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Epidemiology of Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis among School-Aged Children in Pastoralist Communities of Kenya: A Cross-sectional Study
No full textJournal ArticleAbstract
Introduction
Soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) are a major public health problem in Sub-Saharan
Africa. In Kenya, the National School Based Deworming Program (NSBDP) was launched
in 2012 with a goal of reducing STH prevalence in school-aged children (SAC) to <1%, however
monitoring and evaluation results have consistently showed > 20% prevalence in
Narok County. We conducted a study to investigate factors associated with STH infections
among SAC in Narok County.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 514 SAC from five schools in Trans Mara
West sub-county, Narok County. The sub-county was selected because it had participating
schools within the NSBDP with a high prevalence of STH infection. Participants were
selected using systematic random sampling. Stool samples collected from participants were
examined for STH eggs using Kato-Katz technique. An open data kit questionnaire was
used to collect socio-demographics, household, and STH knowledge information from 139
of the 514 SAC. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize the data, prevalence and
mean intensity of infections were calculated, and logistic regression used to determine factors
associated with STH infections.
Results
The overall prevalence of any STH infection was 24.6% (95%CI: 21.1–28.6). Trichuris trichiura
14.4% (95%CI: 11.7–17.8), Ascaris lumbricoides 12.5% (95%CI: 9.9–15.7) and
hookworm 0%. From multivariable analysis the only factors significantly associated with
increased risk of STH infection were, children attending Karda and Nkarano schools with
aOR = 5.29 (95%CI: 1.45–19.24); p = 0.011 and aOR = 4.53 (95%CI: 1.29–15.97); p = 0.019 respectively. For A. lumbricoides, children attending Nkarano School were associated
with a significant risk of infection with aOR = 7.81 (95%CI: 1.81–33.63); p = 0.006.
Conclusions
Despite the ongoing work of NSBDP, the STH prevalence is still � 20% in Trans Mara West
sub-county Narok County, among SAC. This underscores the need for continued annual
MDA. Additionally, if possible, drug combinations may effectively manage T. trichiura, the
region’s most common helminth. The study found a correlation between children attending
specific schools and STH infection risk, suggesting the importance of health education and
improved water, sanitation, and hygiene practices holistically both in schools and associated
catchment areas that can act as STH reservoirs to alleviate the burden of STHDaystar Universit
The role of virtual teams and tools in developing strategic partnerships and collaborations in talent development
No full textConference PaperCollaboration should permeate all aspects of the process (development, design, delivery, and evaluation).
Leveraging the power of student feedback: students expect technology to be integrated into the delivery of their coursesDaystar Universit
Evaluating The Effectiveness of Kenya's Coast Guard Agency in Improving Maritime Security and Governance in The Blue Economy: A Case of Kilifi Harbor
No full textMaster of Arts in Diplomacy, Development, and International SecurityThis study evaluated the effectiveness of Kenya's Coast Guard Agency in improving maritime security and governance within the context of the Blue Economy, with a focus on Kilifi Harbor. Strong maritime security and governance systems become critical as Kenya's marine industry grows more important for economic growth and sustainability. Through a comprehensive evaluation of the Coast Guard's operational capabilities, regulatory frameworks, and collaborative efforts with other stakeholders, this study examined how the agency contributes to improving maritime security and governance in Kilifi Harbor. By identifying gaps in regulation compliance, infrastructural development, and institutional capacities, the study provided significant recommendations for improving Kenya's Coast Guard Agency's efficacy and increasing maritime security and governance in Kilifi Harbor. Furthermore, the study emphasized the value of interagency coordination, regional cooperation, and capacity-building programs in tackling rising challenges and fostering sustainable marine development in East Africa. By employing a mixed-methods approach that included quantitative analysis of maritime security metrics and qualitative evaluation of governance structures and legal frameworks, the research sought to provide an in-depth comprehension of the Coast Guard's impact on maritime security and governance in the region. The occupational breakdown shows that 40 percent of respondents were at the Field Level, such as sailors and seamen, who are directly involved in maritime activities. Administrative Level respondents made up 30 percent, indicating their roles in decision-making or policy implementation. The Round Table Level, likely consisting of high-level executives or stakeholders, accounted for 15 percent, as did the 'Other' category, which included security officers and Kenya Navy personnel. This diversity suggested a broad range of insights and experiences related to maritime security. The data analyzed revealed that while KCGA has made strides in improving maritime security and governance in Kilifi Harbor, there are areas that require further development, particularly in terms of resources, training, and interagency coordination. The findings highlighted the importance of continuous improvement in operational capabilities, community engagement, and regulatory adherence to ensure long-term maritime security and sustainability in Kilifi Harbor. The study's results, which included strengths, shortcomings, and potential areas for improvement, were intended to drive evidence-based policymaking and strategic actions to boost Kenya's maritime sector and foster sustainable Blue Economy development.Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Science
Strategic Leadership Practices and Performance of Private Kenyan Hospitals: A Case of Oasis Health Group Limited
