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Analysis of Hospitality Information Systems on Guest Engagement and Operational Efficiency in Rwanda; A Case of Sainte Famille Hotel
No full textThe study investigated the impact of hospitality information systems (HIS) on guest engagement and operational efficiency within Rwanda’s hospitality industry, focusing on Sainte Famille Hotel in Kigali. The research was driven by the growing global adoption of digital technologies in the hospitality sector to improve service delivery and customer experiences. However, Rwandan hotels continue to face challenges such as limited digital literacy among staff, inadequate technological infrastructure, and weak online marketing strategies, which hinder the full benefits of HIS utilization. The study aimed to achieve three main objectives: to examine the relationship between online services and guest engagement, to assess the influence of technology on occupancy levels and to evaluate the relationship between technology and operational efficiency. A sample size of 127 respondents was determined from a total population of 187 using Slovin’s formula, comprising 97 hotel staff and 30 guests drawn mainly from Booking.com users. Staff participants included personnel from key departments such as administration, finance, IT and maintenance, front office, kitchen, food and beverage, public area cleaning, housekeeping, and sales and marketing. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), with results presented in tables, percentages, and frequencies. The findings revealed that the adoption and effective use of hospitality information systems play a critical role in improving hotel performance. HIS were found to enhance guest engagement through personalized services, efficient communication, and streamlined operations, while also promoting operational efficiency by reducing manual workloads and improving coordination among departments. The study concludes that effective adoption of hospitality information systems significantly enhances guest engagement and operational efficiency, thereby strengthening competitiveness and sustainability within Rwanda’s hospitality industry, as evidenced by the case of Sainte Famille Hotel. The study recommends that Sainte Famille Hotel should upgrade and integrate its hospitality information systems while strengthening staff training to support data-driven decision-making and personalized guest services. The study also recommends that the Government of Rwanda should support hotels through targeted training programs, financial incentives, and clear data protection policies to accelerate sector-wide digital transformation and service quality improvement.
Keywords: Hospitality, Information Systems, Guest Engagement, Sainte Famille Hotel, Rwanda
Internal Factors, Bank Size, and Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Kenya
No full textThis study sought to evaluate the effect of internal factors and bank size on financial performance of commercial banks in Kenya. Two objectives were identified and hypotheses developed. The internal factors were identified as; capital adequacy, asset quality, management quality, and liquidity. The study deployed bank size as a moderator. Explanatory research design was applied. Using panel data covering 13 years (2010-2022), secondary data were gathered of all the 38 commercial banks licensed in Kenya as at December 31st, 2022, from the annual published financial statements of commercial banks and from the Bank Supervision Annual Reports published by Central Bank of Kenya. Descriptive and inferential statistics analyses were deployed using Stata software version 17.0 and excel. Correlation and regression analyses were used to test the hypotheses. Tables and figures were used for data presentation. Based on the findings, the internal factors jointly and significantly contributed to financial performance of commercial banks. The influence of bank size was statistically significant. However, some internal factors (capital adequacy, management quality, and liquidity quality) did not contribute significantly to financial performance of commercial banks. The study recommends a strategic harnessing of internal factors by the management of commercial banks for optimal benefits. The research further proposes to the regulatory authorities the need to establish prudent controls and monitoring mechanisms that emphasises on CAMEL rating factors in assessment and ranking of banks. This study differs in scope by integrating bank size as a moderator and with a long period of coverage (13 years), a unique feature underexplored in most literature.
Keywords: Bank Specific Factors, Bank Size, Financial Performance, Commercial Bank
Influence of Leadership Styles on Performance of County Referral Hospitals in Kenya
No full textThis study examined the influence of leadership styles on the performance of county referral hospitals in Kenya, focusing on transformational, servant, and adaptive leadership approaches. County referral hospitals, which serve as the highest level of healthcare facilities under devolved governance, face critical challenges in service delivery, resource management, and workforce coordination. Leadership style is increasingly recognized as a central factor in addressing these challenges and improving institutional performance. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design, targeting 51 county referral hospitals across 47 counties. Data were collected from 153 hospital administrators, human resource managers, and finance officers using structured questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted using SPSS, with regression models employed to examine the strength of association between leadership styles and five key dimensions of hospital performance: patient outcomes, quality of care, accessibility, equity in service provision, and financial performance. Results indicated that leadership styles significantly influenced hospital performance, with transformational leadership exhibiting the strongest positive effect (β = 0.562, p < 0.05), followed by servant leadership (β = 0.228, p = 0.016), and adaptive leadership (β = 0.124, p = 0.001). These findings underscore the need for targeted leadership development programs that cultivate inclusive, innovative, and responsive leadership within county health systems. The study recommends that the Ministry of Health and County Governments invest in leadership capacity building as a strategic intervention for enhancing service delivery and organizational resilience in public hospitals. Strengthening leadership is essential to achieving equitable, efficient, and sustainable healthcare across Kenya's devolved health sector.
