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Decolonising Climate Governance: Centering Indigenous Knowledge and Regional Innovations for Planetary Health
No full textConference PaperContemporary climate policy is largely rooted in Western epistemology, marginalizing indigenous knowledge systems that have sustained the health of the planet for centuries. The study evaluates the necessity of decolonizing climate policy through the recognition and inclusion of indigenous ecological knowledge in global and national climate policies. Changing geographical focus to African realities, and Kenya's indigenous populations specifically, the article demonstrates how indigenous traditional environmental management practices facilitate biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, and sustainable livelihoods. It stresses indigenous activities' spiritual, cultural, and communal character, and advocates for their worth per se over utility. Using a qualitative comparative approach, the study investigates regional case studies like Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative that embodies reforestation and sustainability models founded upon local and indigenous practices. The study underscores how such practices resonate with global goals like the Paris Agreement, showing their flexibility in different contexts. The study also examines the transformational potential of incorporating indigenous ecological knowledge into regional innovation systems, facilitating adaptive governance and long-term resilience amidst the climate crisis. The results show that the exclusion of indigenous knowledge reinforces historical injustices, increases socio-environmental injustices, and reduces the effectiveness of climate action. The paper demands a decolonized model of governance that hears indigenous peoples as co-authors of climate solutions, local innovations, and knowledge pluralism in global policies. By merging context-based innovations with local knowledge, this study promotes fair, equitable, and sustainable global planetary health outcomes by placing marginalized voices at the forefront of designing a sustainable future.Daystar Universit
Intergenerational Perspectives on Climate Resilience in Kenya: Systematic Review
No full textConference PaperThe purpose of this study will be to systematically review existing literature on intergenerational perspectives of climate resilience in Kenya, with the aim of identifying how different age groups perceive, experience, and respond to climate change-related challenges. Systematic review will be employed to collect, evaluate, and synthesize existing literature on intergenerational perspectives of climate resilience in Kenya. A comprehensive literature search will be conducted across academic databases between 2005 and 2025. Standardized data extraction forms will be used. Double extraction will be conducted to ensure accuracy and minimize bias. Qualitative data will be extracted and analyzed thematically to identify patterns in attitudes, coping strategies, and resilience frameworks across different age groups. It is anticipated that the review will reveal distinct intergenerational differences in perceptions, attitudes, and coping mechanisms related to climate resilience in Kenya. This will be important in designing all-inclusive and effective climate adaptation strategies that address different dimensions of resilience.Daystar Universit
The Role of Data Journalism Reports on Displacement, Climate Change, and Migration in the Eastern Africa Region.
No full textConference PaperThe Eastern Africa region has always contended with matters related to displacement and migration caused by conflicts and climate disasters, and as such, seeking refuge in the neighboring states. Data journalism carries various definitions, but in this study, it is a branch of journalism that relies on gathering and analyzing statistical data. The purpose of this study is to examine the role of data in reporting on displacement, climate change, and migration patterns across East African states. Audiences across various platforms access and rely on media for the gratification of information needs, particularly on critical subjects affecting society. This paper focuses on the role of media data and technology in shaping the public perception of displacement, climate change, and migration affecting the nations in the Eastern Africa region. Since media data has the potential to inform public agenda, the paper intends to unveil the contribution of data journalism in extracting contextual information for the users of these media. The paper is therefore anchored on media effect theories such as agenda-setting, uses and gratification, media priming theory, and media framing theory in data journalism. This study will analyze and interpret key reports, storytelling techniques, data scarcity, and related ethical issues from existing data repositories and journalists. The paper evaluates how journalists employ data to present unique stories, reveal investigative reports, and offer practical solutions for policy implementations.Daystar Universit
The Overlooked Crisis of Post-Covid Kidney Disease
No full textnewspaperGlobally, by the year 2021, around 144.7 million people (3.7 per cent) had developed long Covid, and that estimate has since double
Youth Voices and Eco-Anxiety in Kenya: Investigating Digital Communication Strategies for Mental Well Being Amid Cloimate Change
No full textConference PaperClimate change is not only an environmental and economic crisis but also a growing mental health emergency, especially for youth in vulnerable regions like Kenya. As the country grapples with extreme weather events such as prolonged droughts and devastating floods, young people are increasingly facing eco-anxiety, trauma and psychological distress. Yet, mental health services remain underfunded, stigmatized and largely inaccessible, particularly in informal settlements and rural areas. In response, Kenyan youth are turning to digital platforms, such as social media, podcasts, and online forums, as spaces for expression, connection, and advocacy. This study examines how Kenyan youth utilise digital communication strategies to address climate-related mental health challenges, amplify their voices, and foster resilience. It highlights the urgent need to understand and support these emerging digital practices as complementary tools for psychosocial support in the face of climate uncertainty. By examining youthled digital activism and storytelling, the research contributes to broader discussions on climate justice, mental well-being and inclusive communication in the Global South. The objectives of the study are threefold: (1) to assess the extent and nature of climateinduced mental health issues among Kenyan youth, (2) to examine the role of digital communication platforms in supporting youth mental health and climate engagement, and (3) to evaluate the effectiveness and limitations of these platforms as psychosocial support mechanisms. The research adopts a qualitative approach, relying primarily on desktop research, content analysis and literature reviews. It analyzes existing academic studies, organizational reports, social media campaigns and youth-generated digital content to gain insight into emerging trends, gaps, and opportunities. By focusing on youth voices in digital spaces, the study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the intersection between climate change, mental health, and communication in Kenya, offering practical recommendations for mental health support, policy response and climate resilience.Daystar Universit
