RP-Department of Sociology

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Addressing the Practical Gender Needs of Refugee Women for their Economic Empowerment: Perspectives from the Ampain and Egyeikrom Camps in Ghana
(International Journal of Business Management, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, 2022) Ofosu-Koranteng, Monica; Mwatha, Regina; Okemwa, Pacificah
This paper looked at how the practical gender needs of refugee women are addressed to promote their economic empowerment. The study focused on the Ampain and Egyeikrom refugee camps in Ghana's Western and Central regions. A case study design was used to conduct the study, and a multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 104 refugee women. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide, focus group discussions guide and key informants interview guide. Data was analyzed and presented in descriptive statistics and verbatim quotations. The results revealed that refugee women’s practical gender roles had the potential to limit their full participation in the economic empowerment interventions. These included food provision, childcare, and other household chores such as cleaning and washing. However, planners identified these roles and duly addressed them to reduce the negative impact of refugee women's practical gender roles on their economic empowerment. Planners addressed these practical gender roles by working with relevant stakeholders to ensure that complementary and support services were provided. The education directorate provided a school and crèche where women could keep their children and attend to their businesses. The study recommends continuous close collaboration with existing stakeholders and robbing more agencies for collaboration, including the private sector.
Determinants of Men’s Level of Participation in Family Planning in Bomet County, Kenya
(IJASS, 2023-11) Bii,Jackline C.; Okemwa,Pacificah F.; Samita,Zacharia W.
The Government of Kenya (GoK) has adopted strategic interventions to reduce fertility and address unmet Family Planning (FP) needs. This study sought to examine determinants of men’s level of participation in FP inBomet County, Kenya. The study was informed by the Social Dominance Theory (Sidanius&Pratto 1999). This research adopted descriptive survey research design. Multi-stage cluster sampling was utilized to sample 394 participants from the households. Further, twelve key informants who included: seven health practitioners, three religious leaders and two community elders were selected purposively to participate in the study. Data collection were questionnaires, Key informants interview (KIIs) and focus group discussion (FGD) guides. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse quantitative data. Thematic grouping was used to analyse qualitative data. The findings revealed that there was low level of men’s participation in FP in Bomet County. Men did not engage in FP issues since they were regarded as women’s roles. The research further established that men did not attend FP seminars since they were regarded as women’s meetings
Leveraging Technology for Government Service Delivery: Suggestions for Securing the eCitizen Services in Kenya
(EANSO, 2024) Maina, Lucy W.; Otieno, Godfred Ohndyl
Governments across the world have increasingly embraced e-governance in the provision of public services. This development has significantly reduced bureaucracy, enhanced efficiency, reduced corruption and fundamentally transformed public service delivery. However, the adoption of these copyright technology solutions, owned by international corporations, non-state actors, mostly multinational corporations (MNCs), have equally exposed user governments, such as Kenya, to significant cyberspace security threats, service disruptions, exposed national security, interferences to national independence and loss of national sovereignty. These threats arise from the activities of offensive states, non-states and individuals taking advantage of the integrated and dependent internet connectivity networks. This paper is an extract from a study conducted on Information Security Threats to eCitizen Services in Kenya. The research presents findings on information security measures to secure eCitizen services in Kenya. The case study adopted a descriptive research design that targeted 12,000 respondents (users) from 51 Huduma Centres countrywide. Purposive sampling was applied to select Huduma Centres and 10% of respondents from each centre. About 1,200 questionnaires were issued with a return rate of 966 responses at 80%. The study applied both quantitative and qualitative techniques in analysis. The hypothesis was tested at a 5% significance level. The study identified 10 categories of security measures, six of which are discussed in this paper i.e., National capabilities, institutional policies, capacity development, backups, physical access, professional certification, frequent ICT audits, firewalls and management security reviews. The study recommends locally modelled technological solutions, mutually beneficial cyber security collaboration, frequent infrastructure security audits, user capacity training and restructuring national security organs to create cyberspace manning capabilities. These sectoral changes will enhance preventive, defensive and offensive capabilities against arising cyberspace threats from geopolitical, technological, economic and security competition and rivalries among global nations, non-state actors and malicious individuals.
