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Item Adoption of Sustainable Bamboo Farming to Mitigate the Effects of Soil Degradation and to Improve Livelihood in Kinale, Kiambu County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Maina, Joy Wamahiga; Joyce MwanikiBamboo is a perennial flowering plant with a distinctive life cycle: many bamboo species remain in the vegetative phase for decades, followed by mass synchronous flowering and SUbseql{ent death. Bamboos are grasses (Poaceae) that are widespread In trop ical and Sl,l‘t'troplcal regions with the potential to increase forests cover owing to their 'morphologlcal fast growth. This study aimed at i.) identifying the level of use in sustainable bamboo farming curbing effects of soil degradation, ii.) evaluating the level of COI{HHMI'EY awareness on bamboo farming and its environmental benefits, and iii.) assessing the importance of Bamboo as non-wood plant to sustain and improve community livelihoods. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 192 respondents within Kinale region, Kiambu County during a survey to gather information on bamboo farming and its impacts in curbing soil degradation. The data was analyzed on IBM® Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 21. Results showed that 56.2% of the respondents in Kinale region Kiambu County were involved in bamboo farming whereby the odds were about twice (1.821, 95% CI, Lower limit =1.11; Upper limit=2.997) as great as the odds of their counterparts. Among respondents involved in bamboo farming, the highest variance of 35.8%, 29.4% and 21.33% were from respondents that considered bamboo as a sustainable alternative to trees, aware of deforestation and degradation and bamboo farming for income generation, respectively. A respondent considering bamboo as a suitable alternative to trees was twice more likely to be involved in bamboo farming [Exp (B)= 1.963, 95% CI: 0.179, 7.307, p=0.032] whereas that who considered bamboo for income generation, was thrice [Exp (B)= 3.058, 95% CI: 0.433, 2.005; p=0.025]. Bamboo farming awareness was through Agricultural Extension Officers, Community Based Organizations and Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) as reported by 46.9%, 40.1% and 13%, respectively. Majority of 83.4% practice bamboo farming for monetary benefits compared to 16.6% that is for environmental benefits. Notably, 43.2% of the respondents reported environmental improvement associated with bamboo farming. Among the bamboo farming products, posts, chairs and baskets were reported by the majority of 30.9%, 27.2% and 20.2% of the respondents, respectively. A K-mean analysis revealed two clusters based on variables environmental-related and economic sustainability livelihood-related. In the first cluster, both variables: a sustainable alternative to trees and Land improvement or reclamation had a significant impact on its aggregation. However, in the second cluster, variables: bamboo as a source of income, household size and literacy level had a significant impact on its aggregation whereas variable: main source of income has none. The majority of 77.8% of the respondents involved in bamboo farming were in Ksh. > 2,000 - < 8,000 earning categories. Therefore, the study had shown the potential of bamboo farming in mitigating soil degradation, sustain and improve community livelihoods.Item Utilization of Preconception Care Services among Couples Aged (18-49) Years in Bungoma County, Kenya.(Kenyatta University, 2022) Mukhalisi, Audrey Nasenya; Rosebella Iseme; Boniface MusilaPreconception Care (PCC) is described as health care services for all men and women who may have an intention to conceive so as to point out and alter behavioral, psychological, biomedical, and social risks to the parents' health and their future child's health. The endmost aim being, the improvement of the pregnancy results. The broad objective of the study was to assess the utilization of preconception care services among couples aged (18-49 years) in Kanduyi Sub-County, Bungoma County, Kenya. The study used an analytical cross-sectional study design that made use of both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Quantitative data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires from the study participants while qualitative data was collected using Focused Group Discussion guides with primary respondents. A pre-test study was carried out in one randomly selected ward in Webuye East sub-county. Four wards in Kanduyi Sub-County were randomly selected for the study, using the Lottery random sampling method. The study participants were sampled proportionately from each ward. Data collection instruments, used by the researcher were a semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire and focused group discussion guide. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 22 was used for the descriptive analysis of the quantitative data. The quantitative results were presented using bar graphs, tables, and pie charts. Chi-square tests were used for testing variable associations at a 95% confidence interval, and p-values of less than 0.05 were considered to be significant. Thematic analysis of qualitative data was carried out, and results presented as narrations or quotes. The findings from this study have; first helped to depict a low-level of knowledge on preconception care services among couples, whereby only 41% (159) of the couples had adequate knowledge on preconception care. Secondly, the utilization of preconception care services among the couples in Kanduyi sub-county in Bungoma county is very low, especially on some services. For instance, the majority 65% (251) of the couples were not screened for any medical condition prior to conception. Socio-demographic factors such as; level of education (p=0.029), age (p=0.042), occupation (p=0.030), place of residence (p=0.002) and gravidity (p=0.001) were significantly associated with the utilization of preconception care services. The sociocultural factors that were significantly associated with the utilization of preconception care services were; partners' support (65%), traditional beliefs (81%), and church attendance (85%). The study concludes that the rate of utilization of preconception care services among couples in Bungoma County was relatively low. The study recommends scaling up and sensitization of preconception care programs to increase utilization rates among the couples. These results will be useful to policy makers, health researchers and other stakeholders to develop action plans to improve the utilization of preconception care services among the couples, which will further lead to improved maternal outcomes as well reduce maternal deaths associated with pregnancy related complications.Item Challenges Faced and Opportunities for Sustainable Household Food Security among Smallholder Farmers in Moiben