No full textMASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION in Strategic ManagementStrategic leadership practices play a pivotal role in enhancing organizational performance in the complex and ever-evolving healthcare sector. This study bridged contextual, conceptual, and methodological gaps by investigating strategic leadership practices and performance in private Kenyan hospitals. The study aimed at assessing the extent of implementation of strategic leadership practices, analyze organizational performance, and investigate their relationship, using Oasis Health Group Limited as a case study. Transformational Leadership, Balanced Scorecard, and Upper Echelon Theories formed a solid theoretical framework guiding the analysis of the of strategic leadership practices on the performance of private Kenyan hospitals. The Upper Echelons Theory anchored the study. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The population of study was the 103 private hospitals in Kenya, with Oasis Health Group Limited 220 employees as the target population. The sample size for the study was 140 respondents. Stratified sampling ensured representation of key characteristics by selecting samples from each stratum, given the varied sizes, specialties, and structures of OGHL branches. Data was collected through the administration of questionnaires and interview guides. The study used descriptive statistics, such as mean and standard deviation, and frequency distribution tables for quantitative data analysis. Qualitative data were analyzed using open coding and thematic content analysis for interview responses. The study found a strong correlation between strategic leadership practices (strategic direction, innovation, human capital development, and strategic control) and organizational performance at Oasis Health Group Limited, characterized by consistent revenue growth, cost reduction, customer satisfaction, and employee satisfaction over the past five years. The findings indicate that approximately 67% of the variance in the performance of Oasis Health Group Limited can be explained by strategic leadership practices, with the regression model being statistically significant (F-calculated = 36.268 > F-critical = 2.45, p = 0.000 < 0.05), meaning that the predictors significantly explain the variation in performance. The study recommends that Oasis Health Group Limited should invest more in innovation by adopting new technologies, fostering employee creativity, and regularly training staff on healthcare innovations. The organisation should also strengthen its human capital development through continuous professional development, competitive compensation, and supportive work environments. Lastly, the study recommends an extension of the investigation to encompass the realm of public hospitals in Kenya
Association between Social Exclusion and Major Depressive Disorder among The Elderly in Itabua Location, Embu County Kenya.
No full textMASTERS in Clinical PsychologyThis research sought to determine whether social exclusion increases the prevalence of MDD among older adults in Itabua location in the Embu West sub-county in Embu County of Kenya. The study design adopted a qualitative and quantitative aspects, with the objectives of identifying the prevalence of exclusion, comparing the levels of MDD, identifying factors that lead to social exclusion and MDD, and examining the elderly persons' coping strategies. This research employed questionnaires, face-to-face interviews, and structured psychometric tests to gather data from the respondents who are older people 70 years and above. The results extend the knowledge of the association between social exclusion and MDD in older people and contribute to developing effective prevention and treatment strategies and recommendations for improving their quality of life. Some of the familiar terms include social isolation, Major Depressive Disorder, elderly, mental health, and social marginalization. The study established social exclusion rate and major depressive disorder among elderly people in Itabua Location whereby, 59% of the participants had exhibited moderate to high social exclusion. Interestingly, 50.3% of all the participants screened for depression, scored mild, moderate or severe for symptoms of depression. It emerged from the qualitative data that economy related issues, lack of family support and health were predictors of social exclusion as well as depression. The study recommends establishing culturally appropriate solutions for combating social isolation and mental health disorders among the aging population such as better mental health care access, financial assistance for elderly citizens and community reintegration projects
Assessment of Anxiety Disorder among Employees Who Have Encountered Mergers and Acquisitions: A Case of Access Bank (Kenya) Plc, Nairobi County, Kenya
No full textMaster of Arts in Counselling PsychologyMergers and acquisitions transactions involve detailed analysis of an organization’s financial, technical, people, legal soundness and deal price negotiations that extend for long periods, sometimes over three years. Mergers and Acquisitions can be optimized to overcome the negative impact on employees with effective integration, cross-level communication, and consideration of the financial, operational, and cultural aspects of the involved companies. This research problem was studied through the use of a survey descriptive research design. The target respondents included the 156 employees across different levels (Senior management, Mid-level management and junior level management) from Access Bank Kenya. A sample of 156 respondents was selected from within each group in proportions that each group bears to the study population. The study used a survey questionnaire administered to each member of the sample population. The study administered the questionnaire individually to all respondents of the study. Quantitative data collected was analyzed by the use of descriptive statistics using SPSS Version 28 and presented through percentages, means, standard deviations and frequencies. Inferences were made by testing relationships among variables using Karl Pearson Correlation and multiple regression analysis. The study found a high prevalence of anxiety among employees who encountered the merger between Access Bank (Kenya) PLC and Transnational Bank Ltd, with 71.7% of participants reporting mild to severe anxiety symptoms. No significant associations were found between anxiety levels and socio-demographic factors such as gender (χ² = 0.001, p = 0.975), age (χ² = 1.649, p = 0.800), or education level (χ² = 5.619, p = 0.345). The most frequently employed positive coping strategies were participating in hobbies or leisure activities (M = 3.87), actively seeking information about the merger process (M = 3.65) and utilizing relaxation techniques (M = 3.31). Regression analysis revealed that positive coping strategies were negatively associated with anxiety levels. Participating in hobbies or leisure activities (β = -0.187, p = 0.016), actively seeking information about the merger process (β = -0.164, p =
