MST-Department of History, Archaeology and Political Studies

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Access and effective participation of adult basic education programmes in Nakuru-North Sub-County, Nakuru County, Kenya: C. 1963-2014
(Kenyatta University, 2016-10) Ndegwa, Maina Anthony
According to 1999 Population and Housing Census, an estimated 4.2 million adults in Kenya were illiterate, 60% being women. According to vision 2030, Kenya aims at achieving 80% adult literacy in order to transit the country to a middle level economy. This study investigates the determinants of access and effective participation of Adult Basic Education Programmes in Nakuru-North District, Nakuru County, from independence to 2014. This study area has been experiencing poor participation in terms of low attendance, access, and high drop-out rates. The study was guided by the Human Capital Theory based on the work of Schultz 1971), Sakamata and Power (1975) that justifies substantial expenditure on education in order to improve production capacity of the population of any given country.The objectives of the study were; to summarize Kenya Government Policy on ABE programmes since independence; to identify factors that have influenced access and participation in ABE programmes in Nakuru North District since independence; to establish trends in participation in ABE programmes in Nakuru North District and to suggest intervention measures to improve access and participation in ABE programmes in Nakuru North District. The target population was 100 adult learners, 20 adult teachers and two adult education officers. The sample size was 60 adult learners,6 adult learners selected from every ABE centre, 10 adult teachers, one teacher from ever centre and one District Adult and Continuing Education Officer. From the Sub-County office. The descriptive method of research was used. Data was collected by use of questionnaires, face to face interviews and personal observation schedule. The findings were analyzed using descriptive method. It was presented using frequency tables, graphs and percentages. The major findings were: there is gender disparity in terms of teachers and learners ratio in favour of the female gender; all teachers are professionally qualified; over 80% of the learners were almost illiterate when they enrolled; 60% of the teachers were on permanent employment and teachers are over worked and underpaid; most of the lessons are conducted in churches; learners with special needs are not facilitated at all in the area of study among others. The study recommends the government to employ more teachers; promote learners to post-literacy level once they complete the basic levels; start more ABE centres to make progamme visible and accessible to many learners; revive dead centres by sending teachers; allocate more funds to the programme; involve other stakeholders to fund the programme among others.
Adoption of Melia (Melia Volkensii, Gürke) by Farmers in Makueni County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2021) Gathoni, Caroline; Mary Baaru; Joseph Kurauka
Selective logging of hardwood species in the natural woodlands of Eastern Kenya has led to a drastic decline of hardwood species available for building and construction in the region. One of the species immensely affected is Melia volkensii, Gürke (Meliaceae, Mahogany family) a hard wood, fast maturing species indigenous in Eastern Kenya, whose wood fetches high market prices. Through agroforestry, its adoption has been promoted by government and non-governmental organizations, to restore it as well as fill in the rising demand for hardwood timber. Establishment and management of Melia volkensii to maturity and harvesting requires high investment capital. The rewards are long-term as the tree takes 10-15 years to maturity for timber harvesting. The study therefore hypothesizes that household’s income level influences its adoption. Households with higher income are more likely to invest in M.volkensii compared to low-income households. The objectives of the study were to investigate the agroforestry practices in which M.volkensii was adopted, to assess the role of household income levels in adoption and to investigate the major challenges facing its adoption. The study was conducted in Kibwezi subcounty, Makueni county, which was purposively selected due to high number of M.volkensii growers compared to other counties. Descriptive research design was employed. Through random sampling, a sample of 120 households of M.volkensii adopters and 80 non-adopters was identified. Data was collected through a semi-structured questionnaire administered to an adult or adult equivalent in each household. The data was analysed using SPSS and Ms. Excel. A logit regression was used to determine the characteristics that influenced adoption of Melia. On agroforestry practices, intercropping and household planting were the most preferred practices by 80% and 71% of the respondents respectively. ANOVA test on the mean number of trees in the different practices was significant (p=0.00), with woodlots holding the greatest number of trees. The results showed that household income level significantly influenced adoption (p=0.00). The challenges faced during adoption were lack of capital, unavailability seedings, lack of information, labour demand and competition with crops. Log regression was conducted on factors affecting adoption showed that the significant factors were gender and education of the household head, household size, farm size, access to credit, household income and distance to the nearest market center. The study concluded that the preferred x agroforestry practices for M.volkensii were intercropping for timber and homestead planting for seed production, hence recommends interventions such as trainings, fit for these practices. Household income level influenced adoption; thus, the study recommended provision of affordable credit to encourage adoption. On the challenges, the study recommended strengthening farmer groups and resource centers so that information is easily available and training farmers on seed production and nursery management.