Location, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2012) Mukabane, Atieno DamaryAttaining food security continues to be a challenge for many nations in the world. Food security; a situation in which all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs and food preferences for an active healthy life; is affected by a complexity of factors. Moiben location in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya is classified among the high agricultural potential areas yet families experience seasonal food scarcity. A study to investigate challenges and opportunities for sustainable household food security by smallholder farmers was conducted in the location. The objectives of this study were to: evaluate the overall food production among smallholder farmers in Moiben Location; establish the socio-economic challenges and opportunities influencing sustainable household food security among smallholder farmers in Moiben Location; determine technological challenges and opportunities influencing sustainable household food security among smallholder farmers in Moiben Location; establish the environmental challenges and opportunities influencing sustainable household food security among smallholder farmers in Moiben location. The study employed cross sectional descriptive survey design and used a researcher administered questionnaire to collect data from 102 smallholder farmers, interview schedules for the local administration officer and the area Agricultural Extension Officer, and focus group discussion guide. Sampling techniques used in the study were simple random and purposive. Reliability of the instruments was established through pre-testing the instrument. Cronbach's alpha was used to assess the reliability coefficient. The data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics such as percentages, frequencies, chi-square and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The study established that maize was the highest harvested crop in the area followed by wheat and vegetable. Cowpeas and beans were lower among the smallholders. Poultry followed by dairy cows and goats were important livestock in the areas. Milk was the highest followed by eggs and beef among the food items. All the socio-economic factors including sex, age, household size, highest levels of education, occupation and income affected the food crop and livestock production. Food production was higher among females than males and increased with improvement in some socio-economic I' factors of the farmers. Technology use was low among the smallholder farmers and limited food production. Some of the environmental factors limited food production. The study established that in the recent years, rainfall distribution had become irregular and insufficient thus posing a challenge for the smallholder farmers in the study area. The present study indicate that socio-economic factors, technological and environmental factors, limited food production and improvement in these factors are one ofthe ways that could enhance food production, hence food security.Item Contribution of youth self help group initiatives to socio-economic wellbeing of youth in Dandora, Nairobi City County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2016-11) Masila, Doris NdindaEstimates reveal that 1.2 billion (17%) of the world population is youth aged 15 to 24 years who constitute 40% of the world’s unemployed. While the developed world has some strategies to cushion youth against unemployment, the developing and underdeveloped world are struggling with this phenomenon. Approximately 36% of Kenya’s population are youths who remain marginalised and unable to contribute to their full potential in national development. Whereas numerous studies have been conducted on youth issues, a review of literature reveals a gap of information on how Youth Self Help Group (YSHG) initiatives transform the youths’ socio-economic wellbeing. This study sought to assess the contribution of youth self help group initiatives to socio-economic wellbeing of youth in Dandora, Nairobi County, Kenya. Objectives of this study were to: examine whether initiatives undertaken by youth in registered YSHGs in Dandora contribute to their socioeconomic wellbeing, evaluate the influence of key challenges facing registered youth self help groups on socio-economic wellbeing of youth in Dandora, assess the influence of key opportunities available for registered youth self help group initiatives on socio-economic wellbeing of youth in Dandora, examine the influence of sustainability strategies adopted by registered YSHG initiatives on socio-economic wellbeing of youth in Dandora and assess the socio-economic wellbeing of YSHG members before and after joining YSHG. The hypotheses of the study were there is no significant relationship between the YSHG initiatives, challenges, opportunities, sustainability strategies adopted and contribution of YSHG to the social economic well being of youth in Dandora. The study used the crosssectional survey research design. The target population was all the 16 registered YSHGs in Dandora. Dandora was purposively sampled. YSHGs groups registered with Youth Initiative Kenya (YIKE) were also purposvely sampled. Proportionate random sampling was used to acquire the number of items to be incuded in sampling frame proportionate to the number of members in each group. Simple random sampling was used to acquire the respondents for the study. The findings of this study indicated that some of the reasons for starting YSHGs was to create job opportunities, increase personal income, and gain new skills. Key initiatives undertaken by YSHGs included running cyber café,electronic & retail shops and initiatives geared towards environmental conservation such as garbage collection and tree planting. Findings indicated improved socio-economic wellbeing among the YSHG members. Indicators with greatest improvement in economic wellbeing were savings (63%), income (62%) and asset acquisition (47%). Leading social indicators of wellbeing included access to training (73%) and opportunity for apprenticeship (63%). Chi-square tests revealed significant relationship between social-economic wellbeing and the YSHG factors (initiatives undertaken (p=0.015), financial challenges facing registered YSHG initiatives ( p=0.034), financial opportunities available to YSHGs (p=0.041), collaboration and partenership opportunities (p=0.013)sustainability strategies adopted by YSHG in terms of opportunities for collaboration( p=0.048). Z-Test revealed significant difference in socioeconomic wellbeing of YSHG members before and after joining YSHG (p=0.016). Multiple regression analysis revealed that key challenges was the most predictive variable at (p=0.000) followed by opportunites at (p=0.001) and initiatives (p= 0.019) to social economic wellbeing. From the research findings, it was concluded that YSHGs