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4th International Conference
(KIBU, 2019) Kibabii University
Academic competence as a personal factor influencing resilience in school adaptation among children in post war context
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Makila, Leonita Makutsa; Marecia, Sirera; Wasanga, Christine
Academic competence is indispensable in influencing resilience among children acting as a buffer that protect them from psychological distress. This study examined the role of academic competence in enhancing resilience in school adaptation among children in post war context using a sample of children aged 9 to 21years. Resilience Models and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) were used to guide the study. Academic competence was measured at by Interviews, Focus groups and teacher reports to capture children’s’ narratives on war experiences and academic competence. Children’s academic competence was assessed using Academic competence Scale (ACS), adapted and modified. Descriptive t-test was used to analyze Quantitative data while qualitative data was analyzed thematically by use of interpretative phenomenological analysis and presented in verbatim. The results showed that majority of the children were low in academic competence at 95% confidence level. Only four items, namely; “I can work hard”, “I can do well in school”, “I can improve my reading ability”, and “I know how I want to be”, found to be at 95% confidence level. The study indicated that depleted personal resources as a result of experiencing traumatic events early in life (such as war), can pose a tremendous challenge in school adaptation. The study illustrated the necessity of interventions in post war context.
Accounting control practice and financial performance of small and medium enterprises in Eldoret town, Kenya
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Nanjala, Lydia; Manini, Muganda Munir; Kamau, Charles
Small and medium enterprises are an important component in the economy worldwide; providing employment to over 5.9 million people and accounting for over 98% of all businesses in Kenya. Many small and medium enterprises owners do not have formal financial management training and usually have limited resources hence face problems with regard to accounting control practices. The main objective of the study was to examine the influence of accounting control practices and firm size on the financial performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Eldoret town, Kenya. Specifically the study sought; to determine the influence of cash controls on financial performance of small and medium enterprises in Eldoret town; to establish the influence of revenue controls on financial performance of small and medium enterprises in Eldoret town; to examine the influence of inventory controls on financial performance of small and medium enterprises in Eldoret town and to examine the moderating influence of firm size on the relationship between accounting control practices and financial performance of small and medium enterprises in Eldoret town. The study adopted descriptive survey research design and was based on Stakeholders theory. The target population was 300 Small and medium enterprises owner/managers who were beneficiaries of Equity Bank Financial Knowledge for Africa (FIKA) Programme operating in Eldoret town. 171 owner/managers were sampled and selected by use of stratified random sampling. Data was collected by use of structured questionnaire. Validity of research instruments was determined using test re-test. Cronbach’s alpha was used to measure internal consistency with alpha coefficient of above 0.70 being considered reliable. Data was analysed by use of descriptive and inferential statistics. At 5 % significance level the results indicated a significantly strong positive correlation between cash controls and financial performance (R = 0.563 > 0.5, p = 0.001< 0.05). A significantly strong positive correlation between revenue controls and financial performance (R = 0.546 > 0.5, p = 0.001< 0.05). A significantly strong positive correlation between inventory controls and financial performance (R = 0.587 > 0.5, p = 0.001< 0.05). The study recommends that the managers of enterprises should ensure proper management of cash for the prosperity of the firm. The SMEs should establish a revenue control department with resources proportionate to the size of the organization. A firm needs to establish a sound inventory control system for determining inventory re-order and stock-levels. The managers of enterprises should work towards expanding the capacity of their businesses to be able to reap from the economies of scale.
