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Awareness and Utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services Among Adolescent Girls in Kajiado County, Kenya
Full text linkPurpose: Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH) is a global concern, with over 1.2 billion adolescents at risk due to limited access to essential health services. In Kenya, high rates of unintended pregnancies and STIs among adolescents highlight the need for effective sexual health education. In Kajiado County, cultural barriers limit ASRH service access, leaving many girls unaware of available resources.
Methodology: A mixed-method design examined the impact of referral systems on ASRH service utilization among adolescent girls in Kajiado County. Quantitative data were collected from 422 girls through structured questionnaires, while qualitative data came from FGDs, IDIs and KIIs. Quantitative analysis used SPSS version 26 and qualitative data underwent thematic analysis.
Findings: While 78% of participants showed general SRH awareness, only 45% were knowledgeable about contraception and 38% about STIs. Unintended pregnancies were common (65%), with just 30% aware of preventive options. Peer influence (60%) and schools (50%) were primary information sources; however, stigma (55%) and inadequate outreach (62%) were significant barriers to access. Statistical analysis confirmed these barriers were associated with lower SRH knowledge levels (Fisher\u27s exact test: < 0.05).
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Despite increasing SRH awareness among adolescent girls in Kajiado County, significant knowledge gaps persist, particularly in contraceptive use and STI prevention. Recommendations include educational initiatives on SRH, greater parental involvement and enhanced outreach programs. Future research should explore community-based and digital strategies to improve SRH knowledge and service use among rural adolescents.  
Sociodemographic Characteristics and Level of Adherence to Focused Antenatal Care Guidelines among Nurses and Midwives Working at the Selected Health Facilities at Imenti South Sub-County of Meru County
Full text linkPurpose: Focused antenatal care is essential to improving neonatal and maternal health by preventing, identifying, and treating medical conditions that endanger a pregnant woman’s health besides a fetus. This study aimed to determine nurses’ and midwives’ adherence to set procedures in focused antenatal care.
Methodology: The study adopted an analytical cross-sectional research design. It involved 55 nurses and midwives working at the antenatal clinic in the level 4 (sub-county referral) hospitals, level 3 (health centers), and level 2 (dispensaries) in selected health facilities at Imenti-South sub-county facilities of Meru County. A census was done on all nurses and midwives working at selected health facilities in the Imenti-South Sub-County of Meru County. Data was collected using an observational checklist and a researcher-administered questionnaire. Pre-testing of the data collection instruments was done at public health facilities in the Imenti-central sub-county of Meru County. Analysis was carried out using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics i.e. mean, standard deviation, percentages, and frequencies were used to analyze data. Quantitative data is presented in the form of tables, charts, and graphs.
Findings: The mean age of the participants was 35.91 ±10.92 SD with more than half being less than 36 years (56.4%). The majority were females (60%). About three-quarters had a diploma in nursing. The majority of the facilities were level II (60%). More than half of the nurse-midwives had no in-service training on FANC (72.7%). There were slightly more participants with good adherence to FANC guidelines (50.9%) than those with poor adherence (49.1%). Adherence was significantly associated with the level of the facility (χ2 = 9.894, df=2 and p = 0.007) although it was not a significant predictor of adherence (p>0.05). The percentage of nurse-midwives with good and poor adherence to FANC guidelines was almost equal.
Unique Contribution: There is a need to train the nurse-midwives on the current FANC guidelines as well as provide continuous monitoring and evaluation to enhance adherence. The county government in collaboration with the national government should come up with training manuals to train the nurses and midwives on the FANC guidelines
Sand Harvesting Effect on Livelihood and Environmental Degradation in Mbooni Constituency, Makueni County, Kenya
Full text linkPurpose: Sand harvesting is one of the major livelihoods in Kenya Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) and more so in Mbooni Constituency in Makueni County. Despite the gained employment and the income opportunities, the practice has caused a serious concern among people because of its negative effect on livelihood and the environment. The extent of sand harvesting and its effect to local livelihood and environmental degradation in the Mbooni Constituency were examined in this paper.
