Stratford Peer Reviewed Journals and Books
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Internet-of-Things and Performance of Road Safety Management in Nairobi County, Kenya
No full textRoad safety continues to pose a significant challenge in Nairobi County, Kenya, with persistent cases of traffic accidents, congestion, and emergency response inefficiencies resulting in substantial loss of life and economic costs. This study sought to examine the influence of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies on the performance of road safety management in Nairobi County. Specifically, the study evaluated the effects of driver behavior monitoring, smart traffic infrastructure, vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, and IoT-based vehicle assistance technologies on key road safety outcomes. The study was anchored on four theories: the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Diffusion of Innovation Theory, the Socio-Technical Systems (STS) theory, and the Systems Theory. This study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population comprised 655 key stakeholders in road safety management, including traffic police officers, insurance companies, emergency service providers, and technology firms. The sample size of 248 respondents was determined using Yamane’s formula (1967). A purposive sampling technique was employed to ensure proportional representation of all stakeholder categories. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires, while secondary data was sourced from policy documents, NTSA reports, and scholarly articles. The questionnaire was pre-tested on 25 individuals excluded from the final sample to ensure validity and reliability. Cronbach’s alpha was used to assess internal consistency, and all constructs recorded coefficients above the 0.7 threshold. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. Descriptive statistics, including means, standard deviations, and frequency distributions, were used to summarize the data, while inferential analysis, including Pearson correlation and regression analysis, was used to test the relationships between variables. Qualitative data from open-ended questions were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that smart traffic infrastructure significantly enhanced traffic flow and safety, while driver behavior monitoring technologies were associated with improved compliance and reduced risky driving. V2V communication significantly reduced collision rates, and IoT-based vehicle assistance tools contributed to better navigation and decreased congestion. Overall, the integration of IoT technologies had a statistically significant positive influence on road safety management in Nairobi County (r = 0.743, p = 0.000). The study concludes that IoT presents a transformative opportunity to enhance urban road safety through real-time data exchange, predictive analytics, and intelligent automation. The study recommends increased investment in IoT infrastructure and policy frameworks to support widespread adoption. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term impact of IoT on road safety in other urban settings and assess the cost-effectiveness of various IoT applications in traffic management.
Keywords: Internet-of-Things, Performance, Road Safety Management, Nairobi County, Keny
Green Practices and Sustainable Operations in Rural Hotels: Evidence from Samburu County, Kenya
No full textSustainability has become a central focus in the global hospitality industry, yet rural hotels in ecologically fragile areas remain underexplored in terms of how they implement and benefit from green practices. This study investigates the impact of environmentally responsible practices on the sustainable operations of eco-rated hotels in Samburu County, Kenya—an arid and semi-arid region with growing eco-tourism activity. Specifically, the study evaluates four key green practices: waste management, energy conservation, water conservation, and eco-friendly purchasing. It also examines whether stakeholder participation moderates the relationship between these practices and hotel sustainability. An explanatory survey design was adopted, targeting managers and senior staff from all 21 eco-rated lodges operating in the county. A total of 54 responses were collected using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression to test both direct and moderating effects. Findings revealed that waste management, energy conservation, and eco-friendly purchasing all had statistically significant positive effects on sustainable operations. Among these, eco-friendly purchasing was the strongest predictor (β = 0.824, p < 0.001). Water conservation, although widely practiced, did not have a statistically significant relationship with sustainability. The inclusion of stakeholder participation as a moderating variable significantly increased the model’s explanatory power (ΔR² = 0.055), with the interaction effect also being significant (β = 0.238, p < 0.001). The study provides empirical validation for Sustainability Theory, Stakeholder Theory, and the Theory of Planned Behavior in a rural hospitality context. It emphasizes that stakeholder collaboration is not only beneficial but essential to maximizing the impact of green practices. Practical implications suggest that policy-makers, eco-certification bodies, and hotel managers should integrate stakeholder engagement into their sustainability frameworks, with particular focus on procurement, community partnerships, and regulatory support to enhance environmental, economic, and social performance in rural tourism enterprises.