Achieving competences for sustainable development and sustainability: analysis of the role of transformative learning at university level
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Toili, William W.; Toili, Emmanuel; Toili, Mary Muyoka; Songok, Ruth
Kenya’s education system has often been criticized for its inability to prepare learners for their lives out of school and even out of university. In particular, the graduates from our universities are criticised by the society at large for lack of intuition and creativity. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the extent to which university academic programmes, policies and instructional strategies and practices used in Kenya are an adequate means of achieving educational as well as societal transformation with regard to sustainability. The problem is necessitated by the lack of focus in Kenyan universities on transformation as a fundamental learning outcome, particularly for programmes that resonate with the communities the universities are expected to serve.The problem seems not to do with the content of the curriculum, but with the manner in which the curriculum is delivered to the learners. This calls for creativity and innovativeness on the part of the universities. The use of more innovative instructional approaches that are interactive lead to transformative learning that enables students to change their ways of thinking and to become more productive, creative, and engaged citizens. Such students willingly contribute to the intellectual, cultural, economic and social transformation of the communities they serve. The case study research design will be used focusing on four selected universities: Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology; St. Paul’s University; University of Nairobi; and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. The design will be augmented with the analysis of CUE standards and guidelines, academic programmes, practicals and university policy documents. In addition, questionnaires, field observations and interviews in the context of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will be employed. The findings will indicate the need for the use of innovative teaching and learning strategies in fostering transformative education and sustainability. The findings would contribute to the current discourse on implementation of education for sustainability (EFS) through transformative university education.
Adoption of ICT disposal and refurbishing center in public universities in Kenya
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Kapukha, Rose Nakhanu
ICT industry is growing at a very fast rate. Its economic activities has found its way into almost all the sectors such as Education, Health, Industrial, Trade and Communication sectors among others. These has led to unprecedented high rates of consumption coupled with enormous growth of ICT electronic devices such as personal computer, mobile phones, tapes, floppy disks, CDs and other devices. These devices however have a short lifespan. The rapid growth in the high rate of obsolescence of ICT devices is due to the technological advancement as devices reaches its end of life, disposal challenges arise. When devices no longer satisfy the initial user’s needs, they should not be assumed that they are in poor operational condition or has become obsolete. Their lifespans should instead be extended through reuse by other users. In most cases, these devices are thrown away as any other waste. However, these devices require proper disposal mechanisms which include recycling and refurbishing. This paper therefore looks at the need for disposal and refurbishing centers in Kenyan public universities. Survey research design was used in the study. The target total population was 385 from two public Universities and one University Constituent College. Through purposive and simple random sampling 111 respondents were selected based on Nassiuma 2000 Method. The data collection instruments were observation, interview and questionnaires. The specific analysis methods were frequencies, percentages, Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis. The findings of the study indicated that public Universities have major challenges in disposal of electronic waste and there is also lack of proper disposal mechanism. The study henceforth concludes that disposal of electronic waste is a challenge to universities. It recommends that universities need to set up a disposal and refurbishing center.
An alternative Sustainable Source of Protein for Humans and Animals
(KIBU, 2019-06-13) Nuwemuhwezi, Gershom
Entomophagy, the consumption of insects, is promoted as an alternative sustainable source of protein for humans and animals. Seminal literature highlights predominantly the benefits, but with limited empirical support and evaluation. We highlight the historical significance of entomophagy by humans and key opportunities and hurdles identified by research to date, paying particular attention to research gaps. It is known that insects present a nutritional opportunity, being generally high in protein and key micronutrients, but it is unclear how their nutritional quality is influenced by what they are fed. Research indicates that, in ideal conditions, insects have a smaller environmental impact than more traditional Western forms of animal protein; less known is how to scale up insect production while maintaining these environmental benefits. Studies overall show that insects could make valuable economic and nutritional contributions to the food or feed systems, but there are no clear regulations in place to bring insects into such supply systems. Future research needs to examine how the nutritional value of insects can be managed systematically, establish clear processing and storage methodology, define rearing practices and implement regulations with regard to food and feed safety. Each o f these aspects should be considered within the specifics of concrete supply and value chains, depending on whether insects are intended for food or for feed, to ensure insects are a sound economic, nutritional and sustainable protein alternative – not just a more expensive version of poultry for food, or soya for feed.