The African State and the Informal Cross-Border Trade: An Analysis of the Kenya/Uganda Experience, 1962-2005
(Kenyatta University, 2021) Mukani, Lilian Achieng; Edward Kisiang’ani; Peter Wafula
At the time when there is enhanced social instability across the world, there is growing concern that the modern nation-state has failed to meet the obligations of its citizens. As an organizing tool of contemporary politics, the state faces overwhelming challenges, chief among which is its inability to unify its inhabitants around shared aspirations and desires. This study sets out to examine the main features of the modern state in Africa with a key focus on Kenya and Uganda. It examines how the key features of the modern states have led to the rise of Informal Cross Border Trade between Kenya and Uganda. It also assesses the socio-economic and political impact on the legitimacy of the Kenyan and Ugandan states. A fundamental question to answer is whether or not the flourishing informal trade between the two countries is a reflection of success or failure of the nation-states. The study revolves around three premises. It proposes the main features of the modern state in Africa with a key focus on Kenya and Uganda. It also assumes that the failure of the Kenyan and Ugandan states to manage the relations at the border has necessitated the rise of Informal Cross Border Trade. The study proposes that there is socio-economic and political impact on the legitimacy of the Kenyan and Ugandan states. From the theoretical standpoint, this study employs a duo perspective. It combines the Marxian theory of the state with that of the Corporatist practice of the state. According to Karl Marx, the state is not only an instrument of oppression, it is also parasitic because it feeds on the blood and sweat of its own citizens. On the other hand, Goran Hyden and Julius Nyang’oro share the view that the African state has a poor corporatist practice: this means that instead of asking the people what they would wish to be done for them by the state, the state in Africa arbitrarily determines what the people require and often gets everything wrong. Thus, this study uses the two theoretical formulations to demonstrate that not only have the Kenyan and Ugandan states been parasitic and dictatorial, but they have also failed to meet the desires and dreams of the people. As a result, the border communities in the two states have engaged in informal trade in order to promote localized nationalism and address the urgent needs hitherto ignored by their respective governments. Various methodological tools have been employed to collect data. Primary data was harnessed from field respondents on the operations of both the Kenyan and Ugandan states. Besides, secondary data was obtained from books, articles and journals that are readily available on the internet and local libraries. All the data has been subjected to the rigorous interrogation of the Marxian notion of state parasitism and essential elements of the theory of state corporation.
Agricultural Change Among the Keiyo of Elgeyo-Marakwet County, 1894-1990
(Kenyatta University, 2020-02) Tum, Methusella Kipkemei
This study focused on agricultural change among the Keiyo of Elgeyo-Marakwet County in the period between 1894- 1990. It examined the pre-colonial era in order to determine the Keiyo people’s knowledge about their agriculture and to help bring out the changes that came in with the advent of colonialism. The study examines how the capitalist economy established by British colonialism altered the pre-existing modes and relations of production in Keiyo. By analyzing the changes that transpired during the colonial and post colonial period, the research hoped to provide hints of solving the present challenges facing the economy of the Keiyo. The study intended to achieve a number of objectives , for instance; to give an account of the agricultural practices of the Keiyo prior to colonial rule, give an analysis of the agricultural changes that took place in Keiyo during the colonial period, identify and evaluate the responses of the Keiyo people to colonial agriculture and examine the relationship between the Keiyo’s indigenous pre-capitalist economy and the colonial capitalist economy and finally to provide an analysis of the agricultural changes from independence to 1990. Underdevelopment theory was utilized in the study to analyze the penetration of colonial capitalism in Keiyo’s pre-capitalist economic system. Articulation concept was applied to link the two modes of production in regards to the ownership of means of production such as land, labour and tools as well as technology. Qualitative research design was adopted. Being a historical study, purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to sample the intended population/sample that was believed to posses the required information. The study utilized both primary and secondary data sources. Oral data was collected from informants in Elgeyo-Marakwet County whereas archival materials at the Kenya National Archives were also consulted. The findings will be of value to economic Historians in understanding trends, challenges and social economic impact of agricultural changes of the Keiyo in the period 1894-1990.
Agricultural Transformation in Nyamira County, Kenya; 1945-2002
(Kenyatta university, 2019) Motanya, Isaac
The study focused on agricultural transformation in Nyamira County between 1945 and 2002.The study objectives included process of agricultural transformation and policies during the onset of the Second World War, drivers of agricultural transformation in the County since 1945.The study also examined the social economic effects of agricultural transformation between 1979 and 2002.The year 1945 was important to the study because after the Second World War, for the first time in history there was a deliberate attempt by the colonial government to resuscitate agriculture following negative socio - economic effects of the war. Therefore, it marked a watershed and provided basic historical background information on agricultural development in Kenya and on the topic of study. The research ended in the year 2002, when Kenya witnessed the lowest level of economic development characterized by poor performance of the agricultural sector. The study was guided by one, articulation of modes of production theory which explain that two or more modes of production emerge to co-exist. The two combined to form a mixed economy which was exploitative in nature particularly to African farmers. The other theory used was dependency and underdevelopment which elucidate that resources flow from the ‘periphery’ the poor and underdeveloped states to a ‘core’ of wealth states, enriching the latter at the expense of the former. Here, the poor states were improvised by the rich as their economy was integrated into the world system. The research adopted a descriptive design and historical approach because it sought to probe the experiences of peasants in the agricultural sector in the area of study. The research used primary sources of data which included use of archival and oral evidence. The study also marshalled secondary materials in libraries and internet sources. The study population included the five sub- counties of the County and findings were analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Some of the key findings of the study included the confirmation that agricultural changes have been taking place from the advent of European colonial economy. However, it was also found that there were no special incentive packages to motivate farmers to engage in meaningful agriculture. Weak producer cooperatives worsened the situation on the ground because of mismanagement and corruption among other factors. Notwithstanding that, the sector created some meaningful socio-economic impacts in the society. The findings will be of great value to social and economic historians in understanding trends, drivers, and socio-economic impacts of agricultural transformation in the County.