Student Perspectives on Internal and External Factors Influencing Vulnerability to Risk-Taking Behaviour among Girlsin Public Day Secondary Schools in Kiambaa, Kiambu County, Kenya
(AJER, 2023) Mwangi, Lucy Njeri; Okemwa, Pacificah; Mwangi, Susan Waiyego
The study investigated internal and external determinants of vulnerability to risk-taking behavior (RTB) among female students in public day secondary schools (PDSS) in Kiambaa, Kiambu County, Kenya. This was due to the high levels of RTB among secondary school girls that had been reported. The study integrated two theories, problem behaviour theory and empowerment theory. It employed a descriptive survey methodology. Using proportional stratified random sampling and purposive sampling procedures 96 girls participated in the study. A pilot study involving 10 students from Kiambu Sub-County was conducted to assess content and construct validity. Cronbach's alpha (α = 0.7) ensured internal consistency and reliability of variables. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews, analysed using SPSS version 24 for quantitative data and content analysis for qualitative data, and presented via tables and figures. The findings revealed various RTB among girls, including unprotected sex, prostitution, drug use, abortion, theft, and fighting. RTB determinants encompassed factors like parental divorce, absenteeism, peer pressure, financial hardship, and lack of role models, excessive idle time, societal influences, and declining values. In conclusion, this study highlights the existence of RTB among girls in PDSS and underscores the complexity of factors influencing these behaviours. To effectively address RTB, a comprehensive approach that considers both internal and external factors is essential.
Economic Determinants to Accessing Justice by Spouse Abuse Victims in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(osrjournals, 2019-10) Omondi, Scholastica; Otengah, Wilson
Spouse abuse (SA) is acknowledged globally as a major social problem. Most victims are women while majority of the perpetrators are men. There is a high attrition level as cases reported to the police drop out of the ‘justice chain’. Limited studies in Kenya make it difficult to design an effective intervention strategy. This study’s objective was to investigate the economic determinants in accessing justice from the Criminal Justice System (CJS), by SA victims in Nairobi County, Kenya. TheSocial conflict theory of the family feminist was used. Data was collected from 134 SA victims (male and female) who reported to the police, FIDA and Gender Violence Recovery Centre (GVRC) during the period 2012-2013. There were 31 key respondents purposively sampled due to their roles in handling SA in the CJS. Secondary data was collected through records review. Both quantitative and qualitative data was analysed using SPSS and inferences respectively. The study found that majority of victims were unable to access justice from the CJS due their social status, employment status, lack of psychosocial support and legal services as well as financial dependence of the VSA on the perpetrator. The study concludes that these factors hinder the VSA’s access to the CJS. The study recommends that the Social Protection Department of the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Services should develop and implement economic empowerment programs for VSA.
Culture as a Determinant to Gender Differentials in Adoption of Alternative Livelihoods among Pastoralists in West Pokot County, Kenya
(JAIS, 2023) Kondoltiony, Emmanuel P.; Okemwa, Pacificah; Wanjama, Leah
This study sought to investigate cultural determinants to gender differentials in adoption of Alternative Livelihoods (ALs) among pastoralists in West Pokot County, Kenya. Gender differentials have persisted in spite of concerted efforts to address them hence impeding adoption of ALs, a process considered by scholars and development experts to be the best pathway out of the community’s myriad developmental challenges. The study specifically endeavoured to explain gender differentials in adoption of ALs, from a cultural perspective. The study was guided by Structural Functionalism Theory, complemented by Capacities and Vulnerabilities Analysis (CVA) framework. Both quantitative and qualitative research approaches were applied. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey research design and the target population included adult household members, elders and opinion leaders. Whereas multi-stage cluster sampling technique was employed to sample study respondents for the questionnaires, participants for Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), were purposively selected. Data were collected using questionnaires, KII schedule and FGD guide. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with the help of SPSS Version 23. The analyzed data were presented in Tables and Charts. Content analysis was employed in analyzing qualitative data which were then presented in narrative and verbatim forms. It was established that the gender differentials in adoption of ALs among the pastoralists in West Pokot are determined by an array of cultural factors, which impacted men and women unequally. These included beliefs, values, customs and practices, most of which constrained adoption of ALs, more so by women. Thus, this study concludes that the community’s cultural structure greatly impacts adoption of ALs through its gender role plan, and the gendered access to and control over productive resources, thereby causing gender differentials in adoption of ALs. It is, therefore, recommended that development actors ought to consider initiatives that engage cultural aspects as this affects adoption of Alternative Livelihoods.
