MST-School of Applied Human Sciences

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This collections contains bibliographic information and abstracts of Master theses and dissertation in the School of Applied Human Sciences held in Kenyatta University Library

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Assessment of the physical education learning resources in selected secondary schools in Uasin Gishu District.
(Kenyatta University, 1990) Simiyu, Wyclif!e W. Njororai
The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between the provision of physical education learning resources and each of the following variables, namely school location, sponsorship, gender, nature, sch901•~.age, enrollment financial allocation to physical education activities and the level of emphasis on physical educarion in the school. Forty secondary schools were randomly selected on a stratified basis from all the secondary school in Uasin Gishu District of the Rift Valley province of Kenya. There were representative samples of the school categories in terms of location, gender, sponsorship and school nature. A Questionnaire was used in the data collection for the sample schools selected. In each school, the Heaq of physical education department, or in his absence the Games Master filled the first part of the Questionnaire. The Head Teacher or the deputy filled the second part. The data collected was analysed using computer following the Statistical Package mor Social Sciences (SPSS) programme. The type of computer used was International Computer Limited (ICL) 75402 system. Three stages were fol~owed in the analysis. A descriptive analysis of the raw data was carried out. A Chi-square test was then used to test the foru1ated hypotheses. A contigence coefficient was calculated to test the magnitude of the re1ation~hips. The over-all research design was expost factor. The findings revealed that the factors of location, financial allocation, schooi enrollment, and level of emphasis on physical education in the school had significant relationship with the availability of a wider variety of outdoor facilities, equipment and maintenance of the outdoor facilities. Schoo1'sponsorship, gender, and nature of the school revealed no significant relationships with resource provision. The school age factor revealed only one significant re1a1ionship with equipment availability otherwise, it had no significant relationship with other resources namely reading materials and facilities. Indoor facilities and the reading materials were significantly inadequate in the majority of the sample schools. The level of significance at which the stated hypothesis were rejected or not rejected was P«.05. The recommendations based on the findings of this study were that:- the Ministry of Education should inspect and confirm that physical education is actually taught; assist in providing facilities, equipment and reading materials; school management boards to raise funds for acquisition of the resources and that the Kenya Institute of Education should distribute the reading materials they have developed for physical education to the schools at affordable price.
The relationship between intrahousehold food distribution and pre-school children's nutritional status; a case study between low and high income households in Nairobi
(Kenyatta University, 2000) Kakai, Joyce N.; Waudo, Judith N.; Tumuti, D.W.
Child malnutrition is a global concern affecting millions of children, especially those of pre-school age. 'I11e main factor contributing to this situation is preferential food distribution rather than household food security. The major purpose of this study was to investigate how the distribution of food within households affects the nutritional status of the pre-school child. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches where semistructured interview and field observation methods of data collection were used. The target population was the household decision-makers and pre-school children aged between 2 and 5 years. The study was carried out in Kaiyaba Village of Mukuru Slum and Riverbank Estate in South 8, Nairobi. A study sample of 84 subjects (34 household decision makers and 50 pre-school children) were purposefully selected and studied. Data was organised and analysed both manually and by computer using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) programme, yielding descriptive statistics. Anthropometric data was analyscd using the anthropackage, while qualitative data was analyscd qualitatively. Research findings revealed that all households in Riverbank were food secure while 75% of those in Kaiyaba were food insecure. The findings con finned that preferential food distribution existed within households irrespective of their food security status. In both groups mothers ate last, ate less and ate poorer quality food during food scarcity. The young children and fathers were served first and were served better quality food even at times of scarcity. The fathers in both groups were served more feed than any ether member cf L~!!hcusehcld, even during food scarcity. The following factors were identified as influencing intrahousehold food distribution: 1) age, 2) nutritional need, 3) food availability, 4) gender,S) birth order, 6) financial contribution, 7) serving method, 8) presence of visitors and 9) cultural values. The dietary data revealed that the majority (90% in Kaiyaba and 69.3% in Riverbank) of the pre-school children in both income groups consumed unbalanced diets. Anthropometry data indicated that 32% of pre-school children in Kaiyaba were stunted and 14.3% were wasted. On the other hand, only 9% of those in Riverbank were stunted while 8.7% were wasted. However, under-weight cases werepredominant in Kaiyaba which registered the highest number (40.7%) while Riverbank registered only 4.5%. Generally more boys than girls were malnourished in both groups. The t-test revealed that there was statistically significant difference in the mean height-for-weight and height-for-age of pre-school children in the two groups, with that of pre-school children in Riverbank being significantly higher than the one for Kaiyaba at (0.05) level. There was also a positive association between the father's level of education and the pre-school children's nutritional status in both income groups. However, mother's level of education was found to be negatively associated to the pre-school children's nutritional status in the high income group.
The influence of feeding practices on the nutritional status of pre-school children: a case of Ndivisi location, Bungoma District, Western Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2000) Cheloti, Isabella Mulemia; K'Okul, R. N. O.; Tumuti, D.W.
