School of Business and Human Resource management

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Determinants of m-pesa paybill adoption a mong safaricom m-pesa customers in migori town
(2018-12) Odhiambo, George Odhiambo; Odada, John Ernest
The study sought to investigate the effect of literacy, customer awareness, and perceived security on M-Pesa pay bill adoption in Migori Town. The study assumes that there are challenges and constraints that limit the adoption of M-Pesa pay bill adoption. The study is significant as it seeks to generate knowledge and provide insight to firms and consumers as they may seek to enter into the mobile money services like M-Pesa pay bill. The study was guided by three specific objectives which include, establishing the relationship between the literacy level and M-Pesa pay bill adoption in Migori Town; to investigate the relationship between customers’ awareness and M-Pesa pay bill adoption in Migori Town and to determine the relationship between perceived security to information and M-Pesa pay bill adoption in Migori Town. The study adopted descriptive research design. The design was perceived to be the most appropriate as it allows the researcher to collect data from respondents and make inferences from the data. The researcher used questionnaire as the primary tool for data collection. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to make sense of the data which was presented in tables. Data was analyzed using Mult-Regression tests generated from SPSS version 23. The study found that literacy level had a positive effect on M-Pesa pay bill adoption while consumer awareness was found to have a negative effect. Perceived security was found not to significantly affect M-Pesa pay bill adoption. The study recommends that customers should be trained on M-Pesa pay bill technology and perceived risk issues addressed by stakeholders. Literacy levels on technology should be enhanced to ensure successful M-Pesa pay bill adoption.
Effect of Public Procurement Principles on procurement in Government Secondary Schools in Kisumu East sub-county, Kenya
(2017-11) Tindi, Peter Otieno
Public procurement has been evolving for all 21st century firms, a trend that became more rapid at the turn of 1990s as the Government of Kenya (GoK) adopted new regulations in majority of the sectors and departments within firms came under increasing pressures to deliver much better results at optimum levels of funding. Yet, despite the evolution witnessed in public increase in Kenya the effect of public procurement in government schools in Kenya studies targeting procurement in Public secondary schools are scant. Data in Kenya, however, reveal that there are fundamental problems in procurement in Kenyan secondary schools on the matter of procurement, especially inflation of tenders, use of relatives, bribery and non-delivery of goods to the institutions. The few studies that have explored this relationship have majored on government institutions procurement on general basis, in addition to past studies to develop relationships for policy in Kenya. This study sought to bridge this apparent gap by investigating the effect of public procurement in government schools in Kisumu East County using a sample of 240 respondents attained using simple random sampling from the accessible population. Data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found that transparency, competitiveness, accountability and ethics positively influence procurement in government secondary schools in Kenya. Inferential statistics results, nonetheless, revealed that competitiveness significantly influences procurement in government secondary schools in Kenya. Based on these findings, therefore, the study recommends that despite enhancing transparency, competitiveness, accountability, and ethics in procurement in government secondary schools, much more emphasis should be placed on competitiveness to achieve the best results in the course of government school procurement.
Influence of corporate governance practices on financial distress of firms listed at the Nairobi securities exchange, Kenya.