Agricultural Transformation in Nyamira County, Kenya; 1945-2002
(Kenyatta University, 2019-11) Motanya, Isaac
The study focused on agricultural transformation in Nyamira County between 1945 and 2002.The study objectives included process of agricultural transformation and policies during the onset of the Second World War, drivers of agricultural transformation in the County since 1945.The study also examined the social-economic effects of agricultural transformation between 1979 and 2002.The year 1945 was important to the study because after the Second World War, for the first time in history there was a deliberate attempt by the colonial government to resuscitate agriculture following negative socio - economic effects of the war. Therefore, it marked a watershed and provided basic historical background information on agricultural development in Kenya and on the topic of study. The research ended in the year 2002, when Kenya witnessed the lowest level of economic development characterized by poor performance of the agricultural sector. The study was guided by one, articulation of modes of production theory which explain that two or more modes of production emerge to co-exist. The two combined to form a mixed economy which was exploitative in nature particularly to African farmers. The other theory used was dependency and underdevelopment which elucidate that resources flow from the ‘periphery’ the poor and underdeveloped states to a ‘core’ of wealth states, enriching the latter at the expense of the former. Here, the poor states were improvised by the rich as their economy was integrated into the world system. The research adopted a descriptive design and historical approach because it sought to probe the experiences of peasants in the agricultural sector in the area of study. The research used primary sources of data which included use of archival and oral evidence. The study also marshalled secondary materials in libraries and internet sources. The study population included the five sub- counties of the County and findings were analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Some of the key findings of the study included the confirmation that agricultural changes have been taking place from the advent of European colonial economy. However, it was also found that there were no special incentive packages to motivate farmers to engage in meaningful agriculture. Weak producer cooperatives worsened the situation on the ground because of mismanagement and corruption among other factors. Notwithstanding that, the sector created some meaningful socio-economic impacts in the society. The findings will be of great value to social and economic historians in understanding trends, drivers, and socio-economic impacts of agricultural transformation in the County.
Agriculture and socio-economic change among the Wanga of Mumias division, 1860-1945
(2012-05-16) Esese, Danson P. L.
This study focuses on the theme of resource accessibility, use and control in relationship to land ownership, crop cultivation and livestock production among the Wanga between 1860 and 1945. The organization and use of labour in agricultural production is also analysed. The study contends that the Wanga had an efficient, self-sustaining and dynamic agricultural system prior to the advent and establishment of colonial rule and its attendant institutions. It is demonstrated that the Wanga had a well-organized land tenure system based on effective customary land law under the administration of a powerful hierarchical patrilineal system. It is contended that the establishment of colonial rule engendered new social-economic trends that culminated in the partial distortion of the Wanga pre-colonial agriculture and labour organizations. The colonial demands for wage, migrant and forced labour lead to the withdrawal of productive labour from the Wanga households, thereby making the Wanga vulnerable to food shortages. The study also demonstrates that the introduction of new marketable crops, especially maize and rice, and the impositions of taxes on the Wanga led to the distortion of famine prevention strategies. This also led to a partial disintegration of household labour and nutritional patterns that led to the increasing over-dependence on maize as food crop. It is also argued that the new livestock regulations imposed by the colonial government and the compulsory requisition of stock form Wanga, partly distorted the livestock industry. These changes lead to adjustment within the households to co-exist with the new socio-economic and political system. Thus, the colonial capitalist system led to the peasantisation and partial proletarianisation of the Wanga producers while capitalist accumulation by a few individuals in crop production and commerce engendered further socio-economic differentiation among the peasantry. These features were evident by 1945.
The Akamba Land Tenure System and its Impacts on Women’s Land Ownership in Masinga Division, 1895-2010.
(2016-01) Vengi, Ambrose Kimanthi D
This thesis looks at the Akamba land tenure system and its impact on women’s ownership of land in masinga division. The research acknowledges the critical importance of land reform in Kenya as a country that inherited colonially structured and unequal land ownership patterns. However, there are limits to state-led, masculinised and politicized land reform when women , as gendered subjects in government policies and as a social category are not considered in theory and practice of land reform programme. The research employs patriarchy and gender as a tool of analysis theories to investigate the objectives, driving forces and the politics of land reforms, to establish the extent to which the reforms initiated between 1895-2010 created economic spaces for women and to suggest policy recommendations not only for land reform reconstruction but also agrarian development in Kenya. Whereas land reform was necessary in the context of highly unequal land ownership and poverty, this research provides information on how land reform programme diminished opportunities for women to be empowered and shrunk the democratic spaces for genuine participation of women in the development process by denying them rights to land and widening gender inequalities. The objectives of the research are: to investigate women’s right to land during the pre-colonial period; to interrogate the impact of colonialism on women’s ownership of land in Masinga division; to interrogate the impact of land tenure reform on women and to explore the relationship between land tenure system and food security. The research was based on the premises that colonialism impacted negatively on women’s ownership of land and that subsequent independent governments did little to address this. The study adopted qualitative research design to collect data, formulate vital principles of knowledge and analyze data on land reforms. This involved the collection and analysis of data. The snowballing technique was used for identifying special cases for in-depth interviews. The study established that structural changes brought about by land tenure reforms have eroded the traditional laws that guaranteed women’s right to land. This is so, despite new tenure laws that allow women regardless of marital status to own land. The research findings further indicates that the women farmer has no titled land of her own and has to depend on her husband’s land for her food farming. Lack of security denies her the freedom to make major decisions concerning the land. It is this sense of insecurity of tenure which affects women’s investment decisions, since the owner of the land has the ultimate legal authority over land use. The research recommends that the government should consider passing legislation that makes it mandatory for married couples to register their land jointly upon marriage. Further to this, there should be a multi-agency deliberate attempt to support women in challenging discriminatory aspects of customs and practice of patriarchy which limits women’s ownership of land.