The purpose of the study was to find out child feeding patterns that may have had an influence on the nutritional status of pre-school children. Cluster sampling method was used to select eight villages within Ndivisi location for purposes of the study. Purposive sampling method was used to identify 100 households with children between the age of 6-60 months . Additionally anthropometric measurements of 119 children were taken. Results of the studv show that there was existence of malnutrition among children, with (18.5%) of children between the age of 13-24 months suffering from stunting and (17.6%) within the same age bracket suffering from wasting. Demographic information of the respondents showed that 34% of the households had between 4-6 members, while (32%) of the mothers had only received primary level education. Socio-economic status of the population indicates that very few household heads 22.8% had permanent employment and were thus earning a steady income. Those involved in petty businesses (27%) did not consider it to be employment. The most common illness among the sampled population, was fever with 25.4% suffering from it within the last seven days before the research was carried out. The other common ailment was diarrhea (22.1%.) Child feeding patterns showed that, 70.7% of the mothers stopped breast-feeding their children when they were between the age of 1-2 years, while the most common types of weaning foods given to pre-school children were of the carbohydrate group 41%, the most common being maize meal porridge. Further results showed that (69%) of the pre-school children were subject to taboos related to food, where 51.9% of the children were not supposed to eat meat or drink milk from the eng'enda cow. Correlations carried out on the relationship between nutritional status and the demographic characteristics of the respondents showed that there was a high positive correlation of 0.8 where the significant level p=0.5 between the educational level of the respondents and the weight for age status of pre-school children. There was also a high positive correlation of 0.9 where the significant level p=0.5 between the occupation status of the respondents and the height for age index of pre-school children. From the analysis it is evident that the poor nutritional status of pre-school children could be attributed to lack of steady incomes both by household heads and mothers, low levels of education especially by the mothers, poor weaning and feeding practices of pre-school children and the existence of food taboos. Other likely causes could have been prevalence of illnesses and poor sanitary conditions.
Motivational Factors that Affect Primary Schools Pupil’s Participation in Organized Sports in Shinyalu Division of Kakamega District, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2002) Mukala, Hannington B.
The study investigated motivational factors that affect pupil's participation in organized sport in Shinyalu Division of Kakarnega District. The research examined the most important factors in youth sport, which included interest in sport, perceptions of success in sport and perceptions of failure in sport. Data were collected by survey, which was conducted in nine schools in Shinyalu Division or Kakamcga District. The study sample consisted of 20 pupils from each school, five boys and five girls from class 5 and also five boys and five girls from class 6. Three schools from Shinyalu Division were used for pilot study, but did not feature in the main study. Pupils responded to a questionnaire that focused on three salient factors in children sports, that is; interest in sports, success in sports and failure in sports. The questionnaire, with a three point Likert scale required pupils to tick either "Agree', "Not sure" or "Disagree". Data obtained from the research instrument were analyzed using frequencies, percentages and Chi-square. Findings of the study were as follows: The reported interest of pupils in sport was high, 81.7% of the pupils' agreed to train for selection in the school team. Many of the pupils' (88.3%) agreed that by more training, they will do better in sports. Pupils' reported being attracted to sport for a variety of reasons where learning the sport skills (78.3%) was the core reason. Pupil's reported that they will participate in sport regardless of the results, where never win as a setback to participation in sport had 34.4%. It was reported that participation of pupil's in sports was limited by physiological reasons like exhaustion (63.9%), hunger (47.7% and injuries (62.2%). Pupil's reported that they like playing in a free environment with less restriction like influence of teachers (35.0%) and sport captains (32.8%). From the above findings, the following recommendations were made: 1. Teachers and all those concerned with children sports should maintain and increase children's interest in sports. 2. Teachers and those concerned with children sports should tap, nurture and develop the talent of children. To increase children's participation and performance in sports, emphasis should be laid on the learning aspect of sport, and the other factor will be attained. 4. While offering sport activities to children, all factors which limit participation should be monitored and controlled to avoid withdrawal from sports.
Household food security and nutritional status of children in tea and non-tea producing households in Ndia division of Kirinyaga district.
(Kenyatta University, 2002) Njogu, Eunice Wambui; Ngige, L.W.
The household food security and nutritional status of children in the tea and non-tea producing households was investigated in this comparative study. This study focused on generating food consumption/purchase information from the farmers themselves, in order to achieve the set objectives. The objectives of this study were: to establish how much land was utilized for tea and food crop production; to determine gender involvement in income utilization; to assess nutritional status of children below five years in tea and non-tea producing households; to compare the nutritional status of children below five years in tea and non-tea producing households; to determine the food security status of tea and non-tea producing households and establish the relationship between nutritional status of children and the household food security in Ndia Division of Kirinyaga District. The study was carried out in Ndia Division of Kirinyaga District, and interview and observation guides were used in this study in order to collect data from a sample of 120 households comprising of 60 tea and 60 non-tea producing households. The data collected was summarized and analyzed by the use of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) programme. The qualitative data was organized into categories and then into themes where relationships were determined. Out of the 120 respondents, 116 (96.6%) had obtained education up to the secondary '0' level, while only 4 (3.4%) had achieved education beyond this level. The main source of income for the tea-producing households was sale of tea while the non-tea producing households did not have any specific source of income. Therefore most 37(30.8%), of the tea-producing respondents confessed regularity of their Income while only 7(5.8%) respondents from non-tea producing households confessed regularity of income. However, in both areas decisions on income use were mostly 106(80.8%) made jointly that is, by both spouses. The average size of the land holdings in the two areas was 1.8 acres. According to the results of the study, more than half that is, 37(30.8%) of the tea-producing households devoted half and above of their land to tea production and the other less than half to food crop production. On the contrary, all 60(50%) non-tea-producing households devoted more than half of their land to food crop production. Even with a regular income, the tea producers had more 39(32.5%) children who were malnourished than 15(12.5%) children who were malnourished in the non-tea-producing households. The tea-producing households were at the risk of food insecurity because they relied on purchased food to meet the household food needs. This was evident in the large number of malnourished children in their households and their non-diversified meals. The results revealed a relationship between nutritional status of children and the income regularity that is, whether it was regular or irregular and between nutritional status and the type of crops produced that is, whether tea or non-tea. The government, charitable organizations and the nutritionists have a task to undertake in order to improve the nutritional well being of all the individuals and the society as a whole.
Relationships between the farming practices of small scale Farmers and household food security: a case of Mumoni division, Mwingi district, Kenya.