(2020) Manduku, Ogwoka Geoffrey
Interest on corporate governance has been stimulated by a number of factors, including the collapse of major corporations in the world. Financial distress precedes corporate failure and when prolonged it results in loss of wealth of shareholders, diminishes the confidence of investors in the economy and also creates socio economic problems. This study was based on the agency theory, the resource dependence theory and the stewardship theory. It sought to establish the influence of corporate governance practices on financial distress of companies listed at the Nairobi Securities Exchange. To achieve this overall objective, the study analyzed the influence of board structure, board composition and ownership structure on financial distress of firms listed at the Nairobi Securities Exchange. Additionally, the study sought to investigate the moderating influence of financial leverage on the relationship between corporate governance practices and financial distress. The study used secondary data derived from the audited financial statements and annual reports of companies for a ten year period from 2008 to 2017. This study was undertaken using an ex-post facto explanatory research design. A census of all the 65 firms listed at the Nairobi Securities Exchange provided the data for the study. Panel regression analysis techniques and descriptive statistics were used to analyze data. The t-test was used to determine the significance of the model and also test hypothesis. The study found out that board composition, in terms of board independence, had an inverse but important influence on financial distress, whereas in terms of board diversity it had a direct but significant influence on financial distress. The study established that board structure had a direct but significant influence on financial distress when measured in terms of board activity. The findings also indicated that board structure, in terms of board tenure, had an insignificant influence on financial distress, whereas in terms of board size it had an inverse but significant effect on financial distress. Further, the regression results established that the ownership structure had an inverse and important influence on financial distress when measured in terms of institutional ownership, managerial ownership and block ownership. Besides, the study found out that financial leverage had an important moderating influence on the relationship between board independence, board diversity, board size, board tenure, board activity, block ownership, institutional ownership and financial distress. However, regarding the relationship between managerial ownership and financial distress, the moderating influence of financial leverage is not important. Based on these findings, this study recommends among other things, the need to institute board compositions that reflect high levels of independence and gender diversity. Moreover, corporate stakeholders should ensure that board structures reflect large boards in terms of size. Additionally, corporations should put in place ownership structures characterized by high proportions of block, managerial and institutional shareholding. Since financial leverage was an important moderator, there is need for corporate stakeholders to take account this factor when setting their corporate governance practices parameters
Effects of dividend payout on financial performance of listed agricultural firms in Kenya
(2017-11) Seda, Jessica Oyweka
Several Theories have been documented on the relevance and irrelevance of dividend policy. An interesting issue, not yet explored, is the empirical evidence of effects of dividend payout on financial performance. Financial performance has always been considered as a primary indicator of dividend payout ratio. There are various other factors other than financial performance that may also affect dividend decisions of an organization namely growth opportunity, Liquidity, Leverage and Firm Size. Available literature suggests that dividend payout is positively related to profits, liquidity and it has inverse relationship with Firm size, growth and Leverage. This research is an attempt to analyze the effects of dividend payout on financial performance on Kenya Agricultural sector, it focused on identifying effect of dividend payout variables as per literature on financial performance of Agricultural sector in Kenya in existing scenario or not. Statistical techniques of correlation and regression were used to explore the relationship between key variables. Thus, the main theme of the study was to identify the various variables of dividend payout and how they affect financial performance of Agricultural firms in Kenya listed on Nairobi Securities exchange. The study covered the period from 2008-2012. The objective of the study was achieved by trend analysis of dividend payout variables and using multiple regressions because it is the best method to use when dealing with micro-units in the economy. Panel data, cross-sectional time series data from financial reports in NSE libraries and CMA libraries was collected and stored in Microsoft Excel 2007, data analysis was carried out using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 17.0. The results show positive relationships between dividend payout and financial performance. The results also show negative associations between dividend payout and firm’s growth, Firm size and leverage. The study further recommends studies on major causes of instability of dividend payout in agricultural firms listed in NSE and contribution of dividend payout to delisting of firms from NSE though it’s a requirement for firm’s to be listed.
Effects of contract farming on the financial performance of sugarcane farmers in Migori county: a case study of south Nyanza sugar company, Kenya.
(2016) Onyango, Kennedy Odhiambo
In the last five years, the performance of the sugar industry has continued to face several challenges some of which include; high cost of production characterized by operational inefficiencies. Previous studies have expressed diverse views on whether there is correlations between contract farming and financial performance, with some researches arguing that contract farming affects financial performance of sugarcane farmers while others researches oppose this argument. The main objective of this study was to examine effects of contract farming on financial performance of sugarcane farmers in Migori County, with the focus on contracted cane farmers of South Nyanza Sugar Company limited, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study was to determine the effects of cane pricing method on sugarcane productivity, examine effect of cost of extension services on financial performance of cane growers, examine effects of delay in payment of cane proceeds on sugarcane profitability, and determine effect of delay in harvesting on profitability of sugarcane in Migori County. A stratified sampling technique was used to divide contract farmers according to the five sectors i.e Sector I, II, III, IV and V. Simple random sampling was used to select farmers from each strata. Slovins’s formula was used to calculate an appropriate sample size from a population (n= n/1+n (e 2 )). Data was collected using a structured questionnaires, consisting mainly with closed ended questions. Quantitative data was analysed through percentages and mean and multiple regression using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, and presented in tables and figures. The study was motivated by the conflicting views of the previous researchers on the effect of contract farming on the financial performance, with others researchers citing strong positive relationship between contract farming and the financial performance while others oppose the argument. The study concluded that contract farming is having a negative effect on financial performance of sugarcane farmers in Migori County. The study recommended the need to re-examine cane pricing based on tonnage, a rethink of cost of extension services on offer and an enhancement of supervision of the same, and a need to sensitize farmers to develop earlier maturity cane variety so that the turnaround time is reduced.