are a good platform via which development programs can target youth to improve their social economic well being. It was recommended that youth in self helps groups be provided with financial training, formal education, psycho-social support and training in project management and proposal writing. There is need for government to streamline financing mechanisms for access to devolved funds particularly Youth Enterprise Development Fund and Uwezo Fund by the youth.Item Determinants of Students’ Uptake of Reproductive Health Services Targeting High Risk Sexual Behavior in Kenyatta University, Nairobi County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2016-06) Wanjau, Mary NjeriHigh risk sexual behavior and its consequences among university students’ continues to be a serious concern for learning institutions, parents, researchers and policy makers. This concern has been marked by the increased number of reproductive health interventions worldwide aimed at ensuring young adults have access to reproductive health information and services. In Kenya, a number of Universities have developed policies and set up programs to curb student high risk sexual behavior. However, this has not resulted in a decrease in high risk sexual behavior among students. In addition there is paucity of literature on studies assessing students’ uptake of reproductive health interventions in Kenyan universities. The purpose of the study was to assess students’ knowledge, attitude and practices relating to uptake of reproductive health services in Kenyatta University. The objectives of the study were to; establish students awareness of existing programs and services that address reproductive health issues at Kenyatta University; to determine influence of social demographic characteristics on students uptake of available reproductive health services; to determine students knowledge on high risk sexual behavior and in relation to their uptake of reproductive health services; to determine students attitude affecting their uptake of reproductive health services; to identify students high risk sexual behavior practices that influence uptake of reproductive health services and analyze relationships between students sociodemographic factors, knowledge, attitude and practices influencing uptake of reproductive health services. The study was guided by the Health belief model. The study employed a cross sectional survey research design. The sample size was comprised of 178 students who were selected using random sampling. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire for students’ and interview guide for the key informants. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis while quantitative data was analyzed by use of SPSS using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Research findings showed that 44.4% of the students’ had utilized the available reproductive health services in Kenyatta University. Chi square results revealed significant relationships between uptake of reproductive health services and students attitude to abstinence till marriage (p=0.014), attitude in condom use (p=0.005), maintenance of confidentiality (p=0.001), friendly service providers (p=0.000) students engagement in inconsistent condom use (p=0.012), multiple sexual partners (p=0.028) Sex under influence of alcohol (p=0.002) and sex for favor (p=0.022). The study concluded that students’ engagement in high risk sexual behavior and their attitude towards service provision influenced uptake of reproductive health services whereas students’ social demographic characteristics and their awareness of high risk sexual behavior practices did not influence uptake of reproductive health services. The study recommends reengineering of the way students are sensitized of about reproductive health services. Such strategies would include: use of social networks, increasing number of student peer counselors and provision of information on available reproductive health services during students’ admission. It is envisaged that these strategies will increase students’ awareness and uptake of reproductive health servicesItem Factors associated with reproductive behavior of low income mothers in Kiandutu Slum in Thika District, Kenya.(Kenyatta University, 2007-09) Kamau, Jane NjeriThe low income mothers are characterized by poverty and yet they seem not to have the desire to limit the number of children they have, hence there was need for a research concerning aspects of their reproductive behavior where crucial gaps still seem to exist. Thus the purpose of this study was to investigate factors associated with reproductive behavior of low mcome mothers in Kiandutu slum in Thika District, Kenya. The study was based on the safe motherhood theoretical framework, which outlines the linkages between the contextual, intermediate, and proximate causes that determine the prenatal health status of pregnant mothers. A conceptual framework was used which outlined the contextual, intermediate and proximate causes that determine the reproductive behavior of low inco,me mothers. The study employed a descriptive survey research design and used a sample size of 120 respondents (mothers) to provide the required data through the use of interview schedule guides. The data was analyzed using frequency tables, percentages, means, cross-tabulation chi-square, and one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Qualitative data involved coding of the information and I then identifying variables that would depict general concepts and themes. The results of the study revealed that some of the mother's demographic characteristics, that is, the level of education, occupation, income levels and religion affiliation had an influence on the reproductive behavior of low income mothers. For instance majority of respondents with secondary level of education (73.3%) had a lower reproductive behavior than those with primary education (66.7%). An examination of knowledge of contraceptives revealed a high index of 95% and was found to have a significant relationship with marital status and income levels. But however statistical analysis revealed that knowledge of contraceptives had no influence on reproductive behavior of low income mothers. Out of the 95% who knew about contraceptives 77.5% of them were found to use them. Chi square test results revealed that use of contraceptives had a significant relationship with age of the respondent, income levels and occupation. Further analysis revealed that use of contraceptives had no influence on reproductive behavior of low income mothers. On attitude towards contraceptives; the findings showed that it had a significant relationship with all the respondents' demographic factors under study. Further analysis revealed that attitude towards contraceptives was found to influence reproductive behavior of low income mothers. Mother's decision making patterns on issues related to reproduction had no influence on reproductive behavior of low income mothers. The study also revealed that although the women were knowledgeable on issues dealing with contraceptives, this was greatly undermined by the fact that men made decisions on matters dealing with when to have sexual intercourse and the number of children to have. Lastly the researcher made several recommendations all geared towards enhancing the reproductive behavior of low income mothers. It is hoped that this information will enable the low income mothers to delay age at first birth, age at first marriage and also space and limit births so that they can bring up well-developed children.Item Assessment of Youth participation in Community Development in Tetu Sub-County, Nyeri, Kenya.