MST-Department of Gender and Development Studies

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An analysis of gender inclusiveness in selected poverty reduction projects in Majengo slums, Nyeri County, Kenya
(2016-10) Gitihu, Peter Kirumwa
The study aimed at investigating the relationship between gender and poverty. Poverty is a major obstacle to development in Kenya and in spite of efforts by the government and NGOs to fight it, it persists. Since poverty affects men and women differently, the study sought to investigate whether the solutions offered in fighting poverty recognize and address gender concerns. The study set out to establish how gender concerns have been incorporated and addressed in five anti-poverty projects in Majengo slum in Nyeri County. The objectives of the study were to assess how gender influences the incidences of poverty in Majengo slums, to identify how men and women are involved in fight against poverty in the slums, to establish the benefits of poverty reduction to both men and women and to suggest more strategies of involving gender in poverty reduction in Majengo slums. The study applied the Harvard Analytical Framework as a theoretical underpinning to help map out the productive and reproductive work men and women do in the community. The study design used was descriptive with both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Key participants were the project management teams, project members and sponsors. Simple random sampling method was used to select the projects and stratified random sampling for the project members. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview schedules where the reliability and validity was achieved through the test-retest method that allowed the researcher to make the necessary adjustments to the content of the study, and analyzed using statistical package for social scientists (SPSS) program. The study employed descriptive statistics such as means, frequencies and mode. The findings were then presented using graphs, charts and tables. The findings showed that the gender of an individual influences their poverty levels and that women more than men, seeking economic empowerment to meet their financial demands, tend to join project groups which have a positive impact on their social and economic wellbeing which is an important indicator in poverty reduction. The study recommends that the project managers should find ways of incorporating more men into their projects as well as employ proper channels of communication to facilitate better management of the projects. Further, the study recommends that government should come up with bigger and all inclusive projects that can help alleviate poverty across a bigger constituency than Majengo slums.
Assessment of Access to and Utilisation of Treadle and Hip Pump Technology by Farmers in Machakos County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2019-03) Gitau, Teresiah Waithera
The purpose of this study was to assess the access to and utilization of the treadle and hip pump technology by farmers in Machakos County, Kenya so that gender responsive strategies can be suggested to improve the uptake of the technology among the farmers. This was due to low adoption of the two pumps in Machakos county after previous KSI/WSU study that marketed and distributed the technology among farmers in the county. The specific objectives of the study were: to establish which irrigation technologies used before introduction of hip and treadle pumps; to find out how the farmers were accessing to and utilizing pumps; to examine the challenges facing farmers when accessing to and utilizing the pumps in the county and to suggest gender responsive strategies that would enhance access to and utilisation of pump technology. The study was guided by the social relations framework of analysis by Naila Kabeer. The framework, which gives a political, rather than a technical or informational solution, was complemented by the diffusion of innovations theory. The study used experimental and descriptive research designs for both qualitative and quantitave data. The study had 70 respondents comprising 42 farmers who were pump buyers purposively selected for the study and 28 pump non-buyers identified via snowball sampling method. Data were collected using interview schedules, key informant interview guides and focus group discussion guides. Findings indicate that the majority of respondents used irrigation tools that were powered by human and/or animals. In access, the most preferred type of pump among pump buyers was the hip pump over the treadle pump. Cash and credit payment option was preferred over savings option of pump purchase. In utilization, men used the pump more than women did since men were involved in operation and maintenance as they pedal while women distribute water using pipes. The major challenges to access to and utilization of the pump technology were at family level and market level. The study concluded that the use the treadle and hip pump technology was still appropriate in relation to the tools they were previously used to. However, the pump technology design in itself hampered use by women since it requires a lot of energy to use. The study recommends putting gender responsiveness in design of pumps, consistent intergenerational marketing and distribution of the pump technology with follow up by the marketer for adoption among women, men and youth. The marketer should also consider marketing and distribution through working with female opinion leaders, establish demonstration plots with women headed households as well as appoint enterprising women such as the group secretary as pump dealers to build supply networks and create linkages with farmers. The marketer can also consider advertising and marketing that does not conform to gender stereotypes and type of media chosen and content of message about the pump to reach women should consider their low mobility level outside their home or village. The study also recommends recruitment of female salespersons by KSI/WSU team as well as train male staff on the importance of seeing women as potential customers and how to interact with them while holding consistent talks with men in the family too. There is also need to for KSI/WSU team to have gender relations conceptual awareness building and implementation through writing brief policy statements on gender issues in the context of the organization.
An Assessment of the Implementation of Sexual Gender- Based Violence Policy in Winam Division, Kisumu County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2017-11) Charillus, Pamella A.
