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Effect of Psycho-Social Shift Schedules on Family Life Among Kenya Airways Crew in Nairobi City County, Kenya
No full textKenya Airways flight crew shift work is perceived to profoundly impact the emotional, economic, social and temporal patterns of family life. The study investigated the effect of psycho-social shift schedules on family life among Kenya Airways crew in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The research was underpinned on the Social Exchange Theory while a case study design was employed. The research targeted a population consisting of 1085 employees from Kenya Airways operating in Embakasi. Both stratified and simple random sampling methods were used to choose 217 respondents for the research. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires while qualitative data was gathered via interview guides. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences was used to analyze quantitative data through descriptive statistics and regression analysis, whereas thematic analysis aided in the analysis of qualitative data. The research findings revealed that there existed a positive and significant correlation between shift schedules and family life of Kenya Airways crew as indicated by a beta coefficient of 0.668 (p < 0.05). The study concluded that psycho-social shift schedules significantly influenced family life among crew members, with shift pattern demands interfering with family time, frequency of shifts preventing attendance to family functions, and duration of shifts creating gaps between crew members and their children. The findings demonstrated that irregular work patterns, psychological stress from shift work, and social disruption from unpredictable schedules directly impact crew members' family relationships, spousal satisfaction, parent-child interactions, and overall family wellbeing. The study recommends that Kenya Airways should implement flexible shift scheduling practices that accommodate family responsibilities, optimize shift duration to prevent extended working hours that lead to family separation, and establish more predictable shift patterns that allow crew members to maintain consistent roles within their households while reducing work-family conflicts.
Keywords: Psycho-Social Shift Schedules, Family Life, Kenya Airways, Nairobi City County, Keny
Church Management Systems and Social Degradation in Kenya: A Mediating Effect of Organizational Culture
No full textChurch Management Systems (CMS) have emerged as critical tools in the administration of religious institutions, streamlining operations from membership tracking to financial oversight. While these systems enhance organizational efficiency, their influence extends beyond internal administration, shaping broader social and ethical dynamics within communities. This study examines the complex relationship between CMS adoption and patterns of social degradation in Kenya, with a focus on how organizational culture mediates this relationship. Churches, long regarded as moral compasses, play a vital role in shaping societal values, guiding ethical behaviour, and fostering social cohesion. In Kenya, where over 80% of the population identifies as Christian, religious institutions have a unique potential to influence social norms and promote community well-being. However, rising cases of leadership misconduct, financial mismanagement, and opaque governance have undermined this role, eroded trust and diminishing moral authority. Grounded in systems theory and informed by social capital theory and Schein’s model of organizational culture, this study employed an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design. The quantitative phase surveyed 81 churches across five denominational clusters in Nairobi, while the qualitative phase involved in-depth interviews with clergy, lay leaders, staff, and congregants, ensuring diverse perspectives on church governance and management practices. Data analysis combined descriptive and inferential statistics to identify relationships between CMS, organizational culture, and social degradation. Findings indicate a statistically significant relationship between CMS implementation and social outcomes, with organizational culture serving as a crucial mediating factor. Churches with strong ethical and participatory cultures demonstrated enhanced transparency, accountability, and community engagement, mitigating risks of social degradation. Conversely, weak or misaligned cultures undermined even well-structured CMS, contributing to moral erosion and diminished societal influence. The study concludes that strengthening CMS alone is insufficient; reforms must prioritize organizational culture, inclusive leadership, and ethical governance to restore trust, reinforce moral authority, and enhance churches’ role as agents of social renewal. By integrating efficient management systems with participatory and value-driven practices, religious institutions can better address societal challenges, promoting cohesion, ethical behaviour, and community well-being.Key Words: Governance & Leadership Systems, Financial Systems, Ethical Standards, Strategic Planning Systems, Organizational Culture & Social Degradatio
The AASTMT Model: Evaluating Entrepreneurship as a Pathway for Economic Inclusion of Differently-Abled Individuals in Egypt
Full text linkThis study addresses a significant research gap in the limited exploration of entrepreneurship among differently-abled individuals in Egypt, where 15% of the population (approximately 12 million) faces systemic barriers. The study evaluates the AASTMT incubator, a pioneering initiative designed to empower these entrepreneurs through tailored support and structured mentorship. The study mixed-methods analysis of 12 participants reveals that 80% lacked access to adequate financial resources, underscoring the need for inclusive economic strategies. Notably, the AASTMT model increased self-employment rates by 30% among participants, demonstrating its effectiveness in fostering economic independence. By showcasing success stories and advocating for policy changes, this study proposes a replicable framework for disability-inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems in developing economies. The study highlights the importance of addressing accessibility barriers and promoting skill development to unlock the untapped potential of differently-abled individuals, ultimately contributing to economic growth and social inclusion. The study recommends that key actions be taken to support disabled entrepreneurs and foster a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. One of the main recommendations is the expansion of the AASTMT mentorship program nationwide, achieved through partnerships with the Ministry of Social Solidarity and other stakeholders. This initiative would enhance the support provided to disabled entrepreneurs across the country. Additionally, the development of tailored financial assistance and business training programs is crucial to address the unique challenges faced by disabled entrepreneurs. Advocacy efforts should also focus on promoting disability-inclusive policies and legislation to ensure a more equitable business environment. Encouraging entrepreneurship among people with disabilities not only contributes to economic growth and job creation but also spurs innovation, problem-solving, and social integration. By addressing the systemic barriers identified in this study and creating a supportive atmosphere, Egypt can unlock the potential of disabled entrepreneurs, resulting in a more dynamic and inclusive economy for all citizens.
