School of Arts and Social Sciences

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Morphosyntactic study of Dholuo verb phrase
(2023) Onyango, George Otieno
The study explores the morphosyntactic structure of Dholuo verb phrase. Dholuo is a Nilo Saharan language spoken in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and South Sudan. Tense and agreement in pro-drop in the Dholuo verb phrase has not been fully studied. The purpose of the study was to analyze the agreement in pro-drop in Dholuo verb phrase. The objectives of the study were to: identify the constituents of the Dholuo verb phrase; describe the morphological elements of the Dholuo verb phrase; and explain features of agreement in the Dholuo verb phrase. Principles and Parameters Theory (Chomsky, 1982) was used to guide this study. This study used a qualitative approach where descriptive research design was employed to study and account for the validity of Principles and Parameters to analyse Dholuo verb phrase. Data were generated by both the researcher, himself being a native speaker of Dholuo, and semi-structured interview from twenty adult Dholuo native speakers in Nyan‟giela village, Rachuonyo South Sub-county in Homa Bay County. Non– probability sampling was used because the research was interested in the representativeness of the concept in their varying forms that maximized the scope or range of variation of study. Convenience and Purposive sampling techniques of non-probability sampling were interchangeably used to reduce bias of using one method. The data was thematically studied according to the number, tense, aspect, negation and person. Syntactic analysis was done in line with the tenets of Principles and Parameters Theory. After studying and analysing the data, it was revealed that Dholuo verb phrase has a linear arrangement with a lot of elements such as verb, preposition, pronouns, adjectives, adverbs and nouns. Morphological elements of Dholuo verb phrase are pronouns, prefixes, suffixes, negators and adverbials. It has both free and bound morphemes. Dholuo is a tonal language that marks agreement with tone, prefixes and suffixes. A pronoun is the main agreement marker of Dholuo verb phrase. The study concluded that Dholuo is a pro-drop language that marks agreement by affixation. Dholuo marks all agreements except gender. Pro-drop and affixations are recommended for possible related future studies
Social determinants of maternal healthcare-seeking behaviour in the informal settlements of Nairobi city, Kenya
(2017-07) Shivachi, Taji Isindu
Despite the fact that the government of Kenya has taken several steps to make it easier for all women to access maternal healthcare services (MHS), studies show that utilization of these services continues to be poor in the informal settlements of Nairobi, resulting in adverse pregnancy outcomes. In view of the aforementioned, this study sought to investigate the social determinants of maternal healthcare-seeking behaviour (MHsB) in informal settlements. The specific objectives of the study were to establish the level of MHsB among women in the study area; examine the effects of availability of MHS on MHsB; determine the influence of socio-demographic factors on MHsB; and evaluate the relationship between women’s status and their MHsB. The hypotheses of the study were that maternal MHsB is low in the study area; availability of maternal healthcare services does not influence maternal healthcare-seeking behaviour; there is a positive and strong association between socio-demographic factors and MHsB; and that women of a higher status are more likely to have better MHsB than their counterparts of a lower status. A thematic literature review was conducted based on the objectives of the study. The three delays model was applied as the theoretical framework for this study. The study was conducted in Korogocho slums, Nairobi, due to evidence that among all informal settlements of Nairobi, Korogocho has persistently recorded the worst pregnancy outcomes despite apparent availability of healthcare facilities. The study adopted a mixed method approach, which involved a survey and analysis of secondary data. The survey had 512 main respondents, who were drawn from among women who delivered in the 12 months preceding data collection and 46 key informants drawn from healthcare practitioners. Respondents were selected through cluster and systematic random sampling technique, while Key informants were selected through purposive sampling method. Data was collected from main respondents using questionnaires and focus group discussions, and from key informants through in-depth interviews. Qualitative data was summarized into themes and analyzed through content analysis. Descriptive statistics were applied to present the characteristics of the respondents, which have been displayed in frequency tables and charts. Inferential statistics were used to determine the association between socio-demographic determinants and status of women and MHsB. The study established that 39%, 33%, and 28% of the respondents had high, mediumand lowMHsB respectively. The study found that there is a statistically significant relationship between MHsB and indicators of availability of MHS, like perceived quality of MHS, perceptions about the cost of services, and perceived availability of medical personnel and equipment. The study also revealed that demographic factors such as age, marriage, ethnicity and religious affiliation have a weak association with MHsB. Other socio-demographic factors like previous pregnancy outcomes and maternal knowledge were also found to influence MHsB. The study established that there is a strong and positive association between MHsB and indicators of socio-economic status (Gamma = 0.5872, 0.7494, 0.5928, and 0.5283 for level of education, income, occupation, and autonomy respectively). The study recommends that the Kenyan national and Nairobi County governments put in place measures to improve and monitor quality, and conduct awareness campaigns with targeted messages to improve maternal knowledge, with a view to improving MHsB in informal settlements
Public participation of women in the development planning process in Awendo sub-county, Migori county, Kenya
(2023) Okoth, John Okelo
Public participation holds a crucial place in the Constitution of Kenya (2010), signifying its utmost significance. The Constitution mandates the establishment of comprehensive structures for fostering public participation within the governance processes at the national and county levels of government, outlining essential requisites for the legislative bodies at each level. The accentuation on women's engagement underscores a fundamental truth: electing representatives does not diminish the imperative for the populace to remain engaged in the multifaceted tapestry of governance proceedings. This study sought to explore the factors influencing women's public participation in the development planning process in Awendo Sub County of Migori County, Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to assess whether community awareness influences women’s public participation in the sub-county development planning processes, examine whether the demographic factors influence public participation of women in development planning processes, assess whether behavioral factors influence public participation of women in development planning processes and to discover whether economic factors influence public participation of women in development planning processes. Callahan’s effective community participation theory, which informed the conceptual framework, guided the study. Data was collected from 382 respondents from a target population of 57,724 women in the Awendo sub-county of Migori County, Kenya. Data collection sites were identified through the multi-stage sampling procedure, and a proportionate quota was assigned for each site. Respondents were randomly selected through the simple random technique. Data was collected from the main respondents using a questionnaire and from key informants using interviews. Quantitative data was analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics V22.0 software, and descriptive statistics were presented in Tables and graphs. Qualitative data was transcribed and reported according to emergent themes and narratives. All ethical considerations, including informed consent, anonymity, and confidentiality, were strictly followed. The study results showed that radio, local TV, and door-to-door campaigns were the most common tools to inform residents of public participation. Demographic characteristics influence the public participation of women. Behavioral and economic factors also influence the public participation of women. The study concludes that public participation highly depends on public awareness and vice versa; demographic characteristics influence women's public participation in the development planning process in Awendo Sub County. Behavioral factors influenced public participation in women's development planning processes. Economic factors affect the public participation of women in development planning processes in Awendo Sub County. This study's findings can develop policies and strategies for the national and county government to enhance public participation. The study recommends that a similar study be conducted to assess the effectiveness of the initiated citizen engagement measures in Migori County. Robust initiatives must be implemented to raise a general understanding of the development planning process to boost women's public participation. The development planning process needs to be tailored/modified to account for the changing nature of women’s demographic features, such as marital status, education level, women's responsibilities in the family, and community culture. Coordinating government agencies need to inspire trust, fairness, clarity, and transparency (in their work) level of coordination and involvement in their work to enhance the public participation of women in public participation.