The study assessed the implementation of Sexual Gender-Based Violence policy in Winam Division, Kisumu County, Kenya. The following objectives guided this study; to determine the prevalence of Sexual Gender- Based Violence in Winam Division, to assess the implementation of SGBV policy in Winam Division and to suggest strategies that can be used to improve the implementation of SGBV policy and reduce the prevalence of Sexual Gender- Based Violence in Winam Division, Kenya. This study was guided by Goode’s 1971 Resource Theory. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used. The sample size of 384 respondents was selected from the target population of 104,875 in Winam Division. Data were analyzed descriptively using SPSS in order to generate tables, frequencies and percentages while figures showing the results were generated using Microsoft Excel 2010. Qualitative data were presented in a narrative form in the context of emanating themes, percentages and frequencies. In the first study objective, the study sought to find out the prevalence of Sexual Gender- Based Violence in Winam Division. The study established Sexual Gender- Based Violence is prevalent and that women experienced a lot of Sexual Gender- Based Violence cases as compared to their male counterparts. Further, it was established that the (Sexual Offences Act of 2006) also referred to as Njoki Ndung’u policy had to some extent protected them from Sexual Gender- Based Violence and that justice was sought from the police by the victims. The study findings indicate that public awareness as a strategy could improve the fight against Sexual Gender- Based Violence and that the public should be made aware about Sexual Gender- Based Violence policies. The study findings indicate that there was a lack of commitment to eliminate Sexual Gender- Based Violence by all stakeholders. It was the conclusion of this study that the SGBV targeting the woman was prevalent in Winam Division. The study further found that this could be attributed to the fact that the woman is seen as a weaker sex. Moreover, the study found that rape was the main form of SGBV in Winam Division. The study recommends that increased public awareness campaigns on SGBV should be enhanced within Winam Division to help push effective implementation of SGBV policies and women empowerment programmes run by main government organs in collaboration with the private sector demystifying the myth that the woman is a weaker sex. The study further recommends that the extent of sodomy and incest as additional forms of SGBV on the development of children in Winam Division should be investigated.
Assessment of women's participation in community Based projects in upper manza water and sanitation Project in Tala Division, Kangundo District
(2013-11-13) Munuvi, Dorcas Ngina; Okemwa, Pacificah Florence; Wanjama, Leah
This study sought to assess the participation of women in community based projects. The major focus was on participation of women in Upper Manza Water and Sanitation Project. The' study used purposive sampling to select key project officials and local leaders. Other participants were selected through stratified random sampling to give primary data with the qualitative data analyzed using Microsoft word editor. This data was also collated and organized according to the study objectives. Evidence from this study showed that women in Upper Manza Water and Sanitation Project have not fully taken their numerical advantage to assert their contributions in running the project. This is despite they being the main beneficiaries of improved water management in the community; their substantial contributions are largely hidden behind social norms regarding gender roles and relations. It is, therefore, recommended that women's empowerment must be the concern of both women and men and the degree to which a project is defined as potentially empowering women is shown by the extent to which it addresses women's practical and immediate needs.
Challenges and their effect on the boy child education In Kieni East Districts Nyeri County
(2013-11-07) Gakinya, Teresa Wangui
In Kenya, boy child secondary education is experiencing emerging challenges which need to be established in order to arrest these worrying trends. This study sought to investigate challenges and their effects on the boy-child education in Kieni East District, Nyeri County. The research drew insight from Feminist Theory and research inspired by Postmodemism point of view which began in 1980s.There was need to carry out the study in order to understand the challenges and their effects on boy child education and come up with strategies of addressing them. The researcher explored why fewer boys than girls transited to secondary schools. The study explores many factors associated with enrolment, access, participation and progress which lie at the individual, household, school and community level and maps out how these factors interact The research explored the effects of the challenges on boy child. This study adopted descriptive survey method in order to answer the objectives and research questions it sought to achieve. The study was carried out among students, parents and teachers in Public Secondary Schools. A total of 156 respondents (84 students, 36 teachers 36 parents) were purposively sampled as subjects of the study. The main research instruments were questionnaires and interview schedule. A pilot study was conducted in one public secondary school which was not included in the actual sample. Data analysis was done using quantitative and qualitative techniques. Data was presented by use of tables, graphs and charts. Percentages and frequencies obtained were used to answer research questions. The challenges identified include drug abuse, lack of guidance and counseling, child labour, poverty, weak family institutions, corporal punishment and negative parental attitude. Other challenges included allure to easy money which led boys to join criminal gangs and to engage in criminal activities. This is as a result of the prevalence of a terror group 'Mungiki' that recruit the youth in large numbers in Kieni East District. The findings revealed that the highest dropout rate among boys was in form three followed by form two. The study recommended that the government through the ministry of education should unite with other stakeholders to sensitize the community on importance of addressing the needs of boys in secondary education. A Framework of readmitting boys who drop out of school is recommended to maximize access, enrolments and participation of boys in education. Guidance and counseling should be enhanced in schools and the boy child should be shielded from harmful practices such as drug abuse and deviant behavior. Parents should be sensitized on the importance of enrolling their children to secondary schools. The government should deal with criminal gangs like 'Mungiki.' The study helped in revealing the extent of the problem facing boy child secondary education thus opening avenues for further in depth study into gender issues in education.
