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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in Reducing Compassion Fatigue Symptoms among Caregivers of Children with Physical Disabilities attending Selected Rehabilitation Clinics in Nairobi County, Kenya.
No full textDOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY in Clinical PsychologyCompassion fatigue, (CF) is common among caregivers of children with physical disabilities in low-resource settings. This study evaluated the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in reducing CF and associated negative mental health outcomes among caregivers in selected non-governmental rehabilitation clinics in Nairobi County, Kenya. Guided by the compassion fatigue resilience model, the social cognitive theory, and the transactional model of stress and coping, an explanatory sequential mixed-methods, quasi-experimental pre-/post-test control-group design was applied. A census of the accessible caregiver population at baseline (N≈140) was conducted, followed by purposive sampling of 70 caregivers meeting CF criteria into the quantitative phase (35 ACT, 35 control) and 15 for qualitative interviews. Outcomes were assessed using the Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). At baseline, CF was present in 89.3% of participants; probable PTSD affected 82.7%, and clinically significant anxiety and depression affected 78.0% and 74.7% respectively. Chi-square tests revealed no statistically significant associations between CF status and any socio-demographic variable (all p values > .05). At baseline, CF co-occurred with PTSD (82.7%), anxiety (76.7%), and depression (89.3%) among participants. Post-intervention, the ACT group showed a CF prevalence drop from 100% to 42.9% (McNemar p<.001), with mean ProQOL burnout and secondary traumatic stress scores reduced by 9.3 and 8.6 points, respectively (both p<.001), and compassion satisfaction increased by 6.8 points (p<.001). PTSD symptoms decreased by a mean of 14.2 points (p<.001) in the ACT group versus 2.3 points in controls (p=.178). HADS anxiety and depression scores fell by 3.9 and 4.1 points, respectively, in the ACT group (both p<.001), with smaller, non-significant changes in controls. Qualitative findings confirmed increased psychological flexibility, improved emotional regulation, and greater value-driven caregiving in the ACT group. ACT was, therefore, found to be a promising and culturally adaptable intervention for reducing CF, enhancing compassion satisfaction, and improving key mental health outcomes among caregivers in similar low-resource contexts. The study recommends integrating ACT interventions, enhancing caregiver support, training providers on CF management, and conducting longitudinal follow-ups.Daystar Universit
Fighting Poverty in Informal Settlements Through Community Radio: A Case of Koch FM Korogocho Nairobi County, Kenya
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in Communication Studies- (Development Communication)Globally, community radio has been recognized as a catalyst for development and transformation of communities, moving them from a state of poverty to one of development. The concept of community radio dates back more than half a century to the miners in Bolivia, where it played a crucial role in advocating for improved working conditions. In Kenya, community radio stations are a more recent phenomenon, emerging as platforms that empower communities through strategies such as disseminating information for decision-making and promoting participation across health, economic, social, and political spheres, including education and security. Unlike commercial radio stations, community radio stations are typically owned and managed by members of the settlement areas they serve, providing a unique grassroots voice for marginalized communities. This study, grounded in Participatory Communication Theory and Empowerment Theory, sought to: (1) investigate the influence of Koch FM Community Radio on poverty reduction in the Korogocho informal settlement; (2) examine the levels of involvement of Korogocho residents in poverty reduction endeavors through Koch FM; and (3) explore the messages and programs aired by Koch FM and their impact on poverty reduction efforts. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study utilized descriptive and analytical techniques, including Chi-square tests for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. The key findings revealed that Koch FM played a significant role in fostering local participation, enhancing residents’ access to critical information, and facilitating collective action to address poverty-related challenges. The station’s interactive and locally relevant programming was found to increase community awareness, strengthen social capital, and empower residents to pursue economic and social opportunities. Furthermore, active involvement in radio-driven initiatives was linked to improved self- efficacy, greater civic engagement, and tangible improvements in livelihoods and access to essential services. Based on these findings, the study recommends that policymakers recognize and institutionalize the role of community radio as a strategic partner in poverty reduction, particularly within informal settlements. It further urges the government to collaborate with and empower residents by creating supportive legislation, fostering capacity-building initiatives, and investing in sustainable community media infrastructure. The research concludes that community radio, exemplified by Koch FM, is not only a tool for information dissemination but also a vehicle for participatory development and grassroots empowerment. By anchoring development communication within participatory and empowerment frameworks, community radio can contribute to sustainable poverty alleviation and inclusive urban transformation.Daystar Universit
Exploring How Theological Persuasions and Cultural Perspectives Affect Communication of Mental Health by Presbyterian Clergy in Mt. Kenya Region
