Strengthening skills in data-driven decision-making, performance evaluation, and interdepartmental collaboration would further solidify budgetary control as a cornerstone of financial success.Daystar Universit
The Impact of Youth Empowerment on Crime Reduction in Informal Settlements: A Case of Kibera, Nairobi County
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in Diplomacy, Development, and International SecurityThe study explored youth empowerment as a strategy for crime reduction in Kibera informal settlement, Nairobi, Kenya. Three specific objectives guided it: to examine youth empowerment factors contributing to crime reduction, to assess the impact of empowerment initiatives on youth behavior, and to evaluate strategies for promoting youth empowerment for crime reduction in Kibera. The study focused on Kibera due to its high youth population, unemployment rates, and persistent crime challenges. A descriptive research design was applied within a mixed-method approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative methods. Purposive sampling was used to select key informants, including community leaders, Non-Governmental Organizations, and law enforcement officers, while random sampling targeted youth participants. Qualitative data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-phase thematic analysis framework, while Quantitative data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) to generate descriptive statistics. Guided by Strain Theory, which explains crime as a response to socio-economic pressures, and Empowerment Theory, which emphasizes building youth capacity and access to resources, the study found that youth empowerment initiatives significantly influenced the reduction of crime, with most respondents indicating improved economic engagement and decreased delinquent behavior. However, challenges such as unemployment, poverty, weak family structures, and limited access to education and skills training remained contributing factors to youth crime. The study concluded that while empowerment programs had a positive impact, sustained multi-stakeholder collaboration and policy interventions are essential to enhance youth development and promote lasting community safety in informal settlements such as Kibera.Daystar Universit
Examining The Influence of Community of Practice as a Knowledge Sharing Tool: A Case of The State Department for Social Protection, Kenya
No full textMaster of Arts in CommunicationThe study explored the role of Communities of Practice (CoPs) as a tool for knowledge sharing within the State Department for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs, focusing on how participatory communication fosters community engagement, collaboration, and inclusivity. The objectives were to examine the extent to which the Community of Practice was used as a knowledge-sharing tool in the State Department for Social Protection, to identify the factors that contributed to learning and sharing knowledge within the Community of Practice in the State Department for Social Protection, and to investigate the importance placed on the Community of Practice as a knowledge-sharing tool in the context of participatory communication within the State Department for Social Protection. The study addressed the problem of limited structured knowledge-sharing mechanisms in government institutions, which hinder learning and innovation. Guided by Social Cognitive Theory, the research aimed to investigate factors that facilitate learning and knowledge exchange in CoPs, assess their contribution to participatory communication, and evaluate their impact on social protection outcomes. A descriptive research design was employed to establish statistical relationships between CoP participation and improved knowledge sharing. The study targeted a population of 438 employees involved in or impacted by CoP activities, including technical staff, decision-makers, and support personnel. Using Yamane’s formula, a sample size of 100 respondents was determined and selected through simple random sampling to ensure equal representation. Data was collected using structured online questionnaires distributed via Google Forms, integrating Likert-scale, open-ended, and closed-ended items to yield both measurable and contextual insights. Prior to full deployment, the questionnaire was pre-tested with 10 participants to ensure validity and reliability. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 29, employing descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that 89% of respondents viewed CoPs as effective platforms for fostering knowledge exchange, while 78% agreed that CoPs enhanced collaboration across departments. The study concluded that CoPs are effective vehicles for enhancing participatory communication and knowledge-sharing in the public sector. It recommended strengthening CoPs through continuous training, inclusive engagement strategies, leadership support, and the creation of centralized knowledge repositories. Additional recommendations included integrating CoP participation into staff appraisals, allocating equitable resources, and organizing sector-specific events to sustain relevance and participation.Daystar Universit
Exchange Rate Fluctuations and Macroeconomic Stability in Kenya
