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Influence of Transport Management Practices on Operational Performance of Disaster and Relief Humanitarian NGOs in Kenya
No full textTransport management is critical in humanitarian operations, particularly in ensuring timely delivery of aid to vulnerable populations. This study examines the relationship between transport management practices and the operational performance of disaster and relief humanitarian non-governmental organizations (HNGOs) in Kenya. Drawing from the Resource-Based View, Transnational Cost Theory and Social Network Theory, the research highlighted how transport scheduling, outsourcing, and last-mile delivery affect responsiveness, adaptability, and accountability. Using a descriptive-correlational design, data was collected from 80 HNGOs through structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and regression analysis were conducted using SPSS. The results indicated that transport management practices have a statistically significant and strong positive impact on performance (r = 0.751, p < 0.01), explaining 56.5% of the variance in operational performance. Key practices identified include last-mile delivery innovation, route optimization, structured scheduling, and outsourcing. The study recommended targeted investment in logistics infrastructure, development of localized last-mile strategies, and formal integration of third-party logistics providers into humanitarian objectives
Mobile Banking and Financial Inclusion of Traders in Homa-Bay Municipal Market, Kenya
No full textGovernments and financial institutions are striving to enhance access to formal financial services for traders, particularly those in remote regions. However, in Kenya, small-scale traders still encounter significant challenges such as lack of collateral, limited credit history, and high costs associated with formal financial services, hindering their access to necessary capital for business growth. This study aimed to examine the effect of mobile banking services on financial inclusion among traders at Homa-Bay municipal market, Kenya. The study was anchored on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and adopted a descriptive research design, targeting traders from the Homa Bay Municipal Market, which had a total of 2,000 traders according to the Homa Bay County Council. The study employed the Yamane (1967) formula to select a sample size of 333 respondents, who were chosen using stratified random sampling. Questionnaires were used as the primary data collection method. SPSS computer software was used to facilitate the analytical process. The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between mobile banking services and financial inclusion (r = 0.218, p = 0.000). Regression analysis showed that mobile banking services significantly affected financial inclusion with an unstandardized coefficient of 0.164 and a standardized beta of 0.156 (β=0.164, t=2.515, p=0.000). The results indicated that a one-unit increase in mobile banking services resulted in a 0.164 unit increase in financial inclusion among traders. The study concludes that mobile banking services play a pivotal role in enhancing financial inclusion among traders in Homa-Bay municipal market by offering tailored banking solutions such as account management, fund transfers, and bill payments. The study recommends that financial institutions and mobile service providers should develop targeted education and awareness campaigns, enhance security and reliability of platforms, while policymakers should prioritize expansion of mobile network infrastructure and enforce policies promoting competition among service providers to improve accessibility and affordability of mobile banking services.
Keywords: Mobile banking services, financial inclusion, traders, Technology Acceptance Model, Homa-Bay municipal market, Keny
The Moderating Effect of Regulatory Framework on the Relationship Between Corporate Governance and Triple Bottom Line Performance of Microfinance Institutions in Kenya
No full textMicrofinance institutions in Kenya continue to face persistent financial instability despite their critical role in promoting financial inclusion and socio-economic growth. This study examined how the regulatory framework moderates the relationship between corporate governance and Triple Bottom Line (TBL) performance of microfinance institutions (MFIs). The purpose was to determine whether regulatory structures strengthen or weaken the effect of governance practices on financial, social, and environmental outcomes. Primary data were obtained through structured questionnaires administered to 84 respondents drawn from 14 purposively selected microfinance banks out of 47 institutions registered under the Association of Microfinance Institutions of Kenya as of December 2024. Stratified random sampling was applied, and data were analyzed using SPSS through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression. Results revealed that governance indicators board size, activity, diversity, independence, and audit quality positively influenced TBL performance, while inclusion of the regulatory framework increased explanatory power from 53.2% to 65.1%. Significant interaction effects between regulation and governance variables, particularly board size, independence, and audit quality, confirmed the moderating role of the regulatory framework. The study concludes that effective regulation amplifies good governance, thereby enhancing financial stability, social outreach, and environmental responsibility. However, excessive regulatory pressure can hinder innovation and impose compliance burdens that weaken performance. The study recommends that policymakers and regulators adopt a balanced approach that integrates governance reforms with adaptive regulatory oversight to promote resilient, socially inclusive, and environmentally sustainable microfinance institutions aligned with Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Keywords: Moderating Effect, Regulatory Framework, Corporate Governance, Triple Bottom Line, Performance, Microfinance Institution
Meta-Analysis of Competitiveness and Innovation and Carbon Taxation Strategic Adaptation: An Implication for Developing Economies
No full textThe purpose of this study was to systematically review and conduct a meta-analysis on the relationship between competitiveness and innovation, and carbon taxation strategic adaptation. The competitiveness and innovation, particularly employment, total productivity, and foreign direct investment capability of a nation, could predict the adoption of carbon taxation strategies, especially in developing economies where the need for economic growth and development may override the need to address the existential threat of climate change. Carbon taxation, environmental tax, green tax, and carbon emissions trading have been shown to catalyze the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions, which is a key ingredient of climate change. Using data drawn from Scopus and Web of Science databases, a total of 16 articles were reviewed and included in meta-analysis following the guidance of the PRISMA flowchart. The findings of the study revealed that random-effects results indicated pooled effect μ = -0.014 (SE = 0.005; 95% CI -0.024, -0.005; k = 16); heterogeneity Q(15) = 50.15, p = 1.1×10⁻⁵; I² = 70.1%; τ² = 0.000204; 95% PI -0.044 to 0.015; region differences not significant (Q-between(2) = 0.15, p = 0.926). The findings reveal a small negative average with substantial heterogeneity and a PI crossing zero, which implies that outcomes are design-sensitive to exposure, safeguards, credibility of ramps, and innovation finance. It was concluded that transitional pressures exist but are not universal because with credible, innovation-oriented design, net competitiveness and innovation effects often cluster near neutral. The study recommends that governments legislate inflation-indexed ramps, maximize coverage with temporary, targeted EITE safeguards, recycle revenues to productivity and innovation, particularly on R&D, clean capex, and skills. It should equally reduce non-price frictions that are permitting, and infrastructure to enable firms to respond by investing rather than retrenching to cut costs.
