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Assessing Revitalized Agreement on The Resolution of The Conflict in The Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) as a Power-Sharing Arrangement for Sustainable Peace in South Sudan.
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in Diplomacy, Development, and International SecurityThis study aimed to assess the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) as a power-sharing agreement for bringing about a sense of lasting peace in the nation. The R-ARCSS is an important effort to use power-sharing to address the war and political instability plaguing South Sudan for many years. Its success in bringing about enduring peace is still unknown. The study examined the background and effects that influenced the Agreement and the initial expectations and difficulties encountered in carrying it out. The study’s objectives were to examine the extent of implementation of the R-ARCSS power-sharing agreement on achieving sustainable peace in South Sudan; secondly, to analyze the influence of key stakeholders on implementing the R-ARCSS power-sharing arrangement on sustainable peace in South Sudan, and third, to evaluate the socio-political impacts of the R-ARCSS power-sharing agreement on local populations in South Sudan. This study used a mixed-methods approach, including qualitative and quantitative components. A thorough examination of prior research, official records, and reports about the R-ARCSS was part of the research strategy. In-depth interviews were also carried out with key players, such as party officials, members of civil society, and outside mediators. The sample was purposefully chosen to guarantee that all opinions and experiences are represented. Surveys were also used in the data collection process to acquire quantifiable information on public opinions and views of the R-ARCSS. The results of data collection included 130 structured questionnaires that were completed by members of the public, and 20 key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted with stakeholders such as government officials, civil society representatives, political party officials, or international partners. Findings from the three objectives reveal that peace treaties contradict each other in terms of fragmented communities: power-sharing reduces short-term hostilities, but poor implementation and exclusion decrease lasting peace. Only 12.3% considered the implementation very effective, with 30.8% deeming it effective, and 27.7% was neutral, possibly due to a lack of firsthand experience of impact or a vague definition of effective implementation. Interestingly, 29.2% (equivalent to ineffective and very ineffective categories combined) were not happy, meaning some significant level of disillusionment or failed expectations. On the second objective, among the respondents, the study sought to understand the perceived influence of stakeholders; the Government of South Sudan had the widest reach, 38% of whom recognized its influence, followed closely by international organizations at 30%. Local voices and grassroots traditional authority are peripheral to the formal implementation process, involving only 4% of community leaders. 53% of interviewees (20% + 33%) describe some level of improvement since the R-ARCSS, a majority, but not an overwhelming one. Meanwhile, 47% describe no change or deterioration (27% no change; 20% deterioration), which means gains are neither universal nor certain. The pattern suggests the distribution of peace dividends. Although this study has shed light on implementation, leverage of stakeholders, and socio-political implications of the R-ARCSS, certain issues are inadequately examined and require more rigorous study.Daystar Universit
Effectiveness of Internal Social Media Usage on Employee-Organization Relationship: A Case Study of Tourism Fund – Kenya
No full textMaster of Arts in CommunicationThe main objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of internal social media usage in influencing employee-organization relationship, with consideration of the moderating role of organizational culture at Tourism Fund– Kenya. The specific objectives were to determine the extent of internal social media usage, assess the influence of internal social media usage on communication, collaboration, content sharing, and knowledge sharing, and analyze the relationship between internal social media usage and employee-organization relationship, and to investigate the role of organizational culture in moderating the relationship between internal social media usage and employee-organization relationship. The study was anchored on the Social Exchange Theory. The study adopted a cross-sectional case study, targeting a population is made up of 122 employees at the Tourism Fund, Kenya based in Nairobi head office. Census sampling method was used and data gathered using online questionnaire and codebook. Data analysis involved descriptive statistical techniques. The findings indicated that the most used platforms were WhatsApp and Zoom; there existed relationship between internal social media usage and employee-organization relationship, and organizational culture fosters the relationship between internal social media usage and employee-organization relationships at Tourism Fund – Kenya. Textual analysis it was revealed that internal social media usage themes of collaboration, content sharing, communication, and knowledge sharing were well illustrated.The study recommended that management at Tourism Fund – Kenya should formulate internal social media policies to enhance the usage of internal social media for communication, collaboration, content sharing and knowledge sharing among the employees and management.Daystar Universit
Influence of Stay-at-Home Mothers on Their Adolescents’ Moral Behavior: A Case of Mamlaka Hill Chapel, Nairobi, Kenya.