(Kenyatta University, 2014) Nderitu, J. N.The youth constitute 32 percent of Kenya's population, and the largest human resource for active contribution to community development. The purpose of the study was to assess the youth participation in socio-economic activities in Tetu Sub-County in Nyeri Kenya. The study looked into community activities engaged in by youth groups and how personal attributes and family background variables influenced participation and contribution to community development. Relevant literature together with the Bronfenbrenner's theory of the ecology of human development was reviewed. The study employed a descriptive survey design and targeted 1,030 youth aged 18-35 years who were registered in youth groups across Tetu Sub-County. A stratified random sampling on the basis of gender composition of the youth group members was used to select 204 youth group members. A pre-tested structured questionnaire and a focus group discussion were used to collect information from the sampled youth group members. Data analysis was performed with the help of SPSS VERSION 19. The study found that the youth engaged in various socio-economic activities; informal micro-finance groups known as Chamas and animal rearing were the two most popular economic activities that youth groups engaged in while peer education and participating in steering committees for social functions were the two most popular social activities. Data analysis revealed that gender (p=0.015), age (p=O.013) as well as level of education (p=0.017) were the personal attributes that had significant relationships with social economic contribution. Parental education level (p=0.012) and parental occupation (p=0.01) were the family background variables that had significant relationships with socioeconomic contribution of youth. The study found that there was a significant difference between male and female youth groups and type of socio-economic activities (p=0.029) as well as significant differences between males and females in income levels (p=0.000). The study concluded that the older male youths who had higher education and training levels contributed more to socio-economic development of their communities than those who had little or no formal education. Males participated more in paid work and income generating activities compared to females, who focused more on unpaid housework and voluntary work. The study also established that selected family background variables influenced youth's socio-economic contribution. Parents' education level and occupation were significant in youth's participation in socioeconomic activities for community development. Youths whose parents had higher levels of education and better paying occupations, participated more in socio-economic activities compared to youth from less privileged family backgrounds. The study recommended that emphasis should be placed on education and training of youth in entrepreneurship skills, business planning and basic financial management. This would promote participation of young men and women in socio-economic development of their local communities.Item The Role of Women Farmers in Household Food Security in Mpeketoni Division, Lamu County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2014-11-28) Kilovoo, Tabither NthenyaAfrica remains largely food insecure despite the fact that the action needed to reverse the situation has been discussed in a number of conferences and publications. Kenya's current food security situation is an issue of concern. Despite the increasing global efforts to improve food security, the extent of food insecurity in the rural areas of the country is not well documented. Women play a vital role in food production. However, their households are major casualties of food insecurity despite their efforts in food production. The purpose of the study will be to assess the role of women in enhancing household food security in Mpeketoni Division, Lamu County, Kenya. The objectives of the study will be to identify the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of women farmers; to determine the farming inputs and farming practices employed; to establish the post harvest technologies practiced and to determine the status of household food security among farming households in Mpeketoni Division. The study will employ descriptive research design. The target population will be all households practicing farming in Mpeketoni Division and the respondents will be the women farmers. A sample of 376 farming households will be sampled using systematic random sampling from a total of 3,762 farming households. Data will be collected from the women farmers and from agricultural extension officers using interview guides. Focus Group Discussions will be conducted for the farmers' representatives. Observation check list will be used to record researcher's observation of key variables of the study. Quantitative data will be analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), while qualitative data will be analyzed using a thematic approach. The data will then be presented using frequencies, percentages, pie charts and tables. Conclusion and recommendations will be drawn from the research findings.Item Childcare arrangements made in Maina village: implications for child development(2014-05-01) Gichuru, Betsy W.; Odhiambo, J.; Mburugu, K. G.Childcare is necessary if a child is to survive, grow and develop. Childcare has primarily been provided by mothers with support from members of the extended family and older siblings. However social and economic changes occurring over the years, affected the ability of family members to provide childcare. Different childcare arrangements were thus made to cope with these constraints. These changes in armngements expose children to different caregivers, activities and environments and have implications on child development, especially in the early years of childhood when rapid development of intelligence, personality and social behaviour occurs. Although childcare arrangements are important for child development, studies in the third world are deficient