Challenges faced by support groups in offering services to People living with HIV and AIDS in Kitutu Chache Constituency, Kisii County
(2013-11-12) Mogoba, Gladys Moraa
The main purpose of this study was to examine the challenges faced by support groups while offering services to People Living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHAs) in Kitutu Chache Constituency of Kisii County. Support groups play an important role in the control and management of HIV and AIDS and hence receive funding from the government and donor agencies. However, despite the existence of support groups and the crucial role they play in management and support of those infected and affected by HIV and AIDS, new infections have been on the increase. Thus, the study sought to examine the role played by support groups, identify the challenges they encounter and propose strategies to address the challenges. The study was carried out in the two divisions of Kitutu Chache Constituency, namely, Mosocho and Marani and employed a survey design. Simple random sampling was used to sample 5 support groups out of the targeted 9 SGs for PLWHAs while five group leaders, the two Divisional HIV and AIDS coordinators and the District AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Diseases Coordinator (DASCO) were included to participate in the study as key informants. Data were collected using focus group discussions (FGDs) and interview schedules. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze data. The findings of the study are discussed in themes according to the objectives of the study. The findings are presented in tables of frequency distributions and percentages. The study established that a majority of SGs members were women, and that most of them were middle aged. The findings showed that most members, both men and women, joined the SGs to comply with referrals from the VCT centres and share experiences with other PLWHAs. They also joined SGs to access financial support; either in form of bursaries for their school children in secondary or tertiary institutions of education or get support to finance income-generating projects while others received materials such as water containers from the support groups. However, these members face stigma, discrimination, negative perceptions from the members of the community and employ poor means of communicating the forms of discrimination. The participants suggested that community sensitization should be intensified to help the community members understand the HIV and AIDS. This is to reduce stigma and isolation. Partnerships among stakeholders should be enhanced. The government should provide funds to subsidize infrastructural development in the constituency. The study concludes that support groups play an important role in the fight against the pandemic but face various challenges which greatly hindered their effectiveness. It is therefore, recommended that the National AIDS Control Council (NACC) should define roles of all stakeholders and coordinate their activities in order to avoid duplication of effort as well as achieve better results.
Challenges facing Gender Mainstreaming of the Provincial Administration in Ruiru District, Kiambu County
(2013-11-06) Mbui, Erastus Mwenda
This study was done in Ruiru District in Kiambu County. It sought to assess the challenges facing gender mainstreaming in the provincial administration and recommend remedial measures. This was achieved through an assessment of the gender mainstreaming strategies in use, the extent to which they have contributed to gender equality and the challenges that these strategies have not been able to address in order to reduce gender inequalities in the district. A sample of 58 respondents consisting of 33 men and 25 women drawn from Githurai and Ruiru Divisions of the District was used in the study. These included eleven government officers working in the provincial administration among them five women and six men. Twelve men village elders were randomly sampled from a list of seventy nine, while all the six women village elders in the district were purposively sampled for a focus group discussion. The village elders were sampled for the role that they play in helping administrators in discharge of duties within the villages that they serve. Also randomly sampled were 29 members of the public seeking services from the offices of provincial administrators across the district. These were composed of 14 women and 15 men. The study found that though there have been efforts to mainstream gender in the provincial administration, women are yet to get their fair share of opportunities in the institution. There are still some gender inequalities in terms of the number of men and women occupying public administration offices and even the expectations of who can hold such an office. Institutional culture and environment appear to be the major challenges to gender mainstreaming efforts. The ministry of provincial administration and internal security has also not done all that is necessary to prepare the district for effective gender mainstreaming. In this respect, ministerial gender policy and action plan were found to be lacking. The study recommends the stepping up of gender mainstreaming efforts which should be preceded by a gender analysis as well as the development of a ministerial gender policy and an action plan. These should form the basis for monitoring and evaluation to ensure the targets set in the Gender Action Plan are on course.
Challenges facing income generating women groups in informal settlements: A study of selected women groups in Kibera
(Kenyatta University, 2012) Abala, Elizabeth
This study examined the challenges facing income generating women groups in informal settlements in Kenya with a special focus on women groups in Kibera slums. The study stemmed from the need to evaluate the impact of efforts put in place by the government and other stakeholders to improve the socio-economic status of women in Kenya. Thus, this study examined the underlying factors that affect the performance of women groups in Kibera slums. In this, we focused on the income generating activities that women groups in Kibera engage in, rules, regulations and procedures governing the operations of these groups and the socio-economic challenges facing women groups. The study was anchored in Sara Longwe’s women empowerment model as its conceptual framework. Using the model, we explored challenges facing women groups and the strategies that these groups employ to improve their socio-economic status. The study employed structured questionnaires and Focus Group Discussion in data collection. Data collected was cleaned, coded and entered in the computer. With the aid of SPSS, we subjected the refined data to analysis. Qualitative data was categorized into themes and subthemes for easier interpretation and analysis. The findings indicate that women groups in informal settlements have devised various income generating activities to improve their income, have got strict rules and regulations governing their operations and show a strong commitment to what they do in order to improve their socio-economic challenges. The findings from the study will be very informative to the government, NGOs and other Policy makers on the best strategies to use in empowering women in Kenya.