(2002-07) Kioko, Mativo
This study sought to investigate the farming practices of small-scale farmers in Mumoni Division, Mwingi district; and, to determine how they relate to their households' food security. The specific objectives of the study were: a) To establish the farming practices of the small-scale farmers; b) To investigate the extent of household food insecurity among the small-scale farmers; c) To determine the relationship between selected ~emographic and socio-economic characteristics of the small-scale fanners and their households' food security; and, d) To determine the relationship between selected farming practices and farm-related factors 0f the small-scale farmers and their households' food security. The study was carried out in Mumoni Division, Mwingi district. It was cross -- sectional in nature as it sought to e~tablish the prevailing situation. A combination of probability and non-probability sampling techniques were used to identify the respondents who were drawn from the high and low altitude areas of the division. Individual respondents were identified by use of the area sampling method. A total of 109 respondents were studied. Data were collected by use 0 r interview schedules and observation guides. The collected data were summarised by use of frequencies and percentages. The Pearson product moment correlation was used to determine the strength and direction of relationships between variables while the independent samples t-test was used to compare household food availability means for selected variables. The findings of the study show that the level or technology employed in farming among the respondents was relatively rudimentary with hand tools and especially the traditional hoe being the most commonly used. Oxen ploughing was the only mechanised option available to those who had or could access an ox-plough and draught VI animals. Animal manure, vegetable trash and crop rotation were the major fertility maintenance/ promotion methods reported as used by the respondents. None of the respondents reported using chemical fertilizers in food production Women made up the Illajority 01' the day-to-day managers 01' food production This was partly because 01' the out-migratiou or men to other places in search of employment The farmers concentrated in food crops production mainly sorghum, ! bulrush millets, cowpeas, green grams,_maize and beans. Colton and castor oi] trees, cash crops hitherto C011111l01lclyultivated ill the area had been abandoned due to marketing problems. Traditional agriculture was f(JLJ11dto have a lot of influence on farming among the respondents with a big proportion or them i.c. 60% relying on it as the major source or inlonnation on lill1lling The rC,lS()IISI()J·this were partly because it offered cheaper and less demanding alternatives to other options. Farmers generally begin work ill their farms early with many starting operations such as land preparation and planting before the rains The major constraint reported by the respondents as limiting agricultural production was the erratic rains. Other constraints included lack of essential inputs e.g. seeds; illiteracy, crop pests, inadequate agricuhural extension services, labour COIl,
The role of clothing in developing self-worth• among pre-adolescents: a case of primary schools in Kasarani Division, Nairobi Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2004) Maiyo, Chepchumba Rael; Mburugu, K. G.; Mugenda, Olive M.
Throughout history, clothing has always been regarded as one of the primary needs of a human being and primary needs must be fulfilled before secondary needs are fulfilled. Self-worth, one of the secondary needs consists of self-concept and selfesteem. It is during the pre-adolescent period that a child starts defining self and this determines perception of self-worth. The purpose of this study therefore, was to investigate on issues related to clothing satisfaction of the pre-adolescents and how it influences their perception of self-worth. The objectives of the study were to: determine the pre-adolescent's socio-economic background and demographic characteristics, establish how the pre-adolescents acquired their clothing and factors considered in the selection, establish the extent to which the pre-adolescents were satisfied with their clothing and assess their perception of self-worth, establish the relationship between the pre-adolescent's satisfaction with clothing and their perception of self-worth, and also relationship between clothing satisfaction with variables such as their involvement in clothing selection and their socio-economic background and demographic characteristics. This study was a survey research conducted in six primary schools in Kasarani Division of Nairobi Province, using an interview schedule and an essay. A sample of 144 pre-adolescents was selected by stratified and simple random sampling methods. <; Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analysed. The findings showed that most of the pre-adolescent's parents/guardians were educated, employed and resided in the urban area. The majority of the respondents had their clothing mainly bought for by their parents; open-air markets selling second-hand clothes being where most clothes were mainly bought. Most pre-adolescents were mainly involved in their clothing selection. What is accepted by parents and peers were the socio-cultural factors that always influenced pre-adolescent's clothing selection while size and colour were the most influential among the factors related to clothing characteristics. The majority of them were satisfied with their clothing and attributed size and colour to clothing satisfaction. Most of them had a high perception of self-worth in relation to their clothing. There was significant relationship between clothing satisfaction and self-worth, clothing satisfaction and involvement in clothing selection. No significant relationships were found between clothing satisfaction and variables such school type, gender, age and highest education attained by respondent's mothers. It was concluded that through symbolic interaction with significant others and peer group members, clothing satisfaction plays a significant role in increasing the preadolescent's self-worth and therefore issue such like involvement in clothing selection which affects pre-adolescent's clothing satisfaction should be considered by those involved with pre-adolescents' clothing. For instance parents should involve their children in their clothing selection, school policy makers who deal with school uniforms and designers of children's clothing should always seek the children's opinion when dealing with their designs. Clothing scholars should also emphasize on the symbolic implication of clothing satisfaction to social interaction and its significant role in increasing self-worth, local designers should improve their designs and further research should be done on clothing in relation to other psychological Issues.
Factors associated with reproductive behavior of low income mothers in Kiandutu Slum in Thika District, Kenya.