Methodology: The research was informed by the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework, Human Capital Theory and the Environmental Kuznets Curve theories, among others. Its survey design was descriptive and contained 354 participants who were sand harvesters, truck drivers, sand owners and community members. Stratified random sampling was employed, and information was collected using structured questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, employing both descriptive and inferential statistics, as well as multiple regression analysis.
Findings: The results showed that unregulated and intensive sand mining has led to a decline in land productivity, the destruction of riverbeds and water resources, and a reduction in agricultural potential, necessitating the application of alternative management strategies.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: To mitigate the negative effects of sand harvesting and promote sustainability, it is recommended to enforce stricter regulations controlling the amount and rate of sand extraction
Relationship between Work Environment and Employee Performance among Public Servants Attending Senior Management Course in Kenya
Full text linkPurpose: The aim of this study was to establish the relationship between work environment and work performance of employees in public service in Kenya. This was necessitated by the numerous challenges faced by public servants amidst the budgetary constraints and increased taxes making the work environment laced with high stress levels that are either work-related or personal. The study therefore sort to determine the factors within the work environment and how they influence an employee’s work performance.
Methodology: The research design adapted was use of cross-sectional research survey, the target population was Public Servants represented by KSG Senior Management Course class 409/2023. The sample was 76 of the 112 public servants in the SMC 409/2023 class selected through simple random sampling. Data was collected using structured questionnaires, data analysis done descriptively and inferentially using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 27. The results were presented through use of pie charts and tables.
Findings: 96.1% percent of the respondents believed that the work environment positively affected their job performance, which is 72 respondents, while 1.3% believed that it does not, which is only one respondent. Two respondents were unsure if the work environment affects their job performance. In the measurement of the extent of the work environment influencing their performance, 59.7% of them (46) agreed that it has very strong effects. 24.7% (19) respondents believed that work environment has a strong impact on their performance, 7.8% were not sure if it has or doesn\u27t, 5.2% (4) respondents disagreed that each has an effect on the performance, while two people strongly disagreed if it has which is 2.6 percent. 46.8%, that is 36 people, were satisfied with their current work environment. 6.5%, which is five people, were very satisfied with their current work environment. 23.4%, 18 respondents, were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with their current work environment, 16.7% (13) respondents were dissatisfied with their current work environment, and 5, 6.5%, were very dissatisfied with their current work environment.
Unique contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study findings were important for theory because they brought forth new information about the levels of work performance among public servants. For practice, the study will guide on measures that can be done as recommendations to improve work performance and In Policy, the public service can utilize data from this study to improve on their work place policies to inculcate the unique needs of public servants thus hoping implementation will promote work performance
Redefining Evil: An Interdisciplinary Perspective on Psychological Traits and Societal Perceptions
Full text linkPurpose: This study aims to explore the multidimensional aspects of the phenomenon of evil from a psychological perspective, with particular emphasis on the interaction of biological predispositions, evolutionary adaptations, and personality traits that contribute to its manifestation.
Methodology: The research adopts a qualitative methodological approach, employing content analysis as the primary technique for synthesizing interdisciplinary data. This method allows for an in-depth examination of the psychological mechanisms underlying moral disengagement and the rationalization of violence, aspects that cannot be fully captured by quantitative methodologies. Case studies are used to identify key cognitive and affective components of malevolent behavior, including dehumanization, empathy deficits, and moral disengagement, while comparative analysis is applied to investigate variations in the perception of evil across different social and cultural contexts. The selection of case studies is based on psychological profiling of violent offenders and authoritarian political figures implicated in mass atrocities, facilitating a comparative exploration of individual and collective mechanisms of moral disengagement. Additionally, the study employs a hermeneutic interpretative framework to examine the dynamic interplay between intrapsychic, cognitive, and societal factors that contribute to the normalization of destructive conduct.
