Browsing by Author "Gitahi, Stephen"

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    The effect of public debt on private investments and economic growth in Kenya (1980-2013).
    (2015) Kamundia, Susan .W.; Gitahi, Stephen; Mwilaria, Shadrack
    The Kenya vision 2030 aims at achieving a 10 percent per annum growth rate in the economy. Investments have been identified as a major channel through which this objective can be met. The government has undertaken various public investments to fuel economic growth. However, for this to be even more effective, private investments have to be taken into consideration. The government has taken various measures such as relying more on external debt to avoid crowding out private investments and consequently promote economic growth. Despite these efforts, private investments and economic growth have remained low. This study aims at finding out what the effect that public debt has on the level of investment and consequently on economic growth. The study will use time series data from 1980 to 2013. Autoregressive Distributed Lag modelling will be applied in the estimation of the model as it works with both I (0) and I (1) variables. Granger causality test will be used to determine the presence and direction of causality between public debt and economic growth.
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    Ficus Sycomorus: Ecological, Cultural, and Medicinal Insights into a Timeless Tree
    (A Multidisciplinary peer-reviewed Journal, 2025-02) Muthee, Eunice Wothaya; Ngugi, Mathew; Gitahi, Stephen
    Ficus sycomorus, commonly known as the sycamore fig, is a large deciduous tree native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. It plays a crucial ecological role in riparian zones, supporting biodiversity and preventing soil erosion. Historically, the tree has held significant cultural and spiritual importance, particularly in ancient Egypt and various African cultures, where it symbolizes fertility, protection, and nourishment. Medicinally, Ficus sycomorus has been utilized for centuries, with various parts of the tree—such as the fruit, leaves, bark, and latex—employed in the treatment of numerous ailments, including gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory issues, wounds, and diabetes. The medicinal properties of the tree are attributed to its rich phytochemical composition, which includes flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds, responsible for its antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic activities. The anti-inflammatory effects of Ficus sycomorus, in particular, have been highlighted in scientific studies, demonstrating its potential in managing chronic inflammatory diseases through mechanisms such as the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, enzymes, and oxidative stress. Despite threats from habitat destruction, the tree's resilience and ongoing cultural and medicinal relevance underscore the importance of its conservation and further research. This paper explores the ecological, cultural, and medicinal significance of Ficus sycomorus, highlighting its multifaceted contributions to both nature and human well-being.
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    Warburgia Ugandensis and Croton Dichogamus: Possible Botanical Bullets against Callosobruchus Maculatus
    (A Multidisciplinary peer-reviewed Journal, 2025) Katoo, Athanas Alexander; Ngugi, Mathew; Gitahi, Stephen
    Botanical pesticides, derived from plant products, have gained significant popularity as an alternative to conventional synthetic insecticides. These natural products often consist of various bioactive compounds that offer effective pest control and may reduce the chances of pest resistance. However, challenges such as variation in pest response, short residual activity, and difficulties in large-scale production hinder their widespread use. This paper explores different generations of botanical pesticides, focusing on their chemical composition, modes of action, and applications. First generation botanical pesticides, including nicotine, rotenone, essential oils, sabadilla, and pyrethrum, are discussed, along with their associated limitations. The second-generation botanical pesticides, such as Melia extracts, synthetic pyrethroids, and neem products, are presented as more specific and environmentally friendly alternatives. Furthermore, the insecticidal potential of Croton dichogamus and Warburgia ugandensis, two East African plants, is examined. Both plants possess promising phytochemical properties that show potential for controlling pests like Callosobruchus maculatus in stored grains. This review highlights the ecological and economic value of these plants in pest management strategies and the sustainable use of plant-based pesticides.