0.036), and utilizing relaxation techniques (β = -0.175, p = 0.028) showed significant negative associations with anxiety levels. In contrast, seeking support from colleagues, friends, or family members (β = 0.235, p = 0.003) and seeking professional assistance (β = 0.181, p = 0.019) showed positive associations with anxiety levels. This unexpected result might indicate that employees experiencing higher anxiety levels were more likely to seek support or professional help, rather than these strategies increasing anxiety. The study found that positive coping strategies like engaging in hobbies, seeking information about the merger, and using relaxation techniques were associated with lower anxiety levels among employees during the merger process.Daystar University, School of Applied Human Science
Analysis of Community Participation in Cross-Border Security: A Case of Kenya- Somalia Border (2014 – 2024).
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in Diplomacy, Development, and International SecurityThe study sought to analyze community participation in cross border security along the Kenya-Somalia border. The study specifically aimed at examining the state of cross-border security in border, evaluating community participation in security programs, and assessing government security initiatives with regard to community participation. An exploratory convergent mixed methods research design was adopted. The study targeted 30,100 common border community where a sample size of 380 was utilized in the study. Additionally, both community leaders and elders and security personnel were targeted. The study employed questionnaires, focus group discussions and key informant interviews to gather data. Questionnaires were administered to common border communities while focused group discussions involved community leaders and elders and interviews from key informants comprising of security personnel. Quantitative data analysis technique was applied in analyzing quantitative data while content analysis was utilized in analyzing the qualitative data. The study utilized tables and figures to display the results. The study established that respondents were well-informed about the security threats affecting their areas. The main security threats identified and ranked from highest to the lowest comprised of terrorism, smuggling, kidnappings, cattle rustling, and banditry. The study further established existence of a high level of community engagement and participation in community-based security initiatives and discussions. The common border community participated in the security matters through participating in community policing forums, organizing neighborhood watch programs, inter-community dialogues and in public safety campaigns. Focus group discussions participated in cross-border security forums, establishing and maintaining early warning systems, and mediating conflicts to prevent escalation. Key informants confirmed their involvement in community policing forums, border patrol collaborations, conducting security workshops and seminars, and introducing technology for reporting incidents and receiving updates. The findings also revealed that the most significant barrier to community participation in security efforts was identified to be fear of reprisals from criminal groups, followed by cultural or social factors, then lack of awareness about security initiatives, then lack of trust in law enforcement and finally others. The study revealed that there was awareness of very effective government-led security initiatives in the area aiming at enhancing security in the border. The initiatives were however both beneficial and detrimental to the community. The study concluded that community participation of both common border residents, leaders and elders, backed up by security personnel and government initiatives in cross border community was imperative. The study recommended establishment of regular dialogue channels between security forces and residents. Additionally, there is a need for the implementation of initiatives that demonstrate respect for cultural sensitivities and a commitment to the well-being of border communities. The study also recommends training and equipping traditional leaders and community influencers to act as liaisons between residents and security forces. Similarly, the study advocates for providing residents with accessible tools for communication where security forces can gather real-time information and improve response times. The study recommends investment in education, healthcare, and economic development projects in border communities to reduce poverty. On the government initiatives, the study recommends transparency and accountability in government actions. To note, communities are more likely to cooperate if they trust the intentions and methods of security forces. Similarly, a reduction in the use of heavy-handed tactics and prioritize community engagement in planning and implementing security measures which may reduce resentment and fosters a collaborative approach. There is also a need to address forced displacements caused by security operations which often become more vulnerable and less likely to cooperate with security forces
Participative Leadership Style and Performance of the Manufacturing Sector in Kenya: A Case Study of Paper Converters (K) Ltd
