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Business Development Strategies and Organizational Performance of Selected Online Retailers in Nairobi City County, Kenya
No full textThe study examined the relationship between development strategies and organizational performance among selected online retailers in Nairobi City County. The specific objectives of the study were to examine the influence of value creation, value delivery and value networking on organizational performance of selected online retailers in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The study, grounded in stakeholder theory, competitive advantage theory, dynamic capabilities theory, and the balanced scorecard model, employed a cross-sectional descriptive survey targeting 100 middle and top management staff from 10 online retailers in Nairobi City County. Using a sample size of 80 determined by the Krejcie and Morgan table, data was collected through questionnaires and a secondary data template, with qualitative data analyzed using content analysis and quantitative data examined through descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found value creation is positively and insignificantly related to organizational performance (β = 0.054, p > .05). The value delivery was positively and significantly related to organizational performance (β = 0.155, p < .05). The value networking was positively and significantly related to organizational performance (β = 0.431, p < .05). In conclusion, value networking has the highest contribution to organizational performance among the specific variables. This means that online retailers that focus on building relationships with other businesses and organizations are more likely to have better organizational performance. It is important to note that the t-statistic is a measure of the statistical significance of the coefficient. A higher t-statistic means that the coefficient is more likely to be statistically significant. In this case, value networking has the highest t-statistic, which means that it is the strongest predictor of organizational performance. The study recommends that online retailers in Kenya should focus on understanding what customers value most, such as fast shipping, product variety, or competitive prices, and ensuring consistent value delivery across all platforms, whether online or in-store. The use of technology, such as data analytics and automation, is emphasized to enhance value delivery and streamline processes. The study also recommends building relationships with key businesses and organizations that can aid in improving organizational performance, emphasizing networking and maintaining a strong online presence.
Keywords: Value creation, value delivery, value networking, organizational performance, online retailers, Nairobi City Count
Influence of Organizational Market Culture on Change Management in Kenyan Social Enterprises
No full textFirms ought to continuously adapt and modify their operations to fit the changing circumstances in the fiercely competitive and dynamic business environment. This suggests that businesses must incur substantial costs to carry out a variety of changes that will enable them to operate in the changing environment. Adjustments play an important part in defining firm competitiveness in the modern economic environment; however, many firms struggle to properly manage innovations, ensure long-term development, and motivate employees to accept change. This study explored the influence of organizational market culture on change management in social enterprises in Kenya. The study employed the Competing Values Culture theory to assess the company's culture. Using a descriptive design, the study targeted all 129 employees of Kidogo Early Years Company Limited, from top management to departmental level. Data collection involved questionnaire surveys for primary data. Analysis of quantitative data was by Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 29. The regression analysis findings revealed that organizational market culture (β = 0.310, p = 0.012) had significant positive influence on change management. The study concludes that organizations that are goal-oriented and market-driven are more adaptable to external pressures and are better positioned to manage change effectively. In view of the findings, the study recommends that for organizations with a market culture, it is crucial to embed a results-oriented approach that aligns change management with organizational goals and objectives. Practices such as setting clear performance targets, encouraging a competitive spirit, and focusing on market-driven strategies should be incorporated into daily operations.
Keywords: Organizational Market Culture, Change Management, Social Enterprises, Organizational Culture Influence, Keny
The Effects of Development Control Policy Implementation on Investor Attraction in Nairobi City County
No full textThis report examines the impact of development control policy implementation on investor attraction in Nairobi City County. The rapid urbanization and economic dynamism of Nairobi City County present both opportunities and challenges in attracting investment. This study aimed at assessing the impact of development control policy implementation on investor attractions in the region. As the capital of Kenya, Nairobi serves as a significant economic and cultural hub in East Africa, yet it faces competition from other emerging markets and struggles with the complexities of urban growth. The specific objectives included assessing the impact of development regulations on investment decisions, exploring the role of stakeholder engagement in shaping these policies, and analyzing how policy enforcement affects investor confidence. The methodology employed in this study is a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research techniques. The findings revealed a relationship between development control policy implementation and investor attraction. Effective policy enforcement and clarity significantly enhance investor confidence, leading to increased project initiation and completion rates. Conversely, poorly defined regulations and inconsistent enforcement can deter investment, creating a perception of risk among potential investors. The study concludes that there is a positive relationship between robust development control policies and investment attraction in Nairobi City County. The study recommends the need for streamlined approval processes, enhanced communication between government and investors, and consistent policy enforcement. By prioritizing effective policy implementation, Nairobi can solidify its position as a premier investment destination in East Africa, driving sustainable economic growth while improving the quality of life for its residents.
