Browsing by Author "Simiyu, Kennedy Njasi"

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    Evaluating the Role of Public Relations in Communicating Legislative Processes to the Public in Embu County
    (Daizy Wawira Rutere1 Kennedy Njasi SimiyuDaizy Wawira Rutere1 Kennedy Njasi Simiyu, 2024-06-10) Rutere, Daizy Wawira; Simiyu, Kennedy Njasi
    This study evaluates the role of public relations (PR) in communicating legislative processes within Embu County, Kenya, focusing on how PR practices influence public awareness. The primary objectives were to identify the communication channels utilized by the PR office, assess public engagement during legislative processes, and evaluate the effectiveness of these PR strategies. The target population included Embu County residents aged 18 and above, encompassing diverse socio-economic and demographic backgrounds to capture varied perspectives on PR effectiveness. A descriptive research approach was employed, utilizing both random and purposive sampling to select participants for questionnaires and interviews, resulting in a sample size of 400 respondents, including county officials and members of the general public. Grounded in Stakeholder Theory and Agenda- Setting Theory, this research analyses the impact of social media and traditional media on public communication efforts. Data collected from questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative insights were derived from the content analysis of interviews. The study revealed a significant gap in awareness regarding legislative processes among stakeholders, with 58% of respondents indicating a lack of information about how and when these processes occur. Additionally, 55.5% of participants reported being only somewhat or moderately aware of legislative activities, with some confessing to limited participation. Factors contributing to this stakeholder ignorance include inadequate communication from the county government and insufficient public sensitization efforts. The findings emphasize the need for enhanced communication strategies to educate the public effectively. This study recommends improving the website's functionality, leveraging traditional media for broader outreach, establishing robust feedback mechanisms, and implementing public sensitization campaigns. Furthermore, capacity building for PR practitioners and comparative analyses with other countries are suggested to identify best practices in fostering public participation in governance.
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    The Role of Mathare FM in Fostering Social Inclusion within Mathare Slum, Nairobi, Kenya
    (American Journal of Engineering Research, 2024-06-10) Maina, Stephen Ndirangu; Simiyu, Kennedy Njasi
    This study probes the influence of Mathare FM on promoting social inclusion within the Mathare slums. The significant problems addressed are underrepresentation and minimal awareness of marginalized groups, which contribute to social exclusion in the larger urban fabric of society. The main objective of the research is to explore how Mathare FM offers representation to marginalized groups, raises awareness about social issues, rights, and opportunities, and examines the insight of Mathare FM listeners on the station's influence on their social inclusion. The study lays ground through cultivation theory and social identity theory, which help analyse the impact of Mathare FM in fostering visibility, creating awareness of social issues, ensuring inclusivity and giving a voice to Mathare slum residents. A descriptive research methodology using qualitative data collection and analysis methods sought to provide an understanding of the role of Mathare FM radio in fostering social inclusion among the residents of the Mathare slum. The study findings reveal that Mathare FM has a significant stake in the Mathare slum community. The data reveals that a massive percentage of the residents, 88%, feel that Mathare FM represents them and amplifies their voices. The findings indicate that 34% of the listeners tune in to get informed, solidifying the ability of Mathare FM to raise awareness of the issues of the Mathare community. 92% of the respondents indicate satisfaction with the efforts made by Mathare FM in promoting social inclusion. The recommendations on these findings include engagement through interactive events and activities to promote community engagement, building on local content to ensure cultural relevance, and making use of digital platforms to improve on reach and associated impact. Implementation of these recommendations will solidify the vital responsibility of Mathare FM as a tool for social inclusion and representation of marginalised groups. The study indicates that community radios are significant players in social inclusion efforts and a voice for marginalized groups, serving as a model for comparable setups.