Relationship between foreign direct investment inflows and selected macroeconomic variables in Kenya
(2023) Ogero, Titus Mosoti
Foreign direct investment (FDI) emerges as a critical strategy in the pursuit of long standing financial growth and advancement within the majority of evolving nations. This is primarily achieved by improving infrastructure, advancing information and communication technology, increasing productivity, creating employment openings, and enhancing export activities to bolster the balance of payments. The inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) has shown fluctuations through the yonks from 1974 to 2018, notably experiencing a decline from 2013 to 2016. These fluctuations and need to understand the causal relations among the variables motivated the need for the study. The principal goals of this research were to find and investigate the causal associations between FDI and a specific set of macroeconomic indicators. Additionally, a secondary aim involved estimating the interconnections among these variables through parameter estimation. Spanning 45 years from 1974 to 2018, the research provided a comprehensive temporal framework for conclusive results. Data from the World Bank were used for methodological consistency. To ascertain the stationarity of individual variables, a unit root test was used. Christopher Sims' theoretical framework, which employs vector autoregressive models, was used to estimate complex interconnections between variables. The Granger causality test, a statistical methodology widely used in econometrics, serves to ascertain the directionality of causality between variables. The empirical examination has revealed a mutually reinforcing correlation amongst foreign direct investment (FDI) influxes and economic development. Notably, exchange rates, FDI influxes, and interest rates significantly influenced inflation dynamics. Vector autoregressive estimates of independent variables' impact on dependent variables were statistically examined at a significance level of 0.05. Results indicated that economic advancement, quantified by gross domestic product (GDP), constructively and significantly influenced immediate FDI influxes. Current-year GDP and FDI influxes constructively impacted economic development in the subsequent year. Exchange rates directly affected inflation trends, while the volume of FDI investments and combined interest and exchange rates inversely related to current and subsequent year inflation rates. Current inflation rates influenced subsequent year interest rates. The research advocates attracting foreign investors to augment FDI influxes, thereby boosting economic development and mitigating inflation. Furthermore, raising interest rates emerges as a significant measure to counteract inflationary pressures.
Social determinants of early screening for prostate cancer: a study of Nairobi county, Kenya
(2023) Osewe, Ann Awuor
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a major global public health concern, and is the second leading cause of death after lung cancer among men worldwide. The government of Kenya has put in place measures to increase uptake of PCa screening services. However, the uptake remains low, even in the study area, which has resources to conduct PCa screening. This study sought to investigate the social determinants of PCa early screening in Nairobi County. It specifically aimed to determine the knowledge on PCa screening; examine the attitudes on PCa screening; and establish the influence of socio-demographic factors on PCa screening among men. The study was conducted in Nairobi County, Kenya, and was guided by Gelberg-Andersen’s Behavioural Model for Vulnerable Populations. The study adopted mixed method approach and a cross-sectional survey design. A semi structured questionnaire, interviews, and focus group discussions were used for data collection. The population of males aged 35 – 50 years was 440,497 from which a sample of 384 were selected as the main respondents using Fischer et al (1998) formula, and arrived at using the multi-stage sampling procedures. Data from main respondents was complemented by information from 15 Key Informants who were purposively selected based on their bird’s eye view of the research problem. Quantitative data was analyzed using the statistics package for social sciences, and presented in tables and charts. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically, and presented in narrative form. All ethical principles were observed. The study found that knowledge on specific aspects of PCa was generally low. Most of the respondents were unfamiliar with PCa early symptoms, as well as prevention strategies. The study attributes the low levels of knowledge to the fact that social media, which has been found to be distortional, was one of the key sources of information on PCa. The study further established that most of the respondents (95.93%) had not been screened for PCa. Reasons for not screening included: lack of symptoms and thus no need for screening (72.8%), cost of screening (62.6%), fear of cancer (53.3%) and no family history (53.1%). Level of education had no positive association with screening, whereas religious affiliation and marital status had weak association. On the other hand, occupation had a strong and positive association with uptake of PCa screening. The study established there was low uptake of screening due to low knowledge levels, negative perception towards cancer disease and cost of screening services. The study recommend that the Ministry of Health should set a day for PCa to sensitize men on PCa. It also recommends the Ministry of Health to develop policies that make it mandatory for patients to go through treatment literacies before any services. The Ministry of Health to Ministry of Health to develop a policy to allow for waiver on medical covers.