Findings: The study identifies empathy deficits as a central etiological factor in the development of aggressive and antisocial behavioral patterns, emphasizing the role of moral dilemmas in cognitive-affective processing underlying ethical decision-making. Dehumanization emerges as a core psychosocial construct that facilitates the cognitive restructuring of moral transgressions, thereby reducing both individual and collective moral accountability. Moreover, findings indicate that sensationalized media representations of violence perpetuate negative cognitive schemas and reinforce social prejudices, ultimately contributing to the stigmatization of victims and the normalization of aggression. These insights underscore the necessity of implementing evidence-based educational interventions aimed at enhancing moral reasoning, fostering empathy, and building resilience against socio-cognitive distortions that legitimize violence. Such interventions hold particular significance in the context of forensic rehabilitation programs and preventive strategies in educational settings, helping to counteract the internalization of maladaptive cognitive frameworks that sustain destructive behavioral tendencies.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: The theoretical contribution of this study lies in its emphasis on the neuropsychological underpinnings of empathy, particularly focusing on the neurocognitive substrates of moral judgment and affective regulation. Psychologists and neuroscientists can leverage these insights to refine clinical models of moral cognition and emotional regulation in individuals with aggressive tendencies. Educators and policymakers can integrate these findings into psychoeducational programs aimed at fostering moral sensitivity, enhancing prosocial behavior, and reducing implicit biases in children and adolescents. Legal professionals and forensic psychologists can apply this knowledge in the development of therapeutic jurisprudence frameworks and rehabilitation strategies that target cognitive-affective mechanisms implicated in antisocial conduct. At the policy level, the study advocates for the implementation of legal and institutional measures that promote victim destigmatization and ethical standards in media representations of violence, thus counteracting narratives that legitimize aggression and reinforce systemic moral exclusion
Design and Implementation of Auto Calibration PV Analyzer Using Arduino UNO and Driver IRFZ440
Full text linkPurpose: This research proposes to design a low-cost solar cell performance analyzer that measures voltage, current, and power. The device uses an IRFZ440 MOSFET driver and is controlled by an Arduino UNO board. The system focuses on precise control and straightforward design. The project aims to enhance the understanding of solar panel efficiency in various environments and under different load conditions. With the potential to be developed to support Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms, the research also seeks to provide a useful and effective tool for monitoring the performance of small-scale solar systems in academic and field settings.
Methodology: Methodology: An electronic circuit was designed, consisting of an Arduino UNO microcontroller to read voltage and current sensor signals. An IRFZ440 MOSFET transistor is used as an electronic switch to control the load via a pulse-width modulation (PWM) signal. The load (small electric motor) was connected in series to the solar panel. The measurement results were displayed using a small OLED display. The Arduino was programmed to generate PWM signals at various percentages (from 0% to 100%) to simulate changes in the load on the solar cell. Data was collected under natural light using an 8 W solar cell. The resulting data were analyzed to verify the system\u27s performance and compare its results with the expected theoretical values.
Findings: After using the designed system to analyze the performance of solar panels based on the Arduino UNO microcontroller and the IRFZ440 MOSFET driver, positive results were achieved in terms of measurement accuracy and performance efficiency. When applying different PWM signal ratios, a clear change in the voltage, current, and power output of the solar cell was recorded, which enables analysis of the relationship between these variables under different load conditions. The designed circuit was demonstrated to be able to automatically change the load using PWM technology, allowing the panel\u27s response to be monitored under varying load conditions without the need for multiple physical resistors. All readings were displayed in real time on an OLED display. The proposed design proved effective in providing a low-cost, accurate, and scalable solution for future use by integrating it with MPPT or IoT technologies.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: Presenting a practical, low-cost device that can be used to monitor and analyze solar cell performance in real time. It demonstrates how to use PWM signals to automatically change the load based on the Arduino microcontroller and the IRFZ440 MOSFET driver. Future expansion potential to integrate IoT technologies and MPPT applications. Supporting sustainable and decentralized energy policies by providing simple tools that can monitor small-scale solar systems (such as homes or villages), thus reducing reliance on centralized electricity grids. Potential for use in government or non-profit initiatives seeking to disseminate clean and smart energy solutions in rural communities
Nexus between Technological Capabilities and Firm Performance: A Critical Review of the Literature and Research Agenda
Full text linkPurpose: The technological capability of an organization plays a strategic role in enhancing the performance of organizations as it addresses strategic decisions that influence the deployment of economic resources in the value creation process to deliver goods and services. The purpose for the study was to conceptualize and review the already existing theoretical and empirical literature and methodological gaps and propose a conceptual model depicting the relationship between technological capability and firm performance for implementation.
