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Speech Acts in Intercultural Communication: A Cross-Cultural Comparison of Politeness Strategies
Get PDFAbstract
Purpose: The general objective of this study was to analyze how different cultures use speech acts and politeness strategies in everyday communication.
Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. The study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.
Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to speech acts in intercultural communication. Preliminary empirical review revealed that social media significantly transformed politeness strategies in intercultural communication, shifting towards greater informality and directness compared to traditional face-to-face interactions.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommended expanding politeness theory to include digital communication contexts, as social media’s informality challenged traditional models of politeness
Influence of Distribution Strategy on Microinsurance Uptake among Micro and Small Enterprises in Nairobi City County, Kenya
Get PDFPurpose: The study aimed to investigate influence of distribution strategies on microinsurance uptake among micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County, Kenya.
Methodology: The study used a descriptive research methodology and positivist mindset. From a population of 12,429 registered MSEs in Nairobi County (MSEA, 2024), a representative sample of 387 MSEs was chosen using multistage random sampling. Structured questionnaires were used for data collecting; a pilot test was carried out to guarantee dependability and validity. SPSS version 27 was used to examine quantitative data. While inferential analysis used several regression and correlation methods to assess hypotheses at a 95% confidence level (p < 0.05), descriptive statistics including means and standard deviations were computed.
Findings: The analysis revealed strong positive correlations between distribution strategies and microinsurance uptake (r = 0.570), significant at p < 0.01. Regression models showed that the distribution strategy accounted for 32.5% of the variance in microinsurance uptake. The ANOVA results indicate an F-statistic of 144.547 with a p-value of 0.000 further suggesting that the relationship between distribution strategy and microinsurance uptake was statistically significant at the 95% confidence level. The unstandardized coefficient (B) for distribution strategy was 0.444, indicating that a one-unit increase in distribution strategy led to 0.444 units increase in microinsurance uptake.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommended that insurers need to expand and diversify distribution channels to enhance reach and accessibility among MSEs. In addition to traditional agents and brokers, mobile-based platforms, digital apps, and partnerships with mobile network operators should be prioritized to enhance distribution of microinsurance
Internal Communication and Employee Productivity in the Ready-Mix Concrete Industry, Kiambu County
No full textPurpose: This study examined the influence of internal communication on employee productivity in the ready-mix (RMX) concrete industry in Kiambu County. The objectives were to determine the influence of internal communication strategies that are used in the selected RMX companies within Kiambu County on employee productivity, establishing the role of internal communication in batching operations, to assess employees’ perceptions of communication and its implications on their productivity and to identify the impact of internal communication challenges affecting employee productivity.
Methodology: From a target population of 134 employees, 117 participated in the study, representing a response rate of 83.7%. Respondents were drawn from Rhombus Concrete, Homes Concrete and Sidai Concrete using systematic random sampling. Data was collected through structured questionnaires with Likert-scale items administered to employees, and Key Informant Interviews conducted on the managers. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS, while qualitative data was examined thematically.
Findings: The findings showed that task-specific communication, particularly during batching, had the most substantial impact on employee productivity by enhancing operational accuracy and reducing errors.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommended that RMX companies adopt clear task-focused communication protocols, align policies with communication needs, and institutionalize continuous improvement mechanisms to foster transparency, responsiveness, and sustainable competitiveness
Policy Coherence in Multi-Level Governance and Its Influence on the Enforcement of Environmental Protection Laws in Brazil
No full textPurpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the policy coherence in multi-level governance and its influence on the enforcement of environmental protection laws.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: Policy coherence in multi-level governance significantly enhances the enforcement of environmental protection laws by improving coordination, reducing regulatory conflicts, and clarifying enforcement responsibilities across national, regional, and local levels. Jurisdictions with aligned policies record higher compliance rates, more consistent enforcement actions, and better environmental outcomes compared to fragmented governance systems. Conversely, weak policy coherence undermines accountability, leads to uneven enforcement, and limits the effectiveness of environmental protection efforts.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Multi-level governance theory, institutional theory & policy integration theory may be used to anchor future studies on the policy coherence in multi-level governance and its influence on the enforcement of environmental protection laws. Practically, environmental enforcement agencies should strengthen intergovernmental coordination mechanisms. From a policy perspective, governments should adopt integrated environmental policy frameworks