Challenges Facing Infertile Persons in the Agikuyu of Kieni West Division of Nyeri County, Kenya
(2013-11-06) Mwangi, Teresia Wairimu
This study investigated the challenges experienced by infertile individuals amongst the Agikuyu community in Kieni West Division. The study was based on the premise that there are many causes of infertility, many psycho-social as well as economic challenges faced by infertile persons in the Gikuyu Community. These challenges are being experienced even when many initiatives at international and national levels have been put in place to elevate the status of all people. The study identified mechanisms used by the Agikuyu to address infertility as well suggesting ways of overcoming these challenges. The study was guided by Linda Sharon's theory (2000). It states that barrenness alters an individual's sense of self worth by creating feeling of deficiency, hopelessness and shame. Both infertile men and women experience self conceptual image as a result of infertility and although they may experience it differently, women often feel inadequate and defiant for failing to fulfill personal and societal roles, while men often feel inferior, ashamed and angry. The study targeted childless couples who have been married for at least seven years, medical practitioners, and members of the clergy, administrators and neighbours of the infertile persons. Snowball sampling was employed to sample infertile persons, while purposeful sampling was used to sample members of the clergy, chiefs and medical practitioners. Simple random sampling was employed to sample the neighbours of the infertile individuals. Data was collected using interview schedules for the infertile individuals while questionnaires were used in all other categories. Quantitative data was analysed through descriptive statistics and findings presented in charts, percentages and proportions, while qualitative data was presented in a narrative report. The research found that infertility can have serious effect on both the psychological well-being and the social status of both men and women .However, it was also noted that women pay the price of infertility in a marriage. To address these challenges ,the study recommends public education on infertility ,delivery of good infertility care bearing in mind the implications of infertility and insight into the context in which it occurs and guidance and counseling.
Challenges facing participation of girls with special needs in inclusive primary schools in Chuka Division in Tharaka Nithi County
(2013-11-11) Micheni, Monica Tiira
Since the early years, children with learning disabilities were enrolled in special schools and this led to their segregation from regular schools. They were basically looked down upon in the society. Today, the government and key educational stakeholders have put great efforts in trying to include these learners into mainstream schools where they learn with the regular pupils. This has not been successful since not all children with special learning needs and who have attained the school age are enrolled in schools. The main concern of the study was to investigate the challenges facing the participation of school going girls with special needs in Chuka Division of Meru South District. The researcher also sought to establish the prevalence of girls with special needs and the different measures to address these challenges. Social learning theory by Vygotsky (1981) guided the study. The study established that social interaction by girls with special needs in the school environment precedes learning. This is in agreement with Vygotsky's social learning theory who also maintains that mainstream schools are better placed to offer inclusive education but have been slow to promote environment in which learners are actually involved in their education. Descriptive case study design was used. A total population of 74 respondents participated in the study. Purposive sampling was used to achieve a sample of educational officers, teachers, parents and girls with special needs. In Meru South District, Chuka Division has more schools that offer inclusive education and therefore these respondents. Stratified random sampling was used to get a sample of "normal" children through dividing the children into groups of boys and girls and then using simple random sampling to get a sample of 10 boys and 10 girls. Four sets of instruments were used. These were observation by the researcher, questionnaire for education officers and teachers, interview schedule for parents and girls with special needs and focus groups discussions for "normal" children. The instruments were valid and reliable in collecting data since they were first piloted in one primary school and changes made accordingly. Further the instruments content validity was ascertained by the supervisors who are experts in the department Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics whereas qualitative data was analyzed thematically in line with the objectives of the study. The major challenges identified were: - Low self-esteem, lack of facilities/inaccessible, overloading of teachers, discrimination due to disability and lack of role models. Counseling for girls with special needs and national campaigns on what entails inclusive education were some of the major recommendations that came up strongly. These will help the policy makers to address the unique needs of girls with special needs and to make programs that address their diverse challenges.
