Browsing by Author "Mwea, Caroline Wandiri"

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    China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Debt Sustainability in Africa, Kenya
    (Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies (JAIS), 2025-06) Akombe, David Onchwari; Kinyua, Lazarus Ngari; Mwea, Caroline Wandiri
    This article reports results of an investigation on China’s Belt and Road Initiative in Africa. Two main questions were investigated, including; how relevant is the Belt and Road Initiative in Africa to Kenya’s Development aspirations? And what are the risks of the Belt and Road Initiative to Kenya’s debt sustainability? The study used a mixed method approach with a convergent design to examine the contributions of the BRI to Kenya’s development agenda and the risks the initiative poses to Kenya’s debt sustainability. This data was used to discuss findings using Hegemonic Stability theory and dependency theory. The study established that the BRI in Kenya promotes the country’s development goals in areas of infrastructure development, industrialization, promotion of the agricultural sector, and job creation, which has a direct impact on the economic growth. The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), is meant to make an immense contribution to the economy. However, given the challenges faced by the project, such as underutilization, low economic output, and running expenses, its impacts might take longer than expected. It was established that the SGR, even though not responsible for the current debt vulnerability in the country, its unproductivity contributes to debt challenges. Thus, the study recommends a thorough independent feasibility test for any other expensive BRI project before construction.
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    Evaluating the Effectiveness of Police Reforms in Enhancing National Security in Kenya
    (Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies (JAIS), 2024) Mudale, Roba Dabassa; Mwea, Caroline Wandiri
    National security has evolved to encompass not just military threats but also societal issues impacting public safety. Police play a crucial role in maintaining order, but recent years have seen calls for reform due to concerns about use of force and racial bias. The study investigated the relationship between police reform and national security in Kenya, through an evaluation of the effectiveness of specific reforms like community policing, body-worn cameras, de-escalation training, civilian review boards, and banning no-knock warrants. The study acknowledged the challenges of implementation, including resource constraints, institutional resistance, community skepticism, political influence, and the uncritical adoption of foreign models. Measuring the success of reforms on national security presents difficulties. Defining national security is complex, and attributing change to specific reforms is challenging due to concurrent social and economic factors. The study employed a longitudinal case study design to examine the impacts of police reforms in Kenya. Data collection involved a mixed methods approach, utilizing quantitative data on crime statistics through surveys and qualitative data through interviews, focus groups and document analysis. The analysis revealed positive outcomes from reforms, including improved community relations, strengthened accountability, and technological advancements in policing. However, challenges like incomplete implementation, public skepticism, and external socioeconomic factors limit the full realization of these reforms. The study emphasizes the need for sustained commitment, fostering public trust, and addressing root causes of crime to ensure a safer and more just Kenya.
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    Role of Parliamentary Diplomacy in Legislative Harmonization and Enhancement of Regional Cooperation: Case of The East African Legislative Assembly
    (Centre for Democracy, Research and Development (CEDRED), 2023-09) Ogolo, Erick Owino; Mwea, Caroline Wandiri
    The role of parliamentary diplomacy in legislative harmonization and enhancing regional cooperation, as exemplified by the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), is pivotal in facilitating the integration and development of the East African Community (EAC). EALA, comprising elected representatives from six East African partner states, serves as a critical platform where rigorous debates, negotiations, and the exchange of ideas take place to align legal frameworks and policies. This harmonization not only fosters a conducive environment for regional cooperation but also promotes transparency, accountability, and public participation in the legislative process. Through parliamentary diplomacy, EALA bridges political divides, builds mutual understanding, and contributes to the sustainable development and prosperity of the East African region, highlighting its essential role in advancing the goals of regional integration and cooperation in an interconnected world. The study examined how parliamentary diplomacy contributes to the process of legislative harmonization and the enhancement of regional cooperation within the EALA, using a mixed methods approach. The study found out that there is a crucial role of parliamentary diplomacy; there are persisting challenges in harmonization; there is greater contribution to regional cooperation and there is need for continuous investment and dialogue. In conclusion, the study underscores the vital role of parliamentary diplomacy in promoting legislative harmonization and regional cooperation within the EALA and the broader EAC. EALA's parliamentary diplomacy efforts have proven effective in aligning legal frameworks, fostering transparency, and building trust among member states. However, challenges such as varying levels of commitment and implementation issues persist and require continued attention. The recommendations offered in the study are crucial for enhancing the impact of parliamentary diplomacy within EALA and the EAC. Strengthening diplomatic training and capacity building programs will equip parliamentarians and officials with the necessary skills to navigate complex negotiations effectively. Consistency in implementing harmonized legislation, along with enhanced monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, is essential to bridge the gap between policy formulation and actual implementation. Promoting inclusivity by involving a broader range of stakeholders and engaging the public through awareness campaigns can bolster transparency and accountability in regional cooperation efforts. Lastly, sustained dialogue and consultations among member states are vital for addressing disparities and ensuring a shared commitment to the goals of regional integration and development.