Keywords: Leadership Styles, County Referral Hospital
Revenue Management and Pricing Optimization in Hospitality and Tourism Consulting: A Systematic Literature Review
No full textRevenue management (RM), the collection of strategies that firms use to scientifically manage demand for their products and services, is considered as one of the most successful application areas of operations research. This systematic literature review (SLR) explores revenue management techniques in the hospitality and tourism. Such techniques include dynamic pricing algorithms, forecasting demand with urbane statistical models, overbooking strategies, ancillary revenue optimization, and the impact of behavioral economics on pricing decisions. The study conducted an SLR using the PRISMA model and identified 365 Scopus indexed documents. Descriptive analyses, citation analysis, co-citation analysis, and keyword co-occurrence analysis were used to investigate the intellectual structure of the revenue management literature. Findings showed that the concept of RM has been globally examined since 1989 with greater interest over time. According to co-citation analysis, three schools of thought are identified, including customer orientation, operational performance, and revenue management technique. Most highly influential documents are conceptual papers. Results also reveal that 6 dominant topics in the research field of RM such as dynamic pricing, tourism, hotel, hospitality, machine learning, and consumer behavior, have recently been examined in the literature. This review concludes that RM techniques can significantly improve price optimization and foster data-driven decision making in the management of businesses in the hospitality sector. Limitations of RM strategies such as the potential lack of understanding of specific hospitality contexts, reliance on outdated data, and challenges in accurately forecasting demand and managing distribution channels are also discussed. Similarly, there can be disconnect between theoretical models and practical application, especially regarding human resources and the impact of external factors like economic conditions. It also suggests future research directions for further enhancing RM techniques and pricing optimization in the hospitality and tourism consulting.
Keywords: Revenue Management, Pricing Optimization, Hospitality, Tourism Consulting, Systematic Literature Revie
Digital Supply Chain Optimization and Food Security for Fresh Produce in Nairobi County: A Case Study of Kibra Sub-County
No full textFood security is a critical challenge in Kenya, with approximately half of the population living in poverty and about 7.5 million, in extreme poverty. This is undermined by challenges in the fresh produce supply chain, such as poor market access and high food loss rates, which adversely affects nutrition outcomes. This study examines the impact of digital supply chain optimization encompassing digital logistics integration, digital market linkages, digital traceability, digital transparency and information sharing, on food security. Grounded under systems theory, the study employed a cross-sectional design. Data was collected from 319 stakeholders via questionnaires and interviews, analyzed using SPSS Version 28 for descriptive and regression statistics, and content analysis for qualitative insights. The findings indicated that digital logistics integration had the strongest positive impact through improved delivery efficiency and reduced post-harvest losses. Digital market linkages showed significance influence, facilitated by mobile platforms like Twiga Foods, Wasoko, Taimba and M-Pesa, though adoption was constrained by low digital literacy and unreliable internet. Digital traceability systems had limited adoption due to infrastructural barriers, while digital transparency enhanced decision-making but lacked regulatory framework. Analysis of qualitative insights highlighted stakeholder demand for low technology solutions. Recommendations set out include establishment of community Wi-Fi hubs, implementation of SMS-based tools, provision of digital literacy programs and creation of farmer cooperatives to facilitate the scaling of digital interventions. This research makes a contribution to Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) and Kenya's Food and Nutrition Security Policy, highlighting strategies for urban food systems in low-resource settings.