SELECTED FACTORS INFLUENCING INCLUSION OF LEARNERS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT IN REGULAR PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN NYATIKE SUB COUNTY, MIGORI COUNTY, KENYA
(2023) Otieno, Pamela Akeyo
Inclusion of learners with disability is necessary for improving enrolment of learners with disability and ensuring that their academic goals and objectives are met. Consequently, teachers and stakeholders have to identify any barriers that can deter the learners from achieving their goals. Interestingly, in Nyatike Sub-County, enrolment of learners with visual impairment in regular public primary schools have remained low at 10.1 percent compared to 33.6 percent in Suna East Sub-County, 24.8 percent in Suna West Sub-County and 31.5 percent in Uriri Sub-County for the years 2017 to 2021.Besides, the literacy level of learners with visual impairment is lower than literacy levels of learners with hearing and intellectual impairment in Nyatike Sub-county. Therefore, the study sought to find out factors influencing inclusion of visually impaired learners in regular public primary schools in Nyatike Sub-County, Migori County, Kenya. The specific research objectives were: to examine the influence of attitude of teachers on inclusion of visually impaired learners in regular public primary schools, to investigate the influence of school environment on inclusion of visually impaired learners in regular public primary schools, and to assess the influence of teachers training on inclusion of learners with visual impairment in regular public primary schools. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory was used to explain the roots of inclusion. The study approach was mixed research method with a descriptive survey research design. The target population was 46 head teachers and 52 classroom teachers in regular public primary schools with visually impaired learners in Nyatike Sub-County. A sample size of 98 (ninety-eight) respondents comprising of 46 head teachers and 52 classroom teachers was selected using saturated and purposive sampling techniques. Data was collected using questionnaire for classroom teachers and face to face interview for head teachers. Face and content validity of the instruments were determined by the supervisors and experts from the department of Educational Psychology and science and through piloting. The reliability was determined using Cronbach's Alpha for each construct and reliability coefficients of .81, .76 and .71 were obtained for teacher attitude, school environment and teacher training scales respectively using test-retest technique. Quantitative data was analyzed using frequencies, means, percentage, Pearson’s correlation, Regression Analysis and ANOVA while qualitative data was transcribed and analyzed based on emerging themes and used for triangulation. Anonymity of respondents was observed through coding of responses. The study established that at 5 percent level of significance; teachers’ attitude, school environment, and teachers’ training significantly influence inclusion of learners with visual impairment, and accounted for45.8%, 18.4% and 27.7% of variation in inclusion of learners with visual impairment in regular primary schools, respectively. From the findings, it was concluded that teachers’ attitude has significant positive and strong (r=.677, p<.05) influence on inclusion of visual impairment learners while school environment (r= .433, p< .05) and teachers’ training in special needs education (r= .527, p< .05) have significant positive and moderate influence on inclusion of visual impairment learners in regular public primary schools in Nyatike Sub-County, Migori County, Kenya. The study recommends that teachers in regular public primary schools have inservice training on special educational needs and school administration to mobilize more teaching and learning resources for learners with visual impairment. The study is significant to policymakers in the educational sector to develop framework that link inclusion of learners with visual impairment and their success in educational achievement.
Effects of informal alternative family care on children wellbeing in Migori county, Kenya
(2017) Onyango, Erick Ater
Informal alternative family care is found every society in the world taking various forms of dimensions. In Kenya, it is more prevalent when families fail to embrace alternative family care for adoption, guardianship and foster care. Kenya conforms to legal frameworks allowing utilization of both human and financial resources safeguarding children wellbeing. Despite legislative arrangements, documentation on alternative family care at the Department of Children Services reveals very low intake of adoption, foster care and guardianship in Migori County. The study sought to examine the effects of informal alternative family care on children wellbeing in Migori County. Specifically, the study determined knowledge of alternative family care, examined the nature of informal alternative family care arrangements, established determinants of informal alternative family care and examined challenges of this care arrangement in Migori County. The study was guided by the social theory of action systems by Talcott Parsons and theory of structuration by Antony Giddens premised on the fact that actions of individuals regulate social order. The study was conducted in Migori County, one of the 47 counties in Kenya. The study adopted descriptive and cross sectional survey design. The target population was households from the entire County and household was the unit of analysis with household heads constituting respondents in the survey. The county has a population of 917,170 people and 180,211 households. A sample of 399 respondents was selected using Glenn Israel’s formula from the entire number of households in the County. Further, 14 respondents were selected for focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Cluster, multistage, purposive and simple random sampling methods were used and both quantitative and qualitative data were collected from household survey, key informant interviews, focus group discussions and observation using questionnaires, interview guides, guiding questions and observation checklist. Cronbach’s coefficient alpha and content validity index were used to test instruments validity and reliability respectively. Quantitative data was analysed using inferential and descriptive statistics such as mean, chi-square and Karl Parson correlations statistics with the help of SPSS version 23. Content and framework techniques were used for analysis of qualitative data and emerging themes were identified and concepts generated. Research study revealed that, majority 56.2% of care givers was aware of the formal alternative care arrangements. Care givers were more acquainted with institutional care 37%, more than, guardianship 28%, adoption 19% and foster 15% arrangements. There was mixed reaction on these arrangements with the majority 58%, considering them best for child care while 11% noted they were complicated, 8% not practicable and 4% not important for taking care of children. Kinship support to child headed household was the most practiced 36.4% and 2.5% practiced familial informal care arrangement. Further, the study revealed determinants for informal alternative family care where 87% of care givers noted the influences of alternative family care arrangements on improving child wellbeing. Finally the study revealed that both care givers and children face challenges in alternative family care for children. The study contributes to the academic body of knowledge and provides the basis for policy formulation. The study concludes that informal alternative family care arrangements contribute to children wellbeing. The study recommends to the Ministry through the Department of children services to sensitize the public on best alternative care practices, formalize all alternative family care, provide universal social security and tailor a training program for care givers on positive parenting for children in informal alternative family care.