Perceptions on new media influence on insecurity among the youth in Rongo sub county, Migori county, Kenya
(2020) Nyang’wecha, Kennedy Onyango
Today, New Media (NM) has become part and parcel of human life. New Media has invaded the society to the extent that people have become unconscious of its presence and influences. Social Networking sites are a novel technology that must be embraced because of the way in which they have benefited the users such as communication, interaction, and entertainment. New media are mainly used by the youth to create and share content. Despite the significant contributions of these media, there is evidence that they have adverse effects in the society such as promoting theft cases, violence and drug abuse. This thesis examined perceptions on New Media influence on insecurity among the youth in Rongo Sub County, Migori County, Kenya. The objectives of the study were three: (i) to investigate the commonly used New Media platforms by the youth in Rongo Sub County, (ii) to find out why the New Media platforms are common among youth, (iii) to establish whether the use of New Media by youth can be linked to criminal activities. The study was grounded on Uses and Gratification Theory (Katz, 1974) that underscores the level of gratification derived by the youth (users) when engaging in social media platforms in the context of new theories of technologies that allows for interactivity where youths get exposed to various kinds of content including criminal content. In terms of content scope, the study was concerned with the perceptions on New Media influence on insecurity among the youth. The geographical scope focused on Rongo Sub County while the time scope was between August 2018 and February 2019. Methodologically, the study used mixed method research approach. The study used survey to examine the perceptions on New Media influence on insecurity among the youth in Rongo Sub County. The target population was 615 youth with a sample size of 92 youth between 20-40 years of age both men and women. The study focused on the youth because majority of smartphone owners are youth therefore they could easily access Social Media. Data was generated using Key Informant Interview and questionnaires, and thereafter analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 23 and presented in sections according to the research questions. Findings were presented using descriptive statistics like bar graphs, frames, figures, and frequency tables. The researcher found out that WhatsApp is the most commonly used New Media followed by Facebook and YouTube. Secondly, the researcher found out that these new media platforms are common among the youth because of relatively high exposure to cell phones finally; the researcher found out that the use of New Media by youth has a direct link to insecurity. The researcher recommends that new media use should be regulated and there should be a responsible administrator to regulate what is being posted to the public domain. The researcher also recommends that the government should create awareness on the negative influence of the new media and impose high fines on those found guilty of using new media wrongly.
Relationship between work-life balance practices and employee performance in Homa bay county teaching and referral hospital, Kenya
(2023) Orwa, Philip Auka
Work-life balance practices are positive relationship between work and other equal vital activities in life. Inadequate work-life balance practices pose big risks to the employees‟ well-being. The broad objectives of this study is to determine the relationship between work- life balance practices and employee performance in HomaBay County Teaching and Referral Hospital ( HBCTRH), while the specific objectives include; to determine the relationship between flexi-time and employee performance, to establish the relationship between telehealth and employees‟ performance, to determine the relationship between job-sharing and employee performance and to establish the relationship between compressed workweek and employee performance. The study determines the roles played by particular aspects of work-life balance practices in examining employee performance in HBCTRH. The theories underpinning the investigation are Vroom‟s expectancy theory and Spillover theory. The study has adopted explanatory survey design, Stratum sampling technique is used to select 254 employees who are the respondents from the target population of 696 employees from HBCTRH and Yamane formula (1967) is adopted to drive the required sample size of 254 respondents. The respondents were 227 employees which constitute a response rate of 89.4%. The study has utilized structured questionnaires to gather primary data. The study has adopted the use of a pilot study at the rate of 10%. Cronbach‟s Alpha test is adopted to test the reliability of the questionnaire and the findings of the reliability test were as follows; flexi-time 0.634, telehealth 0.617, job-sharing 0.620 and compressed workweek 0.707. The data were analyzed using an inferential statistics method of Pearson correlation analysis to determine the relationship between work-life balance practices and employee performance in Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital. The study shows that, there is a positive relationship between flexi-time, telehealth, job-sharing and compressed workweek and employee performance in HBCTRH. The study concludes that, work-life balance practices are related to employee performance in HBCTRH. Findings of this investigation are expected to guide policy on work-life balance practices to eliminate work-life imbalances at the workplace and to improve employees‟ performance. The study recommends that Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital should emphasize the application of worklife balance practices to enhance employee performance. Further investigation should be considered in other major health institutions in the 47 Counties of Kenya to establish if there could be variability in results.