Keywords: Development control policies, investor attraction, urbanization, policy implementation, stakeholder engagemen
The Role of Effective Planning on Performance of Kigali Bulk Water Supply Project in Kanzenze Cell in Bugesera District, Rwanda
No full textEffective planning is a crucial for the success of any project, as it helps to define objectives, allocate resources and develop strategies to achieve goals. This study aimed to examine the role of effective planning on performance of Kigali Bulk Water Supply Project implemented in Kanzenze cell in Bugesera district in Rwanda. The research achieved the following specific objectives: To determine the role of project scope planning on performance of Kigali Bulk Water Supply project in Kanzenze cell, to assess the role of budget planning on performance of Kigali Bulk Water Supply project in Kanzenze cell, to assess the role of effective communication planning on performance of Kigali Bulk Water Supply project in Kanzenze cell and to determine the role of risk management planning on performance of Kigali Bulk Water Supply project in Kanzenze cell. The study was done through descriptive and correlational research design that involved inferential statistics approach which used in the test of correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis for the establishment of the relationship between effective planning and project performance. The study was guided by three theories which are resource-based view theory, contingency theory and stakeholder theory. As far as this study is concerned, the study relied on the data collected from the respondents for the period of two months from July to August 2023. The population was comprised of respondents of Kigali Bulk Water Supply Project in different departments targeting 200 respondents. The study adopted simple random sampling technique and used Slovin’ s Formula to obtain the sample from the study population and the sample size were 133 respondents. Data collection method adopted was closed ended questionnaires. The correlation and regression analysis were performed in SPSS version 27 and through analysis and discussion of results, the researcher found that risk management planning has a positive and significant effect on performance of Kigali Bulk Water Supply Project in Kanzenze cell (b4=0.835; t=19.135, p-value=.000<.05),the research finding also revealed that project scope planning has a positive and significant effect on performance of Kigali Bulk Water Supply Project in Kanzenze cell (b1=0.437; t=10.301; p-value=.000<.05). Lastly, the research finding revealed that budget planning has a positive and significant effect on performance of Kigali Bulk Water Supply Project in Kanzenze cell (b2=0.315; t=8.537; p-value=.000<.05). The researcher found that risk management planning, project scope planning and budget planning are best predictors and have a significant effect on performance of Kigali Bulk Water Supply Project. The study recommended that management of Kigali Bulk Water Supply Project should put more emphasis on providing the adequate training towards the effective planning processes in the development of water treatment plants to ensure that the project team are aware of all necessary procedures that has to be undertaken in the planning phase so that the project performance can be achieved effectively. The researcher further recommended that project manager should communicate effectively with the project team and stakeholders throughout the project life cycle to ensure that any risks and circumstances that can hinder the progress of the water treatment plant projects are identified early and mitigation measures are provided to ensure that the project will not incur budget overruns and will be completed on time and this will foster the economic growth of the government in the construction sector
Effect of Project Risk Management on Successful Delivery of Vision City Project, Phase One
No full textRisks in construction projects cannot be eliminated, however through proper risk management practices, the risks facing the construction projects can be minimized. The study entitled "Effect of project risk management on successful delivery of Vision City Project phase one” was guided by the following specific objectives: to find out the effect of project risk identification on successful delivery of Vision City project, to find out the effect of project risk response planning on successful delivery of Vision City project and to determine the effect of project risk monitoring and control on successful delivery of Vision City project. The study used descriptive research design and inferential statistics. The population of the study comprises of 188 employees of Vision City project and the sample size of the study is 188 employees of Vision City project. The study used universal sampling techniques because the sample size equal to the population of the study. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data and descriptive statistics using both quantitative and qualitative approach and correlation. Multiple linear regressions were used to analyse data. The findings revealed that project risk identification has significance positive role on successful delivery of Vision City Project as indicated by β1= 0.592, p-value=0.000<0.05. Project risk response planning has significance positive role on successful delivery of Vision City Project as indicated by β2= 0.146, p-value=0.018<0.05 and project risk monitoring and control has significance positive role on successful delivery of Vision City Project as indicated by β3= 0.219, p-value=.000<0.05. Risk identification had effect on successful delivery of Vision City project. Project begin with the unknown which means that risk identification has to be one of the most significant starting points, when using a risk management program. However, the risks have to be mitigated after they are identified to ensure that the effect on the organization is minimize. The study came into a conclusion that risk monitoring had important effects on successful delivery of Vison City project. Risk control/ loss control involves partnering with others to control the influence of risk or loss to the project. According to field data result, Vision City project as stated by its manager has reduced legal, labor, and other risks types by developing a joint venture with the main contractors whom participated in the execution of the project and they were all located in Rwanda. The study recommended that on project risk response planning, the study recommends involvement of all stakeholders with interest in building construction project and adoption of a wide range of responses to risks with emphasis on risk prevention. On project risk monitoring and control, the study recommends that risk be monitored and controlled more frequently to ensure success building construction project.