Alienation of Abashitaho’s Land Rights, 1920-1963
(Kenyatta University, 2018-12) Wasike, Elijah
This study interrogates the effect of European colonialism on traditional land ownership, access and use. The exposure of European capitalism on traditional land ownership, access and use abolished the land rights of Abashitaho between 1920 and 1963. The precolonial land ownership, accessibility and user rights had made the community stable and peaceful. It also investigated European colonial land policies and its pitfalls on the community leading to legacy of land right question after independence of 1963.This study is necessary because a lot of studies by scholars have focused on large general areas and communities to the exclusion of minority but important communities in the locality. While those studies were important, there is need to explore issues in such isolated localities which dominated outcomes that impacted on large communities during colonial period. The study narrowed down the unit of focus to that of Abashitaho land rights to help provide a more detailed account. The overall objective of the study was to demonstrate factors that have undermined land rights among Abashitaho despite Kenya having attained independence. The study employed a descriptive research design and applied the purposive and simple random sampling techniques. The study focused on Abashitaho knowledgeable elders and any other persons within Kakamega County to obtain information. A total of 40 respondents were sampled for oral interviews, focus group discussions and some filled questionnaires. Analysis of library and archival sources was also used to obtain information. The study used a systems approach and dependency and underdevelopment theories to interrogate traditional system of land rights and capitalist system as they clashed to analyze the outcomes of problems of land rights within an African community. These theories helped provide an avenue for understanding reasons why land rights and the land question was still a major problem in independent Kenya in 1963. The study was premised on argument that colonialism introduced changes in land ownership accessibility and use that removed the community‟s base of wealth accumulation. Colonialism also brought in new methods of land ownership with title which ignored traditional rights to access and use land which weakened African modes of production and created class differences in society .The study revealed that due to differences in ownership, accessibility and use of land some people grew richer as others became progressively poor due to policies institutionalized. The study therefore exposed the challenge of land question that endures and undermines wealth accumulation and stability of society at independence.
Archaelogical evidence regarding diet on the North Kenyan Swahili Coast between ca. 8th and 17th centuries A.D.
(1997-09) Otieno, Okelo David
This thesis examines the archaeological evidence on the Swahili people dietary practices between Ca. 8th and 17th centuries. The study analyzes the extent to which the environment influenced the procurement of food on the north Kenyan Swahili coast. The study adopts a model which relates the Swahili dietary system and economic strategies to the local environment based on culture history. Evidence for this study draws From the 1987-88 excavations carried out at lngwana by George Abungu as well as the 1980-84 excavations at Shanga by MarkIlorton. Data from ethnographic observations and documentary accounts were also examined. Au in-depth study of the ecofact from Ungwana and Shanga was carried out. Further, Faunal analysis of the excavated materials from the aforernentioned sites was undertaken. Evidence adduced from the research carried out indicate that there was lack of direct floral remains. However, ceramic and non-ceramic finds offered" indirect" yet worth evidence of the use of crop Foods in the Swahili dietary system. In most cases, the inferences made from the floral evidence about the existence of certain foodstuff among the Swahili concurs with similar assertions of the early historical accounts and ethnographic observations. There are however, discrepancies in some of the type, quantity and place where the Foods are reported. The study Further asserts that, the Swahili dietary system was a blend of agricultural, pastoral, marine and game resources. Therefore. the Swahili can no longer be seen narrowly as being either of agricultural or pastoral origin only. Evidence yielding from this study indicate that protcinous foods like fish which were hitherto considered an insignificant component of the Swahili diet were indeed popular among the community. The presence of certain types of foods probably not eaten by the Swahili communities but within Swahili ettlement confirm the coast-interior interaction thesis in terms of economic symbiosis and social intercourse
The basis of moral values: a case study of the Duruma of Kenya
(2012-05-09) Nyanje, Daniel Batso
This study examines morality of the Duruma with the aim of inquiring into the basis of their moral values. The investigation is conducted from the theoretical framework of Humanism. Throughout the study, the philosophical tools of analysis, justification, criticism and reconstruction are employed. Basically, the argument is that morality among the Duruma is based on human concerns for purposes of the well being of the society. Consequently, God does not come in to command what is right or forbid what is wrong. Chapter one introduces the study. It defines the problem and theoretical framework, sets the premises and the general conduct of the whole study. In Chapter two, the study discusses some Duruma cultural aspects which include, among others, traditional education and religious life of the people. From the study of these cultural aspects, we identify some particular moral values such as hospitality and honesty which are used for further analysis in later chapters. Chapter three discusses the nature and meaning of some of the moral values as understood by the Duruma. This discussion helps us to come to the basis of moral values which consists of moral rights and the well being of the society. The chapter also discusses methods used by the Duruma to enforce morality. The epistemological question of moral knowledge is discussed in chapter four. Sources of moral knowledge among the Duruma are discussed and compared with other philosophical positions in this chapter. It is also in this chapter that we strengthen the idea that morality among the Duruma is from human sources as opposed to supernatural sources. Chapter five attempts an exposition of a moral theory that best accounts for the facts of Duruma morality. The principle of action in Duruma morality is also discussed here. Finally, chapter six summarizes findings and recommendations by the researcher regarding the study.