An adoption framework for telemedicine care: a study of Nandi county, Kenya
(2020) Amdany, Sammy Sumukwo
Telemedicine is one of the technologies that use the knowledge of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) to curb geographical barriers while increasing access to healthcare services. This study aimed at design an adoption framework for telemedicine care in Kenya. This study was done in health facilities in Nandi County. The specific objectives of the study were: To examine healthcare needs for telemedicine care in Nandi County -Kenya; to analyze the readiness use status for telemedicine care adoption and to design a suitable telemedicine care adoption framework. Though telemedicine care is in existence, the researcher felt that an adoption framework should be considered to guide in its implementation. This study was conducted using cross- sectional survey design in which study sample of 4 doctors, 59 nurses, 12 clinical officers, 1 pharmacist and 4 pharmaceutical technologists, making it a sample size of 80 from target population of 100 healthcare workers working at the County hospital, two sub county hospitals and 2 health centers. Structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. Pretesting for the instruments was done to ascertain face and content validities. The data collected was analyzed using SPSS software version 20. Analyzed results were presented using table, pie-chart and bar graphs. From the findings it was evident that the most critical health care need in Nandi County is direct patient services (82.5 %) followed by special referral services and Tele-pharmacy which were rated at 77.5 % and 54.5 % respectively. While, the least critical healthcare need areas were medical education and mentoring (53.8%), Tele-nursing (51.3%), remote patient monitoring (45%), Tele-radiology 20%.In view of readiness for Tele-medicine, most of the respondents (46.3%) cited that other technologies started recently in Nandi County in solving healthcare problems. It was further noted that, 50% of the respondents observed that it takes up-to 10 minutes to attend to patients using telemedicine in the County Referral hospital as compared to 18.8% of the respondents who observe that it takes up-to 10 minutes to attend to patients without using telemedicine. These findings were used to design a Telemedicine framework to enhance improved service delivery. The framework designed has illustrated that direct patient services is popular with health workers interviewed at 82.5% and the least Teleradiology at 20%.The health workers can comfortably use telemedicine service. From the research findings; it was noted that stakeholder involvement, human resources capacity building and increased funding can play an important role during adoption. Lastly, the findings has clearly demonstrated that; direct patient services, specialist referral services, and Tele Pharmacy need to be considered for acceleration of telemedicine care.
Impacts of Colonialism on Traditional Land Tenure Systems and agricultural practices in Awendo sub-county, Kenya, 1903-2010
(2020) Omondi, Mark
The study examined the impacts of colonialism on traditional land tenure systems and agricultural practices in Awendo Sub County, Kenya, between 1903 and 2010. The chapter one looked at the background to justification. The study had significance since, it will help readers to know how the traditional land tenure and agricultural practices impacted socially and economically, think of introduction of individual land tenure and cash oriented colonial crop, sugarcane as major impact of colonial activities in Awendo sub county, allow the government to find a better way of improving land tenure systems, and agricultural production. The three specific objectives were; to account for the precolonial Luo land tenure systems and agricultural practices in Awendo; to examine the colonial land use policies and agricultural practices in Awendo, 1903-1963; to evaluate the impact of the colonialism on the traditional land tenure systems and agricultural in Awendo, 1963- 2010. The research was justified since most researchers of the area paid little attention to the historical events, and never gave an account of precolonial land tenure systems and agricultural practices of Luo people, and that sugarcane was a colonial crop which impacted on Awendo development. The literature review used thematic approach organized around a topic and objectives. Modernization theory was used to explain the process of change by adopting new technologies. Study used descriptive research design, qualitative and quantitative data were organized in thematic and chronological approach by describing the phenomenon related to past events. The purposive and snowball sampling were considered. The questionnaire, archives, and observations were used. Chapter four contained the findings of the objectives of the study. Chapter five brought out the summary, conclusion and recommendations, and according to the objective one, it was concluded that Luo people in Kenya and Awendo in particular are securely attached to the land for both economic development and survival, being a unifying factor, acquired and maintained under customary law, which were patrilineal, traditional crops cultivated and animals reared fostered sharing through kisuma. In objective two, the study concluded that the colonial policies on land tenure and agricultural practices in Awendo had impacts, which included getting money to pay school fees, brought European crops and animals, such as, sugarcane that made the residents to take tea from sugar and introduced new agricultural inputs such as, fertilizers, hybrid seeds. The objective three concluded that the transformations in Awendo were as a result of colonial disruption of traditional land tenure, and agricultural practices. The study concluded that the new methods of farming such as intercropping and government support, extension services could improve agricultural production, and also the introduction of exotic crop, sugarcane was the major cause of reduced agricultural production for cash and food . The study recommended that through intensive involvement in fish production, poultry production, crop and animal production. Women and children are to take control in the land use and management, when the government initiate new policies, by ensuring control of land for the portions left for sugarcane production and food production in Awendo.
Livestock improvement and pastoralists livelihood outcomes: a study of Sahiwal cattle adoption among Isiria Maasai of Narok county, Kenya
(2022) Saranta, Moses Kipainoi
Although pastoralism enables up to 500 million people worldwide to realise their livelihood outcomes, its production has been affected by climatic and socio-economic changes. The changes necessitated adopting alternative livelihood activities undertaken by pastoralists or promoted by government and non-governmental organizations. This study was about one such intervention - introducing Sahiwal cattle. It reviewed the literature on the effects of adopting improved livestock breeds on income, food security, and social capital among pastoralists. It sought to investigate the association between adopting Sahiwal cattle and the livelihood outcomes of household incomes, food security, and social capital through a cross-sectional social survey that mixed qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study targeted pastoral communities, and it surveyed the Isiria Maasai of Narok County with the household and household head as its sampling unit and unit of analysis, respectively. The sample size was 400 households selected using multi-stage proportional random sampling. Key informants were purposely selected. The study collected primary data from households using a questionnaire and an observation checklist, while an FGD guide facilitated data collection from the focus groups. Data from key informants was collected using a key informant interview guide. The study utilised IBM-SPSS version 28 to analyse data and summarised results into frequencies, percentages, mean, and mode displayed in tables, bar graphs and histograms. The study relied on Spearman Correlation Coefficient to test the association between the independent and dependent variables. The study tested its hypotheses using the P-value approach at the 0.05 level of significance. Qualitative handwritten data was typed into a word document and read several times to discern recurring categories, opinions, and themes. More than two-fifths of the households had adopted Sahiwal cattle for between 3 and 6 years. More than half of the adopters were middle-aged (35 and 64 years). Respondents obtained income from cattle mainly through milk, live animals and breeding stock. There was a positive weak significant association between the adoption of Sahiwal cattle and household income (rs = .254) and social capital (rs = .177). The association between adopting Sahiwal cattle and food security was negative, weak (rs = -160) and significant. The study concludes that adopting Sahiwal cattle is positively associated with household income and social capital but negatively associated with food security. Hence, cattle production among Isiria Maasai is not only for income generation and source of food but also a cultural practice with social utility. Therefore, The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Irrigation should formulate an implementation guideline that promotes a package of interventions rather than one intervention to increase household income successfully. The County Government of Narok should develop a policy spelling out procedures for providing incentives to encourage livelihood diversification to complement the adoption of Sahiwal cattle as a household food security intervention. KALRO, through the County Government of Narok, should develop a practical guideline for the rotational use of pedigree Sahiwal bulls by pastoral households to upgrade their cattle which will enhance household social capital dimensions.