Challenges facing Participation of Girls with Special Needs in Inclusive Primary Schools in Chuka Division in Tharaka Nithi County
(2013-11-06) Tiira, Micheni Monica
Since the early years, children with learning disabilities were enrolled in special schools and this led to their segregation from regular schools. They were basically looked down upon in the society. Today, the government and key educational stakeholders have put great efforts in trying to include these learners into mainstream schools where they learn with the regular pupils. This has not been successful since not all children with special learning needs and who have attained the school age are enrolled in schools. The main concern of the study was to investigate the challenges facing the participation of school going girls with special needs in Chuka Division of Meru South District. The researcher also sought to establish the prevalence of girls with special needs and the different measures to address these challenges. Social learning theory by Vygotsky (1981) guided the study. The study established that social interaction by girls with special needs in the school environment precedes learning. This is in agreement with Vygotsky's social learning theory who also maintains that mainstream schools are better placed to offer inclusive education but have been slow to promote environment in which learners are actually involved in their education. Descriptive case study design was used. A total population of 74 respondents participated in the study. Purposive sampling was used to achieve a sample of educational officers, teachers, parents and girls with special needs. In Meru South District, Chuka Division has more schools that offer inclusive education and therefore these respondents. Stratified random sampling was used to get a sample of "normal" children through dividing the children into groups of boys and girls and then using simple random sampling to get a sample of 10 boys and 10 girls. Four sets of instruments were used. These were observation by the researcher, questionnaire for education officers and teachers, interview schedule for parents and girls with special needs and focus groups discussions for "normal" children. The instruments were valid and reliable in collecting data since they were first piloted in one primary school and changes made accordingly. Further the instruments content validity was ascertained by the supervisors who are experts in the department. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics whereas qualitative data was analyzed thematically in line with the objectives of the study. The major challenges identified were: - Low self-esteem, lack of facilities/inaccessible, overloading of teachers, discrimination due to disability and lack of role models. Counseling for girls with special needs and national campaigns on what entails inclusive education were some of the major recommendations that came up strongly. These will help the policy makers to address the unique needs of girls with special needs and to make programs that address their diverse challenges.
Challenges facing women’s enterprises in Kandara District of Murang’a County, Kenya
(2013-11-11) Gathu, Rachel Njeri
Women are the backbone of rural economies in developing countries and playa signi ficant role to ensure their families' well being. The purpose of this study was to determine challenges facing women enterprises in Kandara District, Murang'a County. The study was based on the assumption that women in Kandara engage in various business enterprises and in the process, they face challenges that impede their business development. The study reviewed relevant literature in economic empowerment of women, situation analysis of women in Small and Medium Enterprises. challenges lacing Small and Medium Enterprises in Kenya and strategies for economic empowerment. The study was guided by Shane's General Theory of Entrepreneurship and was carried out ill Kandara District and involved a sample population of 863 registered women in Small and Medium Enterprises. The research design used was descriptive survey. Simple random sampling was used to obtain the sample population or 286 female respondents which accounted for a 30% representation and 20 male SM E owners purposively selected. Data were collected using questionnaires and focused group discussion guide and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer software alter coding it. The study round that a majority of female entrepreneurs in Kandara District is aged 26-35 years: married. widowed or separated: with family responsibility and stability being a challenge to them. It was further established that the level of education is not a serious challenge to them since a majority had basic education. A majority of them operate small sole proprietorship businesses with minimal capital investments and small profit margins. The study revealed that a minority of the sampled entrepreneurs had business licenses whi Ie a majority lacked and some operated on road reserves. The study also found that women SMEs from Kandara District faced historical, deep-rooted. sociocultural. economic and political discrimination, bias. Stereotypes and prejudice, founded on patriarchy. which placed the women in the kitchen as a mother and a housewife. To address the challenges, it was established that respondents prefer effective policy changes which are gender responsive and irnplementable: establishment of a united front to advocate lor the rights or women entrepreneurs: restructuring mechan ism of short-term multiple loan for \\ omen entrepreneurs: creation of a central coordinating body for women's entrepreneurship development: and training and capacity building to enable women entrepreneurs handle complex businesses. In view of this. it was concluded that these challenges adversely affect women entrepreneurs and both policy and cultural readjustments are necessary to improve the capacity of women in their endeavour to engage in profitable business. It is hoped that the results of this study will contribute to the empowerment of women entrepreneurs ill Kenya and more particu larl y ill Kandara District. I he study findings can assist policy makers who need to put in place measures to improve WOIlJeIl entrepreneurs' managerial competence.
Challenges of Mainstreaming Gender in National Planning and Budgeting Process in Kenya
(2013-11-09) Njeru, Catherine Gaku; Wamue-Ngare, G.N.; Ndungo, C. M.