The Catholic Justice and Peace Commission and Conflicts Management in Turkana County.1960-2015
(Kenyatta University, 2019-02) Ogoti, Veronica Moraa
Conflicts can result from the clash of two fundamentally different sets of expectations of behaviour. Conflicts in Turkana County have existed since 1960 and they have had adverse effects on residents of the region. The Turkana people are pastoralists and largely depend on livestock for their livelihood. These conflicts are the major causes of social, economic and political stagnation in the region. Various stakeholders have tried to manage and resolve these conflicts. This study investigated the role of the Catholic justice and peace commission (CJPC) in conflicts management in Turkana County. The study was guided by three objectives; To examine the role of the CJPC in conflicts management in Turkana County, to investigate the approaches of the CJPC in conflicts management in Turkana County and to analyse the economic, social and political effects of the interventions by the Catholic Justice and Peace commission (CJPC) in Turkana North and Turkana East Sub-Counties, 1960-2015. The study employed protracted social conflict (PSC) theory by Edward Azar (1990) to analyse the CJPC in conflict management, the approaches used and the economic, social and political effects of the interventions by the Catholic Justice and Peace commission (CJPC) in Turkana North and Turkana East Sub-Counties. This study was limited to the locations of Turkana East, and Todonyany in Turkana North sub-counties, because these are the areas whose development has lagged as result of lack of peace due to internal and external raids. The study utilized a descriptive research design. The study employed both primary and secondary sources in data collection. The main sources of data accessed were the archives, library and field work. From these, source, data was collected through mainly qualitative techniques. Purposive sampling was used to identify the respondents for the interview. The targeted population was 400 participants. The research instruments used in data collection were the questionnaires and interview guides. Data analysis was done mainly through qualitative methods by first arranging the data thematically and periodically before being presented in a narrative form. The period covered by the study starts from 1960 and ends in 2015. Local actors such as elders, women, Karacuna, Ngimurok, Religious leaders, peace committee members and activities by some NGOs, CBOs and FBOs sustained this conflict. Interventions by the Government and other bodies failed in mitigation efforts due to poor conflict management strategies. CJPC stepped in through a different approach to effectively address the problem of conflicts in the region. The government of Kenya together with other bodies expanded educational facilities in these two regions and sensitized the two communities on the effects of conflicts. It was recommended that the two communities should come up with traditional strategies that conform to their belief systems and practices that can be used to mitigate the prevailing conflicts. Therefore, the Pokot and Turkana communities needed to revive their practices of intermarrying, hold traditional ceremonies together and borrow customs from each other to strengthen their relations.
The challenges facing the eastern African community in conflict intervention: a study of eastern African standby force (EASF) as regional security mechanism
(2015) Ligawa, W. O.; Maroko, G.; Esese, Danson P. L.
The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) is a regional security body for the Great Lakes Region. The force is mandated with the tasks of conflict intervention in the region, through preventive diplomacy and peace support operations in the conflict zones. The study assessed the challenges hindering the Eastern African Standby Force (EASF) from executing the intervention missions in the region. As regional force it is also supposed to augment the efforts of other agencies such as the UN and the international community. These agencies have not been able to carry out successful peace support operations in the Great Lakes Region due to a diversity of factors. There are still violent conflicts in the region despite the presence of ongoing peace support operations. Durable peace has become too elusive for the region. Recent studies indicate that the regional security mechanisms are best suited to deal with such local security challenges affecting the region. Despite the platform, they have not been able to achieve their mandate. Guided by the underpinnings of theory of Just War, the research examined the challenges affecting the EASF in managing the violent conflicts emanating from the sub-region. A descriptive survey method was adopted. Random sampling and purposive sampling were used to select population for sampling from Kenya Rapid Deployment Capability (KRDC) based at Embakasi and Eastern Africa Standby Force coordinating Mechanism (EASFCOM) headquartered at Karen respectively. The two study sites are located within Nairobi County. Questionnaires and interviews were administered to the sampled group of KRDC and EASFCOM respectively. The study yielded both qualitative and quantitative data. As such, the study employed descriptive statistical tools to analyse quantitative data obtained. Qualitative data were analyzed through qualitative techniques. Qualitative data were drawn from open-ended questions in the questionnaire and interview guide to present the findings. This involved a critical assessment of each response and examining it using thematic interpretation in accordance with the objectives of the study. The findings were then presented in narrative excerpts within the report. Data gathered in the study were summarized to establish fundamental results. Conclusions and recommendations were drawn from the processed data.