No full textMASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION in Strategic ManagementThe dynamic business environment necessitates a leadership approach that involves employees in the decision-making processes to enhance organizational performance. Paper Converters (K) Ltd. is struggling to achieve optimal organizational performance due to challenges such as high import duties, competition from cheaper imports, and increased operational costs, compounded by the slow decision-making and potential internal conflicts associated with participative leadership. The purpose of this study was to establish the effect of participative leadership style on organizational performance at Paper Converters (K) Ltd. The research aimed to address the following objectives: the effect of delegated decision-making, open communication, encouragement of growth, idea sharing on organizational performance, and the intervening role of organizational culture in these relationships. Anchored on the path-goal theory and supported by the social exchange theory within the broader context of Kenya's manufacturing sector. Employing a descriptive research design, the study collected primary data from a sample of 90 respondents obtained from a population of 300 employees of Paper Converters (K) Ltd in Kenya, representing senior and middle management, and employees. Data was gathered through structured questionnaires and coded for quantitative analysis. Include inferential analysis including correlation and multiple linear regression analysis which are used to determine the relationships between variables. SPSS version 29 aided in the data analysis and the results were tabulated. The study ensured instrument reliability using Cronbach's alpha and tested validity through the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure and Bartlett's Test for sampling adequacy. By incorporating organizational culture as an intervening variable, this research aimed to provide an understanding of how participative leadership impacted organizational performance at Paper Converters (K) Ltd. The study found that the major factors associated with participative leadership style at Paper Converters (K) Ltd included delegated decision-making, open communication, encouragement of growth, and idea sharing, with participative leadership and open communication accounting for 57.2% of the variance in organizational performance. The study identified delegated decision-making, open communication, growth encouragement, and idea sharing as key leadership factors. Delegated decision-making and open communication positively impacted organizational performance. Organizational culture was influenced by leadership but did not significantly mediate the leadership-performance relationship. The study concluded that while the organization performed well in financial metrics and shareholder returns, there were significant opportunities to enhance market performance and customer satisfaction, which are essential for sustained competitiveness. It concluded that, the study concluded that fostering a culture of delegated decision-making and effective communication is vital for improving organizational performance, although organizational culture alone did not serve as a meaningful mediator in this context. The study recommended prioritizing inclusive practices that encourage employee engagement, investing in market research to align with customer needs, enhancing training programs for leaders to improve participative skills and communication strategies, and proactively cultivating a positive workplace culture that supports collaboration and innovation to drive long-term succes
Evaluation of Participatory Communication in Sustainable Tourism in Kenya: A Case of Maasai Community Living Near Maasai Mara Game Reserve
No full textMaster of Arts in CommunicationThe Maasai Mara Game Reserve is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kenya and contributes significantly to the country's economy. However, the rapid growth of tourism in the area has led to environmental degradation and socio-cultural challenges, such as land-use conflicts and cultural exploitation. The implementation of sustainable tourism practices is crucial to mitigate these negative impacts and ensure the long-term viability of the industry. This study sought to evaluate participatory communication in sustainable Tourism in Kenya: A Case of Maasai Community Living near Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Specifically, the study sought to evaluate the level of information sharing in sustainable Tourism in Kenya; to establish stakeholder/local community involvement in sustainable Tourism in Maasai Mara Game Reserve and to assess the communication channels used in sustainable Tourism in Maasai Mara Game Reserve. This study was guided by participatory framework and communication theory. This study utilized descriptive research design. The target population was therefore 250 respondents comprising of residents, Maasai Mara leadership (chiefs and community leaders) and Narok County council leadership from the six wards. The sample size was determined using the Taro Yamane Formulae which was formulated by Yamane in 1967. Therefore, the sample size was 154. The stratified random sampling technique targeted the population to realize 154 respondents. Data collection was through structured questionnaires and interview guides. For clarity and organization, the data was processed by use of SPSS software, a tool designed for comprehensive statistical analysis. SPSS offers a range of formulas and statistical functions that facilitate the interpretation of data. Qualitative data from interviews were subjected to thematic analysis, one of the most used approaches in qualitative research. For quantitative data derived from closed-ended questions, both descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized through SPSS version 24. Multi-linear regression analysis was performed to explore associations among dependent and independent variables. The study concludes that the level of information sharing significantly impacts sustainable Tourism in Maasai Mara Game Reserve. The findings from this study indicate that frequency, timeliness, and accessibility influence sustainable Tourism in Maasai Mara Game Reserve. The study concluded that there was a significant effect brought about by stakeholder involvement on sustainable Tourism in Maasai Mara Game Reserve. The result of the study concludes that channels of communication are significant determinants of sustainable Tourism in Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Based on the findings, this study recommends that the ministry of Tourism should foster stronger relationships with local communities by actively encompassing them in tourism planning and decision-making processes and establish regular community forums where information about tourism initiatives, benefits, and potential impacts can be shared.Daystar University, School of Communicatio
COM 302 A and T Statistics for Communication Research
No full textCOM 302 A and T Statistics for Communication ResearchDaystar Universit