Keywords: Project Risk Management, Successful Delivery, Vision City Project, Phase One, Rwanda
Stakeholder Management and Sustainable City Projects in Africa: An Exploration of the Karama Integrated Model Village in Rwanda
No full textThis study delves into stakeholder management within the context of sustainable city projects in Africa, with a focus on the Karama Integrated Model Village situated in Rwanda. It examines the influence of various forms of participation management – Passive, Interactive, Functional, and Optimal on the sustainability of the Karama Integrated Model Village. Utilizing an exploratory research design encompassing both qualitative and descriptive/quantitative methodologies, the study involved 154 respondents selected through simple random sampling from a population of 251 individuals residing in households relocated from high-risk zones across three districts of the City of Kigali to the Karama Integrated Development Model Village. Data were collected via questionnaires, coded, and analyzed using SPSS software. The findings reveal a strong explanatory power of the model, with an R value of .993 suggesting a substantial portion of the variance in sustainability of city projects can be explained. Moreover, the study indicates that approximately 98.6% of the variance in sustainability of city projects can be elucidated by the combination of the predictor variables. The F-statistic underscores robust relationships between each predictor variable and the sustainability of the city project. The study's hypotheses are supported by ANOVA results, affirming significant influences or effects of each type of participation management on the sustainability of the Karama Integrated Model Village. Specifically, Passive, Interactive, Functional, and Optimal participation management strategies all exhibit significant and positive impacts on sustainability. These findings underscore the critical role of stakeholder engagement and management strategies in fostering sustainable urban development initiatives like the Karama Integrated Model Village in Rwanda. In essence, this study provides valuable insights into effective stakeholder management approaches that can enhance the sustainability of city projects, thereby contributing to the discourse on sustainable urban development in Africa and beyond
Effect Of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, And Learning Practices On The Project Success: A Case Of Green Gicumbi Project In Rwanda (2019-2023)
No full textThis study aimed to investigate the effect of monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) practices on the success of the Green Gicumbi project in Rwanda (2019-2023). The study was guided by the Theory of change, Stakeholder theory, and Decision theory. The study adopted a descriptive and correlational research design. The study population of 30,028 has been considered within a sample size of 395 respondents comprising project stakeholders (8), project implementors (20), and beneficiaries (367). The researcher used a closed-ended questionnaire, and interview guide to collect data, and a response rate of 96% was obtained (378 respondents). A purposive sampling technique was applied in this research to determine the number of respondents. The researcher analyzed the results with the help of SPSS version 27.0 whereas correlation analysis was used to define the relationship lying between the research variables. The study findings revealed an R-value of 0.902 indicating a strong positive relationship between the predictors and the outcome variable, and R Square value of 0.813 indicating that approximately 81.3% of variability in the outcome variable could be explained by the predictors in the model. The coefficients of the predictors indicate their individual effects on the GGP performance. The regression model is presented as follow: Y= 0.977+ .045X1 + .094X2 + 0.132X3+ 0.819X4. The correlation analysis indicated that there is a positive and significant relationship between project MEAL practices and the success of GGP. The study concluded that the predictors of theregression model had the effect on the GGP performance in Gicumbi district, Rwanda. The researcher recommends in the form of policy-making and planning that project stakeholders and implementors should put more effort into mainstreaming to ensure the beneficiaries have the same understanding of the effect of MEAL components on the project's success and to promote effective stakeholders’ engagement in all project stages of green related project in Rwanda. Regarding the issue of sustainability, the National Fund for Environment-FONERWA should plan to have in place a team during and after project completion for project post-evaluation to measure the impact and the sustainability of the project as well as the strategy for project maintenance.
Keywords: Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, Learning, and Project Success
Influence of Teachers ‘Training on Students’ Academic Performance in Science Subjects in Secondary Schools of Musanze Districts
No full textThe general objective of the current study was to assess the influence of training teachers on students’ academic performance in science subjects with the case of selected secondary schools of Musanze district, Rwanda. The specific objectives were to assess the influence of teachers’ training about preparation of practical sessions on students’ academic performance in sciences subjects in selected schools of Musanze district, to examine the influence of teachers’ training on equipment manipulation on students’ academic performance in sciences subjects in selected schools of Musanze district and to find out the influence of teachers ’training on laboratory safety and equipment maintenance on students’ academic performance in sciences subjects in selected schools of Musanze district. The study adopted a descriptive and correlational design which included descriptive survey and correlation analysis and a mixed approach of qualitative and quantitative approaches. The target population is made of science teachers, students and authorities. Pilot study was done using 10 respondents. Reliability was measured using Cronbach’s Alpha. Validity of the instruments was measured using a team of experts in the field of education who are in charge of the area of study. Data was analyzed using qualitative and quantitative methods by SPSS version 20. The R value of 0.834 indicates a strong relationship between the predictors and the students’ academic performance in sciences subjects in selected schools of Musanze district. The R Square value of 0.696 indicates that approximately 69.6% of the variability in the outcome variable can be explained by the predictors in the model. Overall, this model summary indicates a significant relationship between the planning factors and the outcome variable students’ academic performance in sciences subjects in selected schools of Musanze district, with a good fit to the data. Specifically, Training about preparation of practical sessions has a coefficient of (β= 0.217, t=3.042, p value=0.003), Training in equipment manipulation and maintenance has a coefficient of (β= 0.259, t=4.422, p value=0.000), and Training on laboratory safety has a coefficient of (β= 0.480, t=6.336, p value=0.000). All these coefficients are statistically significant on students’ academic performance in sciences subjects in selected schools of Musanze district, as indicated by their associated Sig. values below 0.05.