The challenges related to police reforms in Kenya: a survey of Nairobi County, Kenya
(2014) Chtalu, K. A. Bruce
This study focused on the challenges of police reforms in Nairobi County. Available literature indicated that police reform in Kenya had become a prominent policy issue that was being implemented. As a result, concerns on the attendant challenges of police reforms came forth during the implementation process. To address these concerns, the study therefore aimed at examining the challenges that were affecting implementation of reforms within Nairobi County. The specific objectives were to analyze the key features of police reforms; examine key areas where police reforms had succeeded; discus the areas lagging behind in relation to implementation of police reforms; and identify the key challenges that were impeding on progress of police reforms in Nairobi County. This study was guided by Kurt Lewin‟s theory of change in analyzing the theoretical background as well as discussing the findings. A descriptive survey research design involving use of questionnaires and in-depth interviews with key informants was used. The study targeted a population of 2100 police officers and 10 key informants drawn from the civil society and the National Police Service. The police officers and commanders were sampled using stratified random sampling, while the key informants were purposively sampled. The sample size for police officers and key informants were 210 and 10 respectively. Primary data was collected using semi-structured interviews and questionnaires; while secondary data was collected through thematic review of literature on police reforms. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic method, while quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive frequencies with the aid of Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS). The study revealed that police reforms had not elicited noticeable recognition from police officers. Specifically, the study discovered that knowledge of police reforms among police officers was very low as only 21.5% cited the change of name from police force to police service while 10% noted the appointment of the Inspector General as part of the reforms. The study also revealed that implementation of new rank structure and vetting of police officers had become difficult to implement as required by the law. The study recommended that the National Police Service Commission should embark on vetting all police officers as well as carrying out awareness campaigns to sensitize police officers on the importance of police reforms. Areas of further research included the need to conduct studies on how the police officers were engaging with the emerging institutions like the National Police Service Commission, the Independent Police Oversight Authority and the office of the Inspector General. It is also important to carry out research of police reforms within the broader context of security sector reforms in Kenya.
Change and continuity in women self-help groups in Maragua, Kenya; 1895-2013
(2016-10) Wanjiru, Muchemi Loise
Since the pre-colonial period, women have been organising themselves in diverse ways. This study sought to examine the transformation of women self-help groups in Maragua, Murang‟a County from 1895 to 2013. The study examined women experiences in their self-help groups evaluating how they have evolved and remained resilient in the wake of changing times, adapting and adjusting accordingly. 1895 is a significant year because Kenya became a British protectorate and consequently there was social change that disrupted traditional structures, especially women self-help groups. The study ends in 2013 with a focus on recent changes in women self-help groups. The study objectives were: to examine the political and socio-economic women organizations in Maragua in the pre-colonial period up to 1895, examine the impact of colonialism on the growth of women self-help groups in colonial Maragua from 1895 to 1962. This study also interrogated the transformation of women self-help groups in the first two decades of independence in Maragua from 1963 to 1985 and to investigate the emerging trends in women self-help groups in Maragua from 1986 to 2013. The analysis of the primary and secondary data was done using patriarchy and resilience theories. Qualitative approach was used in the study. Oral interviews were conducted in the study area. A total of 60 respondents were interviewed. Annual reports of the province and district from the Sub-County Social and Development officer, the Kenya National Archives and the Jomo Kenyatta Memorial Library Archives provided significant primary data. Secondary data was gathered from written works both published and unpublished such as books, theses, journals, periodicals as retrieved from The Post Modern Library, The Jomo Kenyatta Memorial Library. The data was analyzed and interpreted using diachronic and synchronic approaches. The study found out in the pre-colonial period that women organized themselves in groups. Colonial penetration and missionary work altered the day to day activities of the women. Many men were either killed or taken away in to exile. Women were not left out in the struggle for independence as they were also active in the fight, others came together to give supplies to the men. Additionally, women took care of their homes in the absence of the men. Maendeleo ya Wanawake was formed in 1952 as a way of diverting women from the independence struggle. However on gaining independence the government did not reward their efforts accordingly and so women came and pooled resources together. They joined dance groups for entertaining the former president Jomo Kenyatta through groups like Nyakinyua and Kang’ei self-help groups and bought land. With time there were the Mabati groups and later home improvement self-help groups that bought cups, plates, sufurias, mattresses, beds, blankets, sofa sets among other household goods. They had „merry-go round‟ activities and these activities spread and they started income generating activities and table banking. These groups have enabled them buy land, shares, set up businesses and educate their children. The study further revealed that women later started coming together to go „seek blessings from parents‟ through kamweretho. The latter has been viewed with suspicion from men but with time men have also joined in groups to assist each other pay bride price
Changes in Trade Practices among the Luo of Alego Usonga, Siaya County Kenya; 1850 - 1999
(Kenyatta University, 2021) Okello, Okal Elias; Susan W. Mwangi; Julius Nabende