Keywords: Digital supply chain optimization, fresh produce, Kibra Sub-County, food security
The Moderating Effect of Firm Size on the Relationship Between Market Information and Stock Price Volatility at the Nairobi Securities Exchange
No full textThis study examined the moderating effect of firm size on the relationship between market information and stock price volatility among listed firms at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), Kenya. Using a longitudinal research design spanning 2018-2023, the study analyzed 120 firm-year observations from the NSE-20 share index constituents. Panel regression analysis with interaction terms revealed that firm size significantly moderated the relationships between different types of market information and stock price volatility. Specifically, firm size moderated the relationship between information flow and stock price volatility (β = 0.0024718, p = 0.040), commodity price information and stock price volatility (β = 0.0000012, p = 0.029), and accounting information and stock price volatility (β = -0.0000452, p = 0.039). The model's explanatory power improved substantially from 8.95% to 34.75% when firm size and interaction terms were included. The findings demonstrate that the effects of market information on stock price volatility are not uniform across firms but depend significantly on firm characteristics, particularly organizational scale. Large firms experience different information processing dynamics compared to smaller firms, with implications for volatility patterns. The study recommends that regulatory bodies implement size-specific disclosure requirements, firms develop information dissemination strategies aligned with their scale, and investors adjust their analytical frameworks to account for differential information effects based on firm size.
Keywords: Firm Size, Market Information, Stock Price Volatility, Moderation Analysis, Nairobi Securities Exchange, Information Processing
 
Bank Characteristics, Central Bank Rate and Profitability of Tier Three Commercial Banks in Kenya
No full textKenya's tier three commercial banks have experienced declining profitability, with the Central Bank of Kenya reporting slowed profit growth in 2023 due to rising operational costs and increasing non-performing loans that constrain profit margins. Thus, this study examined the effects of market share, asset quality, and capital adequacy on the profitability of Kenyan tier three commercial banks, with central bank rates as a moderating variable. The research employed a descriptive design using secondary data from audited financial reports spanning 2015-2024, applying panel data methodology with multiple regression and diagnostic tests to analyze relationships between variables and profitability. Findings showed that profitability in Kenya's tier three banks was positively shaped by market share, asset quality, and capital adequacy. Stronger market positions boosted earnings, sound assets reduced default rates, and robust capital improved financial stability. While market share and asset quality also reinforced one another, capital adequacy appeared less connected to loan quality, suggesting different underlying drivers. The central bank rate had a weaker and less consistent influence, though modest increases could enhance profitability through interest margins; however, its overall direct effect in the panel model was negative, indicating that higher rates generally dampen returns. When monetary policy context was considered, the explanatory power of the model improved, with larger banks and well-capitalized institutions showing greater ability to withstand tighter policy conditions. Asset quality's interaction with monetary policy was not significant, but it still trended positively, hinting at potential benefits under certain conditions. The study concludes that profitability in Kenya's tier three banks is shaped by the combination of internal elements—capital strength, asset quality, and market share—and external forces like central bank rates. The study recommends that banks should prioritize market share expansion through strategic diversification and digital transformation while strengthening asset quality management through robust credit appraisal systems and comprehensive risk frameworks. The study recommends that tier three banks should develop comprehensive capital management strategies beyond regulatory compliance and establish sophisticated monitoring systems for macroeconomic indicators, particularly Central Bank Rate movements. The study recommends that banks should strengthen governance structures through independent board composition, empowered risk committees, and transparent leadership practices to ensure regulatory compliance and build stakeholder confidence.
Keywords: Bank Characteristics, Central Bank Rate, Profitability, Tier Three Commercial Banks, Keny
Financial Risk Management Literacy and Its Effect on Financial Sustainability: Insights from Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Kakamega County
No full textThe objective of the study was to investigate how financial risk management literacy affects financial sustainability of MSMEs in Kakamega County. The study was anchored on prospect theory. Descriptive survey research design was adopted in the study in which the population comprised of 645 managers and proprietors of MSMEs in the county drawn from trading, manufacturing, distribution and service sectors in the county. The study sample comprised of 247 proprietors selected using stratified sampling technique. Primary data collected using structured questionnaires was utilised in the study. Collected data was analysed using SPSS version 26. Both descriptive statistics and inferential analysis were used in data analysis. Descriptive statistics included mean score and standard deviation. Inferential analysis included Pearson's correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis. The coefficient of determination (R²), F-statistic, beta coefficient and p-values were used in interpreting results. Results showed that MSMEs demonstrated only modest levels of financial risk management literacy and MSMEs achieved financial sustainability only to a limited extent, as many struggled with profitability, cash flow adequacy, and revenue growth. Correlation analysis results showed that financial risk management literacy showed a strong and positive correlation with financial sustainability. Regression analysis confirmed that financial risk management literacy had a positive and statistically significant effect on financial sustainability. It was thus concluded that financial risk management literacy had a positive and statistically significant effect on financial sustainability of MSMEs in Kakamega County.