No full textMaster of Science in EconomicsThis study focused on exchange rate fluctuations and macroeconomic stability in kenya from 1980 to 2024, a time characterized by exchange rate fluctuations coinciding with weak macroeconomic stability escalated by both domestic and external vulnerabilities.The main research objectives were to assess trend analysis of exchange rate fluctuations, examine Granger Causality between exchange rate fluctuations and macroeconomic stability in Kenya and analyzing relationships.Purchasing Power Parity Theory served as the anchor theory, supported by Mundell Mundell-Fleming Model and the New Keynesian Theory. Pragmatist philosophy guided the research while a quantitative approach was adopted combining Correlational and Descriptive design. Annual times series data was analyzed using the Structural Vector Autocorrelation Model.The results of trend analysis cofficient was 2.707 which was statistically significant which indicated depreciation of local currency aganist foreign currency over time. The findings showed that exchange rate significantly Granger causes fiscal deficit (P=0.225) whereas fiscal deficit Granger caused GDP growth rate (P=0.0456) and interest rates (P=0.003).The Impulse Response Functions revealed that due to One standard deviation shock from bilaterial exchange rate, causes inflation rate rises up, fiscal deficit soars upwards and GDP growth declines.Variance Decomposition proved that most variables are self driven by own past shocks and exchange rate shocks impacts inflation,fiscal balance,and interest rate levels.The research demonstrated that exchange rate fluctuations exchange rate fluctuations do interfere with macro stability of Kenya,such as, the strike inflation, interest rates and fiscal deficit .It goes without saying in the short-term, but the economy gradually stabilizes itself in the long-term, as though it is partially correcting itself. Generally, the research findings calls for a cordinated policy interventions linking fiscal policy and monetary policy, as well as intergrating exchange rate signals in inflation targeting framwork.This macro, policy adjustments ought to be aligned with Kenya Vision, 2030 of low inflation, low interest rate and sustainable fiscal balance in order to achieve equitable gowth and economic transformation through stability.Daystar Universit
An Investigation of The Factors Influencing Sustainability of Community Water Projects, A Case of Kitui Central Sub-County, Kitui County, Kenya
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in Community DevelopmentMore than a billion people in developing countries were reported to lack access to water daily, implying that water sources were diminishing and reliable sources of clean water remained unavailable to many vulnerable households (UNICEF/UN, 2012). Both the national government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) had invested colossal amounts of donor funds in developing community water projects to address the problem of water accessibility. However, the sustainability of these water projects largely rested in the hands of local communities, often leading to high failure rates of such initiatives (Kenya National Water Development Report, 2006). To enhance the effectiveness of community water projects, it was necessary to empower communities to manage them sustainably, particularly to ensure access to safe drinking water for vulnerable populations. This study carried an investigation on factors that influenced the sustainability of community water projects in Kitui Central Sub-County, Kitui County, and proposed appropriate recommendations for improving sustainability. The study was guided by the following objectives: to identify the water sources in Kitui Central Sub-County; to establish the capacity of household water use in Kitui Centra Sub- County Kitui County; to investigate water management practices that enhance the sustainability of community water projects in Kitui Central Sub- County, Kitui County; and to recommend strategies for sustainable water management. The targeted population was 400 households. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, sampling 400 households/respondents, including five executive members of water management committees, two focus group discussions, five non state actors in the water industry eg parastatals, private entrepreneurs and 5 community water projects run by community management committees research was anchored on the Resource Dependence Theory and the Village Level Operation and Maintenance (VLOM) model. Data was collected using questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS), GIS, and statistical tools available in Microsoft Excel. The findings were expected to benefit policy makers, the Ministry of Water, local consumers, and donor agencies. Based on the findings, both wards relied on boreholes, wells, and rainwater harvesting, with high functionality rates (93% in Mulango and 89% in Kyangwithya), though sustainability was challenged by vandalism, inadequate maintenance, reliance on external actors, and the disproportionate burden of water collection on women and girls, who often spent long hours fetching water using donkeys as the main means of transport (FAO, 2018; Harvey & Reed, 2007; UNICEF & WHO, 2021).The study recommends institutionalizing community participation at all stages of water project development, prioritizing capacity building for local managers and community members, and integrating environmental sustainability through catchment protection, reforestation, and climate-resilient technologies such as solar-powered boreholes and rainwater harvesting. The study also suggested future research should assess long-term sustainability of water systems by examining functionality, governance, external support, environmental impacts, gender dynamics, and policy effectiveness.Daystar Universit
Evaluating Effects of School Based Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Programs on Adoption of Safe Water Systems Among Households in Rachuonyo South Sub-County, Homa Bay County, Kenya.