Chronic S. Mansoni Infection Critically Regulates PbA Infection-associated Severity and Pathological Events in a Mouse Model
No full textJournal ArticleThe parasite Plasmodium is responsible for the severe infection known as malaria. The infection causes high mortality and morbidity, especially in endemic areas worldwide. Schistosomes which are blood flukes are the primary cause of schistosomiasis, which is the second most common
parasitic illness in terms of morbidity and death after malaria. In many areas, both of these illnesses are co-endemic. Biochemically, each parasite utilizes the host protein differently and has defined immunological and physiological responses. This study sought to assess how persistent
S. mansoni infection affected the severity of the P. berghei ANKA-associated illness and other pathological events in a mouse model during co-infection. Mice were infected with 200 Schistosoma mansoni cercaria. After chronic S. mansoni infection had been established, mice in the coinfection group were inoculated with 10,000 PbA-infected red blood cells. Physiological parameters were monitored at a two-day interval, to track the infection levels. Furthermore, liver andkidney function tests and oxidative stress markers were quantified at the end of the study and analyzed at a p < 0.05. Co-infection of S. mansoni and PbA enhanced the survival of mice whichwas independent of parasitemia preventing lethal experimental malaria in the majority of mice and prevented hepatosplenomegaly. Chronic S. mansoni infection resulted in hepatosplenomegaly
which contributed to an increase in body weight while the introduction of malaria in the host reduced body weight. Liver functionality was disrupted by the measurement of the ALP enzyme, a marker of liver damage. Schistosomiasis reduced host metabolites such as protein, and lipids as
schistosomes cannot synthesize their own de novo. Co-infection restored the disruptive effect of S. mansoni in the host. There was evident oxidative stress in the host, liver, and brain of mice infected with S. mansoni or PbA alone. However, coinfection of S. mansoni and PbA ameliorated
oxidative stress with concomitant attenuation of organ injury hence reinforcing protection observed in experimental malaria. Overall, this study demonstrates that chronic S. mansoni infection is critical in the regulation of PbA infection-associated severity & pathological events in
a mouse model
Planetary Health and Patient Dialogue: Exploring Cancer Perceptions Through Doctor-Patient Communication in Nairobi County
No full textConference PaperAs climate change escalates, environmental stressors such as air pollution, excessive heat, and healthcare disruptions pose significant challenges to public health, particularly in urban areas like Nairobi County. These ecological changes exacerbate existing cancer risks and hinder access to treatment. Despite these realities, the communication dynamics between patients and doctors remain an underexplored aspect of adaptive healthcare solutions in climate-affected environments. Informed by the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), this study examines the impact of interpersonal communication in Nairobi's oncology clinics on patient decision-making and treatment adherence. The objectives are to examine the methods and effectiveness of doctor-patient communication in oncology clinics, evaluate its impact on patient knowledge, assess its effect on patient attitudes towards treatment, and determine how communication shapes or reinforces patient beliefs. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, collecting quantitative data through structured questionnaires from 60 cancer patients and 60 caregivers in Nairobi County. Qualitative data is obtained through purposive sampling and in-depth interviews with 10 doctors, providing a nuanced understanding of communication practices and challenges. The results indicate that poor communication, characterized by the use of medical jargon, cultural dissonance, and insufficient patient engagement, significantly hinders treatment adherence, particularly for patients with low health literacy. Conversely, the study highlights the critical role of patientcentered communication in enhancing understanding, building trust, and increasing compliance with cancer treatment regimens despite the challenges posed by climaterelated stresses. The study also emphasizes integrating climate health awareness into medical education and communication practices. Policy recommendations include incorporating climate health literacy into medical curricula, implementing inclusive and culturally sensitive communication frameworks, and decentralizing oncology services to address the challenges faced by urban populations affected by climate change. The study identifies effective doctor-patient communication as essential in strengthening health system resilience amid climate change.Daystar Universit
International Student Recruitment Strategies and Performance of Private Universities in Kenya: Case of Daystar University
No full textMaster's ThesisThe global landscape of higher education has become increasingly competitive, with universities worldwide striving to attract and retain international students to enhance performance, sustainability, and global reputation. In Kenya, private universities are at the forefront of this competition, yet many are struggling to realize the full potential of internationalization strategies, particularly in student recruitment. As such, the purpose of his study was to evaluate the effect of international student recruitment strategies on performance of private universities in Kenya. The specific objectives of the study is to; to examine the effect of marketing strategies on performance of private universities in Kenya, to assess the effect of partnerships and collaborations on performance of private universities in Kenya, to investigate the effect of admission support services on performance of private universities in Kenya, and to evaluate the moderating effect of organizational factors on the relationship between financial innovations and performance of private universities in Kenya. The study was anchored on the Resource-Based View (RBV) Theory as the anchor theory, Push-Pull Theory, Balanced Scorecard (BSC) Framework and Institutional Theory. This study employed a cross-sectional explanatory research design. The study target population included 88 senior managers and international students at Daystar University. The research used primary data, collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of closed-ended questions, which is appropriate for quantitative analysis. To ensure reliability and validity, a pretest was conducted on 10% of the census drawn from St. Paul’s University. Data collected was analyzed with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29.0. Data was analysed descriptively, and inferentially. Hypotheses were tested at 5% level of significance. Findings revealed that all three recruitment strategies significantly influenced performance. Marketing strategies had a strong positive correlation with performance (r= 0.680, p<0.05) and explained 46.2% of the variance (R²= 0.462), with participation in international education fairs and digital marketing platforms emerging as the most impactful. Partnerships and collaborations were the strongest predictor (r= 0.725, p<0.05; R²= 0.526), with Memoranda of Understanding and linkages with foreign high schools and colleges being key drivers. Admission support services also had a significant effect (r= 0.655, p<0.05; R²= 0.429), with visa assistance and pre-arrival orientations being most valued. Organizational factors significantly moderated the relationship between recruitment strategies and performance, increasing explained variance from 60.8% to 68.9% (R²= 0.081, p<0.05), amplifying the benefits of recruitment strategies in supportive environments. The study concludes that integrating robust marketing, strategic partnerships, and comprehensive support services within a strong leadership and cultural framework is critical for enhancing enrolment growth, revenue, and institutional reputation. Recommendations include strengthening targeted marketing campaigns, streamlining policy frameworks to facilitate partnerships, expanding admission support services, and fostering leadership and culture that promote internationalization. These recommendations align with SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive and equitable access to global education, Kenya Vision 2030 by positioning higher education as a driver of globally competitive human capital, and Africa Vision 2050 by advancing educational integration, cross-border collaborations, and institutional excellence to support sustainable continental developmentDaystar Universit
Relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Substance Use Disorders: A Case Of Patients at Mathari National Teaching nd Referral Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
No full textMasters in Clinical PsychologySubstance use disorders (SUDs) remain a pressing public health concern worldwide, with growing evidence linking adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to increased vulnerability to addiction. While global research has established ACE–SUD associations, limited studies in Kenya have examined how early-life trauma influences substance use onset, severity, and treatment outcomes within rehabilitation contexts. This study investigated the relationship between ACEs and SUDs among patients admitted to the Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital (MNTRH) Rehabilitation Center, Kenya’s The study sought to determine the prevalence and severity of ACEs among inpatients with SUDs, identify the types of substances most commonly used, and establish correlations between specific ACE categories and substance use patterns. The study was guided by theoretical framework that integrates Trauma Theory, Attachment Theory, and Social Learning Theory to comprehensively understand the complex relationship between childhood trauma and substance use. A quantitative cross-sectional correlational design was adopted, with a systematically selected sample of 83 inpatients Data was collected using a biodemographic questionnaire, the Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire (ACE-IQ), and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). Analysis was conducted using SPSS version 27 through descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation. The findings revealed that alcohol (41%), was the most reported substance of use, emotional neglect (62%) was the highest ACE and a significant positive association was established between ACEs and substance use. This study concludes that ACEs play a central role in shaping substance use behaviors among patients in Kenya and highly recommends integrating trauma-informed interventions into rehabilitation to reduce vulnerability and relapse rates.Daystar Universit
Role of Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Innovative Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) Reporting and Action Planning
No full textConference PaperAs concerns regarding climate action continue to gain momentum, the need to invest smartly has also emerged resulting in the concept of environmental and social governance (ESG) inculcating ESG in the companies and investment life cycle perspective. This calls for action in terms of reporting and action planning so that the companies can remain accountable. This paper is based on the premise of Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs) 9 (innovation and infrastructure) and 13 on (climate action). This presents an opportunity for exploring utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI)to make the process seamless and effective. Several ESG reporting frameworks have been put forward including Global Reporting Initiatives (GRI), Sustainability Reporting Guidelines (SABS) United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) International Organization for Standardization ISO 26000. Some of the criticism raised in relation to the frameworks is the varied application of the standards, lack of limit and demand placed on economic, environmental and social resources coupled with data inaccuracy. A survey conducted in 2017 indicated that of 4900 companies assessed globally, 60% in all industries report on cooperation responsibility. Though most companies disclose targets on carbon emissions, most of them fail to acknowledge climate risk (KPMG 2017) this could be injurious to efforts on climate action. This shortcoming weighs in on the role of AI in enhancing ESG reporting and action planning. The objectives of this paper are to establish the baseline for incorporating artificial intelligence in ESG reporting among high climate risk companies in Kenya, strengthening and cascading best practices. The population shall be high climate risk enterprises as they pose major environmental risks with high replica effect on climate action. The research shall use the diffusion theory and the Theory of change and adopt the exploratory research design capitalizing on both qualitative and quantitative methodologies.Daystar Universit