Diversification, firm size and competitiveness of commercial banks in Kenya
(2021) Owino, Moses Otieno
Commercial banks in Kenya have achieved mixed levels of Competitiveness despite each engaging in one form of diversification or the other. It is evident that the banks have established multiple service branches across different geographical locations of Kenya, invested in other asset types besides the loan book and pursued new revenue streams alongside interest. The broad objective of this study was to investigate the effects of diversification on competitiveness of commercial banks in Kenya as moderated by firm size. Specifically, the study was to evaluate, establish and determine the effect of geographical, income and asset diversification, respectively, on Competitiveness of Commercial banks in Kenya. It was also to establish the moderating effect of Firm size on the relationship between diversification and Competitiveness in that context. Competitiveness of the banking sector is a significant study area as it forms part of the key indicators of economic performance of the country. Besides, this, diversification has been touted as a critical avenue for boosting the survival and expansion opportunities of any enterprise. The study was based on Expost Facto research design anchored on a positivist philosophical paradigm. Panel data of the study variables covering a ten-year period from 2009 to 2018 was collected using document analysis guide. Thirty-six commercial banks operating in Kenya out of 42 registered ones were covered. In the study, income and asset diversifications were both measured using adjusted Herfindahl-Hirschman index (HHI). Geographic diversification, firm size and competitiveness were measured using number of branches, natural logarithm of total assets and customer deposits, respectively. Data analysis for both descriptive and inferential statistics was undertaken using EViews Statistical software. Study hypotheses were tested by conducting F test on the models and t tests on the regression outputs. The findings were that both geographic and income diversification had positive and negative statistically significant effect on commercial bank competitiveness respectively, while asset diversification had not. It was concluded that while geographical diversification positively influenced commercial bank competitiveness income diversification had a negative influence. Asset diversification emerged as having no effect on competitiveness, though firm size moderated this relationship significantly. The relationship between geographic diversification and competitiveness was also significantly moderated by firm size. It was recommended that commercial banks in kenya should monitor their market and expand to new geographical locations within the country where unbanked market potential exists. Attempts to diversify income streams by banks leads to reduction of customer deposits and should therefore be avoided. Firm size diminishes the gains of geographic diversification and activates the effects of asset diversification on competitiveness of Kenyan commercial banks.