Implementation Research for Malaria Prevention and Control: Barriers and Lessons Learnt in Capacity Building of Community Health Volunteers in Malindi, Kenya
(Scientific Research Publishing, 2023-09) Kibe, Lydiah W.; Muia, Daniel; Mbogo, Charles M.; Kamau, Anne W.
A two-year implementation study was undertaken in Malimo and Kakuyuni of Malindi, Kenya. The study combined data collection and intervention in three phases from November 2015-September 2017. These phases were: 1) CHVs recruitment and need assessment; 2) Curriculum and development of training guide; 3) CHVs implementation activities. Implementation activities were carried out for six months where selected CHVs conducted home visits, created awareness on malaria prevention and control activities, and collected monthly data using prescribed forms. Workshops, field visits, and formal and informal meetings were used to collect information on challenges faced by the CHVs and the lessons learned in the intervention phase. Seventy-seven (77) CHVs were identified. Twenty (20) were randomly selected, trained, and assigned to 20 households each to implement malaria prevention and control activities. The challenges identified included low literacy levels of CHVs leading to the introduction of peer-to-peer; weak referral system and poor linkages of CHVs to health facilities; insufficient supervision and missing coverage and also a multiplicity of CHVs’ roles. Identification and use of need-based capacity strengthening and follow-up are crucial in addressing challenges facing CHVs and enhancing their capacity for successful implementation of CHVs activities in malaria prevention and control.
Existing Strategies for Tackling Adolescent Pregnancy in Public Boarding Girls’ Secondary Schools in Narok County, Kenya
(IPRJB, 2023) Bundi, Emma Kemuma; Wanjama, Leah; Barasa, Sarah Fedha
Purpose: The study sought to identify the existing strategies for tackling adolescent pregnancy in public boarding girls’ secondary schools in Narok County, Kenya Methodology: Cross- sectional descriptive research design was adopted. The target populations is the adolescent students of the public boarding girls’ secondary schools in Narok county, Kenya and the sample size is 72 (8 principals, 8 counselors and 56 students). The study used purposive sampling to select the secondary school principals and school counselors while using the sampled principals to select the students to participate in the study. The research instruments were an Interview Schedule and Focus Group Discussion guide. The qualitative data was analyzed according to themes, patterns and forms. Findings: The study established that strategies for tackling adolescent pregnancy in Narok County, Kenya in the public boarding girls’ secondary schools were the strategies identified were; Guidance and Counseling, Parental Involvement, Peer Counseling amongst students, Invitation of Motivational Speakers, having General Talks at the assembly, Introduction of Life Skills lessons in the timetable and Use of Religious Leaders and Pastoral Sessions. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study was anchored on ecological systems theory which argues that the different environments we encounter in our life span influences individual behaviors in varying degrees was the principle guide in this study. The study also recommends that all stakeholders in society should join hands in fighting the vice of adolescent pregnancies, which denies the adolescent girl her rights to education. These stakeholders include the parents, the school, the
Gender Differences in the Association between Received Social Support and Satisfaction with Life
(WJARR, 2023) Mbuthia, Kezia; Mwangi, Samuel; Owino, George
Objectives: This study aimed to assess whether there are gender differences in the association between three domains of received social support and satisfaction with life among older persons in Kitui County, Kenya. Methods: This study utilized the convergent parallel mixed method design, cluster sampling technique and included 396 persons aged 60 and over derived through the Yamane formula. Satisfaction with life was measured using the single-item life satisfaction measure. Social support included one item from each of the three domains of instrumental, emotional, and informational support pervasive in previous studies of social support. Chi-square statistics were used to determine the gender differences in the association between received social support and satisfaction with life. Results: Regardless of the older person's gender, social support was significantly associated with life satisfaction, making it a crucial element of their quality of life.