Influence of rehabilitation strategies on reintegration: an analysis of former street children in Kitale town, Trans-zoia county, Kenya
(2023) Makau Mwende, Maureen
The number of street children has been on the rise globally despite the interventions put in place by different organisations. Although Kitale town has many caregiving institutions and is located in an agricultural-rich neighbourhood, the number of street children has risen like in many other towns. This study sought to determine the influence of rehabilitation strategies on the reintegration of former street children in Trans Nzoia County. The study's specific objectives were to establish the rehabilitation approaches adopted by rehabilitation centres, examine the patterns of reintegration in relation to rehabilitation approaches of former street children, and investigate the challenges in the rehabilitation and reintegration process of former street children. The study was guided by relapse prevention theory which examines the practical adaptation of street children in a new environment. The literature was reviewed as per the study objectives. A descriptive survey design was used with a mixed method of data collection. The study targeted 734 former street children who had benefited from rehabilitation and reintegration programs in Kitale town and its environs. Multiple sampling techniques, specifically systematic simple random technique, were used to select respondents and purposive sampling to select caregiving organisations with rehabilitation and reintegration programs. Taro Yamane's formula was used to select a sample of 259 from both institutions. Questionnaires, focus group discussions, and interview schedules were used to obtain data from respondents and key informants. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS Version 25, while qualitative data was analysed using emerging themes. Ethical issues of consent, confidentiality, anonymity, and freedom of participation were observed. The study established a positive relationship between rehabilitation strategies and reintegration in which most former street children are positively engaged and prefer to remain at home than return to the streets. The study concludes that Rehabilitation strategies impact the reintegration process, and thus they should be continuously evaluated and redesigned to improve their impact on reintegration. Lack of food and job opportunities emerged as the main challenges facing former street children at home. The study recommends more investments to uplift the parents' living standards and scholarships to support the school-going, reintegrated street children.
Performance of benga oral poetry and the fight against hiv and aids in homabay and rangwe sub-counties in homabay county
(2023) Ochien'g, Billy Odhiambo
Many studies have been carried out on the performance of oral pieces and their rich memorable styles popular with audiences in Western Kenya, their effectiveness as tools in the fight against HIV and AIDS has remained largely under-investigated. This is the area that the present study has dwelt on. This study examines the relationship between the artist, the performance and the audience. The study also analyzes the impact on the audience with regards to HIV/AIDs. The objectives of this study are to examine how the performance of Benga oral poetry affects the fight against HIV and AIDS, analyze how context shapes language use and presentation in the performance of Benga and lastly, examine the impact that Benga performance has on the audience in Homabay and Rangwe Sub-Counties of Homabay County, Kenya. This study adopts the reader- response theory which enables us to collect and interpret data through interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). The study has also used the Social Learning theory which aided the analysis of the effects of the performances on the audience. In this way, the two theories complemented each other. The study utilizes the descriptive research design which has made it possible to gain an understanding of underlying reasons and motivations behind the audience’s response and reactions. The sample includes two night clubs in Rangwe and three in Homabay Sub Counties in which Benga is performed. This study makes use of qualitative data. Primary data is obtained through interviews, observation and Focus Group Discussions. The Qualitative data from key informant interviews and observation notes are analyzed using content/thematic analysis. The study makes inter-textual comparisons between the different interviews and compares the considered elements to relevant literature. The analyzed data has then been presented in prose form. The study has found out that Benga oral poetry performances have an enormous potential in communicating messages on HIV and AIDS. The study has also found out that context informs language use and meaning that the audience draws from Benga oral performances. The study further finds out that Benga oral poetry performances are most effective in reaching a large number of youths with HIV prevention messages, stimulating social action for particular issues, stimulating public discussion and debate and changing the youths’ thinking around HIV testing. This it is realized, can help model positive attitudes and behavior through characters that the audiences can bond with.
Socio-cultural determinants of girl-child defilement in Rongo sub-county, Migori county, Kenya
(2023) Odima, Beatrice Atieno
Girl-child defilement is a common sexual crime whose victims experience anguish, undesired pregnancies, and STDs. The society has a role of protecting the girl-child from defilement and its-related physical and mental health implications. The United Nations Convention on Children’s Rights and Children‘s Act of 2022 in Kenya were put in place to safeguard the rights of a child by providing legislation to ensure that the girl child‘s rights are protected. Despite the legal frameworks and policies in place, an increment of 36.71% of the cases of girl-child defilement was reported in Kenya between 2017 and 2018. Rongo sub-county, where the study was conducted, reported an average of 60 cases of girl-child defilement per year, a scenario attributed to socio-cultural dynamics of residents. This study, therefore sought to investigate the socio-cultural determinants of child defilement. Specifically, to examine the perceptions regarding girl-child defilement, establish the risk factors of the girl child defilement, and determine the values that influence girl-child defilement. Feminist Theory of Criminology guided the study. The study adopted mixed-method approach and cross-sectional survey design. A sample of 245 household heads was selected from a population of 29,087 using Cochran’s sample size formula. Four locations with the highest populations were purposively selected. Proportionate and random sampling was used to select household heads in each location. Purposive sampling was used to select key informants comprising 2 caregivers to victims of girl-child defilement, 4 officers from other government agencies that handle girl-child defilement cases. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires distributed and a response rate of 92.65% realised. Qualitative data was collected using key informant interviews and focused group discussions. Qualitative data was analysed thematically. Quantitative data were subjected to descriptive and inferential analysis using IBM SPSS Statistics V25.0 software. Frequency distribution and percentages were used to summarize the data. Chi-Square and Cramer’s V test was used to reveal relationships between variables, and the analysed qualitative data was presented in narrative form while quantitative data analysed was illustrated using bar charts and bar graphs. The study concluded that there was a significant relationship between the level of education and awareness of girl-child defilement and when subject to Cramer’s V test, it revealed a relatively strong association. There was a significant relationship between area of residence and level of awareness of girl-child defilement with Cramer’s V test indicating a weak association. There was no significant association between family and community risk factors and girl-child defilement or between the values and girl-child defilement. The study recommends that the National Government Officers should continuously sensitize the community on girl-child defilement. The Department of Social protection should improve economic empowerment programs targeting vulnerable households in the community. The National Crime and Research Centre should develop crime prevention programs targeting the young men with focus on those in the Boda Boda industry.