The influence of psychological contract on employee commitment at Migori county government, Kenya
(2021) Kajo, Judith Akinyi
Employee commitment is an important aspect of an organization, and an organization must satisfy employees’ psychological contracts to have fully committed employees. Nevertheless, most employees have a predominantly transactional psychological contract yet most studies have focused more on employee turnover rather than their psychological commitment to work. Therefore, the study sought to examine the influence of PC on employees’ commitment at the Migori County Government. Specifically, focusing on the influence of content-oriented framework on employee commitment, feature-oriented framework on employee commitment, evaluation-oriented framework on employee commitment, and moderating influence of leadership styles on the relationship between psychological contract and employee commitment at the Migori County Government. The study applied Herzberg’s Two-factor Theory and Lawler Porter’s Expectancy Theory. The explanatory and descriptive study design was used based on a quantitative approach. Cluster and systematic sampling techniques were used to select 281 respondents from a target population of 945 staff in four sub-counties of Migori County. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires; directly administered by the researcher to the target respondents. Frequency tables were used to present the findings. The data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods of correlation and regression analyses. Statistical assumptions tests were carried out before data analysis to avoid the invalidation of statistical analysis. Hypotheses were tested at a 5% level of significance. The results revealed that: there was a significant influence of content-oriented framework on employee commitment (p-value =0.00<0.05); there is a significant influence of feature-oriented framework on employee commitment (p-value =0.00<0.05); there was a significant influence of evaluation-oriented framework on employee commitment (p-value =0.00<0.05); and LS has a statistically significant moderating influence on the relationship between psychological contracts and employee commitment. The study concludes that: content-oriented and feature-oriented frameworks positively influenced employee commitment, evaluation-oriented negatively influenced employee commitment, and leadership styles moderated the influence of psychological contracts on employee commitment; therefore, concluding that there was a significant influence of psychological contracts on employee commitment at Migori County Government. The researcher recommends that Migori County Government should consider ensuring: content-oriented framework indicators are applied in the recruitment and orientation processes, employees are well informed and assured of employment stability, realistic job previews that contain a detailed description of relevant job aspects are done, and leadership styles would provide a conducive environment for employees’ growth and development. It should also conduct semi-annual surveys on employees’ psychological contract
Effects of Safaricom M-Pesa system on efficiency of customer bill payment in Kisii County
(2014-12-01) Okenyuri, Nyakeyo, Lucy
M-banking, have been available in developing as well as developed countries for several years, but it is not until recently that new modalities of applying M-banking have started to diffuse rapidly to previously unbanked people. The objectives of the study were to determine the effect of M-Pesa bill payment transaction costs, accessibility, security and convenience of the bill payment system on efficiency of Safaricon customers in paying bills. The study covered Safaricom subscribers in Kisii County, Kenya, due to the fact that the county has a high population and adopted a quantitative research design. Data was collected by use of a well structured and pre-tested questionnaire from a sample of 235 respondents. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data collected from the field. Multiple Regression Analysis to show the cause effect relationship among variables. This study established that M-pesa bill payment transaction cost has an effect on customer’s efficiency in payment of bills, accessibility of payment points was likely to result to an increase in customers’ efficiency, while security and convenience of the system has an effect on efficiency of bill payment. The study recommends that transaction costs should regularly be revised with a view to maintaining them at affordable levels so that customers can continue enjoying the M-pesa payment system which is affordable for them, financial incentives be used by the service provider so as to encourage more vendors to provide the service and hence continue making the service accessible to as many customers as is possible. Further, security of the service should be paramount so as to lock out con men that tend to target illiterate and old customers and several service providers should adopt the Mpesa bill payment system so that customers can have the convenience of paying all their bills using this system
Effect of lean manufactiring on organizational performance: a case of South Nyanza Sugar Company, Awendo Kenya
(2018) Kunyoria, Joseph Ogora