in information and analysis of their implications on development. This study set out to determine the childcare arrangements made by families and the implications these had on child development. A descriptive survey design with both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis was used. Data were collected through questionnaires from a random sample of 75 families from Maina village, a slum in the environs of Nyahururu town. Observations were then made for a sub-sample of five families drawn from the main sample. Data were analysed for childcare arrangements, reasons for. choice of childcare arrangements and relationships between selected demographic variables and childcare arrangements. Childcare activities and environments were also analysed for their bearing on child development. The findings revealed that the major (71%) childcare arrangement was maternal care. Other arrangements were the nursery school, childcare support by siblings and extended family members. Results on reasons for the choice of childcare arrangements indicated that non-availability of other caregivers, the compatibility of mother's occupations with childcare and mothers preference to undertake childcare of their infants contributed to the prevalence of maternal care. The demographic factors that influenced the choice of childcare arrangements were mothers and children's age. There were positive. implications for child development in maternal care due to caregiving activities that fostered adequate physical growth, development of security and trust, vocalization and cognitive development, motor skills and social behaviour. The nursery school had positive implications for the development of children aged above three years but not for children under three years old. This was because nursery school activities and environments did not cater for their needs. Results on children care by siblings showed that activities carried out differed depending on the maturity of the care giver. Childcare by immature siblings had negative implications due to absence of feeding, affectionate interaction, sanitation and safety. Recommendations for education and training of mothers and nursery school teachers on child development were outlined. Use of child to child approaches to train sibling caregivers on childcare was recommended. Recommendations for developing specific age appropriate activities and materials for under three year oids in the nursery school and expansion of recreational facilities were also delineated.Item Utilization and Sustainability of Water and Sanitation Services in Kibera Slums of Nairobi, Kenya(2014-03-12) Ratemo, Lenah Boyani; Ondigi, Alice N.; Ngige, L.W.The study was a survey of factors influencing the utilization and sustainability of water and sanitation services in Kibera. This research study used both cartographic and geographic information techniques to examine the spatial pattern of sanitation delivery facilities in Kibera slum of Nairobi. The research study aimed at assessing the socio-demographic characteristics, level of knowledge and attitude towards utilization, availability and accessibility of sanitation facilities. A total of 169 respondents were interviewed from Kibera slums, by means of structured and semi-structured questionnaires, observations and in depth interviews were done to elicit a better understanding of the factors and their effects on the utilization of sanitation facilities in the slum areas. Data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively to address. the objectives of the survey. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze quantitative data. Descriptive statistical of means, frequencies and percentages were used to describe and summarize data. Cox regression analysis was performed on the data. Tables, pie charts, and graphs were used to present results. Qualitative data was analyzed using NUDIST package. The results from the study indicate a very strong relationship between, cost of using latrine from the respondent's house, time taken walking to the latrine and the satisfaction the respondents get from the latrine services. These results explain that utilization of these facilities is highly affected by these factors. In an urban population where most people live below poverty level these facilities are not sustainable with these high significances (P=O.012, P=O.026)Item Perceived factors Influencing Deviant Behaviour among the Youth in Njathaini Community, Nairobi, Kenya(2014-02-24) Mbuthia, Winnie Wairimu; Tumuti, D.W.; Msangi, G. N.The youth are often faced by a number of challenges that are unique. These challenges differ between developed and developing countries, with the latter facing rapid urbanization that does not match government investments in social infrastructure. Irrespective of this, the challenges predispose the youth to involvement in delinquencies the so called deviant behaviour. Recently, youth deviant behaviour has become a global issue of great concern and requires immediate attention. Developing nations in Africa particularly are characterised by growth of slums to meet the challenges of housing. Therefore, the challenges that face the youth in the urban poor settings are many, varied and unique to the context. Despite this understanding, there is a dearth of evidence on the youth deviant behaviours. Particularly, the factors associated with youth deviant behaviour in the informal settlements are not clearly documented. The objective of this study was therefore, to contribute to fill this gap by studying the perceived factors associated with deviant behaviour among the youth living in Njathaini semi- slum. The study setting was an informal setting and the target population were the youth aged between 15 to 35 years. Information on the forms of deviant behaviour as well as hypothesized socio-economic and psychosocial factors that influence deviant behaviour was collected using a structured questionnaire. Data on deviant behaviour was collected using a set of questions that were aggregated together during analysis to generate individual deviant behaviour score. The study used a descriptive survey design methodology. Data analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistics and was done at 0.05 level of significant. Multiple regressions were used to establish the perceived factors that are significantly associated with deviant behaviour. The study involved 395 youths that represented an 87.78% response rate. Purposive sampling was carried out to ensure gender balance. About 80% of the youth had secondary education and below. Education attainment did not differ significantly between male and female youths. Two thirds of the youth had never been married and were not in any employment. The most common forms of deviant behaviour were drug use (92%), pre-marital sex (91%) and alcohol use (87%). These youth deviant behaviours were highly