(Kenyatta University, 2007-09) Kamau, Jane Njeri
The low income mothers are characterized by poverty and yet they seem not to have the desire to limit the number of children they have, hence there was need for a research concerning aspects of their reproductive behavior where crucial gaps still seem to exist. Thus the purpose of this study was to investigate factors associated with reproductive behavior of low mcome mothers in Kiandutu slum in Thika District, Kenya. The study was based on the safe motherhood theoretical framework, which outlines the linkages between the contextual, intermediate, and proximate causes that determine the prenatal health status of pregnant mothers. A conceptual framework was used which outlined the contextual, intermediate and proximate causes that determine the reproductive behavior of low inco,me mothers. The study employed a descriptive survey research design and used a sample size of 120 respondents (mothers) to provide the required data through the use of interview schedule guides. The data was analyzed using frequency tables, percentages, means, cross-tabulation chi-square, and one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Qualitative data involved coding of the information and I then identifying variables that would depict general concepts and themes. The results of the study revealed that some of the mother's demographic characteristics, that is, the level of education, occupation, income levels and religion affiliation had an influence on the reproductive behavior of low income mothers. For instance majority of respondents with secondary level of education (73.3%) had a lower reproductive behavior than those with primary education (66.7%). An examination of knowledge of contraceptives revealed a high index of 95% and was found to have a significant relationship with marital status and income levels. But however statistical analysis revealed that knowledge of contraceptives had no influence on reproductive behavior of low income mothers. Out of the 95% who knew about contraceptives 77.5% of them were found to use them. Chi square test results revealed that use of contraceptives had a significant relationship with age of the respondent, income levels and occupation. Further analysis revealed that use of contraceptives had no influence on reproductive behavior of low income mothers. On attitude towards contraceptives; the findings showed that it had a significant relationship with all the respondents' demographic factors under study. Further analysis revealed that attitude towards contraceptives was found to influence reproductive behavior of low income mothers. Mother's decision making patterns on issues related to reproduction had no influence on reproductive behavior of low income mothers. The study also revealed that although the women were knowledgeable on issues dealing with contraceptives, this was greatly undermined by the fact that men made decisions on matters dealing with when to have sexual intercourse and the number of children to have. Lastly the researcher made several recommendations all geared towards enhancing the reproductive behavior of low income mothers. It is hoped that this information will enable the low income mothers to delay age at first birth, age at first marriage and also space and limit births so that they can bring up well-developed children.
Positional assessment of selected skill related physical fitness components amongst male Kenyan basketball players
(Kenyatta University, 2007-10) Kamande, Mwangi Isaac
The game of basketball requires a mastery of several skills to play and perform well in a competition. The aim of this study was to establish the differences in the selected skill related components of physical fitness in relation to playing positions amongst male basketball players during the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) 2005 Premier League season. The study assessed agility, leg explosive power and aerobic capacity in relation to playing positions. The league comprised 10 teams of 12 registered players each, thus the target population was 120 players. The sample included 48 male basketball players from 4 teams which is 40% of the total population. A stratified random sampling procedure was used to select the teams used in the study. Strathmore University "Blades" male basketball players were used for the pilot study. An ex-post facto research design was used in this study. The data obtained through this study was subjected to statistical analysis using Statistical Package of Social Sciences (S. P. S. S.). Descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation were used in the analysis of the data. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test the research hypotheses. The data collected were then presented using tables. Four hypotheses were tested and the results showed that there were no significant differences in agility amongst the guards who were 23 (48% of the total population), forwards 17 (35%) and centers 8 (17%) at p< 0.05. There were no significant differences in leg explosive power amongst the guards, forwards and centers at p< 0.05. There were also no significant difference in aerobic capacity amongst guards, forwards and centers at p< 0.05. The null hypotheses proposed were therefore not rejected. The players did not show significant differences in the scores of the components tested and this was attributed to the lack of specificity during training which takes place in total contrary to the specific requirements of the positional roles. The study recommended further research to establish the training regimens followed by various teams during the off-season and in the competitive season and especially as regards the requirements of the positional roles not only in basketball but also in other sports. The study also recommended that Kenya Basketball Federation and the clubs initiate fitness testing programmes so as to establish norms for the Kenyan basketball players. This would help to form a basis for developing the selection criteria and guidelines for policy formulation.
An assessment of service quality as perceived by customers in five star restaurants in Nairobi, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2008-06) Opondo, Josephine Atieno
The tenet of this study is that despite hospitality staff claiming to offer quality services many customers' expectations are not met. Staff tend to focus on tangible elements of the products in their role as service providers. Service providers should regularly monitor service quality and customer satisfaction in an attempt to improve customer retention. Inappropriate or inadequate treatment can result in customer dissatisfaction. The purpose of the study was to assess various quality aspects of service as perceived by the customers in five star restaurants in Nairobi. The study aimed at determining the difference in attitudes and expectations of both customers and service providers. A descriptive survey design was used to evaluate service quality as perceived by customers in selected five star restaurants in Nairobi. This design enabled the researcher to gather information, summarize, present and interpret information for the purpose of clarification The study was restricted to three, five star restaurants in Nairobi, namely: A, B and C.The letters have been used for anonymity reasons. Simplerandom method was used to select three restaurants from the classification of hotels andi~sta'urants. Convenient sampling and stratified methods were used to select subjects for the study. Customers from each of the three restaurants were conveniently selected (A 125, B 120 and C 40). Three restaurant managers < and 22 waiting staff were also interviewed. Data were collected using; rating scale, questionnaires and interview schedules. Observation forms and guest comment cards were also used. Data collected were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The main techniques used to analyze data were the Chi-square (x2), Pearson Product- moment correlation (r), Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and factor analysis. The result of study showed that five top ranked customer satisfaction dimensions revealed that customers were extremely satisfied with; customers' problems treated sympathetically, staff knowledgeable about products, friendliness and politeness of staff, food is fresh and there is no mix up in orders or bills. The study found that the customers were extremely satisfied with the restaurant's reliability, empathy, assurance and responsiveness. However, they were satisfied with tangibles. From this study the reseafcher concludes that; Customers are satisfied with the quality of services provided by the five star restaurants in Nairobi. The restaurants meet the requirements for five star restaurants as established in the criteria for classification of restaurants; Different restaurants provide customers with different levels of satisfaction and majority of the working staff are satisfied with the working conditions within the restaurants. Based on the study, it is recommended that a focus should be made in areas such as empathy, responsiveness and assurance so as to retain and attract more customers. Since majority of the waiting staff are dissatisfied with the pay they received, the management of the five star restaurants should review the pay of staff to ensure that the workers get their rightful dues. This can enhance the quality of service they deliver to customers.
