MST-Department of Public Policy and Administration
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Item Determinants of organizational performance in public sector: a case of media council of Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-05) Korow, Yussuf AliDeterminants of public sector performance have attracted significant volumes of literature. However, little guidance and scant empirical evidence exist on critical determinants such as communication among partners, innovation, staff competence, and independence, particularly regarding their operational impact on public sector organizations in less developed countries. Against the backdrop of the alarming performance of the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) and the identified gaps, the current study sought to establish the determinants and organizational performance of the Media Council of Kenya. The study's objectives were to determine the effects of innovation, transparency and accountability, communication, and staff competence on the organizational performance of the Media Council of Kenya. The study employed a descriptive research design, targeting 76 respondents who were employees in various divisions of the Media Council of Kenya. A census survey was used since the number of respondents was small and manageable. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. The analysis was conducted in two stages: first, descriptive statistics of each construct were used to describe the characteristics of the study population, and second, inferential statistics were used to test the null hypothesis. A Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) program, version 24, was used for the entire analysis. A series of multiple regression analyses (standard and stepwise) were conducted to provide estimates of net effects and explanatory power. The study results indicated that the Media Council supports employees with creative skills that contribute to common objectives. The results also showed that the innovation process was closely linked to an individual's level of success. The majority of respondents indicated that technological capability has propelled the parastatal in fulfilling future desires. Respondents agreed that self-assessment helps employees identify areas of success and areas needing improvement, particularly in transparency and creating a culture that upholds a drive for excellence. The Media Council allows feedback from staff during work engagement, and leaders pay close attention to their followers' needs, guiding them through challenging situations and developing them along the way. Consequently, employees were more likely to come up with unique solutions to common problems. The study concluded that innovation, communication, transparency, and accountability significantly affected the performance of the Media Council of Kenya, with a p-value of less than 5%. However, staff competence had an insignificant effect on organizational performance (sig>0.05). The study recommends that the implementation of process innovation projects can benefit from establishing focus groups, which can aid in the strategic planning and execution of the innovation process. Additionally, the study recommends that the principle of accountability should be deeply ingrained in all official documents pertaining to public service management, including development plans, policies, regulations, and legislation. It is essential to engage in consultation that encompasses both top-down and bottom-up approaches. Furthermore, it is imperative to administer professionally planned training programs aimed at boosting staff competencies, considering the current and future competencies required by the Media Council of KenyaItem Environmental Policy Implementation Effects on Prevention and Control of River Water Pollution in Kenya: A Case of Ngong River, Nairobi City County(Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Odha, Gene AilaWater scarcity and increasing demand for water are significant challenges in many parts of the world due to factors such as water pollution, population growth, urbanization, and inadequate water management. The potential impacts of water scarcity on various aspects of society have raised public concern, leading to efforts to address the issue through initiatives like the Sustainable Development Goal 6 for 2030. Kenya, a country experiencing rapid growth, is facing limited freshwater resources, prompting the implementation of programs aimed at better managing and protecting water sources, reducing pollution, and improving access to sanitation facilities. One of the Nairobi city's rivers, the Ngong River, provides riparian communities with a wide range of crucial environmental services. Since the Ngong River is a very fragile ecosystem that can suffer if an appropriate management plan is not in place, it needs protection and special consideration. Over the past thirty years or so, the Ngong River has come under increasing and significant pressure from a variety of interrelated human activities, such as industrial pollution, eutrophication, and sedimentation. This research proposal focuses on how the application of environmental policies affects the prevention of pollution in the Ngong River and offers potential policy choices that can assist in remediating or reducing environmental degradation. The available Acts and policies were examined, with a focus on those that particularly address water protection and conservation, and the difficulties that each required institution faces were highlighted. The study was guided by Theory of Change, Top-down theory and Bottom-up theory. A descriptive research design was adopted. The study targeted National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), environmental police officers, and municipal council departments. The sample size was 50% of the targeted population. A sample size of 100 respondents from various resource user groups and villages residing along the Sinai, Tetra Park, Katoto, and Lungalunga slums were used to collect data. The data was obtained using structured surveys, observations, and interviews. It was analyzed using SPSS windows and presented using tables, charts, and graphs. In addition to eleven key informant interviews with key leading government office representatives, non-governmental organizations, and long-term residents along the Ngong River, the household survey include five Focused Group Discussions (FGDs) with community members. In order to identify policy gaps and potential for the protection of the river from pollution in the study region, the researcher will analyze the policy instruments review of the current policy and legislative framework. It is vital that institutional mandates between the national environmental management and Kenya Water and Sanitation Service be thoroughly clarified in order for these government organizations to accept and support the management plans for the area. Additionally, depending on the present pressure-state condition, the researcher will analyze the rules and regulations that are not currently in place and need to be updated, and will then recommend policy enforcement, stringent regulation, and guidelines to preserve this environment.Item Corporate Governance Practices and their Effect on Strategic Plan Implementation at Isuzu East Africa(Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Kibe, Stephen GachokaStrategic plan implementation is a critical aspect for every organization. Effective corporate governance practices can enhance an organization’s ability to meet its goals. This study was focused on identifying corporate governance practices and their effect on strategic plan implementation at Isuzu East Africa. The objectives of the study were to identify how change management affects strategic plan implementation, how resource management affects strategic plan implementation and how risk control affects strategic plan implementation. The study was justified as it focused on corporate governance practices