The government of Kenya has expressed her intention to attain gender equality through gender mainstreaming. The government of Kenya has taken steps in establishing policies and institutional mechanisms for gender mainstreaming. However gender mainstreaming programmes are not effective. Yet, taking a gender perspective in development process including budgeting and planning process is crucial in attaining development inspirations in the Vision 2030, the Constitution and Millennium Development Goals. The study sought to find challenges of mainstreaming gender in planning and budgeting process in Kenya. The study took place in Nairobi County and focused on three ministries whose role in mainstreaming gender in planning and budgeting is considered important. The study utilized change theory that argues in any planned change reinforcing and restraining forces must be identified, analyzed and action taken. This study used a descriptive research design and collected data from primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. Secondary data was obtained from government policies, manuals and reports on gender, planning and budgeting. Literature was also reviewed from journals, books and internet sources. The study found that methods used to mainstream gender in planning and budgeting process include, trainings, integration of gender in the planning and budgeting frameworks, establishment of gender focal points and development of ministerial gender policies. Effectiveness of these methods was hindered by lack of monitoring, low gender mainstreaming skills, ineffective gender mainstreaming structures and lack of budget. The study concludes that for gender mainstreaming to be effective there is urgent need to build gender mainstreaming skills of officers in government ministries, strengthen gender focal points, allocate sufficient budget to gender work and coordinate policy development across sectors to ensure gender mainstreaming coherently runs across all sectors.
Challenges to Women's Participation in Trade Unions: The Case of Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Kangundo branch
(2013-11-06) Munuve, Dorcas Ngina; Wanjama, L.; Lodiaga, Mildred Jennifer A
This study sought to find out the challenges of women in participation in trade unions using the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Kangundo Branch.The study employed a descriptive research method and collected both qualitative and quantitative data .Data was analyzed using SPSS and presented in themes using tables and figures. Evidence from this study showed that women teachers are not fully involved in formulation and implementation of policies in Kangundo KNUT Branch. They are missing in key decision making organs. Major challenges facing women teachers in relation to participation include domestic duties, cultural barriers, lack of confidence and the view that men are better leaders. It is, therefore, recommended that there is need for change in attitudes and perceptions so as to fully engage women teachers in the Kenya National Union of Teachers.
Change and continuity in the practice of clitoridectomy: a case study of the Tharaka of Meru East district
(2012-02-09) Kanake, Angeline Karithi
The purpose of this study was to establish the reasons behind the continued practice of clitoridectomy among the Tharaka people, despite the presence of various agents of change like Christianity and formal education in the Tharaka. Clitoridectomy has been discouraged since the colonial era and some rituals and ceremonies that accompanied it have been abandoned, leaving mainly the surgical operation. A further concern was to establish whether those who practice clitoridectomy are aware of its implications to health. A basic assumption was that clitoridectomy has social and religious significance, and as such is a resilient custom. The study area was Meru East District that is composed of three divisions namely, North Tharaka and South Tharaka. Female circumcision is one of the customs that have been a source of dispute and conflict in Kenya and elsewhere in the world. Various groups of people continue with the practice while others are against it. This study adopted a theoretical framework derived from Dahrendorff and Coser's theory of equilibrium, conflict and social change. The theory assumes that every society experiences social conflicts that lead to change. In the study, it is noted that conflict is part and parcel of the process of change affecting clitoridectomy among the Tharaka. The primary data were collected through questionnaires, observation and interviews. The informants were sampled from three administrative divisions of Tharaka District. The data were transcribed and incorporated with the library sources. They were interpreted, analyzed, and used as basis for explaining change and continuity of female circumcision among the Tharaka. The major findings from the study revealed that clitoridectomy is prevalent among Tharaka people and is practiced as a rite of passage from childhood to adulthood. Due to various factors such as formal education, urbanization and Christianity, the practice has undergone several changes. The study observes that clitoridectomy had a major social and religious role that worked best in the indigenous Tharaka community. Nevertheless, in view of the dangers that result from it, those who undergo clitoridectomy suffer more harm than good. It is recommended by this study that more information is vital to enlighten people in Tharaka of the dangers associated with female circumcision, in a move towards its eradication. The study observes that those who attack it often enhance cultural resilience. It is therefore recommended that the stakeholders like the local men and women leaders in Tharaka be involved in developing any program that may bring meaningful change. It is only those who practice these religious rituals who can make a judgment about their modification or their usefulness. The Tharaka themselves have the ultimate responsibility of evaluating the making conscious choices about their behaviour.