The grand coalition goverment in kenya: a recipe for sports development
(International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, 2011-02) Rintaugu, E.G.; Mwangi, I.; Ngetich, E.D.K.
Numerous social theories have been explored to unearth the role of sports in society but consensus remains remote. Political parties and politicians present their manifestos to the electorates on the eve of elections to solicit for political candidacy and eventual incumbency. Kenyan political parties/politicians just like in other parts of the world have championed the youth agenda through sports. Some of the electoral promises however are never implemented fully, with some of the youth agenda fading as soon as the election-earring period is over. This paper discusses some of the social theories which are tenable when censoring sports and politics at international and national level. The pledges on sports development made during the controversial 2007 general elections by the two main political parties in Kenya, Party of National Unity(PNU) and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) are weighted against session paper No.3 of 2005 on Sports Development. The recommendations which the Grand Coalition Government needs to embrace for the sake of Sports Development in Kenya are made.
Overweight and obesity prevalence and associated socio-economic factors, physical activity and dietary intake among women in Kibera division, Nairobi
(2011-05-09) Mbochi, W. Regina
Overweight and obesity is an escalating problem worldwide yet extensive data especially in Africa is still lacking. The main objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity and associated ocio-economic factors, physical activity, and dietary intake among women in Nairobi, Kenya. A crosssectional design was used. Data on socio-economic factors of the women, their physical activity and dietary intake patterns, as well as anthropometric measurements were collected from 336 women aged 25-54 years from five socio-economic groups, in Kibera Division of Nairobi, using the stratified random tmpling method. Three indicators [body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage attd waist circumference] were used to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) swtware. Descriptive and inferential statistics such as the mean, frequencies and pet centages were used to describe the data. Chi-square tests were performed to e tablish the association between categorical variables, while analysis of variance ANOVA was used to compare the means. Correlation analysis was performed to e tablish the strength and direction of the relationship between variables. Multiple regression analysis was done to determine the independent variables that predict the occur, once of overweight and obesity in the study population. Age, parity and the educati. n levels of the women were significantly different by socio-economic groups (P<0.001 each). While age and level of education increased up the socio-economic ladder, parity showed an opposite trend. Income and expenditure were significantly correlated (r =0.474; P<0.001), with total monthly income and expenditure increasing up the ocio-economic ladder. Physical activity was negatively correlated with the socio-ec nomic group, (r-0.308; P<0.001). Significant differences (chi-square test) were obset ed between the dietary intake of the women by socio-economic groups. The c mbined prevalence of overweight and obesity was high, using the three indicators 68.6% by BMI, 78.0% by body fat percentage and 67.5% by waist circumference). F he differences between the combined prevalence of overweight and obesity by socio economic groups were statistically significant [(P=0.003) by BMI and (P=0.014) by body fat percentage] with increasing levels in higher socio-economic groups. Age and parity were significant predictors of overweight and obesity. Prevalence increased as the age and the number of births per woman increased. The mean values are all the three outcome variables (BMI, fat percentage and waist circumference) increased as the physical activity levels decreased. There were significant differences between the mean values of the indicators at different physical activity levels (P 0.05). The combined prevalence of overweight and obesity increased as the nun ber of hours spent on sedentary behaviour increased (by BMI). Frequency of cott umption of nearly all foods was not associated with overweight and obesity by all the indicators. Dietary protein and fat were the only macronutrients associated with overweight and obesity. The findings are a clear evidence of the rising trends of overweight and obesity among women in urban areas of developing countries. Overweight and obesity is not a problem limited to the high socio-economic groups, as the prevalence was found even in lower socio-economic groups. Age, parity, social-economic status and physical activity are all significant predictors of overweight and obesity in the study area. Efforts should be made to address the problem of overweight and obesity, by addressing the factors associated with it.
Determination of fibre properties of Agave Americana leaves as a textile fibre from Mbaruk, Nakuru District
(2011-05-09) Mbugua, Gladwell W.
Agave americana is an exotic plant, which is widely cultk,ated in the world for aesthetic purposes. It belongs to the family Agavaceae and in most varieties the leaf has a white or yellow marginal or central stripe from the base to apex. The Kenyan A. americana fibre has not yet been investigated as a textile fibre. The study aimed to investigate the potential of the fibre extracted from the Agave americana plant, and its quality for use as a textile fibre. This is essential since the United State (US) government has opened its market to Kenyan textiles products and other goods through the African Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA). The Agoa Act requires that the beneficiary countries start growing other varieties of vegetable fibres to make fabrics instead of relying only on imported yarns and fabric and locally grown cotton. The soil conditions where the leaves were harvested was analysed and determined. The Agave americana fibres were extracted from the plant leaves and the physical and chemical properties determined. For the purposes of this study plant samples were purposively collected and subjected to retting process to obtain the fibres. The fibres were then randomly assigned for the experimental tests. The data analysis was both qualitative and quantitative. From the analysis the prevailing soil type is sandy clay loam and was also acidic. The fibres obtained were flexible, smooth and lustrous and had similar burning characteristics like other known cellulosiC fibres. The fibres are significantly long with a mean length of 65.2cm and a mead diameter of 0.15mm. This implies that the fibre has good spinning quality. The fbre has a tenacity of 2.94g/d (35.96cN/tex) when dry and 2.3g/d (20.60 cN/Tex) when wet. Generally natural fibres are hydrophilic in nature and this was evident with tile A. americana fibre with a moisture regain of 9.98% and moisture content of 9.19%. Yarns were spun from the fibres, dyed and samples of textile articles were made. The fibre disintegrated when exposed to strong acid and alkalis, but was resistant to weak acids and alkalis. From the findings of this research the fibre was bound to qualify as a potential source of textile fibres and this could provide a secondary source of raw materials for textile products. Similarly the allied activities of cultivating and processing the plant could be a potential source of employment opportunities and income generation for many Kenyans. In Kenya the plant is Frown as an ornamental outdoor and indoor plant and as a fence.