No full textMaster of Arts in Child Development.Adolescence marks an important transition in which young people develop and refine their sense of right and wrong while at the same time navigating peer pressure, digital influences, and rapidly shifting social expectations. During this period, lapses in judgment can surface, such as dishonesty, disrespect, or risky behavior, yet the same years also offer an opportunity for cultivating empathy, honesty, self-discipline, and responsibility. Parental involvement plays an important role in shaping children's moral behavior, and stay-at-home mothers who are consistently present have a unique influence on guiding this moral formation. This study explored the influence of stay-at-home mothers on adolescents' moral behavior in Mamlaka Hill Chapel, Nairobi, Kenya. Three objectives guided the study: to examine the strategies of parental involvement adopted by stay-at-home mothers; to analyze the moral behaviors exhibited by adolescents based on their stay-at-home mothers' involvement; and to explore how stay-at-home mothers’ involvement influenced the moral behavior of their adolescents. The study was grounded in Urie Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory and Lawrence Kohlberg’s Moral Development Theory. It also employed a qualitative design and phenomenological approach to showcase the lived experiences of stay-at-home mothers and their adolescents. The population consisted of stay-at-home mothers at Mamlaka Hill Chapel and their adolescents aged 10 to 19 years. Purposive sampling was employed to select participants who fell under the study’s criteria and had rich, lived experiences relevant to the study. Primary data was collected using in-depth interviews for mothers and focus group discussions for adolescents. The data was analyzed using Thematic Analysis. The study found that stay-at-home mothers significantly shape adolescents’ moral behavior through faith-based guidance, open communication, consistent supervision, and emotional support. Adolescents under their care demonstrated positive moral traits such as respect, empathy, and responsibility, while still facing challenges like peer pressure, academic dishonesty, and digital risks. Maternal involvement proved especially influential during critical decision-making moments, leaving a lasting imprint on adolescents’ moral reasoning and behavior. The study is beneficial to parents in providing them with knowledge on the influence of their parenting on adolescents' moral reasoning and decision-making, faith-based institutions in developing parenting programs, policymakers in formulating family policies and parenting programs, and it also contributes to academic literature on the development of moral behavior in adolescents. Therefore, the study recommends enhancing parental involvement in adolescents, addressing their strengths and struggles. It emphasizes the importance of maximizing maternal influence in decision-making processes and calls on policymakers and community leaders to actively support mothers in providing quality parenting. Lastly, the study highlights the need to prioritize family-centered policies that strengthen family participation in adolescent development.Daystar Universit
Influence of Family and Home Environment on Students’ Academic Performance in Selected Day Secondary Schools in Baringo Central Sub-County.
No full textMaster of Education in Leadership And Policy StudiesStudent academic performance in Kenya continues to generate widespread concern, particularly in rural day secondary schools where learners consistently underperform compared to their urban counterparts. Previous research underscores the importance of socio-economic status, parental involvement, and the broader home environment in shaping learning outcomes. Globally, parental engagement has been linked to improved academic achievement and enhanced student well-being,while African studies similarly demonstrate that socio-economic status and parental supervision remain central determinants of educational success However, despite the wealth of evidence elsewhere, empirical studies focusing on the interplay between family environment and student learning in Baringo Central Sub-County remain limited, even though poverty, resource inadequacies, and weak parental support are persistent realities .The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of family and home environment factors on students’ academic performance in selected day secondary schools in Baringo Central Sub-County. Specifically, the study sought to examine how socio-economic status, parental involvement, parental education, and family support affect learners’ academic achievement. The study was guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, which highlights the multi-layered interaction between a child and their environment, and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory, which emphasizes the fulfillment of basic and psychological needs as a foundation for learning and achievement. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. The target population comprised students, parents, and teachers, while stratified and simple random sampling techniques ensured representativeness. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were processed through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and regression analysis to establish relationships between variables, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis to provide contextual depth. Findings revealed significant positive associations between supportive home environments and student performance. Learners with engaged parents, adequate study resources, and structured study schedules achieved comparatively higher academic outcomes. However, several barriers were identified, including gender disparities, low parental literacy, unstable family structures, inadequate support for homework, and negative peer influence. Teachers additionally pointed to poor learner motivation, weak mentorship, and limited school–home collaboration as constraints. Key predictors of improved performance included active parental involvement in school programs, consistent provision of learning materials, regular school attendance, and well-supervised home study routines. The study concluded that family and home environmental factors are central to academic success. It recommends strengthening parental engagement initiatives, establishing safe community learning centers, and expanding financial support for vulnerable households.Daystar Universit