Key words: Training, Teacher, Student, Performance
Political Staff Promotions, Vice Chancellor’s Leadership Style and Performance of Private Universities in Kenya
No full textThis study investigated the relationship between political staff promotions, the vice chancellor's leadership style, and the performance of private universities in Kenya, highlighting their significant roles in shaping the educational landscape. Despite the renowned flexibility, autonomy, and competitiveness of private universities, these institutions in Kenya encountered challenges due to political staff promotions and leadership dynamics, potentially impacting their performance and standing in the competitive educational sector. The research was prompted by concerns over the suboptimal performance of private universities in Kenya, with issues such as quality of education, financial constraints, fierce competition, and governance problems being key contributing factors. The study aimed to explore the effects of political staff promotions and the leadership style of vice chancellors on the performance of these institutions, seeking to understand the dynamics influencing their success or shortcomings. Employing Transformational Leadership Theory and Resource Based View Theory as its foundation, the research utilized a descriptive design for an in-depth analysis. Data were collected from a purposively selected sample of five prominent private universities in Kenya through questionnaires and interviews targeting vice chancellors, deans, and lecturers. This methodological approach facilitated a detailed examination of the research variables and their interrelations. The findings indicated that political staff promotions had insignificant impact on university performance, with a non-significant p-value of 0.666 (B = -0.174), suggesting that political considerations, while present, did not substantially affect institutional effectiveness. In contrast, the vice chancellor's leadership style showed a significant positive correlation with university performance, evidenced by a significant p-value of 0.020 (B = 0.475), indicating the role of effective leadership in driving institutional success. This underlined the potential of strong, visionary leadership to guide private universities towards higher levels of excellence and competitiveness. The study recommends a focus on leadership development, the implementation of transparent promotion processes, and efforts to improve teaching quality and infrastructure. By addressing these areas, private universities in Kenya could strengthen their foundations, better navigate existing challenges, and seize opportunities for ongoing improvement and significant contributions to the wider educational sector.
Keywords: Leadership style, university performance, political staff promotions, higher education management, private universities in Keny
Enhancing Teenage Mothers' Retention: The Role of Principals in Providing Guidance and Counseling Services in Public Secondary Schools in Kajiado North Sub-County
No full textThe research investigated the role of principals in providing guidance and counseling services to enhance the retention of teenage mothers in public secondary schools in Kajiado North sub-County. The research was anchored on Durkheim's Social Integration Theory. The study utilized convergent design under mixed method research approach which was supported by cross-sectional survey design and phenomenological design. The research question of the study was on the influence of guidance and counselling services on the retention of teenage mothers in public secondary schools. The target population for the study was 302 with a sample size of 172 participants made up of teenage mothers, principals, guidance and counseling teachers and board of management chair persons. The study used both probability and non-probability sampling. This research used content validity and Cronbach's Alpha Coefficient to determine the reliability of the questionnaire, while the trustworthiness of the interview guides was assessed during a pilot study to ascertain credibility. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency and percentages) and inferential statistics (correlation and regression). Whereas qualitative data was analyzed using thematic approach. The research complied with ethical norms and guidelines established by the appropriate local and international organizations. The study found that principals' guidance and counselling explained explained 20.1% of the variation in the retention of teenage mothers in public secondary schools in Kajiado North sub-County (R² = 0.201). The model was statistically significant (F(1, 150) = 37.686, p = 0.000). Regression analysis revealed a positive and significant effect of these services on retention (β = 0.397, p = 0.000). The study concludes that principal's guidance and counseling services play an important role in supporting the retention of teenage mothers in public secondary schools. In view of the findings, the study recommends that Kajiado North sub-County Secondary schools invest in comprehensive training programs for guidance and counselors, specifically tailored to address the unique needs of teenage mothers.
Keywords: Teenage Mothers' Retention, Guidance and Counseling Services, Principals' Role, Public Secondary Schools, Kajiado North sub-Count