Factors influencing selection and buying practices among primary school teachers: a case of Mwimbi Division, Meru South District
(2011-07-27) Riungu, Dorothy M.
Clothing is a factor in every day human life and interactions with others. Clothing is a systematic means of transmitting information about the wearer. Teachers should dress in order to succeed as role models to their pupils. When teachers dress professionally they obtain the respect and credibility necessary from pupils, parents and the community in general. However teachers are not easily recognized in the rural areas by the way they dress. They have lost identity and respect they used to command in society. This study was designed to find out factors influencing the way they dress. The purpose of this study was to determine factors influencing clothing selection among primary school teachers in rural areas with reference to Mwimbi division in Meru district. The main objective in this study was to identify the physical, psychological and socio-economic factors influencing teachers' clothing selection. The study was confined within 22 random sampled schools in Mwimbi division, Meru south, Eastern province, in which a total of 327 teachers were selected at random. The study adopted a descriptive design, since it is concerned with gathering of facts. The data for this study was collected using questionnaire, which was administered by the researcher to a sample of primary schools teachers in Mwimbi division. A pre-testing of the research tool was carried out in 4 schools in order to ascertain its validity and reliability. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as use of frequencies and percentages. The study established that sources of information on clothing that teachers use includes family members, friends, tailors, window shopping and fashion magazines. The various shopping outlets used by teachers include boutiques, tailoring stores, retail stores, open air markets, Mitumba markets (second hand clothes) and exhibitions. The physical characteristics of the clothes influencing clothing selection includes item construction and finishing, fabric quality, work suitability and cleaning and care. Psychological factors such as smart looking, acceptable style personal beliefs and values, latest style and unique outfit influenced clothing selection. Teachers' remuneration influenced clothing section and buying practices. The researcher recommends the government to improve teachers' remunerations so as to enable them to afford the ever competitive clothing fashion world. Further research is recommended with regard to teachers' attitudes towards exotic styles of dressing. Further research should also be done on this topic in urban areas
The traditional games of the Akamba of Kenya
(2011-08-03) Kithuka, Munyao Raphael
Traditional games have been recognized as a significant part of nations' cultural heritage. Today, in circumstances of global integration, people's future mostly depends on preservation of their cultural variety. Most of the traditional games and sports, expressions of indigenous cultures and ways of life contributing to lie common identity of humanity are under the threat of waning. Additionally, those that are surviving are threatened by imminent disappearance and extinction under the combined effect of globalization and harmonization of the rich diversity of world sport heritage. Prior to this study, research on traditional games within Eastern Kenya particularly of the Akamba, as it is with many parts of the world, had to a great extent been ad hoc, and influenced by theoretical traditions and practices. It is this trepidation and, informed by global research trends, that this research was undertaken to identify, describe and document the traditional games of the Akamba on the basis of the rules that governed them, facilities and equipment used, their significance to the individuals and the community as well as the socio-cultural settings within which they were performed. Twenty three (23) traditional games were identified through qualitative design tool of interviews. Respondents of seventy (70) years and above were purposively identified and interviewed. They were sampled through the non-probability, purposive, sequential sampling method. All the information collected was examined, compared and classified in accordance with specific standards advocated by Clarke and Clarke (1984). For comparison and analyses purposes, these games were classified using Cheska's (1987) scheme with three games falling under games of physical challenge; fourteen games under games of physical skill and strategy; one game under group interaction; one game under rhythm and singing games; one game under games of imagination; one game under mental games category and two games under games of environmental context. Games were performed within the community's family homestead with the peers and significant others playing a major role in teaching them. Games were crucial in instilling desired skills, attitudes and values, improving fitness and health, fostering social cohesion, as sources of fun, recreation and relaxation, maintenance of ethnic and group identity as well as the medium through which the common -y values, traditions and culture were reinforced and preserved. Arising from these findings, it is recommended that all possible efforts need to be made to document, revive and popularize these games through the Ministry of Education, ministry of Higher Education Science and Technology, Ministry of Gender and Sports as well as universities and research organizations. Measures should be taken that involve education, incorporating them in texts and academic curriculum popularizing them through modern technological advancements as well as creating forums for mass participation. Improving health through these games would significantly reduce healthcare cost and increase production as well as giving people an opportunity to practice their cultural activities.
Contribution of tourism ventures to the local people's livelihoods in the Maasai group ranches bordering Amboseli national park, Kenya
(2011-11-02) Nthiga, Rita wairimu; Waudo, Judith N.; Okello, M. M.
The tourism industry is widely regarded as a means of achieving development in destination areas. Indeed, the reason for tourism, the justification for its development and promotion is its potential contribution to development and improvement of local people's livelihoods. This research sought to explore the contribution of tourism ventures to the local people's livelihoods and to devek>pment in general, in the Maasai group ranches bordering the Amboseli National Park, Kenya. The study utilizes a descriptive survey design where both simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used to get the study sample. Data were collected using questionnaires which were administered to the local community members and interview schedules for the investors of the tourism ventures, group ranch officials, and The Kenya Wildlife service (KWS) and the Tsavo- Amboseli group ranches association. The variables investigated included social-economic and demographic characteristics of the locals and the distnbution of income by the t verges, number of locals employed and the ventures' community-based initiatives. Data vvene analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 14.0. Descriptive (frequency) and inferential Measures were determined to show how the variables of interest were distributed. In order to compare the relations between variables, Chi-square goodness of fit test was performed.. The results indicated that a lot of money (over Kshs- 12 million) was received by the tree group ranches every year from tourism investments and only a small amount went to the group ranch members or the local people. The majority of respondents were male (69%). A high percentage (47°/®) was illiterate and (40°%) practiced moralism as a source of livelihood. The majority of respondents (93%) did not receive any direct income from the leasehold by the tourism ventures while 94°/® did not have a member of their household employed hi the tourism ventures. A bffW number of respondeflts (97%) felt that tourism had not reduced their vulnerability to drought while 91% did not have any skills imparted to them by the tourism mveA;raents. The findings indicate that the group ranch members received limited benefits from tourism developments ht the area. The Andy recommends that there is need for the government to set policies addressing the management of grog ranches which will ewe co participation and benefit shag m tourism. The research also recommends inclusion of transparency and accountability aspects in the management of the group ranch resources
Use of exercise therapy in the management of diabetes mellius by adult diabetic at Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
(2011-11-02) Wachira, L. M.