Exploring The Role of Corporate Wellness Programs in Improving Employee Job Satisfaction in Selected Automotive Companies in Kenya
No full textMasters in Clinical PsychologyCorporate wellness programs have emerged as critical organizational strategies for enhancing employee well-being and job satisfaction in demanding work environments. This study aimed to examine the role of corporate wellness programs in improving employee job satisfaction in selected automotive companies in Kenya, guided by the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) Model and self-determination theory. Specifically, the objectives were to analyze the types of wellness programs implemented, assess levels of job satisfaction among employees, examine the relationship between program participation and job satisfaction and identify organizational factors that facilitate or hinder program integration. The study focused on Peugeot Kenya, Oriel Limited, and Gota Limited (Subaru Kenya), targeting a population of 172 employees across the three companies. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was adopted targeting 156 employees and 6 management representatives. Stratified random sampling was used for the employee survey, while purposive sampling selected management participants. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed in SPSS Version 28 using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests per objective, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that health screenings dominated wellness offerings (91%), while psychological interventions were minimal (14.7–28.8%). Employees reported moderate-to-high satisfaction driven by intrinsic factors such as teamwork and purpose, but dissatisfaction with extrinsic factors including compensation (43%) and career growth (50.7%). Chi-square results confirmed significant associations between wellness program types (χ²=187.342, p=0.000), organizational factors (χ²=245.678, p=0.000), and participation levels (χ²=156.894, p=0.000) with job satisfaction, with organizational factors showing the strongest influence. Leadership commitment was high (80.7%), while resource inadequacy and accessibility barriers remained major challenges. The study concludes that although automotive companies demonstrate commitment to employee wellness, implementation remains incomplete due to limited resources, accessibility challenges, and structural gaps. It recommends that organizations expand wellness portfolios to include mental health and stress management interventions, increase budget allocations, enhance participation accessibility, and establish monitoring systems. Policymakers should develop workplace wellness standards, tax incentives, and evaluation frameworks to promote employee well-being and sustainability within Kenya’s automotive sector.Daystar Universit
Political Protests as a Tool for Socio-Economic Change in Developing Countries Vs Developed Countries: A Comparative Study of Select Cases (Kenya and The United States of America)
No full textMaster of Arts in Diplomacy, Development, and International SecurityThis study examined the role of political protests as a tool for socio-economic change in Kenya and the United States of America (USA). The research was motivated by the observation that, despite constitutional protections, political protests in Kenya are frequently repressed and their outcomes remain uncertain, raising questions about their effectiveness compared to protests in other contexts such as the USA. The study was significant as it sought to deepen understanding of the relationship between civic engagement, protest, and socio-economic transformation in both developed and developing democracies. The study was guided by three objectives: to explore the place of political protests in civil space in Kenya and the USA, to examine the strategies, challenges, and effectiveness of protests in both contexts, and to assess the prospects and implications of protests for socio-economic change. The research was underpinned by Social Movement Theory, specifically resource mobilization, political opportunity, and framing perspectives, which together provided a framework for analyzing how protests emerge, sustain themselves, and influence political or socio-economic outcomes. A mixed-method research design was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. A descriptive research design was used to capture attitudes and perceptions of protest, while a comparative design enabled cross-country analysis. Data were collected through 145 survey questionnaires distributed across six counties in Kenya and five key informant interviews with stakeholders, including activists, professionals, and business owners. Descriptive statistics, presented in frequency tables and percentages, were used to analyze survey data, while thematic analysis guided the interpretation of qualitative responses. The findings revealed that while most respondents acknowledged protests as a legitimate civic tool, participation rates remained low due to fear of violence and state repression. In Kenya, police brutality and poor organizational structures were identified as major barriers, while in the USA, polarization and media framing presented significant challenges despite stronger institutional support for protest movements. Comparative insights indicated that government response was the most critical factor differentiating the two contexts, with U.S. protests perceived as more effective largely because of less severe state repression.