Methodology: Explore techniques employed to operationalize this concept and to make it relevant to beneficiaries and research participants who include; scholars, policy makers, organizational managers and the general public. The study reviews the pertinent theories, constructs and their operational indicators and compared against the existing empirical work and emergent knowledge gaps identified.
Findings: The construct was found to have a place in strategic management as a strategy that can enhance a firm’s performance and competitive advantage. The study further highlighted the moderating role of the environment in governing the relationship between technological capabilities, firm competences and firm performance. The study further presented the conceptual understanding of all the constructs through identification of the operational indicators as well as the theoretical postulates anchoring each construct.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The theories underpinning the study include the resource based view model and dynamic capabilities theory. Finally, the study proposes a multidisciplinary based theoretical model suitable for advancing knowledge in this area together with the accompanying implications for future research
Does Strategic Agility Manifest in the Performance of Real Estate Firms in Nairobi County? An Empirical Investigation
Full text linkPurpose: This study explores the challenges affecting the performance of real estate firms in Kenya, with a particular emphasis on the role of strategic agility in influencing organizational outcomes.
Methodology: The study was guided by positivism research philosophy. It employed a descriptive cross-sectional design and targeted a census of eighty-three (83) real estate firms operating in Nairobi County, Kenya. Data was collected using a 5-point Likert scale, and ordinary least squares (OLS) regression was utilized to estimate and analyze the data.
Findings: The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between strategic agility and organizational performance. The study demonstrated that the effective alignment of strategic agility enhances the performance of real estate firms by enabling them to navigate dynamic market conditions and operational challenges.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Based on these results, the study provides actionable recommendations for both policy formulation and management practices, emphasizing the importance of fostering a culture that promotes strategic agility. This approach is expected to contribute to improved organizational performance, ensuring that real estate firms can remain competitive and adaptable in an increasingly complex business environment
Enhancement of Vegetation Cover through Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration in the Central Rift, Kenya
Full text linkPurpose: This paper discusses the contribution of Kenya Central Rift Farmer-Managed Natural Regeneration Scale-up project (CRIFSUP) to enhanced vegetation cover through promotion of Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration concept among farmers in central rift region, Kenya. The project ran between July 2017 and June 2021, when it transitioned to a further five-year phase. The goal of this paper is to assess and compare changes in vegetation cover and species composition through FMNR and other evergreen agricultural practices in CRIPSUP and outside project areas in Central Rift Kenya.
Methodology: The study was undertaken in three counties that included; Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nakuru and Baringo. The Study sites were Ndabibi sub-County in Nakuru County, Marigat sub-County in Baringo County, and sub-County Ng’oswet in Elgeyo Marakwet. This study employed cross-sectional study design where there was evaluation of changes in tree density and tree species composition before and after the Intervention of CRIFSUP project in Central Rift, Kenya. Both qualitative and quantitative data were used to investigate and analyse the critical study findings. The data collection methods included surveys, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and observations. Multi-stage sampling was applied in this study. In total, 402 households out of a sample size 426 participated in the household survey in the study.