Investigating impediments to parental prevention of teenage pregnancies in Narok-north sub county, Narok County, Kenya
(2023) Midigo, Akuno Elon
Teenage pregnancy is detrimental to the wellbeing of the girl child because of its negative impact on health, social and educational outcomes. Parents may encounter challenges that prevent them from helping their girls in preventing pregnancies. This study therefore investigated impediments to parental prevention of teenage pregnancies in Narok-North Sub-County, Narok County, Kenya. The study assessed parental awareness on prevention of teenage pregnancies, determined Parenting strategy in prevention of teenage pregnancies, and examined parental socio-cultural status on prevention of teenage pregnancies. The study utilized Social Network Theory. Descriptive cross-sectional survey design directed the study. Target population of the research was 59,996 families in Narok-North Sub- County. Snowball sampling was applied to obtain a sample size of 165 biological parents from the target population. Simple random sampling was applied to get 10 main respondents who were teenage girls that had fallen pregnant. Data was collected using questionnaires and Interview schedules. Validity and reliability of the tools comprising parental awareness, Parenting strategy and parental socio-cultural status was ensured at a coefficient of .92, .81 and .85 respectively. Data was computed by the use of SPSS version 26.0 and transcripts from interviews were analyzed thematically from the data. On parental awareness on prevention of teenage pregnancies, parental awareness had moderate and positive influence on prevention of teenage pregnancy (at P-value<.05 Mean r = .52) the level of parental awareness on teenage pregnancy moderately and positively influenced prevention of teenage pregnancy. The study established that 48 (30.4%) parents agreed that giving Sexual and Reproductive Health Education to teenage girls reduces cases of teenage pregnancy. However, 44.8% of parents disagreed on taking responsibility for implementation of Sexual and Reproductive Health Education. On Parenting strategy on prevention of teenage pregnancy there was enough statistical evidence (at P value<.05 Mean r = .45) showing Parenting strategy had a low and positive influence on prevention of teenage pregnancy. On parental Socio-Cultural status, significant association and very strong positive correlation was seen between the parental socio – cultural status and prevention of teenage pregnancy (at P value <.05 Mean r = .54) showing that there was statistically significant pattern of influence of parental socio – cultural status on prevention of teenage pregnancy. 82.6% of respondents endorsed that Cultural norms may encourage early marriages. The Study recommends that The Directorate of Children’s Services to provide age appropriate materials that guide parents on how to implement Home Based Sexual and Reproductive Health Education. The Study recommends to the Directorate of Children’s services to upscale forums in Narok North Sub County where parents and teens communicate candidly on sexuality by having them as after school programs in line with the National Plan of Action for Children framework (2008-2012). The Study recommends to the Ministry of Health to set up implementation of the National Plan of Action on Adolescents and Teenage Pregnancy of 2019 aimed at intensifying community workshops that create awareness among parents on cultural norms that predispose teenage girls to pregnancies.
Influence of institutional culture on students’ involvement in arson at public boarding secondary schools in Kenya: the case of Migori county
(2022-11) K'odero, Jannes Okinyi
There has been a marked global increase in episodes of school unrest since 2002, characterized by violence and arson attacks. Most of which have resulted to massive destruction of school property and loss of lives. Despite implementation of policies, recommendations and laws such as Education Act, Children Act and Penal Code of 2019, arson still persists and claims lives and valuable property destroyed with latest cases evident in the year 2021 immediately after recovery from COVID-19. Previous studies have not focused much on institutional cultural in learning institutions as the possible causes of arson. The The purpose of the study was to assess the influence of institutional culture on students’ involvement in arson in public secondary schools in Migori County, Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to determine the extent to which the application of school rules and regulations contribute to students’ involvement in arson; to find out the influence of informal discussions on students involvement in arson; and to establish the effectiveness of institutional intervention strategies aimed at curbing arson in public boarding secondary schools in Migori County. The study was based on Strain theory of Robert J. Merton. Descriptive cross-sectional survey design was utilized, and a sample of 380 students of forms 3 and 4 drawn from 28 public boarding secondary schools which had experienced arson from 2017 to 2020. Key informant interviews was conducted to the purposively selected principals in 28 schools. The study used triangulation sampling techniques by applying simple random sampling to select students, FGDs were conducted in 12 schools with 12 participants per school. Data was collected using structured questionnaires designed for students and interview schedule guide for school principals and FGD guide for students. Inferential statistics was analysed using Pearson’s product moment correlation with the aid of SPSS Version 26.0 while descriptive statistics presented using percentages, mean and standards deviation. Qualitative data was analysed thematically as per the objectives. The result showed that application of school rules and regulations had a positive and moderate relationship (r= .447, p<.000) with students’ involvement in arson, informal discussions had a positive and moderate relationship (r= .477, p<.000) with students’ involvement in arson, the study further established that institutional intervention strategies like guidance and counselling, punishment and price giving had positive and moderate relationship (r=.498, p<.000) with curbing arson in schools. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education should outline the guideline on students’ involvement in formulation of school rules and regulations, MOE should formulate guidelines for regular meetings between schools administrations and students to discuss student’s issues. The MOE in collaboration with the TSC should also develop a framework for training guidance and counselling teachers on professional counselling skills.