Domestic Solid Waste Management Practices in an Informal Settlement: A Gendered Perspective
(Royallite Global, 2021) Mwangi, Willy W; Kimani, Elishiba; Okong’o, Grace; Majale, Christine
This study aimed at investigating the practices of men and women in the management of domestic solid waste in Kiandutu Informal Settlement in Kiambu County, Kenya. The consideration of men and women is paramount because a community is made up of the two genders each displaying different characteristics, perceptions and behaviour towards a similar situation. The study was guided by the Social Context Theory and Identity Theory. The findings reveal that gendered socialization processes played a big role in men’s and women’s daily encounter with domestic solid waste. The domestic solid waste practices exhibited were gendered and being regulated by socio-cultural and environmental factors. Men and women were found to engage in various solid waste management practices but motivated by different factors that had a gender connotation. The study therefore suggests that strategic gendered interventions are a prerequisite to effective management of domestic solid waste particularly in the informal settlement where solid waste management equipment and infrastructure are limited
Influence of Geography on Various Career Choices in Africa. A Critical Literature Review
(Cari Journals, 2022) Kariuki, Robert
Purpose: Education and training should therefore consider the role of geography in instilling learners with basic foundation skills to tackle the various challenges faced in the society. The overall objective of this study was to examine influence of influence of Geography on various career choices in Africa. A critical literature review Methodology: The paper used a desk study review methodology where relevant empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes and to extract knowledge gaps. Findings: The findings of the study indicate that a large percentage of students aspire to pursue careers that are related to Geographic Information systems (GIS) and cartography. Careers in economic geography and physical geography follow closely. The least aspired careers by students are those related to geographic education and regional geography. This shows that learners aspire for careers that are related to information and communication technology because GIS entails use of computers while cartography also entails use of computer technology such as Google maps and Global Positioning System (GPS).The fact that geography has a topic on map interpretation makes the learners to be familiar with map work; this could also be a reason why they have an interest in cartography. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study recommends that the importance of geography subject should be emphasized on learners at the early stages of secondary school such as form one and two. This will enable the learners to make informed subject choice because it will have an impact on their career prospects. Students who love geography subject should be encouraged to study it and encouraged to pursue careers related to geography in tertiary colleges and university. More learners should be encouraged by teachers and parents to choose geography because it covers a wide scope in terms of socio-economic activities that man is involved in. This will make the learner to be an all-round person who can bring development to the society.
China Economic Relations with Developing Countries in Africa. A Critical Literature Review
(CARI Journals, 2022) Kariuki, Robert
Purpose: Although not yet a superpower, China has propelled itself to both challenges and the existing status quo that has brought it into direct competition with other superpowers. The overall objective of this study was to examine china economic relations with developing countries in Africa. Methodology: The paper used a desk study review methodology where relevant empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes and to extract knowledge gaps. Findings: This study concluded that hat the changes in China Africa relations were informed by the shifting of bilateral relations from 1989-2003. The shifts of bilateral relations were informed by the change of regimes. Economic engagement between China and Africa during the period 1977-1990, accounted for these foreign aid, economic and technical cooperation between both countries. During this period, the Tolbert and Doe’s administrations accounted for China Africa economic engagement. From the findings, the Doe and Taylor regimes severed bilateral relations with China which accounted for low economic interaction between China and Africa developing countries from 1989 to 2003. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: This study recommended that it would be necessary for the African government to create a comprehensive strategy that would effectively balance its relations with China and the West. In addition, the African government needs to unleash its full potential and establish a policy for long-term development that corresponds with the interests of its citizens.