Diabetes mellitus has become a serious health concern in Kenya. This condition cannot be cured but can be controlled and managed successfully using diet, medication, exercise and adequate patient education and awareness. Studies have shown that exercise is the single most important factor for successful management of Type l and Type 2 diabetes. The study sought to investigate the use of exercise therapy in the management of diabetes by adult diabetic patients at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). This was done by assessing the patients' level of physical activity, their knowledge on exercise in managing diabetes, factors associated with the patients' participation in physical activity (PA) and the relationship between the diabetics PA levels and their age, gender, duration of the condition, type of diabetes and knowledge on exercise. The study design was descriptive survey. This was ideal to obtain information that best described diabetics' perception, awareness, attitude, practice and behaviour towards exercise. The study was conducted at KNH targeting diabetic patients seeking treatment at the diabetes clinic. It involved 140 patients who were selected using the simple random sampling technique. A questionnaire was used to collect data. The data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 11.5. Descriptive statistics such as means, frequencies and percentages were used to present the findings. Chi-square ()e) measure of associations and influence to predict relationships was used to analyse data at level of significance of .05. The assessment of PA levels was based on the ratio of exercise metabolic rate (MET). Findings indicated that a large group 64 (46.1 %) had low level of physical activity when compared to recommendations for achieving health-related benefits of exercise in managing diabetes. It was also found that many of the patients, 64 (46.0%) had average level of knowledge on exercise and diabetes with 63 (45.3%) of them having sufficient knowledge on exercise for management of diabetes. Factors that were greatly associated with participation in physical activity included the perception that daily chores at home and at work constituted sufficient activity (40.3%), lack of knowledge on the kinds of exercises to perform (38.1%) and presence of discomfort due to the disease (37.4%). Testing of the hypotheses yielded conclusions that the patients' age, type of diabetes, duration of diabetes and knowledge on exercise had significant relationships with the patients' physical activity levels while gender had no significant relationship with the physical activity levels. It was also concluded that the diabetics' physical activity level, though seen as sufficient to a good percentage of diabetics, may not be sustainable. This is because physical activities are not consistent in occurrence due to constant changes in active practice at different seasons and state of diabetes control. This may deter the effectiveness of exercise therapy in this population. The diabetics also portrayed sufficient knowledge on exercise as taught at the clinic but lacked in fundamental instruction, supervision and specific exercise prescription resulting in difficulty and contraindications. The study recommends that an exercise prescription manual, for both recreational and clinical practice in managing diabetes in Kenya, be formulated and strictly followed. Diabetics' exercise constraint, be addressed by the involved sectors to motivate diabetics to exercise more. As this was a baseline study, more research should be done to strengthen and address finer issues in exercise therapy such as complications of diabetes.
Efficacy of a physical exercise programme on the stereotypic behaviour and response amongst austitic children at the Nairobi Autism Unit, Kenya
(2011-11-02) Maithya, Edna Katiwa
Autism is a developmental disorder, which is typically characterized by an inability to develop normal social relationships, compulsive and ritualistic behaviour and failure to develop normal intelligence. A characteristic feature commonly seen among people with autism is the abnormal stereotype behaviours. These behaviours engaged in at various times also inhibit the ability to learn or take part in activities appropriately. This study analysed the efficacy of using structured physical exercises as an intervention for managing stereotype behaviours in autism. The Nairobi Autism Unit for individuals with autism was purposively selected. All the 34 autistic children at the unit constituted the sample of the study. Quasi-experimental research using a single-group pre-test and post-test design was used with the experimental group (autistic children) being given treatment using structured physical exercises for a period of eleven weeks. The physical exercise circuit included warm up, flexibility, cardiovascular and endurance, musclestrengthening and cool down activities. The adaptive exercise routine used structured teaching principles explained by Hong (2001) and Schopler, et al., (1995). The Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist was used as the main tool for collecting data. A pre-test was done during the first week of the school term to establish the children's behaviour levels in the different domains. This was followed by subsequent tests periodically, at 3 weeks and 4 weeks intervals up to a final test after the eleventh week. The dependent variables comprised those behaviours found in the ATEC evaluation checklist and included: Speech/ Language/ Communication, Sensory/ Cognitive awareness, Sociability and Health/ Physical behaviours. Age, gender and level of autism were the independent variables. The raw data was summarized using descriptive statistics. To test the hypotheses, dependent t-test was used where hypotheses were either rejected or not rejected at 0.05 alpha level. The results of the study were then presented in tables and charts. The results indicated that the structured physical exercises had a positive significant impact on all the four behaviour domains of children at the Nairobi Autism Unit. With regard to gender, age group and level of autism, the males, aged 8-12 and 13-17 years as well as those children with mild level autism did not improve significantly in speech/ language/ communication. The improvement of children aged 18 years and above was not significant in any of the behaviour variables. Structured physical exercise is thus recommended as a means to manage the challenging behaviour and enhance better health and wellness amongst individuals with autism. Creative methods for including physical exercises in the daily schedule for autistic individuals could be very beneficial. There is also a major task for curriculum planners to develop an appropriate Physical Education syllabus. Studies need to be carried out to establish the physical fitness levels of individuals with autism for the establishment of more specific programmes. Different populations with behavioral challenges should also be used as samples in physical exercise intervention other than individuals with autism.