Church's approaches to peacebuilding and reconciliation in ethnic conflict areas in Kenya: a case study of Laikipia West district
(2012-04-12) Njoroge, Eric Mwangi
In Kenya, the phenomenon of ethnic- related conflicts seem to be frequent. As such, the Church has a call to understand and make use of her divine mission of building peace and fostering reconciliation in the society. However, one wonders which approaches the Church employs in peacebuilding and reconciliation. Could there be other additional methods of peacebuilding and reconciliation she could explore? Existing research into peacebuilding and reconciliation has shown how ineffective methodology could precipitate occurrence and resurgence of ethnic conflicts. Further ineffective methods of peacebuilding and reconciliation may result from exclusion of people's lifestyles and worldviews such as, rituals and customs and lack of complementarities. This research seeks to first, investigate the cause of ethnic conflicts in Laikipia West District. Second, identifies the peacebuilding and reconciliation processes employed by the church in Laikipia West District. Third, it evaluates African indigenous methods of peacebuilding and reconciliation among communities in Laikipia West District that could be relevant to the Church today. Finally, it suggests more effective strategies that the Church could employ in peacebuilding and reconciliation. The research was guided by a complementary framework which entailed mutual combination of theological/ penitence approach used by the church, symbolic approach based on African indigenous methods and other models of peacebuilding and reconciliation. Data for this study was obtained from primary and secondary sources. The former was both statistical and descriptive while the latter data was descriptive. The primary data were contained in duly filled questionnaires while the secondary data were in notes form. Guided by the objectives and premises of the study, the raw data was arranged according to the major themes. The study established that Laikipia West District has not known sustainable peace for a long time. The main causes of ethnic conflicts include land, poverty, militia gangs, gun culture, political incitement, racism and ethnic animosity. The study's findings indicate that churches in Laikipia West District have been at the forefront in fostering peace using different methods particularly submission, confession, and peace visits. The study established that conflicts recur because of the adoption of ineffective methods of peacebuilding and reconciliation and lack of community involvement. The study also found that complementary approach to peacebuilding and reconciliation is inevitable for long lasting peace. In multiethnic society, all actors should ensure they use a comprehensive approach that appreciates the diversity of cultural world views. After the interpretation and discussion of the data, conclusions were drawn and recommendations for further research given.
Constraints Affecting Women in Micro and Small Enterprises in Kasipul Constituency Homabay County- Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2015-10) Anyango, Juliana
The important role that entrepreneurship plays to combat unemployment, disparities in wealth distribution and alleviation of poverty should not be underestimated.Women entrepreneurship is faced by many challenges. This study sought to determine challenges that women entrepreneurs are facing in the running of their businesses in Kasipul constituency. The objectives of this study were; to analyze the key factors affecting the performance of women entrepreneurs, the types of industries they are likely to engage in and recommendations on how to promote the women entrepreneurs. The study was guided by Pearson’s ‘Gender Theory’. Descriptive research was used to generalize characteristic of the study population and to show the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. The target population was 536 women owning MSEs enterprises located in Kasipul constituency using random and stratified sampling. These were; construction, textile, food and beverages and beauty enterprises. A sample of 30% was drawn from each stratum to get a sample size of 160 respondents. Primary data were collected using questionnaires and interview guide. Questionnaires were self-administered through drop and pick to sample members of the women enterprises for findings from the respondents. The data were then analyzed using descriptive methods particularly frequencies and percentages. Data presentation was done by the use of pie charts, bar graphs, percentages and frequency tables. For qualitative data, which were mainly gathered from open-ended questions, a qualitative data checklist was developed. The study revealed that shortages of assets (human, social and financial) and multifarious socialization trends contribute to negative performance of women entrepreneurs in MSEs. Practical recommendations are suggested to Government and women entrepreneurs to overcome these obstacles and to ensure that women entrepreneurs can sufficiently contribute to the economy and empower themselves economically
Cultural Expressions of Masculinities and Their Effects on Education: A Case of Maralal Mixed-Day Secondary School, Samburu County; Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2019) Njuguna, Rachel Wairimu
This study examined the cultural expressions of masculinities and their effects on education processes in Maralal Mixed-Day Secondary School in Samburu County. The study was based on the premise that despite the legal provisions and efforts to address negative forms of culture that affect education processes, particularly for boys, negative effects of cultural expressions are still prevalent in schools today. Cognizant of these effects in the classroom setting, this study therefore, was based on the objectives to (1) describe the cultural practices associated with the making of men among the Samburu and Turkana communities (2) establish the effects of the positive and negative cultural expressions of Turkana and Samburu masculinities on educational processes in Maralal Mixed-Day Secondary School (3) identify the differences in participation in the educational processes among the Turkana and Samburu boys in Maralal Mixed-Day Secondary School (4) suggest strategies that address the negative expressions of masculinities and enhance the positive expressions of masculinities to improve the educational processes. Connell‟s theory of masculinity guided the study. The study targeted teachers and students in Maralal Mixed-Day Secondary School. Education officials were also sampled. Non-probability sampling methods, that is, purposive sampling was employed to sample 30% of the school‟s population. Students, teachers and educational officials served as key informants. Primary data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires, interview guides and observation checklists. Secondary data were obtained through library research. Analysis of quantitative data was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 17.0 and the findings presented in tables, graphs and figures. Qualitative data was qualitatively analyzed using content analysis method. The findings were presented in form of verbatim and narratives. The research found that cultural expressions of masculinities affect educational processes both positively and negatively. 92.9% of the respondents reported that they had gone through various cultural practices that transformed them into men and agreed that these practices make them express different forms of masculinities which affect their educational processes. The results further revealed a significant disparity in the participation in educational processes between the Turkana and Samburu boys. These were influenced by several variables such as different cultural processes that initiate them to manhood. Moreover, the findings also demonstrated that cultural expressions of masculinities could either promote or subdue educational processes. To address these challenges, the study recommended attention to this issue in policy making, which is a critical strategic starting point if the effects of cultural expressions of masculinities on educational processes are to be addressed. Positive expressions of masculinities needed to be enhanced to improve the educational processes.