No full textMaster of Arts in CommunicationThis study explored how theological persuasions and cultural perspectives influence the communication of mental health by clergy in the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) serving in the Mt. Kenya region. Despite growing awareness of mental health, communication around the topic remains hindered by religious interpretations and cultural stigma, particularly in African church settings. The research aimed to examine how clergy interpret, frame, and convey messages related to mental health, with a specific focus on their theological persuasions and cultural perspectives. Guided by Symbolic Interactionism and Framing Theory, the study adopted a qualitative exploratory design. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with ten clergy members from urban, peri-urban, and rural parishes in the Mt. Kenya region. Thematic analysis was employed to examine the emerging patterns of meaning. Findings revealed that clergy often frame mental illness in theological terms; as spiritual warfare, sin, or moral weakness, while simultaneously grappling with cultural beliefs related to curses, witchcraft, and gender norms. However, many clergy also demonstrated a hybrid communication model that integrates biblical narratives with cultural understanding to provide holistic care. Their use of symbolic language and contextual references facilitates spiritual and emotional support while slowly deconstructing stigma. The study concludes that clergy in the PCEA serve as key communicators who shape public understanding of mental illness within their congregations and communities. It recommends the promotion of mental health literacy among clergy, the inclusion of culturally responsive mental health training in theological institutions, and collaborative partnerships between churches and mental health professionals to enhance communication and care.Daystar Universit
Determinants of Vicarious Trauma among Health Workers: A Case of Murang'a Level 5 Hospital, Murang'a County, Kenya
No full textMasters in Clinical PsychologyVicarious trauma refers to the emotional and psychological effects experienced by professionals repeatedly exposed to traumatic experiences of others. The purpose of this study was to assess the determinants of vicarious trauma among health workers at Murang'a Level 5 Hospital, Murang'a County, Kenya. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of vicarious trauma, examine personal factors associated with vicarious trauma, assess workplace factors influencing vicarious trauma development, evaluate organizational support systems' role in mitigating vicarious trauma, and examine personal coping mechanisms in managing vicarious trauma. This research was grounded in three theoretical frameworks: Constructivist Self-Development Theory, Conservation of Resources Theory, and Job Demands-Resources Theory. A descriptive cross-sectional design targeted health worker with at least one year of experience. Stratified random sampling selected 139 participants from 147 across different professional cadres, achieving a 94.6% response rate. Data were collected using validated scales: Vicarious Trauma Scale, Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey, Workplace Violence Scale, Perceived Organizational Support Scale, and Brief COPE Inventory. The study revealed high vicarious trauma prevalence with 95.7% experiencing moderate to high levels and 56.1% experiencing high levels. No significant associations were found between personal factors and vicarious trauma levels, with demographic variables explaining only 3.0% of variance. All participants experienced workplace violence showing negligible correlation with vicarious trauma. Organizational support was perceived as moderate by 99.3% but demonstrated weak positive correlation with vicarious trauma. Coping mechanisms showed that workers employed adaptive strategies, but these explained only 3.3% of variance. Findings indicated vicarious trauma was primarily driven by systemic factors. The study recommended establishing comprehensive occupational mental health support systems, trauma-informed care training, peer support networks, workplace violence prevention programs, and enhanced organizational support policiesDaystar Universit
Competency Based Education Training in Selected Public Vocational Training Institutions in Nairobi County: An Empirical Assessment
No full textMaster of Education in Leadership and Policy StudiesCompetency-Based Education and Training (CBET) has gained significant attention in vocational training as an approach aimed at equipping students with practical, industry-relevant skills. This study is rooted in three complementary theories. The Competency Theory emphasizes the mastery of specific competencies rather than traditional time-based learning structures. Secondly, the Experiential Learning Theory underscores the value of hands-on training and real-world application, while Constructivism highlights the active role of learners in constructing knowledge through experience. Despite the potential of CBET to enhance employability, its implementation in public vocational training institutions faces numerous challenges, necessitating a comprehensive empirical assessment. This study employed a descriptive research design to evaluate the effectiveness of CBET in enhancing student competencies, identify challenges hindering its successful implementation, and propose mitigation strategies. Guided by a pragmatic philosophical approach, the research integrated both quantitative and qualitative methodologies (mixed-method design) to ensure a well-rounded investigation. Survey questionnaires and focused group discussion (FGDs). For data analysis, quantitative responses were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) to generate statistical insights and trends, while qualitative data were processed using NVIVO to identify thematic patterns and deeper contextual meanings. The findings revealed that the implementation of Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) in public vocational training institutions in Nairobi County had to a greater extent improved students’ skills and competencies, with 75.27% rating it effective or very effective and 59.89% observing improved competencies. Additionally, 80.21% of the respondents felt that CBET adequately prepared students for employment, with 45.05% indicating they were very prepared. Hands-on training (50%) and competency-based assessments (30.22%) were identified as the most beneficial aspects. However, challenges such as lack of trained instructors (43.96%), insufficient funding (39.86%), inadequate learning materials (35.74%) and limited industry collaboration (30.22%) were reported. The study also highlighted infrastructural gaps, with only 12.34% rating equipment and facilities as excellent and 39.86% indicating inadequate stakeholder support. This study concludes that even though CBET has shown promising results in enhancing vocational skills and employability, its full potential cannot be realized without addressing key challenges such as resource limitations, instructor training, and industry collaboration. In light of the findings, the study recommends that vocational training institutions should invest in enhanced instructor training, strengthen industry partnerships, and secure more funding to improve the implementation and effectiveness of CBET programs.Daystar Universit