Due to the present business landscape that is characterized by global competition and high cost pressures, both of which have motivated companies to take a global approach to their supply markets, lean manufacturing has become a common practice among organizations worldwide. The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of lean manufacturing on organizational performance in Sony Sugar Company, Awendo, Kenya. The study objectives were to establish the effect of elimination of waste on organizational performance, to examine the effect of intellectual knowledge on organizational performance, to determine the effect of an Andon on organizational performance, to establish the effect of technology adoption on organizational performance in Sony Sugar Company, Awendo, Kenya and to establish the moderating influence of organizational culture on the relationship between lean manufacturing and organizational performance. The study population was 371 who were HoDs, Divisional HoDs and Supervisors of Sony Sugar Company in nine departments with a sample size 79 out of 371 targeted population. The study used correlation research design and questionnaires were used as tools for data collection. Quantitative data was analyzed descriptively using percentage, frequencies, mean and standard deviation. Inferentially, Pearson Correlation coefficient and use multiple regression analysis were used as analysis tools to test for significance among various hypotheses. Quantitative techniques were used to analyze the data with the assistance of SPSS software program version 22. Five hypotheses were formulated and subsequently tested to establish the influence organizational culture. It was therefore concluded that there is a regression relationship between lean manufacturing combined with organizational culture and organizational performance implementation. The study found that elimination of waste; intellectual knowledge; andon and technology adoption were individually predictors of organizational performance with andon being the most significant predictor. The study established that organizational culture was a moderating factor in the study. The results support the current theories related to the study. Consequently, this study provides manufacturing organizations with insights of how they can develop a competitive edge through the implementation of lean manufacturing. This study therefore, recommends that factors associated with lean manufacturing need to be considered by firms in their performance strategic plans as they have significant impact on performance. Both the government, private sector should design a way of empowering the employees on the need to be equipped with lean manufacturing practices so as not to affect its implementation since the finding indicated that the strength of relationship of lean manufacturing and organizational performance depended on organizational culture. Quarterly production and customer satisfaction reports should be filed in order to track the quality of products and services delivered and the extent of customer satisfaction with a view of increasing profit and market share through the application of lean manufacturing practices. Suggestions for further research. A study can be replicated in a larger number of sugar companies and in more counties. This may account for any environmental factors that may exist in any one county and improve the generalization of the results. A study can be carried out to investigate the influence of other factors like “pull” production and lean manufacturing, just-in-time, total quality management and production smoothing on organizational performance
Strategic determinants of destination competitiveness: a case of western tourist circuit, Kenya
(2018) Owiyo, Viola
Kenya’s western tourist circuit is undoubtedly the country’s best kept secret. However, in spite of this, the circuit is one of the least competitive as most tourists prefer coastal beaches and selected protected areas. The purpose of this research was to establish the strategic determinants of tourism destination competitiveness in Kenya’s Western Tourist Circuit. This study was grounded on and guided by Ritchie and Crouch (2003) model of destination competitiveness. The variables under study were: destination attractors, support resources, destination management and safety and security. The objectives of the study were: to examine the effect of destination attractors on destination competitiveness, to establish the effect of support resources on destination competitiveness, to determine the effect of destination management on destination competitiveness and to examine the effect of safety and security on the relationship between destination competitiveness determinants and destination competitiveness. Explanatory research design was used to gather information while convenience sampling technique was used to arrive at a sample size of 102. Closed-ended questionnaires were used to collect data with key respondents being tourists. Multiple regression analysis was used to test hypothesis and deduced models that explained the strategic determinants of tourism destination competitiveness. Destination attractors were found to positively and significantly affect destination competitiveness whereas destination management and support resources had a negative though insignificant effect on destination competitiveness. Safety and security had a negative moderation on relationship between destination management and destination competitiveness and a positive moderation effect on the relationship between destination attractors and destination competitiveness, with effects being significant. However, Safety and security did not significantly moderate the relationship between support resources and destination competitiveness. The study recommends the following: a strong spirit of partnership and collaboration between all stakeholders to realize the potential of the destination inorder to maximize available resources. There’s need to upgrade the competitive position of the circuit by improving its image and creating awareness both at local and international levels. There’s also need for destinations to manage and organize their resources efficiently inorder to provide a unique tourist experience that outperforms alternative destination experiences. The study also serves the purposes of providing updated knowledge on theories, concepts, ideas and empirical studies on competitiveness in the context of tourism destination competitiveness. Further research can be carried on critical issues in the competitive process, competitive forces at the at the destination level. Future studies can also broaden the geographical scope by sampling the remaining seven circuits and within those circuits, sample many destinations. This would help understand tourists’ choice and loyalty for particular destinations. Finally future studies can try and identify the strengths and weaknesses in the destinations within the seven circuits which in turn will help develop correct positioning strategies.