The study recommended that the Kenyan government uphold constitutional guarantees of peaceful assembly, reduce violent repression, and create avenues for constructive dialogue. It further recommended that protest organizers improve logistical coordination, build coalitions across class and generational divides, and establish accountability frameworks to sustain movements. For the USA, the study recommended continued engagement in digital activism and coalition-building to counter polarization and ensure inclusivity. In conclusion, the study found that political protests remain a contested yet indispensable mechanism for socio-economic change in both Kenya and the USA. Their effectiveness depends not only on citizen mobilization but also on state recognition of protest rights and the ability of movements to sustain momentum. These findings contribute to scholarship on civic space, democracy, and social movements, while offering practical insights for policymakers, activists, and civil society actors.Daystar Universit
Effects of Capacity Development on Monitoring and Evaluation Practices: A Case of Youth Agribusiness Incubation Projects at Egerton University, Kenya
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in Monitoring and EvaluationDeveloping capacity in monitoring and evaluation (M&E) is essential for M&E professionals and their organizations, as it enhances skills, improves data quality, and supports effective programme execution and informed decision making. Despite the growing importance of M&E, many M&E professionals and organizations still face gaps in skills, systems, and supportive environments. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of capacity development on monitoring and evaluation practices, focusing on three dimensions: individual, organizational, and enabling environment, with a specific case study of youth agribusiness incubation projects at Egerton University. The objectives were to assess M&E capacity available at Egerton University's youth agribusiness incubation projects, determine M&E practices in these projects, and evaluate the effects of capacity development on M&E practices. Key theories used in this study were Human Capital Theory (HCT) and Institutional Theory. The target population were the projects staff implementing the youth agribusiness incubation projects at Egerton University and the youth benefiting from the projects. The research adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design and used stratified simple random and census sampling techniques. Data was collected using structured online questionnaires and was analysed using SPSS Version 29. Regression analysis was used for the quantitative data, while thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data. The youth sample size was 275 determined by the Slovin’s Formula while census sampling was used to determine the sample size of the projects staff which was 36 due to their small number. The total sample for the study was 311 respondents. Out of the 311 respondents that were targeted, 229 responded, constituting a response rate of 74%. Descriptive statistics were computed for M&E capacity development and M&E practices. Data was presented in form of tables. This study contributed to existing knowledge by empirically confirming that capacity development has an effect on monitoring and evaluation practices. There was a positive relationship between capacity development and monitoring and evaluation practices. The study highlighted that M&E knowledge was acquired through a range of sources, with practical experience through internships and formal university education being key contributors. The study further demonstrated that capacity development strategies in agribusiness incubation projects significantly improved the accuracy, efficiency and effectiveness of monitoring and evaluation practices. The study recommended that; organizations should encourage and provide resources for self-directed learning to help individuals take initiatives in acquiring M&E knowledge so as to bridge the existing skill gaps. Universities should also expand opportunities for youth to actively participate in the M&E projects. Training and awareness initiatives for key stakeholders should be enhanced to contribute to sustainable project success. Organizations should invest in improving technological infrastructure so as to optimize the potential of technology. The Kenyan government and public sector should establish mechanisms to reward and incentivize innovation and learning within M&E practices that include recognizing and supporting innovative M&E initiatives, providing financial incentives and creating awards to encourage continuous improvement and creativity in the M&E field.Daystar Universit
Exploring Sustainable Filmmaking in Kenya: Knowledge, Perceptions, and Adoption
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in CommunicationThe global film industry is increasingly focused on reducing its environmental impact. However, existing research and sustainable practices are centered on Western film industries, creating a significant knowledge gap regarding the realities and potential for sustainability in emerging film economies like Kenya. This study aimed to address this gap by exploring Kenyan filmmakers’ knowledge and perceptions on sustainable filmmaking as well as drivers, barriers, and opportunities for adopting sustainable filmmaking practices within the Kenyan film industry. The research employed a qualitative-exploratory design. Data was collected from a population of Kenyan filmmakers in Nairobi through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), and document analysis for data triangulation. The collected data was analyzed using thematic analysis techniques supported by NVivo 15 software. The study revealed that sustainable practices are often implemented accidentally, driven by economic necessity rather than environmental intent, a concept termed "budget-induced sustainability." A major barrier is the perception of comprehensive sustainability as an unaffordable luxury, compounded by a significant infrastructure gap and a critical disconnect between proposed national policies and their on-the-ground implementation. Despite these challenges, the study identified strong opportunities for change, including the potential of financial incentives, a generational shift in awareness among younger filmmakers, and the strategic use of international co-productions for knowledge transfer. The study concludes that a systemic approach, which leverages existing practical knowledge and addresses policy implementation, is essential for transitioning the Kenyan film industry toward intentional sustainability.Daystar Universit