An analysis of brand equity and its influence on customer satisfaction of a football team among female fans in public universities in Kenya
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Sirai, Chebet Sylvia; Kirwa, Tecla
The increasing competition in the business sector requires that teams that are involved in developing the brands come up with brands that consumers can easily differentiate from those of the competitors to make their brand stand out. Football teams rely on fans for their success, providing income through ticket sales, television viewing and purchasing team branded products. Yet this area remains unexplored in Kenya hence the researchers desire to assess the influence of brand equity on customer satisfaction of football team among universities female fans in Public Universities in Kenya. The specific objective to be undertaken for the research was:To examine the influence of brand awareness on customer satisfaction of a football team among female fans in public universities in Kenya. The study adopted explanatory research design to determine the influence of brand equity on customer satisfaction of a football team. A target population of 1846 respondent was investigated. A sample of 319 was then used for the study. Stratified and snowball sampling techniques were employed. Semi-structured questionnaire was used as instrument of data collection. Content validity was measured through expert judgment while reliability was measured by use of Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient method at p<0.05. The data obtained was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics comprising of chi-statistic, multiple regression analysis and Anova. The objective sought to determine the influence of brand awareness on customer satisfaction among female football fans in public university. The p-value of the test statistic was p=0.009 since the p-value is less than the chosen level of significance (0.05), the null hypothesis is rejected. The study recommends to football that they should design fitted jerseys for female fans with appealing colors and teams should sign world class players to ensure good performance. Keywords: Brand Equity, Brand Awareness, Customer Satisfaction
Analysis of fecal coliform levels at watering points along the upper reaches of river Isiukhu in Kakamega County, Kenya
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Kindiki, Sarah; Wekesa, Clabe; Sifuna, Anthony; Siamba, Donald; Kollenberg, Mario
Diarrheal diseases often attributable to poor sanitary conditions and fecal contamination of drinking water remain a leading cause of mortality for children younger than 5 years. Diarrhea is a symptom of infection caused by a host of bacterial, viral and parasitic organisms most of which can be spread by contaminated water. Water contaminated with human feces for example from municipal sewage, septic tanks and latrines is of special concern. Animal feces also contain microorganisms that can cause diarrhea. Kakamega County in Kenya has a diarrhea prevalence rate of 20.2%, which is the highest in the country and a good proportion of these cases are believed to be water borne. This study designed to determine fecal coliform levels in water samples collected from watering points along the upper reaches of River Isiukhu in Kakamega County in order to assess the level of water contamination by fecal matter. Duplicate samples, 54 in number were collected between August and October 2015 from 9 sampling points comprising springs and watering points along the river. Water samples (100ml) were filtered on nitrocellulose filters by vacuum filtration. Fecal coliform count was done using membrane filters cultured on mFC agar to establish contamination levels. The results indicated that counts ranged from 200cfu/100ml - 1450cfu/100ml in river sampling points and in springs counts ranged from 0cfu/100ml - 44cfu/100ml. The fecal coliform counts for River Isiukhu and most springs surrounding it exceeded the WHO recommended drinking water coliforms or E.coli count value of 0 cfu/100ml concluding that water from the upper reaches of River Isiukhu and spring is not fit for drinking before treatment especially during wet seasons based on the WHO drinking water standard and the water quality.
An analysis of socioeconomic factors affecting avocado production around Lake Victoria Basin of Kenya with special emphasis on flooding and its implications
(KIBU, 2019-06-13) Ouma, G; Odhiambo, G; Musyimi, D; Oyunge, D; Wagai, S
Climate change which is caused by global warming has become a very important aspect of agricultural production in the world. Some of the impacts of climate change are rising temperatures, droughts, flooding and intense winds. In sub-Saharan Africa these impacts have become increasingly devastating to Agriculture and food security situation as the impacts increase in magnitude and frequency. Avocado (Persia americana) is a very important world crop due to its nutritional and health importance. In Kenya it has become a very important crop but its production is limited by flooding among other factors. Studies were conducted in the Lake Victoria Basin Counties of Busia (Bunyala), Muhoroni, Nyando and Rachuonyo to investigate the socioeconomic factors and flooding on Avocado production. Questionnaires, focus group discussions, key informants’ interviews and desktop reviews were used to collect. Data collected were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Scientists, outputs such as frequencies, percentages etc were interpreted and reported in this paper. The objectives were to find how flooding, human capital and other socioeconomic factors such as gender, age, farmer education affect Avocado production in the five sub- Counties of Rachuonyo, Nyando Muhoroni, Bunyala, and Samia. The results showed that human capital affected all decisions of Avocado production in input purchase, rootstock selection, establishment, harvesting and marketing. It is concluded that in flooded areas in these Counties, Avocado production is affected by root diseases (Phytophthora cinnamon). In all aspects human capital, farmer education, extension services contribute to farmer’s abilities to adopt new technologies for increased crop productivity.