Influence of positive sanctions on children’s social development: the case of Kuria east sub county, Migori county, Kenya
(2022) Odhiambo, Amolo Amos
Children’s social development is a worldwide concern because it is the foundation for lifelong learning in every aspect of a child's life. Negative sanction methods used to promote children’s social development are more pronounced than positive sanctions. This study sought to investigate the influence of positive sanctions on children’s social development in Kuria East Sub-County. Specific objectives of the study were to; assess the influence of reward on children’s social development, establish the influence of parenting styles on children’s social development and determine the effectiveness of resilience building on children’s social development. The study was guided by social action theory. It employed a cross-sectional survey design and mixed-methods approach. The sample size was 391 households, determined by the Taro Yamane formula, from a population of 17,363 households. Four key informants, comprising school head teachers, were purposefully selected. The study employed multistage cluster sampling, after which proportionate samples were allocated to each data collection site. Simple random sampling was used to select the main respondents. The study used a questionnaire for the main respondents and a key interview schedule for the key informants. The validity of the instruments was ascertained by the university supervisors and through training research assistants. Reliability was enhanced through computation of Cronbach alpha of internal consistency after a pilot study in Kuria West Sub-County. Quantitative data were analysed inferentially using Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient while descriptive statistics were analysed descriptively using frequency counts, percentage, mean and standard deviation. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Quantitative data were presented using tables and charts while qualitative data were presented in themes based on the study objectives. The study revealed that rewards have moderate positive influence on children’s social development, with statistically significant (r=0.319, p<.000) relationship. Monetary reward had weak positive relationship with children’s social development, however, not statistically significant (r=.096, p>.05) whereas social approval had moderate positive (r=.439, p<.05) and statistically significant relationship with children’s social development. Parenting styles had moderate, positive (r=.416, p<.05) and statistical significant influence on children’s social development. Authoritative parenting had a strong positive and significant influence on children’s social development (r=.648, p< .000), authoritarian parenting had moderate and positive influence on children’s social development (r=.233, p<.000) while permissive parenting had weak negative influence on children’s social development (r=.233, p<.000). Resilience building had strong and positive significant relationship (r= .759, p< .000) with children’s social development. Resilience building administered by parents or household head had stronger positive and significant influence (r= .795, p< .000) on children’s social development than resilience building administered by peers, religious leaders and teachers (r= .664, p< .000). The study recommends to the Ministry of Education to put in place a policy on use of rewards in form of social approval to empower children and encourage children’s social development. The Directorate of Social development, culture, and sports to step up sensitization and trainings on positive parenting approaches with an emphasis on authoritative parenting style. The Ministry of Education to enforce use of resilience building approaches to achieve children’s social development in schools.
Social outcomes of healthcare-seeking behavior among persons living with diabetes in Rongo sub- county, Migori county, Kenya
(2022-11) Owuor, Macdonald Odhiambo
Diabetes is a fast-growing health and socio-economic burden which manifests in social outcomes and is highly prevalent in Kenya due to the inadequacies of mitigation measures. It is manageable through appropriate healthcare-seeking behavior (HSB) comprising biomedical, alternative, and combined interventions. Migori County with one of the highest diabetes prevalence at 2.7%, surpassing the national average of 2.2% is more susceptible to adverse diabetes-related complications, specifically from malaria and HIV/AIDS. Rongo Sub-County registered the highest increment in diabetes clinic attendance in 2019 at 27.07% compared to other sub-counties in Migori County. This study sought to establish the social outcomes of HSB among persons living with diabetes. Specifically, it sought to determine the social outcomes of biomedical HSB, determine the social outcomes of alternative HSB, and determine the social outcomes of combining biomedical and alternative HSB. Social outcomes were explored in terms of ability to relate well with people, acquire life skills, and acquire nutritional knowledge. Literature review was done based on objectives and guided by the Health Belief Model. A convergent mixed-method approach involving a descriptive-exploratory design was adopted. Taro Yamane’s formula was used to select 257 respondents from a target population of 718 persons diagnosed with diabetes in Rongo Sub-County in 2019. Respondents were sampled using proportionate and simple random sampling. Six healthcare workers from purposively selected health facilities were interviewed. Ethical considerations were upheld. Data collection tools, comprising a questionnaire and interview schedule, were tested, resulting in validity and reliability indices of.826 and.865, respectively. Results were analyzed using the mean, standard deviation, and Spearman's rho correlation. Data was presented in frequency tables and bar graphs. Through computation of average means and standard deviation within a margin of -.2< SD <.2, the study found that biomedical HSB (average mean= 4.54), alternative HSB (average mean= 3.78), and combining biomedical and alternative HSB (average mean= 4.10), enabled respondents to acquire life skills, acquire nutritional knowledge and relate well with people. Using Spearman rho correlation, the study found a statistically significant and positive moderate relationship between social outcomes and biomedical HSB (.590, p=.000), a statistically significant and positive moderate relationship between social outcomes and alternative HSB (.562, p=.000), and a statistically significant and very strong positive relationship between social outcomes and combining biomedical and alternative HSB (rs= .879, p=.000). Qualitative data was thematically analysed and revealed that perceptions, experiences, and beliefs influenced HSB and impacts social outcomes. The study concludes that there was a significant positive relationship between social outcomes and HSB among persons living with diabetes in Rongo Sub-County. The study recommends that County Governments and MOH should step-up implementation of basic module for CHV curriculum on module 13 framework on NCDs package to upscale follow up and achieving of social outcomes; enhance investments in research on efficacy and compatibility of alternative medications thus enhancing achieving; and enhance policy implementation on patient-healthcare worker relationships to achieve social outcomes among persons living with diabetes.