Regulatory Responsiveness and Policy Adaptability in Managing Emerging Digital Evidence Within Criminal Justice Systems in Nigeria
No full textAbstract
Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the regulatory responsiveness and policy adaptability in managing emerging digital evidence within criminal justice systems.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: Regulatory responsiveness and policy adaptability significantly enhance the effective management of emerging digital evidence within criminal justice systems by improving evidentiary admissibility, case resolution efficiency, and judicial consistency. Jurisdictions with flexible and clear legal frameworks demonstrate faster adaptation to new technologies, reduced procedural disputes, and higher conviction reliability. Conversely, rigid or outdated regulations contribute to evidentiary exclusion, case delays, and inconsistent judicial outcomes.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Adaptive governance theory, legal realism theory& institutional theory may be used to anchor future studies on the regulatory responsiveness and policy adaptability in managing emerging digital evidence within criminal justice systems. From a practical standpoint, criminal justice institutions should prioritize capacity building to enhance the handling of emerging digital evidence. At the policy level, governments are encouraged to adopt technology-neutral and forward-looking legal frameworks that can accommodate evolving forms of digital evidence
Biodegradation of Cigarette Filters in Natural Environment and Simulated Soil Environment: Decay Rate, Chemical Changes and Ecotoxicity
Get PDFPurpose: Cigarette filters degrade over time due to the action of weathering elements such as sun, wind, rain, and mechanical action in the environment. Biodegradation of common cellulose derivatives in different laboratory, natural and man-made environments can be solely a result of biodegradation or a combination of several processes, such as chemical, enzymatic hydrolysis, microbial population and their action including oxidation. This study aimed to assess the biodegradation of cigarette filters through a scientific investigation.
Methodology: This research investigated the biodegradation of cigarette filters in the natural soil environment through two methodologies: (i) the Cage Method and (ii) the Litterbag Method. to understand the fate of cigarette filter in the environment and the time required for complete biodegradation of cigarette filter mass.
Findings: Real-time biodegradation of cellulose acetate (CA) cigarette filter and combined material filter (CMF) was studied using cage method which demonstrated a 100% mass loss for CA cigarette filter and CMF in 33 months and 21 months respectively confirming that cigarette filters complete degrade in natural environment scenario. Biodegradation of cigarette filters in soil under controlled condition was studied using litter bag method which revealed a mass loss of 100% for CMF in 15 months. Similar studies on DE-TowTM filters, CA filters and Saal wood revealed 100%, 99.9% and 45% mass loss respectively in 27 months which clearly demonstrates that cigarette filters biodegrade much faster compared to the known biodegradable material Saal wood. Furthermore, absence of residual secondary cellulose acetate in resulting biomass post biodegradation was confirmed using Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) and NMR analysis.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This research underscores the significance of the biodegradation environment and the chemical composition of cigarette filters, along with their degree of substitution, as crucial elements influencing the biodegradation process of these filters. The cigarette filter is constructed from secondary cellulose acetate, which differs from primary cellulose acetate in both physical and chemical characteristics. Contrary to popular belief, this study provides definitive evidence that cigarette filters made from secondary cellulose acetate are indeed biodegradable. The findings of this study will serve as a valuable resource for the scientific community, regulatory bodies, and manufacturers alike
Application of SWAT Model in Assessing Impacts of FMNR on Water Conservation in Ndabibi Central Rift, Kenya
Get PDFThe Ndabibi watershed is predominantly agricultural that impacts its hydrological functions and water balance. This manifest through reduced watershed sponge effect, increased surface runoff during wet season and decreased surface runoff during the dry season, a situation that can be reversed by Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR). FMNR is a conservation technique where trees/shrubs/ and other woody plants are allowed to grow naturally with minimal management by a farmer. Its application increases vegetation cover thereby reducing surface runoff. This study sought to establish the impact of FMNR on water conservation. The impact of this technique on surface runoff was quantified using SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tools) model. The watershed is ungauged and relied on regionalization with an assumed adoption of 20% FMNR in the watershed. The SWAT model under FMNR was calibrated with coefficient of variation (R2) of 0.95 for 20% and Nash-Sutcliffe of 0.88 on monthly time scale. The monthly streamflow analysis showed that there is a significant change in surface runoff ranging from -21.2% to 24.07% during the wet and dry seasons respectively. The study concludes that there is significant benefit of FMNR in regulating water balance in a given watershed and recommends its widespread adoption
Enhancing Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion through Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration in Central Rift, Kenya