Keywords: Empowering, Entrepreneurship, Differently Capable, Challenges, Potential, Helm Foundation, AASTM
Transformational Pastoral Leadership
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The purpose of the study was to identify the required transformational pastoral leadership practices and skills in the SCCs for integral evangelization of community in Meru Catholic Diocese. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; to analyze pastoral leadership practices and skills in the SCCs for integral evangelization in Meru Diocese. The study was informed by Freire’s social transformational, transformational leadership, transactional leadership and servant leadership theory. In the problem statement the support and satisfaction of parishioners in dioceses is important, however, it relies on strategic leadership championed by the bishops. Consequently, when leadership, social and emotional competencies of the leaders, especially where the concept of SCCs is not efficiently implemented, the effects is evidenced in the strategy of the church. It was found that studies have shown that where inspirational leadership, transparency, and self-confidence competencies are not exceptionally implemented, the effect is detrimental to parishioner satisfaction. As regards research methodology, the study used a combination of qualitative and quantitative research designs. The target population consisted of leaders in SCCs in Meru Diocese. The Diocese has nine Deaneries and the study was conducted in the four selected parishes through sampling five SCC in four of the selected parish in the Deanery. The target population consisted of five SCCs in each parish with approximate of five members in each SCC and 50 members were sampled in the whole Diocese. The findings of the study revealed that there was a significant relationship between leadership and transformation which is in consistent with the findings that pastoral leadership as influence in the integral evangelization of the Christians in the grassroots SCCs. The study concludes that training of leaders provides them with skills that enable to be effective leaders in transformation of the SCCs. The study recommended that leaders need to be trained, motivated and powered for transformation, each according to his/her specific role in the Church.
Keywords: Leadership, leadership skills, leadership styles, transformation, Participative leadership and Small Christian Communit
Community Perception and Adoption of Extreme Weather-Induced Patterns in Rwanda: A Case of Nyamagabe District, Rwanda
Full text linkClimate change has intensified the frequency and severity of extreme weather events—such as heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall—posing serious threats to livelihoods, ecosystems, and socio-economic stability. Rwanda, like many developing countries, has experienced notable shifts in temperature and precipitation extremes over recent decades, largely attributed to anthropogenic influences. This study examined community perceptions, impacts, and adaptive responses to extreme weather events in Nyamagabe District from 2012 to 2021, with a focus on food security, water availability, and agricultural and socio-economic wellbeing.Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected through 222 household surveys conducted in Tare and Uwinkingi sectors. The sample predominantly comprised farmers (64.4%), small business owners (17.1%), and salaried workers (14.0%), reflecting a strong dependence on natural resources. Time-series data from the Rwanda Meteorology Agency were also utilized to contextualize observed climate trends. Findings reveal significant impacts resulting from climate-induced events, including floods (p = 0.022), reduced crop yields (p = 0.019), infrastructure damage (p = 0.003), and water scarcity (p = 0.025). Psychosocial effects such as fear (p = 0.012), powerlessness (p < 0.001), and sadness (p = 0.942) were also reported. In response, communities adopted adaptive strategies, including the use of improved seeds (p < 0.001), efficient cooking technologies (p = 0.003), agroforestry and reforestation (p = 0.001), and improved or sustainable farming techniques (p = 0.106). The study indicates limited awareness of human-induced climate drivers and adaptive capacity. It recommends targeted climate education awareness campaigns, the promotion of sustainable practices, livelihood diversification, investment in climate-resilient agriculture, improved access to and utilization of meteorological data, and strengthened collaboration between government and civil society to enhance adaptive capacity. Further research should explore socio-cultural and economic barriers to the adoption of sustainable adaptation strategies.