Keywords: Green Practices, Sustainable Operations, Rural Hotels, Samburu County, Keny
Exclusive Breastfeeding and Associated Factors Among Mothers with Infants Aged 6-15 Months at Selected Health Facilities in Musanze District, Rwanda
No full textExclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first six months is essential for optimal infant nutrition and emotional development. Despite this, Rwanda’s EBF rates-81% among infants under six months and 68% among those aged four to five months-remain below UNICEF’s 100% recommendation. This cross-sectional study examined the prevalence of EBF, maternal knowledge, and associated factors among mothers attending selected health centres in Musanze District, an area with high under-five stunting despite food sufficiency. A total of 260 mothers with infants aged 6–15 months were randomly selected from Muhoza, Kimonyi, and Nyakinama Health Centres between May 19 and June 18, 2023. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, perinatal factors, and EBF practices. Analysis was performed using STATA 15, employing chi-square tests and logistic regression to identify factors associated with six-month EBF. Most participants were aged 25–34 years (52.7%), lived in urban areas (58.1%), and were stay-at-home mothers (75.4%). The study found that 79% of mothers exclusively breastfed for six months. Knowledge of EBF was generally high, with 94.6% having heard of EBF and 84% demonstrating good knowledge-particularly regarding its benefits (98.5%) and recommended duration (89.2%). Several factors were significantly associated with EBF practice. Mothers without breastfeeding-related health problems were 4.3 times more likely to practice EBF than those with such issues. EBF was also protective against gastrointestinal infections in infants. Additionally, valuing maternal support-especially a mother’s opinion-increased the likelihood of practicing EBF by 2.5 times. Knowledge level alone, however, was not a significant predictor. Overall, although knowledge of EBF is high, the practice remains below optimal levels. The study concludes that exclusive breastfeeding is widely practiced in Musanze District, supported by strong maternal awareness of its importance and recommended duration. The study concludes that maternal health, infant well-being, and support from close family members remain central influences that determine whether mothers sustain exclusive breastfeeding for the full six months. The study recommends that health authorities and health facilities should strengthen early breastfeeding counselling, address maternal breastfeeding challenges promptly, and reinforce community education throughout the pre- and post-natal periods. The study recommends that families and community members should offer consistent support to breastfeeding mothers, while future programs should integrate influential family figures such as grandmothers to improve adherence to exclusive breastfeeding.
Keywords: Breastfeeding, Mothers, Infants Aged 6-15 Months, Health Facilities, Musanze Distric
Effect of Operational Risk Management On Financial Sustainability of TVET Institutions in Nyeri County, Kenya
No full textThis study examined the effect of operational risk management on financial sustainability of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Nyeri County, Kenya. The research employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design targeting all 40 TVET institutions in the county, with data collected from 73 institutional heads and finance officers, achieving a response rate of 91.3%. The study utilized structured questionnaires to assess operational risk management practices including internal control systems, risk policies, audit procedures, staff training, and corrective action mechanisms. Descriptive analysis revealed that TVET institutions had well-established operational risk management practices, with consistently high mean scores across all indicators. Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated a strong positive relationship between operational risk management and financial sustainability, while regression analysis confirmed a significant positive effect with operational risk management explaining 55.1% of the variance in financial sustainability outcomes. The findings indicate that TVET institutions with comprehensive operational risk frameworks, including clear policies, robust internal controls, regular audits, and trained staff, achieve superior financial sustainability compared to those with weaker risk management systems. The study concludes that operational risk management is a critical determinant of financial sustainability in TVET institutions. The study recommends that institutions strengthen their internal control systems, enhance audit processes, develop comprehensive risk policies, and invest in continuous staff training to improve their long-term financial viability.
Keywords: Operational Risk Management, Financial Sustainability, TVET institution
Forecasting a Potential Energy Crisis in Kenya by 2030: A Critical Analysis of Risks, System Gaps, and Strategic Interventions
No full textKenya’s energy sector stands at a critical juncture. Despite notable achievements in electrification and renewable energy deployment, the country risks a severe energy crisis by 2030, with a projected supply deficit of 2,000–2,800 MW. Drawing on historical lessons from the 2009 crisis, this paper probes the systemic risks, structural inefficiencies, and governance gaps undermining Kenya’s energy security. Using recent reports from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum (MoEP, 2024), the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA, 2023), the International Energy Agency (IEA, 2023), and the World Bank (2023), as well as Mudany’s analyses (2022; 2024), the paper highlights challenges of system losses, suppressed demand, climate risks, and institutional fragmentation. This article examines the likelihood of a severe energy crisis in Kenya by 2030, drawing on the 2009 crisis as a historical benchmark. It projects energy demand growth based on demographic, industrial, and structural factors and quantifies an estimated 1,800 MW supply deficit if current infrastructure, policy, and investment trajectories continue. It also analyzes risks such as suppressed demand, geothermal reservoir depletion, hydropower vulnerability due to climate change, and inefficient procurement processes. It recommends integrated solutions including energy diversification, grid expansion, energy efficiency, public-private partnerships, and regional power integration. The paper further concludes with evidence-based recommendations including accelerated renewable deployment, grid modernization, governance reforms, regional integration, and sustainable financing. The analysis underscores that Kenya’s crisis is not inevitable but preventable if leadership and policy coherence align with technical and financial interventions.