Keywords: Meta-Analysis, Competitiveness, Innovation, Carbon Taxation, Strategic Adaptation, Developing Economie
Crisis Management Practices and Employee Performance in Selected Airlines in Kenya
No full textThe ability of airlines to manage crises effectively is crucial to organizational resilience and employee performance, especially within Kenya’s dynamic aviation sector. Despite the recognized importance of crisis management, airlines in Kenya continue to face challenges in fostering employee performance during turbulent times. Guided by the Situational Crisis Communication theory, the study examined how crisis management through internal communication strategies affects employee performance in selected Airlines in Kenya. A correlational research design where a target population comprising 5,008 employees from all operational and administrative departments of African Airlines Association member airlines in Kenya was targeted. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select a representative sample of 357 respondents who were targeted to respond to a structured questionnaire through google forms. Descriptive and inferential data analysis was conducted through Statistical Package for Social Sciences to establish that internal communication (r=.533, p<.001; β = 0.586) had a strong, positive and significant effect on employee performance. It was established that internal communication enhances clarity and coordination thus improving employee performance. Based on this, the study recommends that airline managers strengthen communication clarity through training and feedback systems to be able to realize better and improved employee performance.
Key Words: Crisis Management Practices, Internal Communication Strategies, Employee Performance & Kenyan Airline
Supplier Relationship Management and Procurement Performance of Level 6 Hospitals in Kenya
No full textHealth facilities aim to ensure that they have adequate stock in terms of medicines, machines and other related products to operate without any challenges associated with stockouts. The purpose of this study was to establish the effect of supplier relationship management on procurement performance of the six level 6 hospitals in Kenya. The study evaluated the effect of supplier relationship management on the procurement of level 6 hospitals in Kenya focusing on a census of all the six level 6 hospitals in Kenya namely Kenyatta National Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital, Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital and Kakamega Teaching and Referral Hospital. The study was anchored on the Resource Based View. Primary data was collected using questionnaires which was distributed to procurement officers, stores personnel, accountants and hospital administrators. Reliability and validity of research instrument was conducted to ensure relevant data was collected. Cross sectional descriptive research design was utilized and regression analysis was adopted to test the study hypothesis. The significance of each individual predictor variable on procurement performance was tested using t-statistic and the overall significance of the models was tested using f-statistic. The study findings indicated that supplier relationship management had mean scores of 3.91 indicating generally positive practices in Level 6 hospitals in Kenya in regard to supplier relationship management. Correlation results indicated that supplier relationship management is positively and significantly associated with procurement performance (R=.718, p=.026). Regression results further indicated that supplier relationship management has a positive and significant effect on procurement performance (β=.084, p=.026). This implies that strengthening supplier relationship management such as improving communication, collaboration, and trust with suppliers can lead to measurable improvements in procurement performance, including efficiency, quality, and timely delivery of goods and services. The findings highlight the critical role of robust effective supplier engagement in enhancing procurement performance. The study thus recommends the hospitals to strengthen supplier relationship management by establishing long-term partnerships with reliable suppliers, enhancing communication and feedback mechanisms, and involving suppliers in planning processes to ensure consistent quality and timely delivery of medical supplies.