Analysis of the aspect of drama in swahili play kitumbua kimeingia mchanga
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Ndung’u, Jackson
UtafitihuuumeongozwananadhariayautendajiiliyoasisiwanaWallaceBaconilikubainishaikiwatamthiliayaKitumbuaKimeingiaMchangailiyoandikwana S.A. Mohamedimezingatiakigezokikuukatikamatinizakidramaambachoniuwezowakuwasilishwajukwaaniaunimajibizanoyausemitu.Katikautafitihuutumevitathminivipengelevinavyochocheanakufanikishautendajiwatamthiliakwenyejukwaa.Maelekezoyajukwaa,mandhari, maleba, miondoko, sauti, uangazaji, kimyanamihimilinivipengelevyautendajiambavyohuwawezeshawaigizajikuwasilishaujumbewamwandishikwenyejukwaa.Utafitihuuumejaribukubainishajinsivipengelehivivinavyofanikishauwasilishajiwaujumbekwenyejukwaana pia kutajakwaufupidhimazinazofungamananamatumiziyavipengelehivi. Utafitihuuulihusishakusomamakalanakutumiwakama data yautafitihuuambayobaadayeilichanganuliwanamwishowekuelezeamatokeokwakutumiambinuyakimaelezo. Utafitihuu pia ulihusishaukusanyajiwa data mojakwamojakutokamaktabani. Mahali pa utafitipalikuwanimaktabakatikavyuovikuupamojanamaktabayakitaifanchini Kenya nakundilengwalilikuwatamthiliayaKitumbuaKimeingiaMchanga. Inatarajiwakuwautafitihuuutakuwamchangomkubwakwajamiiyawasomihasawanaoshughulikiautendajinavipengelevyakidramakatikafasihiandishi
Assessing 30 years historical climate data and its implication on livelihoods in Kapsokwony division, Mt. Elgon Sub -County, Kenya
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Bonzemo, Sindani Bon
Mountain ecosystems represent unique areas for the detection of climate change and assessment related impacts. Highlands are warming faster than lowlands.People living on the margins of the forested part of the MEE are particularly vulnerable to extreme climate events in addition to widespread poverty and marginalization.The overlapping climate change impacts in the region include declining crop yields, increased surface temperatures, altered precipitation regimes, increased poverty levels, degradation and decimation, prolonged drought and increase in waterborne diseases Little has been done in tracking indigenous and new scientific technologies that can be used by farmers in the study area to address impacts of climate variability and climate change on food security, poverty levels and health of subsistence farmers. An interdisciplinary research team together with community actors will work together to achieve state of the art solutions to complex societal problems based on different scientific and non – scientific (epistemic) knowledge to improve livelihoods and sustain economic development in the region. The research findings will include new transformation knowledge, community empowerment, capacity building, new policy measures, and adaptive governance strategies which will be achieved through participatory and collaborative learning. The results obtained during this research to be used to enhance resilience, influence policy formulation, and institutionalize practice responses and sustainable adaptation to climate change adverse impacts.
An assessment of features of school culture influencing student deviance in schools within Bungoma County, Kenya
(KIBU, 2018-06-14) Nabiswa, Janet; Misigo, Bernard L; Korir, Daniel
Whereas many schools have been known to exhibit strong school cultures that seem to drive academic excellence, deviant behaviour in schools continues to be a matter of global concern. Knowledge of the role school culture plays in mitigating deviance is vital for any prevention programme yet this has been missing. The purpose of this study was to address this gap by examining influence of features of school culture on student deviant behaviour in secondary schools of Bungoma County, Kenya. A sample size of 79 was used from a study population size [N] of 504 composed of school management staff in secondary schools of Bungoma County. The mixed research design that comprised of concurrent triangulation, correlation and phenomenology was employed. Multiphase and stratified sampling was used to select schools. Purposive sampling was used to select school management staff. The data for the study was obtained through questionnaires and interviews. Descriptive statistics: cross-tabulations and frequency tables together with inferential statistical analyses: Chi square and simple linear regression analyses were used to analyze the data. The study established that all the sampled features of school culture were being applied in schools within Bungoma County. Chi-square tests revealed a significant relationship between features of school culture and student deviant behaviour prevalence in Bungoma County schools. Regression analysis revealed a weak to moderate relationship between features of school culture and deviance levels. The study concludes that school culture influences student deviant behaviour prevalence. The study recommends that alleviation of student deviant behaviour in Bungoma county schools requires formulation of school cultures that ensure engagement of partnerships both within school and family environments as prescribed by Bronfenbrenner’s model. The findings give an empirical backing to educational policy makers in addressing school culture as an important variable among contributors to student deviance.