Influence of Effective Planning of Work Process on Competitive Advantage of Numerical Derivative Industries. A Critical Literature Review
(CARI Journals, 2022) Kariuki, Robert
Purpose: Adaptive capability is defined as a firm’s ability to identify and capitalize on emerging market opportunities. The overall objective of this study was to examine influence of effective planning of work process on competitive advantage of numerical derivative industries. A critical literature review Methodology: The paper used a desk study review methodology where relevant empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes and to extract knowledge gaps. Findings: The study also concluded that organizational transformation affects competitive advantage in the numerical machining industries positively. The study showed that new performance measures enhance sustained profitability and revised compensation and training strengthens customer loyalty. The study further revealed that continuous improvement determines brand recognition. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study recommends that management in firms should engage with emerging markets more closely. This can be done through planning and determining the cost advantages as well as the operational costs in order to keep itself competitive. The study recommends that international business participant should have an understanding of economics, finance, marketing and strategy, a social understanding of culture and managing across culture. The Numerical Machining industries should plan and launch next generation line extensions with precision and advice from physicians and patients. The study recommends that the patent protection should have lapsed and the corporation set up a defined strategy.
Counter Measures Used By Pastoralist in Arid Areas on Environmental Hazards. A Critical Literature Review
(Cari Journals, 2022) Kariuki, Robert
Purpose: Climate variability, population explosion, and poverty have lowered the adaptive capacity to climate variability of pastoralists in arid and semi-arid areas. The overall objective of this study was to examine counter measures used by pastoralist in arid areas on environmental hazards. A critical literature review Methodology: The paper used a desk study review methodology where relevant empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes and to extract knowledge gaps. Findings: The study concluded that about 14.8% of the residents in arid and semi-arid areas depend on relatives for economic support, while 3.3% depend on friends, 0.7% on loans for women groups, and 1.3% on government projects for support. About 73.0% do not have other sources of livelihood. Dependence on relatives and friends for economic support increases vulnerability to climate variability because it does not provide a consistent income source. Moreover, a lack of livelihood diversification increases vulnerability to climate variability. About 94.70% of the residents do not benefit from cash transfer programs. The 5.30% who receive cash transfers receive it from the government and NGOs. However, most residents do not benefit from cash transfers, which is a sign of poor coordination between the government and NGOs. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: This study recommended that the relevant governments in arid and semi-arid areas should formulate and implement appropriate policies and strategies to improve adaptive capacity of women to climate variability in arid and semi-arid areas because most of the taboos in arid and semi-arid target women and reduce their ability to cope with climate variability. Programs to strengthen their adaptation strategies should also be introduced because most of their livelihood diversification methods such as charcoal burning contribute to environmental degradation and consequently to global warming.
Influence of High Cost of Living, Oil Price, Government Expenditure and Exchange Rate Effect on Stock Market Return Volatility. A Critical Literature Review
(Cari Journals, 2022) Kariuki, Robert
Purpose: The financial services sector aims at creating a vibrant and globally competitive financial sector promoting high-levels of savings and financing for investment needs. The overall objective of this study was to examine influence of high cost of living, oil price, government expenditure and exchange rate effect on stock market return volatility. A critical literature review Methodology: The paper used a desk study review methodology where relevant empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes and to extract knowledge gaps. Findings: The study also concluded that among the variables under study oil price, inflation, government spending and exchange rate, only exchange rate is significant in explaining the volatility in stock returns in Nairobi securities exchange. Positive shocks are associated with higher volatility than negative shocks. Policy makers should enhance exchange rate stability as well as making sure that inflation is suppressed so as to spur growth in the economy. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study recommends that the government should also increase production of energy locally so as to reduce over reliance on imported oil, reduce the cost of production as well as suppressing the rate of inflation in the economy. This study recommends that Policy makers, and investors, need to take the macroeconomic variables into account when formulating financial and economic policies which are necessary to encourage investment.