The [Non] Compliance of Commercial Banks in Kenya with United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1267 (1999) and 1373 (2001) on Terror Financing
No full textMaster of Arts in Diplomacy, Development, and International SecurityTerrorism financing remains a significant global security challenge, with commercial banks being at risk of being used as channels for illicit financial flows. The United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCRs) 1267 (1999) and 1373 (2001) impose obligations on member states to adopt targeted financial sanctions, freeze terrorist assets without delay, and strengthen mechanisms to prevent terrorism financing. These resolutions require all commercial banks to implement financial sanctions against designated individuals and entities. Despite Kenya having a strong legal framework, which includes the Prevention of Terrorism Act of 2012, and the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2009, there are still gaps in enforcement and oversight. The purpose of this study was to analyze the [non] compliance of Kenyan commercial banks to UNSCRs 1267 and 1373. The study objectives were to examine Kenya’s law governing implementation of UNSC resolutions on 1267 and 1373, to investigate challenges commercial banks encounter when implementing the UNSCR and, to explore strategies commercial banks implement to ensure compliance with the resolutions. The research was based on two theories, namely Natural Law theory which stresses banks' moral duty to avoid the abuse of the financial systems and Constructivism theory that stresses norms and culture of compliance as drivers of actions in institutions. 38 Central Bank of Kenya licensed commercial banks were sampled in the research, owing to the population size, census approach was used. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire administered to compliance officers, and complemented by key informant interviews with regulators from the CBK and the Financial Reporting Centre (FRC). Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. Overall, the findings show that while banks have invested in strategies to ensure compliance, regulatory and systematic gaps weaken their effectiveness. This is especially true where unclear guidance leads to reliance on institutional discretion, causing inconsistencies in compliance. The findings of this study are important in guiding the CBK and FRC to enhance supervisory oversight by ensuring issuance of clearer guidelines and addressing systemic gaps such as access to accurate beneficial ownership information, that undermine effective compliance with UNSCRs 1267 and 1373.Daystar Universit
Effects of Participatory Monitoring and Evaluation Practices on Project Performance: A Case of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Project in Saboti Sub County, Kenya
No full textMASTER OF ARTS
in Monitoring and EvaluationDaystar Universit
Strategic Innovation and Competitiveness of Regulated Microfinance Institutions in Kenya: A Case of Branch Microfinance Bank
No full textStrategic management recognizes the vital role of strategic innovation as a key organisational choice for establishing sustainable competitiveness. Strategic innovation involves creating and implementing a new concept, process, product, or service designed to generate value and maintain a competitive edge for an organisation. Despite growing calls to incorporate strategic innovation into organisational strategic management processes to enhance competitiveness, the concept remains largely misunderstood. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of strategic innovation on competitiveness of regulated microfinance institutions in Kenya, focusing on Branch Microfinance Bank. The objectives of the study were to assess the effect of value creation innovation processes on competitiveness at Branch Microfinance Bank; to determine the effect of value propositions on competitiveness at Branch Microfinance bank; to examine the effect of value capture models on competitiveness at Branch Microfinance bank and to establish the moderating effect of organisational structure on the relationship between strategic innovation and competitiveness of regulated microfinance institutions, with a focus on Branch Microfinance Bank. The study was supported by three theories: Schumpeter’s Innovation Theory, Resource-Based Theory, and Dynamic Capabilities Theory, which underpin the research on strategic innovation and organisational competitiveness. A descriptive correlational research design was employed, utilising quantitative analysis of performance metrics to explore how Branch Microfinance Bank applies strategic innovation. Data was collected from a target population of 108 respondents using structured questionnaires designed to systematically gather quantitative data. A pretest was conducted with 10% of the target population comprising ten employees from Faulu Microfinance Bank, which operates similarly to Branch Microfinance Bank, to ensure accurate and consistent data collection. The questionnaire comprised close-ended questions, selected for their ability to systematically elicit quantitative data. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Statistics version 28.0. Descriptive statistics was used to summarise the data, while inferential analyses such as correlation and regression tests were utilised. The findings demonstrated that value creation had a positive and significant effect on competitiveness (β = 0.542, p < 0.001), making it the most influential predictor of competitiveness. This highlights the importance of value creation innovation processes to drive sustained competitiveness. Value proposition also exhibited a strong and significant effect (β = 0.311, p = 0.001), reflecting a customer centric culture, suggesting that effectively communicating and delivering clear customer value enhances competitiveness. Similarly, value capture significantly influenced competitiveness (β = 0.267, p = 0.004), demonstrating the ability of Branch Microfinance Bank to convert innovation into financial returns and sustainability, though with room for improvement in monetizing innovation outputs. Collectively, the three constructs explained 76.6% (R² = 0.766) of the variation in competitiveness. When organisational structure was introduced as a moderating variable, the model’s explanatory power increased from R² = 0.766 to R² = 0.792, indicating a 2.6% improvement. This finding confirms that flexible and responsive structures enhance communication, decision making, and organisational agility, translating innovation into competitive outcomes.Daystar Universit