correlated. Perception on youth deviant behaviour was positively associated with employment status, training and skills as well as duration of stay in the slums. The youth who were in employment perceived positively existence of deviant behaviour while the unemployed negatively. Socio-economic factors were found to be of statistical significance to deviant behaviour of the youths in the study area. On socio-psychological factors, those who had stayed in the slum for six years or more perceived the deviant behaviour to be low among the slum youth. The married youth were often faced by a number of challenges that mainly included lack of finances and unfaithfulness. Further, majority of the youth were involved in youth groups. The group activities were largely positive ones. The perceived factors were of statistical significance to youth deviant behaviours in the area. Youth deviant behaviour in the study community is evident. The government should build institutes of technology to absorb the population of the youths who do not make it to university and other middle level colleges. The study recommended guidance and counselling by relevant organisations to the youths on the dangers of engaging in deviant behaviour. A similar study should be carried out in other slums in Kenya in order to fill the information gap.Item Challenges Faced and Opportunities for Sustainable Household Food Security among Smallholder Farmers in Moiben Location, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya(2013-11-25) Mukabane, Atieno DamaryAttaining food security continues to be a challenge for many nations in the world. Foodsecurity; a situation in which all people, at all times, have physical and economicaccess to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs and food preferencesfor an active healthy life; is affected by a complexity of factors. Moiben location in UasinGishu County, Kenya is classified among the high agricultural potential areas yet familiesexperience seasonal food scarcity. A study to investigate challenges and opportunitiesfor sustainable household food security by smallholder farmers was conducted in thelocation. The objectives ofthis study were to: evaluate the overall food production amongsmallholder farmers in Moiben Location; establish the socio-economic challenges andopportunities influencing sustainable household food security among smallholder farmersin Moiben Location; determine technological challenges and opportunities influencingsustainable household food security among smallholder farmers in Moiben Location; establish the environmental challenges and opportunities influencing sustainable householdrfood security among smallholder farmers in Moiben location. The study employed crosssectional descriptive survey design and used a researcher administered questionnaire tocollect data from 102 smallholder farmers, interview schedules for the local administrationofficer and the area Agricultural Extension Officer, and focus group discussion guide.Sampling techniques used in the study were simple random and purposive. Reliabilityof the instruments was established through pre-testing the instrument. Cronbach's alphawas used to assess the reliability coefficient. The data was analyzed using both descriptiveand inferential statistics such as percentages, frequencies, chi-square and Analysis ofVariance (ANOVA). The study established that maize was the highest harvested crop inthe area followed by wheat and vegetable. Cowpeas and beans were lower among thesmallholders. Poultry followed by dairy cows and goats were important livestock in theareas. Milk was the highest followed by eggs and beef among the food items. All thesocio-economic factors including sex, age, household size, highest levels of education,occupation and income affected the food crop and livestock production. Food productionwas higher among females than males and increased with improvement in some socioeconomicfactors of the farmers. Technology use was low among the smallholder farmersand limited food production. Some of the environmental factors limited food production.The study established that in the recent years, rainfall distribution had become irregularand insufficient thus posing a challenge for the smallholder farmers in the study area. The present study indicate that socio-economic factors, technological and environmentalfactors, limited food production and improvement in these factors are one of the ways thatcould enhance food production, hence food security.Item Selected socio-cultural factors influencing access to reproductive health service information among the youth In Korogocho slum of Nairobi, Kenya(2013-08-14) Omweno, Lucy Kwamboka; Ondigi, Alice N.; Kathuri-Ogola, L. N.Access to reproductive health services information by the youth has received the minimal attention given that reproductive health service information for many years has been tailored to meet the needs of the adult population. The youths have therefore been neglected partly due to cultural sensitivity that dictates what, when and how reproductive health information is transmitted to the youth. This study investigated selected socio-cultural factors influencing access to reproductive health service information in Korogocho slum in Nairobi Kenya. The objectives of the study were to establish the availability of reproductive health service information to the youth, to determine the information the youths have on reproductive health services, to examine the influence of selected socio-cultural factors on accessibility to reproductive health services information and to assess information dissemination on reproductive health services by health providers in Korogocho slum. A descriptive survey design was employed; questionnaires, focused group discussion guides and key informant interview schedules were administered on 164 with youths and 5 health facility officials (key informants) to collect data, the response rate was 91.46%. Purposive sampling was also used to include youth groups whose members were exclusively within the study‟s age bracket (18 – 25) and to select the facilities which offer reproductive health services information. Five youth groups met this criterion. Twenty percent of the respondents from each group were sampled using stratified random sampling. The members of the selected youth groups were divided into two strata: female (320) and male (502). This ensured desired proportionate inclusion of each stratum in the sample. Systematic random sampling of the second member per every ten members from each group in every stratum was done. This gave rise to a total of 164 youths (64 females and 100 males). The reliability and validity of research instruments was ensured by pre-testing and thoughtful discussions with the researcher‟s supervisors respectively. The study findings were presented in prose, tables, graphs and charts. Descriptive statistics