No full textMaster of Arts in Community DevelopmentDespite on-going efforts by CARE Kenya to enhance access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in schools across Homa Bay County, the impact of these interventions on household-level water safety practices remains insufficiently understood. Without adequate empirical evidence on the effectiveness of school-based WASH programs in influencing household behaviour, it is difficult to design integrated, sustainable strategies for improving water safety in the broader community. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of school-based water, sanitation and hygiene programs on adoption of safe water systems among households in Rachuonyo South Sub-County, Kenya. The objectives of the study were; assess the effect of school-based hygiene programs on adoption of safe water systems; examine the effect of school-based sanitation programs on adoption of safe water systems; determine the effect of school based safe water programs on adoption of safe water systems and establish the intervening effect of pupils’ level of knowledge on the relationship between school-based WASH programs and adoption of safe water systems. The study was guided by three theories Planned Behaviour theory, Social Learning theory and Diffusion of Innovation theory and a descriptive survey design was adopted. The study targeted population of 571 school pupil’s representative of households, the study sample size of 115 households, 6 teachers and 3 county officials. It used structured questionnaires for primary respondents and in-depth interview guides for key informants and analyse data collected using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 25. The study revealed that households in Rachuonyo South Sub-County heavily relied on unimproved water sources, with 95.7% using unprotected wells, 88.7% rivers/streams, and only 10.4% accessing piped water. Despite this, safe water practices were widely adopted 85.2% boiled water, 73.9% filtered, and 67.0% used chlorine tablets while 54.8% stored water in covered containers with taps. School-based programs proved influential, as 91.4% of households received water safety information from children, confirming pupils as effective change agents. Sanitation practices were similarly strong, with 99.1% having latrines and equal knowledge of handwashing procedures, though only 60% washed hands after toilet use and 56.5% before food preparation. Pupils demonstrated high awareness of hygiene-related diseases—53% cited typhoid/cholera, 33% diarrhoea and 91.3% shared safe water messages such as “always treat drinking water” with families. Overall, 89.6% of households agreed that children’s information improved hygiene at home, while adoption was enabled by affordability (88.7%) and availability (88.1%) of treatment products. However, barriers such as perceptions of water being “already safe” (39.1%) and time-consuming treatment (28.7%) persisted. The study concluded that school-based WASH programs significantly improved household adoption of safe water systems but recommended expanding access to improved water infrastructure, promoting consistent treatment practices, and integrating parents into school hygiene campaigns. Further, subsidizing treatment products and addressing misconceptions were advised to sustain behavioural change, while future research should examine gender dynamics in knowledge transfer and long-term sustainability of safe water adoption.Daystar Universit
Green Financing and Sustainability of Food and Beverage Manufacturers in Nairobi City County, Kenya
No full textMaster of Business Administration in FinanceKenya's food and beverage manufacturing sector faces intense pressure to adopt sustainable practices amid climate change, stringent environmental regulations, and growing consumer demand for eco-conscious products. Green financing, including green investment funding, green credit availability, and sustainability-linked incentives, offers a vital pathway for firms to transition to environmentally responsible operations. However, its adoption remains limited in Kenya's manufacturing landscape, particularly in Nairobi City County, where empirical evidence on its impact on firm-level sustainability outcomes is scarce. This study examined the effects of green investment funding, green credit availability, and green financing incentives on the sustainability of food and beverage manufacturers in Nairobi City County, Kenya. It also assessed whether innovative capability mediates this relationship. Grounded in Shared Value Creation, Dynamic Capabilities, and Transition Theory, the study adopted a quantitative correlational design, targeting 125 key personnel from firms with established operational maturity, sufficient workforce size, and access to green finance initiatives. A stratified sample of 95 respondents completed structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression, and Baron and Kenny's mediation approach. Results showed that green investment funding had the strongest positive effect on sustainability (β = 0.461, p < .001), followed by green credit availability (β = 0.305, p = .001), while green financing incentives had a weaker but significant effect (β = 0.235, p = .010). Innovative capability did not mediate the relationship but independently enhanced sustainability outcomes (β = 0.284, p = .001). These findings highlight the critical role of strategic green investments and accessible credit in driving sustainability. The study recommends that manufacturers prioritize eco-friendly technologies like renewable energy and water-saving systems, policymakers streamline incentive frameworks and develop tailored financial products, and researchers pursue qualitative and longitudinal studies to deepen insights into green financing dynamics, thereby advancing Kenya's sustainable industrialization objectives aligned with global climate goals.Daystar Universit