Dynamics of Communication and Knowledge Management in an Agriculture Innovation Network: Case of Bioinnovate Africa Programme
No full textDOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY in CommunicationAgriculture is central to African livelihoods, and national economies, yet its resilience is increasingly undermined by climate change, food insecurity, and systemic vulnerabilities, further compounded by the COVID 19 pandemic. Agricultural Innovation Platforms (AIPs) have emerged as collaborative mechanisms for fostering knowledge exchange, problem-solving, and co-creation of solutions across diverse stakeholders. However, their effectiveness depends on robust communication and knowledge management processes, which largely remain underexplored in the African context. This study employed a qualitative multiple case study approach to examine the dynamics of communication and knowledge management within agricultural innovation networks, focusing on the BioInnovate Africa Programme in Eastern Africa. Guided by Deleuze and Guattarri’s Assemblage Theory, the research mapped the network stakeholders, analysed communicative interactions, and identified the enablers and barriers influencing these processes. Five cases representing the projects within the network were studied in detail. These projects comprising of different organisations from five eastern African countries. Data were gathered through purposive sampling, using interviews and document analysis. The findings reveal that discursive practices, institutional frameworks, technological tools, and material resources shape communication and knowledge management processes. While diversity of actors and strong partnerships enhance collaboration, challenges such as limited resources, weak institutional linkages, and uneven access to technology constrain knowledge sharing and communication processes. The study contributes to scholarship on agricultural innovation by offering a nuanced understanding of how communication and knowledge processes operate within multi-stakeholder networks. It offers actionable insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners aiming to strengthen innovation platforms as pathways for building more resilient and sustainable agricultural systems in Africa.Daystar Universit
Firm-Level Factors and Customer Satisfaction of Pension Funds in Kenya: Case of County Pension Fund
No full textMaster of Business Administration in Strategic Management and MarketingCustomer satisfaction remains a critical determinant of organizational performance, competitiveness, and sustainability across industries. In the context of today’s rapidly changing business environment, firms are compelled to focus on internal factors such as leadership quality, employee competence, technological capability, organizational culture, and resource allocation to deliver superior customer experiences. However, many organizations continue to face challenges in maintaining consistent levels of customer satisfaction despite strategic investments in service quality improvement. As such, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of firm level factors on customer satisfaction of pension funds in Kenya. The objectives of the study were; to examine the effect of organizational culture on customer satisfaction of County Pension Fund, to establish the effect of technological innovation on customer satisfaction of County Pension Fund, to assess the effect of organizational leadership on customer satisfaction of County Pension Fund, and to evaluate the moderating effect of government regulations on the relationship between firm level factors and customer satisfaction of County Pension Fund. The study was anchored on the Resource-Based View (RBV) Theory, which was supplemented by the SERVQUAL (Service Quality) Theory, Transformational Leadership Theory, and Institutional Theory. A census of 201 respondents drawn from the County Pension Fund was targeted where a response rate of 145 was obtained. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 29, applying descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression analyses to determine the magnitude and significance of the relationships. The findings revealed that organizational culture (β=0.670, p<0.05), technological innovation (β=0.550, p<0.05), and organizational leadership (β=0.624, p<0.05) had positive and statistically significant effects on customer satisfaction. These results indicate that a collaborative culture, innovative technology adoption, and effective leadership substantially enhance service delivery and client experience in pension management. The introduction of government regulation as a moderating variable significantly improved the model’s explanatory power (R² increased from 0.605 to 0.700), suggesting that a supportive and well-enforced regulatory framework strengthens the relationship between firm-level factors and customer satisfaction. The study concluded that internal organizational capabilities, when reinforced by effective governance and regulatory oversight, are critical determinants of customer satisfaction in pension institutions. It recommends that County Pension Fund managers institutionalize a performance-driven culture, invest in digital transformation, and provide visionary leadership aligned with evolving regulatory standards. Policymakers and regulators should streamline compliance frameworks to foster innovation and service excellence. The study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on public pension management and offers a foundation for future research on firm-level determinants of customer satisfaction in the financial services sector.Daystar Universit