Assessment of guidelines on continuous assessment tests and its influence on academic performance in secondary schools in Bungoma County, Kenya
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Wanjala, C; Maiyo, Julius K; Wepukhulu, R.
Management of academic programmes in schools is key to effective realization of schools’ objectives. Principals and teachers are the planners and managers of activities that take place in schools. The purpose of this study was to establish whether guidelines provided in schools on continuous assessment tests influence student academic performance. The study was guided by signaling theory. The theory posits that, one party, the sender, must choose whether and how to communicate (or signal) information, and the other party, the receiver, must choose how to interpret the signal. The theory applied to this study since it describes two parties who were the continuous assessment tests managers and the students. The study employed descriptive survey design. The target population was eighty three principals (83), eighty three teachers (83) and one thousand eighty hundred and ninety-nine (1899) form four students. To select samples, stratified and simple random sampling techniques were used to ensure equal representation of sub county, county, extra county and national schools. The school principals and teachers were selected using purposive sampling technique, while in mixed schools, respondents were selected using stratified sampling techniques to ensure gender equality. The study utilized questionnaires and interview schedules as tools for data collection. To test for reliability and validity of the research tools, a pilot study was carried out on two schools in the county which were not used in the main study. The two schools chosen were in the category of County and Sub County because they constitute majority of the schools in the County, therefore samples likely to give representative information on the variables under study. A reliability coefficient greater than 0.75 was accepted for the study. The responses in open ended items were reported in descriptive narrative. The data collected was analyzed by the use of descriptive statistics namely frequencies, percentages and inferential statistics which involved Chi-square test and Binomial test. The study found out that most schools were provided with guidelines for tests which significantly influenced students’ academic performance while a small percentage of the schools in the county did not provide guidelines. The conclusions made from the study were; schools in the County had come up with their own test guidelines, the principal as the manager of the school influences the provision of continuous assessment tests for academic performance and that secondary schools experience a lot of challenges in relation to tests. It is recommended that schools be given uniform test implementation guidelines.
Assessment of teacher trainees in teaching practice and sustainable teaching profession in reference to Trans-Nzoia County
(KIBU, 2017-06-14) Okebiro, Gilbert Nyakundi; Wamalwa, Kijana; Chemiat, Agnes
Assessment of teacher trainee in Teaching Practice (TP) is the last training of teachers in Teacher Training colleges and Universities. Teaching Practice is done by assessors who had the previous training of the same from such colleges and the criterion is followed worldwide. The problem is that some universities located in Trans-Nzoia are using unqualified/untrained assessors to assess students in TP. The consequence is poor assessment which eventually leads inadequately prepared teachers. The assessors send are administrators/ coordinators who are employed as full timers because the part time lecturers are not allowed to assessor and claim for allowances from the university. The objective of the study is to investigate who the assessors are; what are their qualification and training and the challenges the teacher trainees go through during TP assessment. The research applied survey method and interview technique collecting data from teacher trainees in Teaching Practice in Trans-Nzoia County through simple random sampling in secondary schools where teacher trainees were attached from various universities. The target population was two hundred and sample size was fifty. The key results indicate that assessors harass the teacher trainees, since they are administrators working in offices not having the content and methodology or pedagogy in assessment. The universities management sends administrators to assess student trainees because no full time lecturers. It is concluded that poor assessment done lead to half-baked graduates who lead to poor standards and low quality of education in Kenya. It is recommended, the universities follow the assessment criteria of assessing student trainees done three times by one lecturer of methodology and two teachers of subjects of student trainees subject of specialization of major and minor for three sessions in TP.