Key words: Community, Perception, Adoption, Extreme Weather Induced Patter
Effect of E-Procurement Practices on Institutional Efficiency in Complying with Procurement Principles; A Case of Rwanda Polytechnic (2021-2023)
Full text linkThe study examined the effect of e-procurement practices on institutional efficiency in adhering to procurement principles, with a specific focus on Rwanda Polytechnic from 2021 to 2023. grounded in transaction cost theory, resource-based view and institutional theory, the research provides a theoretical lens through which the relationship between e-procurement systems and organizational performance is explored. These theories collectively explain how e-procurement reduces transaction costs, leverages internal capabilities, and responds to institutional pressures for improved governance. The study pursued several objectives: to assess the extent to which e-tendering influences institutional efficiency in complying with procurement principles; to evaluate the effect of e-evaluation processes on procurement compliance; and to determine the impact of e-contract management on institutional efficiency. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving a structured questionnaire administered to 128 respondents selected through stratified purposive sampling from a target population of 188 procurement staff. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including correlation and regression analysis, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis to enrich and validate the findings. Findings revealed that e-tendering significantly enhances transparency and competition, as evidenced by an average respondent score of 4.3 on a 5-point Likert scale. E-evaluation promotes accountability and fairness by minimizing human bias through automated processes, with regression analysis showing a strong positive coefficient (β = 0.78). Additionally, e-contract management was found to streamline operations, reduce contract-related risks, and boost compliance with procurement regulations, with 87% of respondents affirming its effectiveness in improving accountability. Overall, the study established a strong positive correlation (r = 0.82) between e-procurement practices and institutional efficiency in compliance with procurement principles. The study recommends increased investment in capacity building through staff training, continuous system upgrades to address technological challenges, and regular policy reviews to align e-procurement practices with international standards. The findings underscore the strategic value of e-procurement in enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability within public sector procurement.
Keywords: E-procurement practices, institutional efficiency, procurement principles, Rwanda Polytechni
Principals’ Levels of Financing of Capacity Building Programmes as a Predictor ICT Integration in Secondary Schools in Nairobi City County, Kenya
Full text linkThe integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in education is now recognized globally as essential for enhancing teaching effectiveness and improving learning outcomes. Nevertheless, many schools struggle with effective uptake of ICT, leading to low adoption rates and underutilisation of available resources. This study examined the influence of principals' levels of financing of teachers' capacity-building programmes on ICT integration in Secondary Schools in Nairobi City County. The study was anchored on information systems theory. It adopted a descriptive survey design. The population comprised 142 principals and 2,955 teachers from secondary schools in Nairobi City County. The study utilised stratified proportionate sampling to select 296 teachers and included all 142 principals. Data was collected using questionnaires, interview guides and an observation checklist. A pretest was conducted in 14 schools and confirmed construct validity through factor analysis, with all items recording factor loadings above the 0.4 threshold. Reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha, with all scales yielding values above 0.7. The study found that principals' levels of financing of teachers' capacity-building programmes (r=0.772, p=0.000) had a significant positive association with teachers' ICT integration. Regression analysis revealed that principals’ levels of financial support for teachers’ capacity-building programs explained 59.6% of the variance in ICT integration outcomes (R² = 0.596), with budget allocation percentage (B = 0.175, p = 0.000) having the strongest impact, followed by per-teacher expenditure (B = 0.153, p = 0.002). The study concludes that the level of financing allocated by principals for teacher training is a key determinant of ICT integration in Nairobi secondary schools, as schools that invest more in teacher capacity building consistently report better technology adoption outcomes. The study recommends that principals prioritize funding and organizing regular, practical ICT capacity-building programs to strengthen teachers’ digital skills and instructional effectiveness. It also recommends supporting teachers in pursuing external certifications and learning opportunities to stay updated with evolving educational technologies.