The Luo of Alego Usonga, like any other African traditional society in the world, depended on trade and exchange as one of the ways of earning their livelihood. This study is an analytical product of archival, oral and library research focussing on changes in trade practices among the Luo of Alego Usonga.The study examines the trade practices among the Luo of Alego Usonga between 1850 and 1999. It assesses the nature and impact of British colonial rule on trade practices among the Luo of Alego Usonga and interrogates how Africanization of the economy policy changed their trade practices. The study revolves around three fundamental questions. First, how was trade practised among the Luo of Alego Usonga from 1850 to 1899? Secondly, what was the nature and impact of British colonial rule on trade practices among the Luo of Alego Usonga between 1900 and 1963? And thirdly, how did the Africanization of the economy policy change the trade practices among the Luo of Alego Usonga between 1964 and 1999? The study argues that during the pre-colonial period the Luo of Alego Usonga had a regular intra and inter-community trade network with their neighbours involving exchange of different items of trade in various designated places. The mode of exchange was mainly barter. However, the advent of colonialism and the inauguration of economic structures affected the nature of trade by restructuring and modifying the pre-existing trade patterns and exchange to align with the new mode. New needs especially European merchandise was created as new market systems based on monetarised exchange modes were brought forth. Trading centres therefore became the nodal points of trading activities among the Luo of Alego Usonga. The study also highlighted the role of European and Indian merchants in the post 1900 history of the Alego Usonga which gradually affected the realm of trade and exchange. Although some earlier forms of traditional economy were witnessed at the onset colonialism, a fresh orientation towards the market emerged and this acted as a turning point for the economy of the Luo of Alego Usonga leading to the monetization of trade and exchange. After independence new economic policies such as Africanization of the economy were introduced to enhance economic equilibrium in Kenya. This enabled the local traders from Alego Usonga to take advantage of the existing trading opportunities as they started to operate businesses which were initially controlled by non-Africans. To deeply interrogate the integration of the traditional and capitalist economy of the Luo of Alego Usonga, this study employed Articulation of Modes of Production theory as a major tool of inquiry. The pre-capitalist mode of production of Alego Usonga was articulated and modified to capitalist mode of production forcing it to align with the colonial economy. The two modes of production continued to co-exist even during the independence period. Target population was 2240 people of the Luo residing in Alego Usonga. Key informants especially those who were above seventy years were identified through purposeful non-random and snowballing sampling techniques. Both Primary and Secondary data employed provided epistemological and empirical evidence to support the dicussions. Descriptive and historical design was used. This enabled the researcher to reach out for more key informants. Qualitative approach of synchronizing, analysing and interpreting historical data was adopted. The study concluded that the penetration of colonial rule in Alego Usonga had a great impact in changing the trade practices among the Luo of Alego Usonga. The main contribution of this study is two-fold. First, it provides overdue analysis of the significant changes in trade practices which took place among the Luo of Alego Usonga over a period of time. Second, it has disclosed information about the economic aspects of the Luo of Alego Usonga and their reaction towards colonial economic policies during the colonial period. This study recommends that changes in trade practices among other communities in Kenya need to be conducted to build on the socio-economic history.
The Changing Patterns of Land-Use among the Kabras of Kakamega County, Kenya c.1963-2010
(Kenyatta University, 2021) Andanje, Indeche Fridah; Peter Wafula Wekesa; Pius Kaikai Wanyonyi
This study investigated the transformation in land-use patterns among the Kabras of Kakamega North Sub-County of Kakamega County between 1963 and 2010.The initiatives and the struggle of the Kabras for the betterment of their economic status through the application of various land-use patterns is at the core of this study. The research examined and analysed various land-use patterns adopted by the Kabras of Kakamega North Sub-County at independence. It also investigated the emerging trends that dominated Kabras system of land-use between 1963 and 1978. The study focused on establishing the causes of these changes and their impact on the Kabras livelihoods between 1979 and 2010. Other studies carried out on the Kabras have been pegged on other aspects of the Kabras’ livelihood other than land-use system. The need to fill this gap is what necessitated having this study. The year 1978 is viewed as a watershed in which a comparison is taken between president Kenyatta’s and president Moi’s periods of leadership on how land was utilized by the Kabras. The theory of articulation of modes of production is an analytical perspective which conceives modes of production as an abstraction which links the material realities to the society in which they occur. This theory, therefore, appealed in examining the link between the Kabras and their source of wealth, which is mainly land. Apart from articulation of modes of production, the other theories that were used in this study are dependence, underdevelopment and post-modernism. Both primary and secondary sources provided the necessary data for this study. The secondary sources of data included published books and journals. The respondents interviewed were selectively sampled to identify the group considered as knowledgeable about the research area. The data collected was carefully interpreted, based on the objectives of the study. The research findings revealed that external socio-economic interests were forced on the Kabras by the colonialists without due consideration of their way of life and that the changing systems of Land-Use among the Kabras was a continuous process which had its roots in the past agriculture was accorded the highest priority in the Kabras land-use system. Also, interaction between the Kabras and their neighbours led to the transfer of iron working knowledge from the neighbours to Kabras, and as the Kabras people evolved, they systematically developed unique characteristics that defined their identity. This research is of great value to stakeholders and government officials in designing more effective strategies or interventions to improve land utilization in the Kakamega North Sub-County.