Automatic vehicle barrie rcontrol and logging
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Kibet, Gideon; Shitsukane, Aggrey
Information management system has become an important part of our daily lives. Today, many vehicles are acquired and bought and this means that traffic management is becoming more and more complex. When vehicles are bought they are assigned identification numbers usually present in a plate that is fixed to both front and back of the car. Normally, vehicle logging is done manually by a gate attendant involved in noting down the vehicle’s registration number, type of vehicle, and time of entry before allowing vehicle entry to the premise. The vehicle is logged out when exiting in a similar manner. Automation of vehicle logging process at the gate as well as controlling a barrier to allow the vehicle to pass through is prototyped to supplement manual system which is usually a tiresome monotonous and quite unreliable process. To accomplish this automation task, cameras, sensors, microcontrollers and an image processing are integrated. A vehicle at the gate is detected then a series of processes are initiated to take the details of the vehicle before allowing it in or out through the gate by opening and closing a barrier. By automating the process, the various setbacks and limitations encountered with the use of the manual systems are eliminated. Such drawbacks include, erroneous and inaccurate logging of vehicle information, unreliability of the human element in a system, as well as poor time management. An automated system will ensure that control and logging of vehicles is done accurately and in time efficient manner. Use of such a system will eventually translate to social and economic development because more time and resources will be focussed on a much crucial sector in the society and less focus will be on minor elements such as getting past a manned gate or entry point.
Availability of school facilities and their Influence on students’ academic achievement in public day secondary schools in Kisii County, Kenya
(KIBU, 2017-06-14) Mogaka, Malach; Kariuki, Samson Ikinya; Ogeta, Norbert
The study intended to investigate availability of essential school facilities and their influence on students’ academic achievement in public day secondary schools in Kisii County. The study was guided by the Education production function model. The study adopted a correlational research design which involved students and teachers from the 246 public day secondary schools in Kisii County. The target population was 75,977 subjects comprising of 73,554 students and 2,423 teachers in public day secondary schools in Kisii County. The sample size was 350 students and 50 teachers totaling to 400 subjects. Data collection was done by use of student questionnaire Document analysis guide and Teachers Interview Guide. Data collected were both quantitative and qualitative. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlational statistics and multiple regression. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically and were reported as direct quotations. Findings from the analyzed data were presented as tables, pie charts and graphs. The study found out that most facilities needed for teaching and learning were available in most public day secondary school in Kisii County .These facilities ranged from recommended course books and set books, basic laboratory equipment, classrooms and libraries. Among the facilities that were not available in almost all schools were libraries. The study indicated that availability of school facilities alone did not influence students’ academic achievement.
The balance between entrepreneurial motive and provision of quality education by managers of private primary schools: A case of kitale municipality schools
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Ndemo, Onsomu Richard
The purpose of this study was to establish “the balance between entrepreneurial motive and provision of quality education by managers of private schools” from which little research has been undertaken. The study adopted Quantitative survey design and data analysis centered on descriptive statistics and inferential statistics was used to analyze data. The findings of this study are expected to contribute knowledge that will help Educational planners and policy makers formulate strategies that will enable Proprietors put mechanisms of ensuring the profit motive does not override the quality of education provided by managers of private primary schools. The study adopted the theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to explain the extent to which attitudes of individuals toward entrepreneurial acts influence their entrepreneurial intentions. Stratified sampling was used to stratify Private primary schools, Simple Random sampling was used to sample Teachers from private primary schools while Purposive sampling was used to sample Teachers and School Proprietors from private primary schools. The target population for this study was School Proprietors/Managers, Head teachers and Teachers. The researcher used questionnaires, interview schedule and observation check list for collecting data for this study. Descriptive statistics that was used include mode, mean and frequency while inferential statistics involving ANOVA tests and Regression Analysis since the study sought to establish the balance between entrepreneurial motive and provision of quality education by Mangers of private primary schools. These findings will impact on policy development with regard to private participation on private primary schools.