Key Words: Supplier Relationship Management, Procurement Performance, Level 6 Hospital
The Role of Cultural Empathy in Conflict Management among Culturally Diverse Work Teams in Universities in Kenya
No full textGlobalization has reduced geographical and cultural boundaries, making culturally diverse work teams necessary. Furthermore, due to basic disparities in the opinions of team members, culturally diverse work teams often lack cohesiveness, which can result in subgroup formation and conflict. This study aimed to explore the role of cultural empathy in managing conflicts among culturally diverse work teams in universities in Kenya. This study used a descriptive study design, and the target population included permanent employees of three universities: Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kirinyaga University, and Daystar University. Qualitative data were subjected to content analysis. In addition, quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The study established that there was a weak positive and significant relationship between cultural empathy and conflict Management among culturally diverse work teams in Universities in Kenya. The study implications are that leaders should not be biased or prejudiced, should demonstrate objectivity, acknowledge and appreciate diversity, be open-minded, and listen to the members. Leaders in culturally diverse work teams have the potential to make or break a group. Effective leadership, especially during conflict management, requires skills such as effective communication, problem-solving, and negotiating with a focus on interests. Such leaders should be recruited based on their cultural empathy skills or trained in the job to become proficient in cultural empathy to deliver on their responsibilities as managers.
Keywords: Cultural empathy, conflict management, culturally diverse work team
Strategic Communication and Employee Performance: A Case Study of Rwanda Standards Board
No full textRwanda Standards Board (RSB). Specifically, it analyzed the influence of internal, external, and participatory communication strategies on employee performance. The study was guided by Participatory Communication Theory, Human Relations Approach, and Systems Theory. A descriptive-correlation design with a cross-sectional mixed-methods approach was employed. The sample comprised 150 respondents selected from a population of 248 using stratified sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and interview guides and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS. Findings indicated that internal communication strategies significantly enhance employee engagement, understanding of organizational changes, and role clarity (mean = 3.728, SD = 1.227). External communication strategies improved collaboration with regional and international institutions, promoting effective organizational representation (mean = 3.751, SD = 1.249). Participatory communication strategies positively impacted decision-making involvement and transparency in information sharing (mean = 3.674, SD = 1.399). The study concludes that all three communication strategies significantly influence employee performance. Effective implementation of structured internal channels, active external collaboration, and participatory practices is recommended to enhance employee engagement and organizational effectiveness. Future research is suggested to explore the long-term effects of strategic communication on employee performance in public institutions.
Keywords: Strategic Communication, Internal Communication Strategies, External Communication Strategies, Participatory Communication Strategies, Organizational Employee Performanc
Effect of Financial Deepening on Economic Growth in Kenya: Evidence from ARDL Modelling Approach
No full textFinancial deepening has proven to enhance economic growth by mobilizing investments and boosting productivity in developing countries. However, the empirical literature regarding its relationship with economic growth in Kenya remains inconclusive. This study examines the long-run and short-run effects of financial deepening indicators on Kenya's economic growth from 1990 to 2023, utilizing the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) technique applied to data from Kenya. The results indicate that, in the long run, all financial deepening variables have a positive influence on economic growth in Kenya. In the short run, findings show a positive relationship between private sector credit, stock market performance, bank deposits, money supply, and economic growth. At the same time, liquidity liabilities exhibit a negative relationship in Kenya. This underscores financial deepening as a key driver for economic growth by facilitating economic upgrading through capital accumulation. To stimulate economic growth in Kenya, policies should prioritize enhancing access to private sector credit and improving stock market regulations. Furthermore, increasing financial literacy and integrating financial technology would encourage savings and expand access to financial services.
Keywords: Financial Deepening, Financial Services, Economic Growth, ARDL
 
Effect of Organizational Culture on Occupational Stress Among Kenya National Police Service Officers in Embakasi East Sub-County, Nairobi County
No full textOccupational stress compromises the well-being and performance of Kenya National Police Service (KNPS) officers in high-crime areas like Embakasi East Sub-County and Nairobi County. This study, guided by the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model, examined the impact of organizational culture, leadership styles, and interpersonal relationships on occupational stress, aiming to assess cultural effects, analyse leadership influences, and evaluate relational dynamics. A mixed-methods convergent parallel design was employed, collecting data from 72 officers via structured surveys, analysed using SPSS version 28, and 10 officers via semi-structured interviews, analysed thematically with NVivo. Quantitative findings revealed strong positive correlations between occupational stress and organizational culture (r = 0.691, p < 0.01), explaining 60.1% of occupational stress variance (R² = 0.601, F(3,68) = 34.12, p < 0.001), with culture as the strongest predictor (β = 0.646, p < 0.01). Qualitative data complemented these findings, identifying hierarchical rigidity, resource scarcity, authoritarian leadership, lack of feedback, and interpersonal conflicts as key stressors, while supportive debriefings, transformational leadership, and team cohesion mitigated stress. Integrated findings confirmed that rigid culture and unsupportive leadership amplify stress, whereas resources like mentorship and peer support reduce it. Recommendations include mental health programs, transformational leadership training, and team-building initiatives tailored for high-crime stations like Embakasi East. The study contributes to Kenyan policing research, with future studies recommended to explore longitudinal stress impacts and societal influences on officers’ well-being.
Keywords: Organizational Culture, Job demand, Job resources, Occupational Stress, National Police Services officers