Key Words: Financial Risk Management Literacy; Financial Sustainability; Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise
Strategic Management Practice Critical Success Factors and Green Marketing Strategy Status among Solar Energy Technology Dealers in Nairobi County in Kenya
No full textThe energy sector in Kenya contributes significantly to the country's economic development by creating employment opportunities and raising people's living standards. However, there is compelling evidence that solar energy technology products end of life e-waste poses great danger to the environment today and hence remains a strategic management challenge, not only for Kenya but the whole world. This study therefore employed strategic management concept in analyzing and understanding the strategic management practice critical success factors explaining green marketing strategy status among solar energy technology dealers in Nairobi County in Kenya. The study was underpinned by Resource Based Theory and Stakeholder Theory. The specific objectives were to establish the influence of Technological CSFs, organizational CSFs, environmental CSFs and individual CSFs on Green Marketing Strategic Management Practices among solar energy technology dealers in Nairobi. Descriptive research design was adopted with a target population comprising of all 521 solar energy dealer business firms situated within the Nairobi city county area according to EPRA (2022) registration records. The sample size comprised 226 respondents selected using purposive sampling method so that only those with at least five years’ experience in the solar energy supply business in Kenya were included. Both open and closed ended questionnaires were then administered to them to collect both qualitative and quantitative data for analysis. The data was analyzed into both descriptive and inferential statistics and presented using frequency tables and chats. The study found that technological factors (β=0.52, p=0.0023) and organizational factors (β=0.99, p=0.0002) had a positive and significant effect on GMSS, while environmental factors (β=-0.47, p=0.0615) and individual factors (β=0.37, p=0.0741) had no significant effect, with the model explaining 27.1% of GMSS variance (R=0.52, R²=0.271, p=0.003). The study recommends that all the technological factor indicators identified in the study be put into consideration when developing and implementing green marketing strategy and associated strategic management practices, especially for the solar energy technology market in Kenya.
Keywords: Strategic Management Practices, Solar Energy Technology, individual CSFs, Green Marketing, Technological CSFs, organizational CSFs, environmental CSFs  
Students' Views on Teaching Learning Materials Used in Implementing the Fashion Design Curriculum at Takoradi Technical University, Ghana
No full textThe study evaluated students' views on teaching and learning materials (TLM) in fashion design education at Takoradi Technical University in Ghana. Using a descriptive research approach, data were collected from 110 randomly selected Higher National Diploma students through a closed-ended questionnaire. ANOVA analysis revealed significant differences in perceptions of TLM usage among academic levels (F (2, 11.72); p < 0.05). Post hoc comparisons showed no significant difference between Level 100 and Level 200 students (p = 0.390), but Level 100 students had significantly higher perceptions than Level 300 students (p = 0.002, mean difference = 0.38), and Level 200 students also scored higher than Level 300 students (p = 0.041, mean difference = 0.24). Overall, perceptions of TLM use decline as students’ progress in their studies. The students believed that the use of TLM by their facilitators helps them understand complex issues more effectively and enables them to ask questions for clearer understanding. The null hypothesis was rejected, and it was concluded that students at Levels 100, 200, and 300 differed significantly in their perceptions of the utilisation of TLMs in the Fashion Design and Technology department of Takoradi Technical University. The study concludes that while teaching and learning materials serve important functions in fashion design education, their implementation at Takoradi Technical University faces significant challenges, with student satisfaction declining markedly as they progress through academic levels, indicating systematic problems in resource quality, availability, and utilization that may compromise graduate preparedness for industry practice. The study recommends that Takoradi Technical University should implement immediate faculty development programs to improve teaching material utilization, as current low usage rates of reference books and industrial equipment inadequately prepare students for industry practice. The institution should establish quality assurance mechanisms to address why senior students report declining satisfaction with educational resources, ensuring that advanced courses receive enhanced rather than reduced material support. Industry partnerships should be strengthened through mandatory workshops and facility visits to bridge the gap between academic training and professional requirements. Administrative oversight should be enhanced to resolve the disconnect between faculty reports and student experiences, while curriculum restructuring should prioritize resource allocation that aligns with evolving fashion industry demands and maintains educational quality across all academic levels.
Keywords: Fashion, student views, teaching learning materials, facilitators, Takoradi Technical University, Ghan