Effects of Community Awareness on Public Participation of Women in the Development Planning Processes in Awendo Sub County
(Public Policy and Administration Research, 2022-05-24) Okello, John O.; Odero, Omondi; Rono, Ambrose
Public participation is a principle that has been given prominence in the Constitution of Kenya (2010). Participation should imbue all public affairs and be promoted by both genders acting in public interest. The Constitution sets key requirements for the legislature at both levels of government to provide frameworks for public participation in governance processes. The emphasis for feminist participation underscores the fact that the election of representatives does not negate the need for people to continuously be involved in governance processes. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of community awareness on public participation of women in the development planning processes in Awendo Sub County. The target population of the study was from the four administrative wards of Awendo Sub County, twenty (20) Religious leaders and local opinion leaders from each of the four wards selected randomly and four (4) members of County Assembly from Awendo Sub County. The target population was 57,724 participants. Using Krejcie& Morgan table, the sample size was three hundred and eighty two (382) people. Stratified sampling technique was used to partition the sample frame. Proportionate sampling was used to get the actual sample of each stratum relative to the overall sample size. Simple random technique was used to select the specific size from the strata of the target population. Both quantitative and qualitative data was collected, using interview schedules for key informants and questionnaires respectively. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the help of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPPS) version 22. Qualitative data was transcribed and reported according to emergent themes and narratives while Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Data was presented by the use of tables.The study concluded that the level of public participation is highly dependent on level of public awareness and vice versa
The communicative adequacy of headlines from two online newspapers in Tanzania
(2021) Nasibu, Musa
The advent of internet has made it possible for people to read online newspapers rather than their print versions. It is expected that a newspaper headline should be optimised to meet the communicative expectations of its online readers. However, some newspaper headlines do not communicate adequately in the digital environment. This study sought to examine the communicative adequacy of headlines in twoonline newspapersin Tanzania. The objectives of this study were to: determine the communicative functions of newspaper headlines in the digital setting; examine the communicative principles ofnewspaper headline design in the digital setting; explain the clickbait features which online newspaper editorial teams use to design headlines for their digital publications and determine the online newspaper headline clickbait features with the significant impact on news selection and readership. This study was guided by the relevance Theory by Sperber and Wilson (1986/1995) that defined a newspaper headline as the relevance optimiser of its story. The research employed the mixed research method and analytical crossectional research design. The study involved the population of 10 online newspapers in Tanzania and 31,000 online newspaper readers. From the population, the study used the sample of 2 online newspapers and 100 online newspaper readers. The current enquiry usedthe computerized systematic random sampling to obtain a sample of 259 front page headlinesfrom 730 headlines that had been published by The Citizen and Mwananchionline newspapers from July 2017 to June 2018. The researcher used a guided questionnaire and a checklist in the course ofdata collection. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 was used to analyse the quantitative data whereas thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. In this study there were four major findings. First, the study revealed that 69.9% of the twoonline newspaperheadlines examined performed the primary communicative function by summarising the articles they represented. Secondly, it was revealed that the editors of the two newspapers under this study largely observed the principles of designing the appropriate newspaper headlines. Thirdly, it was revealed that the editorial teamsexploited the standard words length per headline with short headlines but they rarely exploited the clickbaits of question, negative sentimental words, and self-referencing. Lastly, it was revealed that headlines with negative and positive sentimental words, concepts and names of high news-value, and headlines without signal words had the significant impact on newspaper readership in the digital environment. However, readability, literal and non-literal constructions, and characters of headlines had no significant impact on newspaper readership. This study was significant to linguists,online journalists, bloggers, website designers and marketers as these fields deal with communication. The quantitative approach and analysis made it the first study to explicate the communicative adequacy of headlines from two online newspapers in Tanzania.The study recommended the online editorial teams of the two Tanzania newspapers to design their headlines by putting into consideration of the environment of their digital publications.From this study, it was concluded that The Citizen and Mwananchi newspaper headlines could not adequately communicate with their headlines because they were still observing the traditional functions and principles of printed newspapers in the digital environment.
Female characters’ resistance to masculine stereotypes in Asenath Odaga’s selected novels
(2021) Sigera, Moses Okea
The study explores resistance to masculine stereotypes as depicted in Asenath Odaga’s selected novels with the idea that the female characters resist and reject the masculine stereotypes resulting from the deep-seated patriarchal organization of the African society. Stereotypes against women exist in literary texts and the society as well. The study exposes the masculine stereotypes that exist and therefore provides a platform for resistance against such stereotypes which have always frustrated women’s liberation owing to the presence of deep-seated patriarchal underpinnings. The specific objectives that guide the study are to: analyze the masculine stereotypes targeting female characters, examine literary style in female characters’ resistance to masculine stereotypes and investigate the thematic concerns in female characters’ resistance to masculine stereotypes. The research employs the theories of gynocriticism and radical feminism. Gynocriticism theory as fronted by Elaine Showalter was invented in 1979 and it seeks to establish a literary tradition of women without incorporating male authors. It advocates for setting an independent tradition for female writers that does not incorporate androcentric assumptions; in other words, setting as a rational methodology of dealing with the woman writer as a genius intellectual who produces textual meanings. Gynocriticism is therefore concerned with identifying topics and themes in literature written by women. Radical feminism as espoused by Ti Grace Atkinson was founded in the 1970s and it attributes women’s suffering to patriarchy. It calls for the total overhaul of patriarchy and oppression. The study is based on analytical research design. The study area is restricted to two novels written by Asenath Bole Odaga, Between the Years (1987) and Endless Road (1995) since they are against masculine stereotypes. The target population consists of the two novels purposively sampled from the six that the author has written as at the time of study. The sample size is determined by taking 30% of the six novels. The primary data is sourced from the two novels while secondary data is from library and online research. Data is analysed through close reading and textual analysis. Data is presented in continuous prose. The study is significant in bridging the gender gap that feminists are not trying to out- power men but are engaging in a quest for humane relations. The study of gender representation is an occasion to show the injustices meted against women and it demonstrates how women have been portrayed through gender stereotypes which eventually influence the treatment of women in the entire world and suggests a remedy for fairness. The study has established the presence of gender stereotypes against women, it has also shown how female characters circumvent the stereotypes by having an emboldened stance against male dominance and further the study has gone ahead to present how Asenath Odaga depicts women characters at the end, denoting the triumph of the female gender against the masculine stereotypes.

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