Influence of Interest Rates and Performance of Lending Institution in Africa. A Critical Literature Review
(Cari Journals, 2023) Kariuki, Robert
Purpose: Financial performance is a key determinant of assessing organization success. The financial performance is geared toward determining whether the firms have generated enough income for maximizing shareholder’s wealth as opposed to the mere maximization of the firm’s net profit. The overall objective of this study was to examine influence of interest rates and performance of lending institution in Africa. A critical literature review Methodology: The paper used a desk study review methodology where relevant empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes and to extract knowledge gaps. Findings: The study also concluded that interest rates on loans and advances became significant in affecting performance in terms of profits before tax and exceptional items (PBTEI) and also returns on equity (ROE). This conforms to the study by Kibuthu (2005) that those who borrow from lending institutions are sensitive to interest on loans, borrow more when rates are low and favourable allowing banks to make more in profits. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study recommends that since majority of African banks continued making huge income from loans then the information on total cost of loans to the borrowers should be made very clear on all platforms that hold this information. Diversification to other non- interest revenue sources is a way to reduce banks’ overreliance on interest income.
Influence of Social Capital on Diversification of Livelihood in Slum Areas in Nairobi, Kenya
(THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HUMANITIES & SOCIAL STUDIES, 2020) Mases, Stellah Mong’ina; Muia, Daniel Munyiala; Ombaka, Dickson
Global population is on the increase and it is estimated that by 2030 world population will be 8.5 billion people. A resultant challenge that emerges is one of ensuring sustainable livelihoods in communities, and especially slum areas of developing countries. Hence urban areas have become centres of focus as increasingly majority of the population is residing in urban areas, in which slums have also developed and expanded. In order to achieve sustainable livelihoods then there is need for diversification of the livelihoods by the households living in slum areas. The main focus of this article is to explore how social capital influences diversification of livelihoods. The article is based on a study that was carried out in Mukuru slums in Nairobi County Kenya, with a sample of 397 household heads. It was found out that at least 49 per cent of the household heads were in different social groups; and in those groups the main reason for joining was basically to get money through the savings and to have access to loans with which to invest in diversified livelihood pursuits. It was found out that social capital was crucial to diversification through the different groups that helped in providing business capital, ideas, loans that enabled them to engage in more than one livelihood activity
Socio-Cultural Factors that Influence Masters Student’s Choice to Study Gender and Development Studies at the Master’s Level in Nairobi County
(IPRJB, 2017) Mwose, Rebecca Nyambura; Okong‟o, Grace Mose; Okemwa, Pacificah
Purpose: The study aimed at identifying the socio-cultural factors that influence master‟s student‟s choice to study gender and development studies at the master‟s level in Nairobi County Materials and methods: The study employed a case study design. Purposive sampling technique was used in selecting the respondents for the study. Interview guides and open ended questionnaires were the main data collection instruments for the research. Both qualitative and quantitative techniques guided by the research objectives and research questions were used to analyze data. Qualitative data was analyzed by use of themes and the coding technique while frequencies and percentages were used in the analysis of quantitative data that was collected. Results: The study established that subject choice is influenced by a myriad of factors including, influence from peers, parents and societal opinions. Also reference groups in the society and environmental stimuli significantly contributed to subject choice. Gender unresponsiveness featured primarily when the students did not feel suited to the choice they had made due to factors such as family advice and their educational background constraints. Finally career counselling and mentorship programs for the students, seminars, outreach and sensitization programs played a great role in subject choice and the resolving and the gender unresponsiveness before it occurs in career choice. Recommendations: The study recommends that universities should start career education sections to help resolve gender unresponsiveness through the creation of awareness about it by helping students to make subject choices where they can actualize their potential.