of percentage and frequencies were used to describe the population characteristics such as demographic information, education and religion. Inferential analysis involved the use of Chi-square to cross tabulate selected independent variables to the dependent variable. Regression analysis was used to analyze the relationship between the independent variables (Information the Korogocho youth have on RHSI; The influence of socio-cultural factors on accessibility to RHSI and Dissemination of RHSI) and the dependent variables (Access to reproductive health services information). With a R2 value of 0.98 the study found out that 98% of the independent variables explained access to RHSI with the remaining 2% explained by other factors. The study revealed that the youth in Korogocho had inadequate and inaccurate RHS information mostly received from the media and/or their peers. The major socio-cultural factors influencing the youth‟s access to RHS information were found to be family, religion and peer influence. The study therefore concludes that the above selected socio-cultural factors had influence on access to RHSI among the youths in Korogocho slum. The study recommended that, there is need for the youth to seek for an alternative source of information rather than relying mainly on the peers and the mediam . The government and non-governmental organizations should develop, implement and operationalize youth RHSI policies. The findings of this study are hoped to be useful to policy makers in the public health sector, religious and non-governmental organizations concerned with the welfare and development of youth in Kenya.Item Analysis of poverty alleviation initiatives among small scale farming communities in rural Naivasha, Kenya(2013-08-13) Njuguna, Christine WambuiSmall-scale farmers are the centre of concern about globalization because they are the largest employment and small business group among the world‟s poor. More than 80% of Kenyans live in the rural areas and earn their livelihoods in agricultural-based activities. More than 50% of Kenyans live below the poverty level and struggle to meet their basic needs. Therefore the purpose of this study was to analyze of poverty alleviation initiatives among small-scale farmers in rural Naivasha, Kenya. The objectives of the study were: to identify opportunities and challenges facing small-scale farmers in meeting their basic needs as regards water for irrigation, land and training on modern agricultural practices; to determine household resources through asset mapping and subsequent zonal differences by wealth accumulation and to analyze poverty alleviation initiatives for and by the small scale farmers. The study methodology included Ex-post facto research design through use of participatory rural appraisal tools such as the direct contact questionnaire, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. A sample of 136 respondents were interviewed that comprised of 100 small scale farmers, 6 development agencies and 30 people for focus group discussions. Quantitative data was analyzed with the use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) where descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were computed in order to understand the patterns and nature of relationships. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically, where labels were assigned to various categories and themes. The survey found that the efforts by the small scale farmers to alleviate poverty had been hampered by lack of support in skills acquisition and farm inputs, natural disasters such as drought and dependence on rain fed agriculture. This is in addition to constrained access to markets, lack of technology transfer to farmers coupled with low levels of technology adoption. The role of development agencies was found to be of paramount importance as they provided training and credit, farm inputs, education and health services at subsidized prices and enabled farmers to have better access to markets. However there was lack of synergy and coordination of operations among these development agencies leading to an overlap, competition and conflict. There were significant differences between farmers who received training on modern agricultural practices and those who did not (p<.05). There were also significant differences between farmers who had access to water for irrigation and those who did not have access (p<.05). Findings also showed that there were significant differences among agricultural zones and annual wealth accumulation (p<.05). It was concluded that poverty alleviation initiatives that had made the most contribution to the small scale farmers were: training on modern agricultural practices, improved access to water for irrigation, self help groups and financial assistance. It was recommended that various development agencies should work in a coordinated manner to benefit the local communities; and improved access to water for irrigation and irrigation technology would greatly improve the standard of living of the small scale farmers.Item Factors influencing performance of youth group micro and small enterprises in Kisumu West District, Kisumu County(2013-03-19) Okungu, Kenneth OywaMicro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) play an important economic role among the youth in Kenya. However, MSEs face a mixture of success and failure with past statistics indicating that three out five fail within the first few months of operation. This study sought to explore the factors influencing performance of Youth Group (YG) MSEs in Kisumu West district. The objectives of the study were: to assess the performance of MSEs undertaken by youth groups .in Kisumu West district; to determine the opportunities available to youth group MSEs Kisumu West District; and to determine challenges facing the YG MSEs in Kisumu West district. The study targeted 300 MSEs owned by youth groups in Kisumu West district and the youth group members as primary respondents. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study in which both cluster and simple random sampling methods were used to identify 30 MSEs as units of analysis and 150 respondents who were included in the study. Data was collected through questionnaires and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) guides while data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for common purposes and presented through graphs, pie-charts tables and percentages. The findings indicate that even though most of the YG MSEs had not operated for more than three years, majority of them were performing well. Further, even though opportunities such as customer/market availability, loan facilities from Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs) and Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF)/Women Enterprise Fund (WEF) among others exist, only a smaller proportion of the YG MSEs had exploited them. Most critical challenges/ barriers faced by YG MSEs include competition, insecurity, lack of capital and managerial problems. The study recommends that the good performance of the YG MSEs should be sustained by capacity development through seminars, workshops to enhance the managers with managerial and mitigation strategies. This will go a long way in helping the MSEs to exploit the latent opportunities. Appropriate mitigation strategies to the identified challenges are also suggested as well as areas for further research.Item Household food insecurity and coping stategies among small scale farmers in Tharaka central division, Kenya(2012-12-04) Icheria, Beatrice Kabui; Ondigi, Alice N.; Ngige, L.W.Food insecurity is a major development problem that is caused by myriad of factors in the global, regional, national and local spheres of human life. Several efforts have been put in place to alleviate food insecurity globally, nationally and even locally. Despite these efforts, the situation continues to prevail and sometimes even increase in the contemporary human society. It is therefore imperative that food insecurity gets addressed appropriately. Small scale farmers play a vital role in food production especially through subsistent farming. However, their households are major casualties of food insecurity despite their efforts in food production. This study sought to investigate household food insecurity and coping strategies among small scale farmers in Tharaka Central Division of Tharaka South District, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to: Establish the status of household food production among small scale farmers in Tharaka Central Division; determine household food consumption patterns; establish household food sources, establish the status of household food insecurity and identify coping strategies among the households in the event of food shortage. The research design employed in the study was cross sectional descriptive survey which sought to obtain information that was to describe the existing status of household food insecurity and coping strategies among the small scale farmers. A total of351 small scale farmers' households were systematically sampled from the total population of 3631 small scale farming households in the division. Data was collected by use of structured questionnaire, observation checklist and key informant interview guide. Data analysis was done using SPSS (Version 11.5) computer software program. Frequency tables, pie charts, bar graphs and line graphs are used to present the findings of the study. Mean farmland sizes was 1.62 acres, food crops were cultivated at 95% of the total crop, the major months of adequate and inadequate food provisioning were June to August (40.5%) and October to January (30.2%) respectively. Crop loss was mitigated by planting drought resistant crops. Household dietary diversity score (HDDS) of the previous 24 hours was low (83.3%) while 50.7% had acceptable household food consumption score (HFCS) in the previous 7 days of food consumption. The primary source of maize was the market at 36.7%. Majority of households (44.7%) were food insecure, 43.3% vulnerable to food insecurity and 12% food secure. Reduction in size of meals was the major coping strategy. There were significant positive relationships between sizes of farms and sizes of farmlands (r = 0.653, p=O.OOO); between HFCS and farmland size (r=0.299, p=0.0000); significant difference between maize expected and maize harvested (t=22.927, p=O.OOO). There was also significant positive association between HDDS and HFCS ('12=13.463. df=4 and 0=0.009l. sources of maize and the statuses of household food insecurity (x~i60.895:·df= 6, p=O.OOO). Low food characterized by low HDDS, and coping strategies were not detrimental to developed through community-based participatory actions; and the GOK through implement them in all ASAL areas to alleviate household food insecurity.Item Assessment of rural household energy access, utilization and sustainability: a case of Mbuyu sub-location of Nyandarua District, Kenya(2012-11-07) Wambui, Rose Nyakwea; Ngige, L.W.; Msangi, G. N.The purpose of this study was to assess the rural household energy access, utilization and sustainability in Mbuyu sub-location of Nyandarua District, Kenya The objectives of the study included: to identify the type of household energy sources used in the study area; to establish the challenges faced in accessing household energy sources; determine various energy efficient technologies utilized by the rural households; determine the constraints towards energy sustainability and to establish interventions for energy sustainability. The study was based on the family system theory by Deacon and Firebaugh (1988). Systematic random sampling technique was used to select a sample of 136 households from the accessible population of 1,367 households from which data was collected. Data collection instruments included interview schedules and observation checklist. Descriptive statistics and cross tabulations were used to analyze quantitative data. Inferential statistics such as Pearson correlation and chi-square were used to test the hypotheses. Data was presented using graphs, charts, means and percentages. Results showed that firewood was the most common source of energy, (95.6%) for cooking. Charcoal was predominant in space heating (71.3%) while kerosene was used by 94.9% of the respondents for lighting. Other sources included solar, biogas and agricultural residues. Challenges in access to energy sources included: frequent price hikes, shortage in market supply especially for the gas (LPG) and kerosene and fear of wildlife attacks and rapes in the forest during firewood collection. Results from Pearson product moment correlation test revealed significant correlation between household income and the expenses of energy used(r=0.371, p=O.OOl). Chi-square test results showed a statistically significant relationship in energy efficiency awareness between the male and female respondents (i=5.013, df=l; p=0.025). The study concluded that access to household energy sources demanded valuable time, money and physical energy. Adoption of energy efficient technologies like solar, biogas and raised hearth was very low with 4.4%,0.7% and 33.1 % respectively. This was due to installation costs and lack of awareness of the new technologies. It was established that limited interventions for energy sustainability existed. The study recommended the creation of awareness of energy efficient technologies to improve energy saving, time and labour in rural households, use of alternative sources of energy like briquettes for space heating instead of charcoal, and activities such as agro-forestry and afforestation should be encouraged and supported to provide fuel wood, to conserve the environment and to mitigate the effects of global warming.