RP-Department of Sociology
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Item Intimate partner violence help-seeking norms: scale reliability and crosssectional multilevel associations with intimate partner violence among youth in Nairobi, Kenya(BMJ Group, 2025) Williams Anaise; Wood Shannon N.; Thiongo Mary; Gichangi Peter; Devoto Bianca; Bevilacqua Kristin G.; Wamue-Ngare G; Decker Michele R.Objectives Intimate partner violence (IPV) threatens women’s health and safety. Support services can mitigate the impact, yet few survivors seek services in part due to social norms that discourage use. Little agreement exists on how to measure norms and attitudes related to IPV help-seeking. The objectives were to (1) refine an IPV Help-Seeking Attitudes Scale and examine its psychometric properties, (2) explore differences in attitudes between young men and young women, and (3) examine associations of past 6-month IPV among young women with the scale at the individual level (individual attitudes) and the by-gender community-aggregated averages (community norms) among youth in Nairobi, Kenya. Design This cross-sectional, secondary analysis used data from a phone-based survey with a cohort of young men and young women recruited via respondent-driven sampling from April to May 2021. Cross-sectional exploratory factor analysis assessed underlying latent constructs. Multilevel mixed-effects models assessed associations with IPV experience for young women. Setting and participants A youth cohort of 586 men and 591women aged 15–24 years in Nairobi, Kenya. Primary outcome measure Past 6-month physical and/ or sexual IPV among young women. Results The IPV Help-Seeking Attitudes Scale had acceptable internal reliability (Cronbach’s alpha >0.60). IPV prevalence was 17.5%, among whom 21.7% had sought any help for the past 6-month IPV. A one-unit increase in the community aggregate IPV Help-Seeking Attitudes Scale among young women was associated with reduced odds of IPV (aOR: 0.17, 95%CI: 0.03–0.98). However, the individual-level attitudes scale was not associated with IPV nor was the men’s community aggregate scale. Conclusions The IPV Help-Seeking Attitudes Scale had adequate psychometric properties. The results suggest that young women living in a community where the norm among women enables IPV response may have a reduced risk of IPV. Community norms change to better enable IPV response among young people may help reduce IPV and increase help-seeking.Item Determinants of Utilization of Helplines by Gender-based Violence Survivors During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Kibra, Kenya(JAHSS, 2025) Makena Glory; Masiga Casper; Ngare GracePandemics and government-imposed restrictions increase exposure of vulnerable communities to Gender Based Violence (GBV). Since the onset of COVID-19, GBV survivors in Kenya faced disruptions in receiving GBV-related services. This study examined the determinants of utilization of helplines by GBV survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kibra, Kenya. Using descriptive research design and Dual Process Theory (1989), the study targeted households in Kibra, involving both male and female residents, helplines, and GBV service providers as key informants. Convenience and purposive sampling was employed to select respondents from seven Kibra villages, then snowball sampling done to pick 209 respondents. Data collection involved focus group discussions, questionnaires on GBV prevalence and helpline use, and scheduled interviews with helpline managers and GBV service organizations. Both quantitative and qualitative techniques were employed, supplemented by secondary data. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data was thematically coded and presented in narratives and quotations. Helpline utilization was found to be linked to awareness campaigns, while the determinants of helpline use were found to include cost-effectiveness, specialist referrals, emotional support, and accessibility. The study thus recommends prioritizing GBV services, scaling up helplines with adequate staffing and training, and enhancing coordination among health, legal, safety, and psychosocial support providers, to ensure comprehensive and timely support for GBV survivorsItem Socioeconomic status, perceived family support and psychological distress inolder Kenyans: a cross-sectional study(taylor &francis, 2024) Muruthi James R.; Nyawaga Christine; Kirui Risper; Maina Lucy; Mwega ElijahObjectives: Incidences of psychological distress are on the rise among older Kenyans. While socio-economic status and family support have been shown to impact the mental health of older individuals,they remain understudied in the older Kenyan population. This study investigated the prevalence ofpsychological distress among older Kenyans and examined its relationships with economic statusand perceived family support.Method: Data came from a cross-sectional survey of 376 older Kenyans from four rural and urbanareas in 2022. The survey collected demographic, global health, social support, socioeconomic, andpsychological health variables. Structural equation modeling was used to test the relationshipbetween socioeconomic status, family support, and psychological distress.Results: Overall, 61% reported high psychological distress, with women experiencing significantlyhigher levels. Structural equation modeling results indicated that food insecurity, flooring material,material wealth, chronic health, self-rated physical health, sex, and education were significant predic-tors. The dimensions of family support were not significantly associated with psychological distress.Conclusion: The findings illuminate that psychological distress is a critical health concern for thesample and needs targeted health interventions. They also underline the essential role of economicstatus in the psychological distress of older Kenyans. Future studies should explore these relationshipsusing longitudinal, family-level, and representative dataItem 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, PacificahThis 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.Item 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 meetingsItem Leveraging Technology for Government Service Delivery: Suggestions for Securing the eCitizen Services in Kenya(EANSO, 2024) Maina, Lucy W.; Otieno, Godfred OhndylGovernments 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.Item 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 WaiyegoThe 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.Item Economic Determinants to Accessing Justice by Spouse Abuse Victims in Nairobi City County, Kenya(osrjournals, 2019-10) Omondi, Scholastica; Otengah, WilsonSpouse 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.Item 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, LeahThis 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.Item 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.Item 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 FedhaPurpose: 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, theItem Gender Differences in the Association between Received Social Support and Satisfaction with Life(WJARR, 2023) Mbuthia, Kezia; Mwangi, Samuel; Owino, GeorgeObjectives: 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.Item Domestic Solid Waste Management Practices in an Informal Settlement: A Gendered Perspective(Royallite Global, 2021) Mwangi, Willy W; Kimani, Elishiba; Okong’o, Grace; Majale, ChristineThis 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 limitedItem Influence of Geography on Various Career Choices in Africa. A Critical Literature Review(Cari Journals, 2022) Kariuki, RobertPurpose: 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.Item China Economic Relations with Developing Countries in Africa. A Critical Literature Review(CARI Journals, 2022) Kariuki, RobertPurpose: 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.Item Influence of Effective Planning of Work Process on Competitive Advantage of Numerical Derivative Industries. A Critical Literature Review(CARI Journals, 2022) Kariuki, RobertPurpose: 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.Item Counter Measures Used By Pastoralist in Arid Areas on Environmental Hazards. A Critical Literature Review(Cari Journals, 2022) Kariuki, RobertPurpose: 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.Item 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, RobertPurpose: 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.Item Influence of Interest Rates and Performance of Lending Institution in Africa. A Critical Literature Review(Cari Journals, 2023) Kariuki, RobertPurpose: 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.Item 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, DicksonGlobal 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