Influence of human resource practices on performance of part time lecturers in public universities in Kenya: a survey of rongo and kisii universities
(2018) Bett, Julie Chepkoech
In Kenya, public universities employ a large number of part-time lectures due to shortage of full time lectures. However studies have shown that part-timing can be counterproductive. Factors that have led to increased usage of part time lecturers are that they less costly and flexible. According to the Commission for University Education, the universities should adopt and practice prudent human resource practices. Previous studies in Kenya have not explored the issue of part time lecturers. This study aimed at investigating the influence of human resource practices on the performance of part-timers in Rongo and Kisii Universities. Specifically, the study sought to establish the influence of recruitment and selection, training and development and employee compensation of part time lecturers. This study was guided Goal-setting theory, Expectancy theory, and Human Capital theory. Empirical review was done in line with the study objectives. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. The target population comprised of 740 part-time lecturers across all schools at Rongo and Kisii Universities. Using Taro Yamane statistical formulae for determining sample size, the tabulated sample comprised of 260 respondents who were proportionately allocated based on the schools in the respective universities. The study collected primary data using a closed ended questionnaire based on a 5-point Likert scale. The validity and internal consistency of the questionnaire was ascertained by Cronbach Alpha method which ascertained 0.7. The data collected was analyzed by use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics were analyzed by using regression, correlation and anova, mean and standard deviation. Inferential statistics were analyzed thematically. Regression analysis was undertaken to determine the influence of each variable and their combined influence on performance of part time lecturers. The results were presented on pie chart, bar chart, percentage and tables. The study established that compensation (r = 0.444) and recruitment and selection (r = 0.318) positively influenced performance of part-time lecturers. Further, it was established that employee training and development of lecturers (r = 0.070) had insignificant influence on performance of part-time lecturers. The R2 value of 0.63362 implied that 63.36% of the variations in performance of part-time lecturers could be explained by the variations in independent variables. The study concluded that the influence of recruitment and selection on performance of part time lecturers in Rongo and Kisii Universities had positive influence; the influence of training and development on performance of part-time lecturers had the least positive influence on performance of part timers; influence of employee compensation on performance of part time lecturers had positive influence. While training and development had the least positive influence on performance of part-time lecturers. The study recommends that on recruitment and selection on performance of part time lecturers in Rongo and Kisii Universities the universities should establish effective and structured recruitment and selection processes. On the influence of training and development the study recommended induction programs for part-time lecturers to align skills and experiences with university routines objectives. On employee compensation on performance of part time lecturers in Rongo and Kisii Universities the study recommended development and implementation of competitive compensation packages.
Cost of extension services and its effect on profitability of sugar millers: a case of south nyanza sugar company, Kenya.
(2017) Odhiambo, Elly Omondi
The performance of most companies in the sugar industry in Kenya over the years has been an issue of great concern to the management, stakeholders and the Government. The main objective of this case study was to examine the cost of extension services and its effect on profitability of Sonysugar Co. Ltd, and the Kenya sugar sub-sector as a whole. The specific objectives was to investigate how land preparation costs, seed cane supply costs, cane maintenance costs, cane harvesting and transport costs affects the profitability of Sonysugar Co. Ltd. These extension services include land preparation, seed cane supply, cane maintenance, cane harvesting and transport. The study was occasioned by the persistent decline in profitability of most millers and their constrained cash flows despite concerted efforts to reverse the situation. The study area for this research was Sonysugar Co. Ltd, the target population was 491 employees from Finance and Agriculture departments, the population was stratified according to the departments and a purposive sampling technique was used to pick the respondents from each strata, sample size of 150 employees was used for this study. The study used both primary and secondary data. The primary data was collected through structured questionnaires and interview schedules while secondary data was collected through document analysis. The collected data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics .The study findings revealed that land preparation costs, seed cane supply costs, harvesting and transport costs affects negatively the profitability of Sonysugar Co. Ltd, on the contrary the study also revealed that cane maintenance costs positively affects profitability of the company, the results of this research can be used to give more insights into the perceived cost implications on the profitability of millers. Emphasis should be made to review extension services so that while farmers continue to get the best out of these services, the company is also able to operate profitably. The study recommends that emphasis should be made to review land preparation activities, seed cane supply services, harvesting and transport activities as the study found that they indeed reduces profitability of Sonysugar Co. ltd, this could possibly be achieved through outsourcing, focus of the company should not be much on extension services but rather on the company’s core function of improving the milling capacity, the company’s working capital should not be constrained by subsidiary activities such as extension services, besides, there is need for the company to identify new ways that can be used to claim money owed to it by cane farmers so as to eliminate the issue of bad debts. The financial performance of the millers is likely to improve and thus be more attractive to prospective investors if these recommendations are considered for implementation.

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