Leagile Strategy and Performance of Heavy Construction Equipment Suppliers in Kenya: Case of Earthmoving and Site Services Limited (ESS)
No full textMASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION In Strategic ManagementHeavy construction equipment suppliers play a pivotal role in infrastructural development, especially in emerging economies like Kenya. However, this sector faces unique challenges arising from dynamic market demands, supply chain disruptions, rising operational costs, and global economic volatility leading to a decline with market share and operational efficiency. As such, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of leagile strategy on the performance of heavy construction equipment suppliers in Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to; examine the effect of supply chain decoupling on performance of ESS Ltd., assess the effect of lean practices on performance of ESS Ltd., establish the effect of agile responsiveness on the performance of ESS Ltd and evaluate the moderating effect of organizational factors on the relationship between leagile strategy and performance of ESS Ltd. The study was anchored on the Contingency Theory, Strategic Alignment Theory, Resource-Based View and Institutional Theory. This study employed a cross-sectional explanatory research design. The study target population was 96 senior and mid-level managers at ESS Ltd. The findings if this study showed that supply chain decoupling significantly influenced performance (p=0.002, p<0.05), highlighting its role in enhancing responsiveness and delivery reliability. Lean practices were found to be a stronger predictor (p=0.00, p<0.05), demonstrating the importance of waste reduction, Just-In-Time systems, and supplier collaboration. Agile responsiveness emerged as the most influential factor (p=0.00, p<0.05), underscoring the significance of flexibility and rapid adaptation in driving competitiveness. Organizational factors were positively rated (M=4.25, SD=1.00) and directly affected performance (β=0.305, p=0.00), though their moderating effect was not statistically insignificant (p>0.05). The findings align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 8, 9, and 12) by promoting inclusive industrial growth, innovation, and sustainable supply chain practices. They also support Kenya Vision 2030, particularly in advancing manufacturing efficiency and infrastructure development, while contributing to Africa’s Vision 2050, which emphasizes industrial transformation, regional integration, and resilience in supply chains. The study concludes that lean and agile strategies are the most critical drivers of performance, while leadership and culture act as direct enablers. Recommendations are provided for managers, policymakers, and organizational leaders, and areas for further research are suggested, including cross-sector replication and digital transformation integration.Daystar Universit
Role of Community-Based Organizations in Enhancing Sustainable Livelihoods in Mathare Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in Community DevelopmentMathare Sub-County primarily consists of informal settlements, where most residents struggle with poverty, economic disparities, and limited access to essential services, including water, housing, education, and healthcare. The roles of CBOs are intended to transform the lives of people by injecting resources through programs that will, in the long run, change the entire community. Unfortunately, this does not effectively reflect sustainable livelihoods for the people. The purpose of the study was to assess the role of Community-Based Organizations in enhancing sustainable livelihoods in Mathare Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study included examining the roles undertaken by CBOs in enhancing sustainable livelihoods in Mathare Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya; to explore the challenges affecting the effectiveness of CBO-led livelihood initiatives for households in Mathare Sub-County, Kenya; and to evaluate strategies for improving CBO-led initiatives in promoting sustainable livelihoods for households in Mathare Sub-County, Kenya. The study was guided by two theories, namely, empowerment theory and stakeholder theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design. Purposive sampling was used to come up with a representative sample size of 109 respondents, which was achieved through the use of Yamane’s formula, from a target population of 150 respondents. The study incorporated primary data that was collected using questionnaires and in-depth interviews to collect data. The researcher used the Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS) to analyze the gathered data. The researcher upheld research ethics by ensuring voluntary participation, avoiding plagiarism and ensuring confidentiality of data gathered from the respondents. The study projected to generate insights that will inform policymakers, support the capacity of community-based organizations, and contribute to more effective livelihood interventions in Mathare Sub-County.Daystar Universit