Assessment of complementary feeding practices and nutritional status among children in Athi-River, Machakos District, Kenya
(2011-11-03) Chelimo, Florence L.; Kuria, E. N.; Rombo, G. O.
Complementary feeding involves feeding infants and young children with semi-solid and solid foods in addition to breast milk to ensure adequate nutrition Mother's or principal caregiver's practices however determine the success of complementary feeding. This is affected by many socio-economic and socio cultural factors among others. A descriptive survey study on the complementary feeding practices and the nutritional status of children aged 6 to 24 months was carried out in Athi-river Division of Machakos District, a district that has continually reported high cases of childhood malnutrition. Athi-river is an industrial town in the district and therefore mothers move from other areas to Athiriver in search of employment. The major objective was to assess the complementary feeding practices and the nutritional status of children. A sample of 132 mothers and their children were randomly selected to form the study sample. Data were collected using an interview schedule, anthropometry, focus group discussions, observations and laboratory analysis. The data were analyzed using SPSS, Nutri-survey, Epi-info computer packages and expressed in descriptive and inferential statistics. A P- value of <0.05 was considered significant. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) was used to determine the magnitude and direction of the relationship between complementary feeding practices and the nutritional status of the children. Multiple regression was used to determine whether the various complementary feeding practices predict the nutritional status. About half of the respondents (49.2%) were aged between 19 - 25 years while 61.4% and 69.7% of them had primary school education and were casual labourers respectively. Slightly less than half of the respondents (41.7%) left their children with neighbours when they went to work. Although, majority of the study children (77.7%) were being breastfed at the time of the study, exclusive breastfeeding was only done for at most 2 months of life, hence complementary foods were introduced at an early age than the recommended. Slightly more than two thirds (69.2%) of the mothers did not use commercial foods, which are fortified. Majority of the respondents (78.8%) used feeding bottles instead of the recommended cup or bowl and spoon. All the mothers did not sterilize the feeding equipment. Slightly more than half (51.5%) of the mothers did not treat the water they use to prepare the child's food. Majority of the children did not consume adequate amounts of nutrients such as vitamin A (77.2%), vitamin 132 (85.6%), B3 (85.7%), 136 (60.6%), B12 (73.5%), Magnesium (98.4%), zinc (79.6%) and selenium (73.5%). More than half of the children did not also consume vegetables (82.6%), fruits (64.5%) and animal products (59.1%) regularly as recommended. Financial constraints limited the complementary feeding of the children. The proportion of the 6 to 24 months old children that was stunted, wasted and underweight was 25.0%, 24.9% and 19.7% respectively. Majority of the children (72.8%) had been ill for the past two weeks. The number of meals consumed and amount of kilocalories taken were found to affect the nutritional status of children significantly. The number of meals consumed per day, amount of kilocalories and income earned were found to contribute to 21.0% of the children's nutritional status. It was recommended that mothers be empowered and educated on complementary feeding practices.
Dietary practices and nutritional status of pre- adolescent pupils attending primary schools in Thika District
(2011-11-03) Simuli, Beatrice Musee; Kuria, E. N.
Prevalence of malnutrition is common among school children. There is clear evidence that ill health and malnutrition adversely affect education. Simple health and nutrition intervention delivered through education system can improve education outcomes. Studies have shown both macronutrient and micronutrients deficiency in school children in Kenya. There is very little information available about the nutrition status of preadolescents whose growth rates are rapid and nutrient demands are high in preparation for adolescent stage. To curb deficiencies, it is vital for frequent dietary and nutrition status of pupils to be determined. This leads to determination of pupils' dietary practices, nutrition status, and the relationship between dietary practices and nutrition status of preadolescent pupils. Nutrition status is an important marker of overall health and linear growth. Retardation has serious long-term physiological and economic consequences. It is therefore important that factors influencing pupils' nutrition status be established. A descriptive survey with cross sectional design study was carried out on a sample of 400 mixed primary school pupils aged 10-11 years in Thika District. Five schools were selected using simple random sampling method from public mixed day schools. In each school, eighty pupils aged 10-11 years were simple random sampled. Data was collected by structured questionnaire and observation. Pupils' social economic and demographic factors, anthropometrical measurement, observation list, 24-hour dietary recall, and food frequency were determined. The instruments were pre-tested. Demographic data collection was carried out. Quantitative data was analyzed by statistical package of social sciences (SPSS). Anthropometrical data was transformed to nutrition indices by use of EPI-INF02000 computer software. Each pupil's Body Mass Index was determined too. The indices were compared to the National Center for health statistics (NCHS) reference norms. The 24-hour recall results were analylized by Nutri - survey package. This was then compared to RDAs to establish if there was adequate consumption. Qualitative data was analyzed by, summarizing and categorizing into themes. Chi-square was used to determine association between categorical variables. Pearson product moment correlation coefficient(r) was used to show the relationship between non-categorical variables. Consumption of protein was 28.5% below the recommended daily allowance while for vitamin C was 84.8% below RDA. Consumption of iron was 64.9% below RDA while consumption of the micronutrients, vitamins B6 and calcium was 4% and 79.7% below RDA respectively. This was caused by less consumption of foods that are rich in micronutrients. Overall prevalence of stunting and thinness was 24.25% and 23.5%, respectively. The prevalence of stunting and thinness decreased with those parents that had well-paying jobs. The paired t-test compared the means of the daily intake of the nutrients by gender, which revealed that there was a significant difference (p-value<0.05) with males having a higher mean intake as compared to their female counterparts. From the study, it can be concluded that there was a significant difference between the nutrition status of pupils aged 10-11 years old and the dietary practices. Pupils that received better dietary practices were healthier than those that didn't. The dietary practices, income earning of parents, and education level affected the nutrition status of pupils. Malnutrition was prevalent in most schools. Findings suggest the need for frequent assessment of nutrition status of pupils and determination of causal factors of malnutrition in schools countrywide.

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