Child Labour in International Human Rights Law: The Case of Mathira Constituency, Nyeri County, Kenya, 1979-2015
(Kenyatta University, 2018) Kareithi, Mercy Wanjiku
Kenya has ratified and domesticated international human rights instruments on elimination of child labour by enacting local laws, drafting policies and launching programmes to reduce the phenomenon. Empirical data shows that children in Kenya and most countries around the world engage in child labour. This study set out by questioning why child labour continues despite the existence of international human rights instruments, local laws, policies and programmes in Kenya. As such, the study investigated the prevalence of child labour in Kenya and critically analysed the extent to which child labour conventions are effective in Kenya. Further, the study explored the factors influencing the child labour phenomenon in Kenya. The findings of this study contributed to the constructivism theory of international relations, which holds that social reality is socially constructed and that international law's real force is in its ability to reshape the discourse of states’ conceptions about what is possible or desirable in international relations. This was done through collecting perspectives on child labour and child labour laws from the local communities in Kenya and analysing how this affect implementation of international human rights instruments. In total, 148 participants were purposively sampled from the target population in Mathira Constituency within Nyeri County in Kenya to provide the data. The study used questionnaires to collect quantitative data from children with informed consent of the parents. To collect qualitative data, interview guides were used for children with consent from parents, parents, teachers, chiefs and senior public administrators, children’s officers, labour officers, police officers, judicial officers, employers, senior staff of employers organisations, officials of employees’ trade unions, staff of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) dealing with children’s rights in the area, members of parliament, a local area advisory council (AAC) and a local child labour committee(LCLC) individually or in focus group discussions. Data from the two sources was merged for authenticity and validity. The researcher also used her observations. Guided by the research questions and objectives, the research findings were that there was a high prevalence of child labour and that child labour conventions were less effective. The local communities’ views on child labour laws as criminalizing their way of life affected the implementation of conventions, so was children’s independence and dwindling parental control. The academic and policy insights given on harmonization and enactment of child labour laws and implementation of child labour laws using traditional dispute resolution mechanisms (TDRMs) will help reduce exploitative employment and Kenya will fulfil her international human rights obligations. The study recommended that further research be carried out on labour migration of children and how religion fuels child labour
Clannism and Conflict among the Ajuuran, Degodia and Ogaden Pastoral Somali Clans of Wajir County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2014) Rahoy, Mohamed Hussein
Whereas substantial information exists on the relationship between ethnicity and conflict, little is known about clannism and its nexus with conflict in pastoral areas such as Wajir, Kenya. The study sought to investigate the organization of clan structures and their contribution to conflict in pastoral areas particularly in Wajir County, the consequences of these conflicts and the measures that have been taken to address them. A mixed method design, purposive and convenience sampling techniques targeting the pastoral clan members in Wajir County were employed. A sample size of 150 respondents was used. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews, processed through Microsoft (MS) excel programs and thereafter analyzed via content and discourse analysis methods. The findings highlight the organizational structures of the three major clans in Wajir within the Somali ethnic group as well as the presence of multiple and vicious conflicts among them resulting from competition for political and economic resources as well as cultures. This competition, seemingly espousing democratic principles, utilizes manipulation and aggressive exploitation of majority in numbers of the members of clans. This state of affairs breeds tension and eventually escalates into armed conflict. In addition, these conflicts were demonstrated to have been severely consequential. Accordingly, many people died, vast amounts of property destroyed, large herds of livestock raided, security situation worsened, environmental degradation heightened and under-development entrenched in Wajir. Suggested mechanisms that may prevent future inter-clan conflict in the area are cultural, political and attitudinal changes through instituting secular and religious educational programmes, negotiated democracy and delimitation of clan boundaries. Other measures are investments in water resources, security, infrastructure and revolutionizing cross-border trade to bring about economic development as well as power and resource devolution, confidence building and disarmament. Finally, recommendations were suggested for further studies on all the neighbouring polities of the locale of study as they face similar challenges as well as the establishment of the contribution of various other variables particularly religion, politics and gender in conflict in the area. The study has therefore elucidated the pertinent issues in clannism and conflict among the Ajuuraan, Degodia and Ogaden pastoral Somali clans of Wajir County, Kenya and subsequently made recommendations on the way forward for peace, stability and development.
The Colonial Legacy in Kenya-British Military Relations: 1963-2005.
(2014-02-19) Njagi, Arthur Munene; Kiruthu, Felix Macharia; Wasonga, Joseph
Decades after the end of colonisation the intellectual debate over the positive and negative impacts of colonisation in Kenya is still very much alive. This study is not interested in justifying or condemning colonialism. On the contrary it focuses on Kenya-British military relations as one of the enduring independence period legacies in Kenya and is centered within Kenya’s problematic decolonization experience and the wider context of the Cold War ideological confrontation. The desire by Britain to relentlessly pursue its imperial interests beyond Kenya’s independence forms the thrust of this thesis and the study only adds up to the various attempts made by the Kenyan people to dismantle colonialism, both in its formal and informal dispositions. The objectives of the study were; to examine the nature and rationale of the evolution of Kenya-British military relations in the independence period, to evaluate their impacts on Kenya’s foreign policy relations with other states and third, examine the impacts of these relations on Kenya’s national security in the independence period. The study employs the realist school of thought in tracing the continuous British military presence in Kenya while igniting debate on Kenya’s decolonization experience. For the investigative aim of this thesis, the study focuses on the colonial legacy in Kenya-British military relations within the independence period regimes of Kenyatta (1963-1978) Moi (1978-2002) and Kibaki (2002- up to 2005). Nevertheless the three regimes simply provide in terms of their institutional transition an attempt by the study, a modest evaluation of the present Kenya-British military relations. Primary and secondary sources of data were used in this study. Secondary sources included mainly written sources. The study found out that the British Army in spite of being an ‘enemy’ military during the Mau Mau War of independence and the ongoing Mau Mau atrocities cases against the British government, the same army continues to use the Kenyan hinterlands as military training areas long after Kenya’s independence thereby shaping Kenya’s military relations with its former colonial master. The study concludes that in spite of negative civil-military relations at the local level, the relations at national level have proved beneficial to both countries. More so the study informs that military relations between states have largely played a major role in determining the subsequent trajectory of economic, trade, diplomatic and political relations between the co-operating nations. It thus affirms the argument advanced by the study that the trajectory of development in Kenya continues to be determined and shaped not only by the conjuncture of precolonial, colonial and post-colonial socio-political and economic structures but also by the military linkages.

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