Board characteristics and financial performance of listed manufacturing and allied firms in Kenya
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Manini, Muganda Munir; Abdillahi, Umulkher Ali
The manufacturing sector in Kenya contributes significantly to the economic development of both developing and developed economies. The government in in its Big 4agenda seeks to raise the share of manufacturing sector from nine to 15 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP) and create1.3 million manufacturing jobs by 2022. However, the percentage contribution of manufacturing sector to the gross domestic product and merchandise exports has stagnated. Further, the financial performance of the Kenyan manufacturing sector has been depreciating. The weak performance is attributed to low investments due to weak corporate governance practices in Kenya. The main objective of the study was to examine the influence of board characteristics on the financial performance of listed manufacturing and allied firms in Kenya. Specifically the study sought to examine the influence of board size, board diversity and board independence on financial performance of listed manufacturing and allied firms in Kenya. The study was based on the Stakeholders theory. In order to meet the objectives of this study an explanatory research design was employed utilizing a quantitative approach. The target population of the study comprised the ten listed manufacturing and allied companies on the Nairobi Securities Exchange. Through purposive sampling, seven listed manufacturing and allied firms were selected for the study. Audited annual reports for the ten year period from 2008 to 2017 were used. Data reliability was ensured by use of audited reports. Documentary evidence was employed by collecting the relevant information from the annual reports by use of a document schedule. The panel data fixed effect estimation model was applied for the data analysis. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and classical linear regression modeling. At 5% significance level the fixed effect result indicated board characteristics constructs namely board size, board diversity and board independence had a significant effect on the financial performance of listed manufacturing and allied firms in Kenya. The study recommends that listed manufacturing firms should enhance theirboard size, board diversity and board independence as the study found a significant relationship between board characteristics and financial performance. The results of the study have significant managerial and theoretical implications. Keywords: Board Characteristics, Corporate Governance manufacturing and allied firms, Big 4 Agenda, Kenya
Bukusu cultural ideas, values and practices on reproductive health
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Bifwoli, Sylvester Wakoli; Otieno, Ahaya; Wepukhulu, Rispah
This study sought to determine the attitude of the Bukusu Roman Catholic Christians towards the use of Assisted Reproductive Technologies through getting views from the Bukusu elders, clergy, and the health providers from the region and the Roman Catholic faithful from the Bukusu community. The purpose of the study was to document attitudes among the Bukusu Roman Catholics in Bungoma County towards the use of Assisted Reproductive Technologies. Empirical study from past scholars and researchers was highly depended on that it paved way for the research gap that was filled by this study. The study was guided by conflict theory that was proved to hold during the study. This theory says that, “the data that shall be used in the provision of the study as analytical framework from which the researcher will argue in favor or against the norms”. The study design used a cross-sectional, descriptive research design. Data was both quantitative and qualitative that was analyzed through the Statistical Package for Social Sciences to yield descriptive statistics that was represented in tables and figures. Analysis of the response from the elders and the hospitals revealed that the use of Assisted Reproductive Technology was highly embraced by the people. On the other hand, the church exhibited a dichotomy in its attitude towards ART.
Challenges and mitigation measures on feeding programmeof vulnerable learners in early childhood development centres: a case of Kisumu Central Sub-County, Kenya
(KIBU, 2018-06-12) Margaret Ger, Margaret; Wafula, Robert
Early childhood education is an important stage in learning since it forms the foundation in which knowledge acquisition is laid. Its success is emancipated in the completion of the approved course by the learners; however, there has been indication that there is generally low completion rate among the ECDE learners especially the vulnerable group. Feeding of the vulnerable learners while at school is envisaged to be important in promoting enrolment, retention and eventual completion of ECDE programme. The objective of this study was to investigate the challenges and mitigation measures of feeding programmes in ECDE centres, with regard vulnerable learners. The study was guided by Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory. It employed a descriptive survey design. The sample consisted of 62 lead ECDE teachers and 20 head teachers; questionnaires, interview schedules and observation checklist were used to collect data. The findings of the study show that, although a significant proportion (89.1%) of the ECDE centres in Kisumu Central Sub-County had feeding programmes, most of them were poorly equipped and understaffed; both Government support and community involvement were low and inadequate. However, it was established that several measures including effective mobilization of stakeholders, development of school Income Generating Activity (IGA), proper planning and use of locally available foodstuffs were identified as possible measures to promote the programme. It is hoped that these findings, apart from enriching the existing knowledge, it may be used by the relevant policy makers to improve the programme.

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