Keywords: Energy Crisis, System Losse
Relationship Between Training Needs Assessment and Employee Performance Among the Customer Care Agents at Airtel Limited Call Center
No full textThis study aimed at investigating training needs assessment on employee performance among the customer care agents at Airtel Limited call center. The study employed a quantitative research design and collected data from 200 employees using structured questionnaires. 155 questionnaires were returned and 45 were not returned. The study employed both descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze the data. Descriptive statistics summarized the distribution of scores using measures of central tendency, variability, and distribution. Data collected from participants was coded correctly and analyzed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Pearson correlation and Regression analysis were used to examine the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. Pearson correlation analysis indicated that training needs assessment had a correlation of ) with employee performance, suggesting a strong and significant relationship. In the regression analysis, Training Needs was a significant predictor of Employee Performance, with a standardized coefficient (Beta) of and a p-value of . The study found that conducting a thorough training needs assessment has a positive effect on employee performance. Organizations that properly assess the training needs of their employees are able to provide targeted, relevant training that leads to better job satisfaction, commitment, and performance. It is recommended that Airtel Kenya should continue to invest in comprehensive training needs assessments to ensure that training programs are tailored to address the specific skills gaps and development needs of employees.
Keywords: Training Needs, Employee Performance, Customer Care, Agents, Airtel Limited, Call Center
 
Psychological Outcomes of Climate Change among Youth and Adults in Tanzania
No full textEfforts have been made to address climate change and improve people's lives; however, the psychological outcomes of climate change have not been adequately explored. While environmental and economic impacts have been widely studied, the mental health consequences of climate change continue to affect communities, particularly vulnerable populations. This study examined the perceived psychological outcomes of climate change among youth and adults in Kinondoni District, located in the Dar es Salaam region of Tanzania. A total of 360 respondents aged 15 years and above participated in the study. The research employed a convergent parallel design with a mixed-method approach, allowing for the simultaneous collection of both quantitative and qualitative data. Data were collected using structured questionnaires with closed-ended questions and in-depth interviews with key informants, while a documentary review of written and electronic materials was conducted for secondary data analysis. The findings indicate that flooding and increased temperatures were reported at moderate levels, posing significant challenges to daily life and well-being. Furthermore, psychological outcomes such as depression, anxiety disorders, stress, grief, and trauma were found to be moderately prevalent among respondents. The study recommends that the government, through the Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly, and Children, should collaborate with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community-based organizations (CBOs), and local authorities to develop targeted interventions addressing climate-induced mental health challenges. Psychological support services should be integrated into disaster response mechanisms to ensure timely assistance for individuals experiencing climate-related anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma.