Keywords: Principals' financing, teachers, capacity building, integration, ICT, Secondary Schools, Nairobi City County
Effect of Occupational Health and Safety Factors on Performance of Nurses in Public Health Facilities in Mbarara City, Uganda
No full textThis study sought to examine the physical health and safety factors affecting performance of nurses in public health facilities in Mbarara City, Uganda and to establish the effect of competence programs towards the performance of nurses in public health facilities in Mbarara City, Uganda. By adopting a cross sectional design and a quantitative approach, this study was guided by the Theories of Work Adjustment and Herzberg’s Two Factor Theory. A sample of 188 respondents including 152 nurses and 36 doctors was selected as respondents. With the help of self-administered questionnaires, data was obtained, cleaned and analyzed using SPSS software whose results were imported to Microsoft Word and presented in tables as descriptive and inferential statistics. It was revealed from the study findings that physical health and safety factors such as hospital infrastructure, lighting and ventilation were discovered to be significant influencing factors towards nurses’ performance just as competence programs such as motivation and teamwork do. It was concluded from the study that nurses’ performance can be improved by improving hospital infrastructure and enhancing competence programs such as motivation and teamwork. Occupational health and safety (OHS) factors influence nurses’ performance. Just as competence programs such as motivation and teamwork do.
Keywords: Physical Health and Safety Factors, Competence Management programmes,Work environment, Performance of nurses.  
Effect of Work-Life Balance on Nurse Retention: Evidence from Kenya’s National Referral Hospitals Workforce Experience
No full textRetention of nurses is proving to be a critical issue in Kenya's health sector, especially among national referral hospitals, where retaining skilled nurses significantly affects the quality of healthcare delivery. Despite the importance of this issue, limited research has explored the influence of work-life balance on retention of nurses in National Referral hospitals in Kenya. This study sought to to determine the effect of work-life balance on retention of nurses in National Referral hospitals in Kenya. The study was underpinned on Herzberg's two-factor theory. To meet these objectives, the study targeted all seven national referral hospitals in Kenya, with a total population of 3830 employees distributed across 3650 nurses and 180 management staff. Using stratified random sampling, a sample size of 263 respondents was determined based on Neyman's formula. The study adopted an explanatory sequential mixed methods approach. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and interviews. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to explore relationships between variables. Results were presented in tables. The ANOVA results revealed that the model was statistical significant in explaining this relationship work-life balance on retention (F = 153.564, p = 0.000). Regression coefficients showed that work-life balance (β = 0.316, p = 0.000) had positive and statistically significant effect on nurse retention. The study consequently concluded that Work-life balance plays a decisive role in shaping retention outcomes in public hospitals. Flexible scheduling, family-friendly policies, and wellness initiatives help employees harmonize their personal and professional obligations. In light of these findings, the study recommends the establishment of flexible scheduling, wellness programs, childcare support, and supervisory training to create work-life integration will create a more resilient and loyal nursing workforce.
Keywords: Work-Life Balance, Nurse Retention, National Referral Hospitals, Kenya Health Sector, Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theor
Evaluating the Role of Risk Management Strategies in Shaping Financial Performance of Deposit Taking SACCOS in Kenya’s Eastern Region
No full textSavings and Credit Co-Operatives have provided essential financial services to a significant portion of the Kenyan population who were previously unable to obtain such services at commercial banks. Deposit-taking Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) in the Eastern area of Kenya have experienced a decrease in their financial performance. The purpose of this study was therefore to assess the effect of risk management on the financial performance of deposit taking SACCOS in Eastern region of Kenya. The study was anchored on the Stakeholder Theory. The study focused on 25 Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations in Kenya's Eastern Region, selected through census sampling. Board members and department heads from these SACCOs were chosen for analysis. Employing a descriptive research design, the study collected both primary and secondary data. Primary data was gathered via questionnaires, while secondary data came from the SACCOs' financial records. SPSS software was used for data analysis, generating both descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that risk management significantly and positively influenced the financial performance of these SACCOs (β =.336, p=.000<.05). The study concludes that effective risk management practices are important for the financial performance of SACCOs in the Eastern region of Kenya. In view of the findings, the study recommends that SACCOs continue to focus on improving their risk management practices to ensure long-term financial stability and success.
Keywords: Risk Management, Financial Performance, Deposit-Taking SACCOs, Eastern Kenya, Stakeholder Theor