Get PDFThis paper examines how World Vision’s project “Central Rift Farmer-Managed Natural Regeneration Scale-up project (CRIFSUP)” carried out between 2017 and 2021 used Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) approach and transformation power relations among farmers. The Study areas were Ndabibi in Nakuru County, Marigat in Baringo County, and Ng’oswet in Elgeyo Marakwet. Methodology adopted was mixed method approach and data collected using collective brainstorming sessions with communities, key informant interviews, Household questionnaire, focused group discussions for adults and children, and observation. Purposive sampling was employed to identify farmers to participate in focus group discussions and key informants. Apart from examining the field reports on this project, this study reviewed secondary related literature. The theory of change and agency and employed to how the implementation of FMNR created a conducive environment for the transformation of gender, disability and social inclusion. Enhancement of gender, disability and social inclusion is traced by examining the changes that transpired between the time the baseline report was conducted, CRIFSUP GESI Report and the end of term report. The focus is on decision making, time use, roles, responsibilities and economic empowerment. The findings showed that the time spent on collecting firewood was reduced to 30 minutes. Energy saving measures such as jikos and biogas were introduced by CRIFSUP. Savings for transformation groups enabled women and people with disabilities to access resources that enabled them to diversify their roles and engage in income generating activities such as bee keeping. However, mainstreaming gender, disability and social inclusion considerations has been partially successful, for instance land ownership and access is still heavily weighted towards men and this affects women access and use of trees. This influences the time women spend to look for firewood
Examining Smallholder Farmers’ Needs for Irrigated Crop Production: Insights from South Tongu District, Ghana
Get PDFPurpose: Research indicates that having irrigation water sources near farms can reduce infrastructure costs, improve farmers’ productivity and income, and foster rural development. On average, farmers cultivate three plots in different areas due to land availability, affordability, and proximity to these water sources. However, in the South Tongu District, farms in water catchment areas are located upstream, which makes accessing irrigation water difficult. Attempting to draw water from a neighbor’s farm can lead to conflicts. Given these challenges, it is essential to examine the needs of farmers and their access to irrigation resources. This paper examines smallholder farmers’ needs for irrigated crop production in the South Tongu District of Ghana.
Methodology: A structured questionnaire survey was randomly administered among 120 smallholder farmers from April to May 2023 in six purposively sampled potential irrigation communities. The survey questions focused on farmers’ needs and access to irrigation water sources. Our study is further rooted in utility maximization and risk aversion theories to understand farmers’ choices with lower uncertainty, potential losses, and the option that provides them with the greatest satisfaction. The data were analyzed using SPSS and Excel.
Findings: We found that the district has fertile arable lands and abundant water sources. However, farmers expressed concern that farms are not close enough to these water sources, making it difficult to irrigate their crops. Almost all responding farmers (98%) were located far from available streams and the spillage from the Avu Lagoon (75%). About 67% said the Lower Volta River was not near their farm. Another 57% found that the Tordzi River was not nearby, and they cannot afford the cost of irrigation installation. Even those farms near water sources relied on rainfall (78%), indicating the need for infrastructure support. Responding farmers indicated a strong need for credit support to invest in irrigation technologies. About 74% requested canal development, while 71% sought support for irrigation equipment. Additionally, 64% needed technical support, and 54% requested general extension assistance for irrigation practices.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: This study contributes to making farmers rational and cautious actors towards resource allocation for improved irrigation benefits. The findings will help policy to tailor interventions based on farmers’ socio-economic growth and psychological realities. Moreover, the findings will contribute to the development of policies and support systems to improve farmers’ satisfaction with irrigation practices
Effect of Trade Liberalization on Tax Revenue of East Africa Community Member Countries
Get PDFPurpose: This study sought to examine the effect of trade liberalization on tax revenue of East Africa community member countries.
Methodology: The study used descriptive research design and collected secondary data from 6 east Africa community member countries for the period between 2000 and 2023. The data was analyzed by use of simple linear regression analysis.
Findings: The study revealed that trade liberalization has a statistically positive relationship with tax revenue of east Africa community member countries.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study contributes to validation of Hecksher-Ohlin (H-O) model in supporting the need for countries to embrace trade liberalization as a developmental strategy for developing nations to benefit from global integration, skills transfer, knowledge transfer and productive capabilities from developed nations. The study also contributes to development of optimal tax policy and trading policies with a view of enabling developing countries to maximize their potential on tax revenue for funding their development programs while at the same time remaining globally competitive to be able to attract foreign direct investments. This study also contributes to knowledge advancement by providing a framework for understanding how developing countries can achieve global economic integration by embracing trade liberalization and its impacts on the overall tax revenue processes of countries within a given trading bloc such as EAC