Findings: The total acreage of land under FMNR managed in the project area increased from 500 acres at inception in 2017 to 4,588 acres in 2019 then to 6,938 acres in project year 2021. This was attributed to farmers recognising benefits of FMNR such as increased pasture, firewood, honey, milk production and training to replicating farmers. The average number of trees per hectare in areas practising FMNR was 115.9; significantly higher compared to areas where there was no FMNR practice such as community land allocated to individual households where average number of trees per hectare was 69.89. Farm boundaries recorded the lowest number of tree populations at 12.47 trees/ha and 14.5 trees/ha before and after project intervention, respectively. There was however, no significant difference in tree densities along the boundaries and among the control farmers before and after project intervention (p = 0.08). To the contrary, tree densities for farmlands, communal land and overall, in the area of project operation were significantly higher after intervention of CRIFSUP project (p = 0.02). This was attributed to increased knowledge on FMNR practices as where 45.0 % (n =181) of farmers indicated knowledge on natural regeneration of trees, while 27.9% (n = 112) displayed knowledge on protection of naturally regenerated trees and seedlings. In conclusion, FMNR and other evergreen methods were found to enhance vegetation cover and through enhanced tree densities and tree diversity in the three regions.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends expanding FMNR training to raise awareness and adoption among farmers. Efforts should be made to overcome challenges affecting tree densities on farm boundaries. Additionally, scaling up FMNR practices to other regions and monitoring long-term impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services are suggested
“A Policy Framework: Integrating Virtual and Augmented Reality into UAE School Curricula”
Full text linkPurpose: The goal of this study is to identify an actionable policy framework for integrating Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) into UAE School Curricula. The research investigated existing policy initiatives, identified gaps in policy and infrastructure, and reviewed international best practice examples to create a relevant framework for integration. The research is aligned with the UAE initiatives of embedding AI (i.e. Vision 2031) to produce recommendations for an actionable policy proposal.
Methodology: The study adopted a mixed-method research design, taking into account both quantitative and qualitative data. A survey questionnaire is used to collect the qualitative data from the 50 respondents working in 10 different schools in the UAE. The sample included School Teachers, students, Principal, department head, Curriculum Specialist and Technical Support Specialist. Whereas the qualitative data is collected from the 8 participants, such as EdTech Consultant, school IT Directors, Teachers, Policy Analyst, Curriculum Developer and Principals who are part of these schools, as well as the UAE education ministry. The quantitative data is analysed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 22 and Excel. The findings from the SPSS are presented in the form of tables, whereas the qualitative data are analysed using thematic analysis.
Findings: The survey results showed that integrating VR/AR into UAE school curricula is moderately positive, with a mean score of 3.11 (Std Dev 0.865). Respondents largely recognise VR/AR’s potential to enhance learning experiences (50% strongly agree, 32% agree), boost student engagement (58% strongly agree), and prepare students for future careers (52% strongly agree). Key considerations include addressing infrastructure gaps (mean 2.46), providing critical teacher training (mean 3.42), managing costs (44% agree/44% strongly agree on needing government funding), and ensuring equitable access (concerns with a mean 2.52). Whereas the interview results found that policy frameworks should address factors such as high cost, technical skills, and resistance to change, necessitating policy frameworks, partnerships, and targeted support.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Theoretically, the study is informed by Constructivist Theory and Skinner’s Behavioural theory, as the study is seen to examine the factors that influence VR/AR adoption in education in the UAE. Validation was achieved by evaluating the perception of the stakeholders through surveys and interviews, contextualising the two models to the educational context of the UAE. Practically, recommendations include providing targeted teacher professional development on VR/AR pedagogies, developing content aligned to the curriculum, and developing partnerships between schools and technology providers for effective implementation. Practitioners should concentrate on user-centred design in the VR/AR experience and support technical needs. Within policy, recommendations to policymakers include building a national VR/AR integration plan, establishing infrastructure and equity guidelines, creating data privacy and security standards, and cultivating public-private partnerships. Policy efforts should align with the goals of UAE Vision 2031, particularly around its focus on innovation and preparing students for a technology-driven future, and use it as a guide to systematic VR/AR adoption in UAE schools