Keywords: Psychological outcomes, climate change, mental health, Tanzania 
The Contributions of Religious Beliefs and Practices on Access to Healthcare Services by the Elderly in Bagamoyo District Pwani Region, Tanzania
No full textReligious beliefs significantly influence healthcare access among elderly individuals in Tanzania, particularly in Bagamoyo District, yet their specific contributions remain inadequately understood in current healthcare delivery systems. With 57% of elderly individuals avoiding health facilities when sick due to various barriers, understanding the religious dimensions becomes crucial. This study examined the contributions of religious beliefs and practices on access to healthcare services by the elderly in Bagamoyo district, anchored in Jean Watson's Theory of Transpersonal Caring (1979), which emphasizes caring as more effective in supporting health than medical treatment alone. The study employed a mixed-method research design, targeting 4,998 elderly individuals aged 60 years and above attending health facilities in Bagamoyo district. Using Krejcie and Morgan's formula, and a proportional formula a sample of 239 respondents was determined, though 237 actually participated. Data was collected through structured questionnaires, key informant interviews with 15 medical officers, and 11 focus group discussions. The instruments' reliability was validated using Cronbach's Alpha, yielding coefficients of 0.7733 for unstandardized items and 0.8086 for standardized items. Data analysis combined descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and thematic analysis. The study found a statistically significant positive relationship between religious beliefs and healthcare access (β = 0.384, p = 0.007), with 47.3% of respondents demonstrating high religious engagement. Religious beliefs explained 3.1% of variance in healthcare access, while 89.8% of respondents affirmed the positive role of religious institutions in providing psychological healing services. However, 84% reported their religious affiliations lacked formal health programs for the elderly, though 95.8% of religious institutions endorsed regular use of government healthcare facilities. The study concludes that religious beliefs significantly influence elderly healthcare access, though they represent one of several contributing factors. Healthcare providers and religious institutions should establish formal partnerships to enhance elderly healthcare access by leveraging existing religious networks and community trust, while developing dedicated healthcare programs that integrate preventive care with spiritual activities.
Keywords: Religious Beliefs and Practices, Access to Healthcare Services, Elderly, Bagamoyo District, Pwani Region, Tanzani
Influence of Technological Factors on Performance of Electronic Queue Management Systems Among Outpatients in Radiant Group of Hospitals, Nairobi City County, Kenya
No full textLong waiting times and congested queues in healthcare facilities worldwide have led to the adoption of Electronic Queue Management Systems (EQMS) to streamline service delivery, but their effectiveness depends critically on the performance of underlying technological components. Thus, this study sought to examine the influence of perceived technological factors on the performance of EQMS among outpatients at the Radiant Group of Hospitals in Nairobi City County. The study employed a cross-sectional design anchored on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Queue Management Theory (QMT), targeting patients in the outpatient department. A stratified proportionate sampling approach was used to select 335 respondents from a population of 1,460 patients, while key informants were identified purposively. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and key informant interviews and analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods, with findings presented in tables, charts, and narratives. The results revealed that technological factors significantly influenced EQMS performance. Key positive determinants included system capacity (OR=1.589, p=0.002), adherence to queue discipline (OR=0.923, p=0.043), and reduced waiting time delays (OR=1.129, p=0.021). Conversely, technical challenges such as system malfunctions (OR=1.509, p=0.052) and unreliable internet connectivity (OR=0.826, p=0.001) emerged as notable barriers to effective system use. The study concludes that the success of EQMS is highly dependent on its technological robustness, reliability, and user-friendliness. The study recommends the integration of a mobile application for real-time queue updates, the introduction of multilingual interfaces to improve accessibility for diverse patient demographics and the incorporation of voice-guided instructions and braille signage to support patients with special needs.
Keywords: Electronic Queue Management System, Technological Factors, System Usability, Healthcare Technology, Patient experience, Service Automatio
Regulatory Convergence and Divergence in International Procurement Law: A Comparative Study of Institutional Evolution and Market Integration
No full textThis review examines Regulatory Convergence and Divergence in International Procurement Law: A Comparative Study of Institutional Evolution and Market Integration, which explores the tension between harmonizing and fragmenting legal frameworks in global procurement. The review analyzes the book's comparative study of how procurement laws evolve across different jurisdictions, examining the influence of both international harmonization efforts and local legal traditions on procurement practices. The review highlights the book's discussion of institutional evolution in procurement law, tracing how global organizations like the WTO and UNCITRAL have shaped procurement policies while facing impediments from differences in legal traditions and economic interests. It covers the book's examination of market integration dynamics, where procurement laws serve as both facilitators and barriers to economic integration, particularly in emerging markets seeking to balance global standards with domestic priorities. Key areas addressed in the review include the political dimensions of procurement law, the legal complexities of cross-border contract enforcement and dispute resolution mechanisms, and the role of digital technologies in reshaping regulatory frameworks. The review also discusses the book's analysis of how developing economies navigate between international standards and local economic needs, and the challenges of enforcing procurement laws across diverse legal systems. The review concludes that the book provides essential insights for understanding how procurement law must balance global integration with local adaptation, advocating for flexible regulatory frameworks that accommodate both international cooperation and national sovereignty in the digital age.
Key Words: Regulatory convergence, institutional evolution, market integration, procurement law, legal harmonizatio