Placenta Disposal Rituals among Somali Refugees in Dadaab Camp
(International Journal of Arts and Commerce, 2021-07-22) Mainah, Muthoni; Bagelman, Jenifer; Gitome, Josephine; Ndegwa, Priscila; Mwoma, Terresa; Kituko, Jaqueline; Kahumbi, Newton
Rituals surrounding birth and placenta are common in various African societies. These rituals often include behavior and belief systems that serves to ensure reproductive health and welfare of mother, child, and the community at large. The rituals and practices are transmitted from one generation to next in form of fertility myths, folk tales, taboos and religion. The rituals are perceived as spiritual, important and sacred. The burial of placenta is a common post-partum ritual in many cultures. However, the ritual processes, practices and its symbolic meaning vary from one culture to the other. For instance, the Holy Quran, 20:55, indicates that placenta should be buried because it is from the earth people were created, and into it shall they return. This could be a guiding principle for persons who subscribe to the Islamic faith. Yet, in other communities, they believe placenta should be buried lest witchdoctors steal and use it for witchcrafts, bewitch and/ or to curse the family. Therefore, this study embarked on exploring the rituals surrounding disposal of placenta among Somali refugees living in Dadaab camp. The study wished to establish the religio-cultural drivers behind placenta disposal; how and where they dispose the placenta and significance the manner in which placenta is disposed for the mother, baby and community at large. It was a qualitative study carried out in Ifo refugee camp in Dadaab. The study interviewed 2 married men, 3 TBAs, 2 pregnant mothers and 2 safe mothers/ community midwifes. Two separate focus group discussions (FGDs) were done for men and women, where one FGD was conducted for only women and another for men only. Content analysis was done after coding and categorizing data into thematic areas. The study established that placenta is buried. The Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) demonstrated how and where the placenta is buried in the compound. The findings indicated that for the Somali refugees, burying of placenta is a significant spiritual-cultural practice that has been carried out by ancestors from ancient times. And that TBAs are the ones that bury the placenta two feet deep to avoid foil stench and animals preying on it. the overburden is compacted to deter an evil person from exhuming it. The study established that the placenta has a religious significance as it is supported by the teaching of the holy Qur‟an. Burying of placenta is one of the major reasons why the community prefer the TBAs services to hospitals. Such findings could be a game changer for hospital staff to come up with strategies to make sure they elicit mothers input regarding placenta disposal, by ensuring that they make provision to meet their wishes
Experiences of Retirees Under Pension Scheme Coverage In Kenya: The Case For Pension Reforms
(IOSR Journal Of Humanities And Social Science (IOSR-JHSS), 2018-01) Maina, Lucy; Mwangi, Samuel
Retirement is a phase of life following cessation of regular work entailing significant reduction one’s engagement with income-related pursuits. For persons who in their working life joined or registered in a pension scheme, retirement holds a promise of obtaining pension benefits that accrue over the working years. In Kenya, there has been an increase in the number of retirees exiting the labour force with terminal retirement benefits even though, pension scheme coverage of workers is still low estimated at less than 20% in the country. Retirement benefits in Kenya are paid in four common modes: total lumpsum, partial lumpsum, monthly pension, and annuities. Although studies have been conducted to examine patterns of enrolment in schemes in Kenya and income security pensions, there is dearth of knowledge on how pensioners experience retirement in Kenya and if these significantly differ from those of non-pensioners. Thus, the objectives of the study were: to examine the major social, economic and demographic characteristics of the pensioners; explore the experiences of retirees receiving pension benefits; and recommend ways of dealing with the negative experiences and challenges faced by retirees in Kenya. The paper however focus on experiences of retirement . A sample of 978 persons aged 50 years and older were recruited from 9 regions and 18 counties of Kenya. Data were collected using a survey questionnaire, focus group discussion and key informants interviews.

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