Determinants of Adoption of Dairy Farming Technologies by Rural Women in Kakamega County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2019) Maindi, Lilian Janetrix
Adoption of dairy farming technologies in dairy production has potential to allow for higher output and lower per unit cost in rural households. Observation had shown extensive dissemination of dairy farming technologies targeting rural women in Kakamega County. This study therefore, sought to identify the existing dairy farming technologies, assessed the status of adoption of dairy farming technologies, established constraints experienced in adoption of dairy farming technologies and finally explored strategies that would enhance effective adoption of dairy farming technologies by rural women of Khwisero, Kakamega County. The research was guided by Innovation Diffusion Theory, Rogers (2003) and Social Cognitive Theory of Gender Development and Differentiation, Bassey & Bandura (1999). A descriptive survey research design was employed with a total of 72 rural women dairy farmers randomly selected to cover Khwisero Sub-County. Data was collected using questionnaires, observation guides, interview schedules and FGDs. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics in terms of frequencies and percentages, were utilized in presenting the findings. Analysis of qualitative was done using themes and verbatim. The result rated high awareness level on exotic cow breeds, fodder establishment and conservation technologies. A majority rural women adopted to cross- bred cows, improved variety of nappier grass, mullato grass and sweet potatoe vines. The study found slow status of adoption of dairy farming technologies characterised by norm based socialisation that promoted hierarchy of power within rural households. These norms relegated rural women to limited rights of resource ownership and household decisions making. Other determinants in adoption emerged as straining practical gender needs, costs of external inputs and technologies characteristics. The strategies suggested for the enhancement of the adoption included, County Government and NGOs as implementers synchronizing their efforts and advocating for the enforcement of gender roles in dairy production. In conclusion, rural women‟s roles and constraints need to be fully understood and reflected in all information packaging. This would be propagated by increasing the inclusivity of women‟s voice along all the adoption process phases. The study recommend provision of dairy farming technologies programmes directed to all adult members in the household, incorporate gender perspectives in awareness creation, promote laws protecting women‟s right of ownership to land at grassroots level.
Determinants of Boys’ Academic Performance in Public Primary Schools in Mukurweini Sub –County, Nyeri - Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2016-11) Mwangi, Lucy Wamaitha
This study sought to analyze the determinants of boys’ academic performance in public primary schools in Mukurweini Sub-County. The study aimed at; assessing the academic performance of boys in relation to girls in Mukurweini Sub-County, identify factors influencing the performance of boys, determine challenges that schools face while improving the academic performance of boys and suggest possible intervention strategies that can be put in place to improve the academic performance of boys. The study was guided by Connell theory of hegemonic masculinity 0f 1987. The study used descriptive survey design. The study targeted 65 public primary schools in Mukurweini Sub -County. The study considered the three zones in Mukurweini Sub-County; Gikondi, Mukurweini South and Mukurweini North. Mukurweini South had 21 schools while Gikondi and Mukurweini North had 22 schools each. A sample of 4 schools from each zone was selected for the study. Only class eight boys were considered for this study. The population of the study comprised head teachers, teachers, parents, pupils and education officials in Mukurweini Sub-County. A sample of 320 respondents who included 2 key informants, 10 head teachers, 12 teachers, 36 parents and 240 pupils were selected. Data was collected using questionnaires for head teachers and class teachers, interview schedules for parents and key informants, focus group discussion for students. Quantitative data analysis involved both descriptive and inferential analysis using SPSS version 20. Qualitative data analysis employed thematic analysis that entailed analysing transcripts of focus group discussions and data generated from interviews. The study established that performance of boys in Mukurweini District was declining. The study further established that there were economic, home related and school based factors that influenced the academic performance of boys in the study area. The most prominent factors were negative attitude towards boys’ education by parents, lack of male role models in schools and at home, lack of mentors, indiscipline, poverty and drug abuse. The study also established some of the strategies that could be used to enhance the academic performance of boys. These strategies were guidance and counseling, motivation of boys, male parents to participate in school matters, offering equal opportunities in education to both boys and girls and abolishment of corporal punishments in schools. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the Ministry of Education should conduct campaigns through organizations in the communities on the negative effects of drugs and substance abuse, sensitize the community on the importance of education of the boy child and lay down clear policies on the education of the boy child. Schools should also offer psycho-social support to boy child and ensure that they have qualified staff on guidance and counseling.