and was conducted in a private company setting unlike previous studies which focused on governmental institutions. Dynamic capability theory, agency theory and stakeholder theory were used to guide the study. The research was conducted at Isuzu East Africa, a private manufacturing company and respondents were employees working in the organization. Isuzu East Africa has a total of 474 employees and the targeted sample size was 30% of the total, equivalent to 143 employees. Descriptive research design that is cross sectional and stratified random sampling was used when collecting responses. A questionnaire was used for data collection and both close and open ended questions were used. The questionnaires were administered to employees online through google forms. A 5-point Likert scale was used for close ended questions. The research instrument was tested to ensure reliability and validity. Reliability was determined using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Responses were kept anonymous to ensure confidentiality of information given by participants of the study. Data collected was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences and relationship between the various variables determined using correlation and regression analysis. The study found that there was statistically significant relationship between change management, resource management and risk control and strategic plan implementation. The research concluded that resource management had the greatest impact on strategic plan implementation. The study recommended that organizations adopt practices that positively affect implementation of their strategic objectives. Organizations need to maintain a score card of their change management, resource management and risk control strategies to ensure they are aligned to achieve effective implementation. Additional research should be conducted in organizations in different sectors to determine the corporate governance practices most critical for their strategic plan implementation and other variables such as communication and organization structure studied.Item Effect of diaspora remittances on household livelihoods in Kericho County Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Sang, VictorDiaspora remittances have long played a crucial role in the economic growth of developing countries. However, there is conflicting information regarding their impact on the household livelihood of different populations. Empirical research demonstrates that remittances have a positive impact on reducing poverty, improving the livelihoods of community members, decreasing social inequality, and enhancing social welfare. However, several research findings suggest that remittances are not sufficient to completely counterbalance the negative effects they cause, such as the loss of skilled workers in the nations receiving the remittances. The study sought to examine effects of diaspora remittances on household livelihoods in Kericho County. The study specifically examined the effect of agro-farming on household livelihoods in Kericho county Kenya, household healthcare effects on household livelihoods in Kericho county Kenya and effects of the education achievement on the household livelihoods in Kericho county Kenya. The focus of the study was the residents of Kericho County who are beneficiaries of diaspora remittances. Rationally, the study was anchored on pure altruism and rational choice theories. Descriptive research design which has a mixed research methodology was employed to solve the research problem. A total of 1393 households of the emigrants were targeted. From the target population the study sampled 10% (139 respondents) who were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data from both primary and secondary sources were heavily relied on in drawing the inferences. Semi-structured questionnaires were utilized to collect primary data and government reports. Secondary data was extracted from journals. The method of questionnaire drop and pick was adopted in data collection. Collected data was sorted and coded for entry into SPSS 23 for analysis. The analysis of data generated descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, percentages and frequencies) and inferential statistics through Pearson correlation and regression analysis procedures. The collected qualitative data was analyzed using. Content analysis was adopted to analyze data that was qualitative in nature and in tandem with the research objectives. The study obtained a 98% response rate. The research findings showed that diaspora remittance had a positive effect on the livelihood promotion within Kericho County 57.3% (R2=.573). The study concludes that increased channeling of remittances towards education achievement, agro farming and healthcare supported livelihood within Kericho County. The study strongly recommended that the national and county governments work in coordination to provide financial literacy to the recipients of diaspora remittances in the county to help them utilize the funds they receive to improve their livelihoods through better farming practices, investing in better healthcare and educational attainment. Further, the study recommended that Policy formulation and empirical knowledge was expected to receive a major boost from the insights emanating from the study revelations.Item Effects of land privatisation on social livelihoods of the residents of Kajiado County(Kenyatta University, 2024-04) Tumeso, ClaraIn the Kajiado Group, ranches were established to provide the Maasai community with more secure land tenure and to promote range improvements, while discouraging excessive animal accumulation. However, the privatization process led to the possibility of land grabbing by various stakeholders, including corrupt committees, Maasai elites, political figures, and foreigners, who took advantage of the situation to seize the best and most desirable Maasai lands. This research aimed to fill the current knowledge gap by investigating the effects of land privatisation on social livelihoods of the residents of Kajiado County. The study focused on the following objectives: to vii establish the effects of culture changes on social livelihood of residence in Kajiado County, to evaluate effects of community conflicts on social livelihoods of Residence in Kajiado County and to assess effects of intervention strategies on social livelihood of residence in Kajiado County. To achieve this goal, the study gathered both qualitative and quantitative. The study target population was 34,175 landowners in Kajiado County. Sampling formula by Cochran was utilized to determine a sample size of 384. A random selection technique was used in selecting the respondents. Data collection for this study was done using a research questionnaire. To ascertain the instrument's reliability, a pilot study was conducted as a pretest of the research tool. Obtaining a research permission from the National Council of Science and Technology was necessary in the data gathering procedure. Both descriptive and inferential analysis were conducted. The analysed data was presented using tables. The study findings indicated that cultural change had a positive and significant effect on social livelihoods of residents in Kajiado County. Community conflicts had a positive effect on social livelihoods, and this effect was statistically significant. This implied that community conflicts had a noticeable and positive effect on the social livelihoods of residents in Kajiado County. Respondents highlighted that community conflicts resulted in social unrest, forced displacement of residents, and environmental degradation. These issues were seen as significant consequences of land privatisation. Intervention strategies had a negative influence on social livelihoods. However, this negative effect was not statistically significant, suggesting that the effect of intervention strategies on social livelihoods might be relatively minor and can be given less emphasis in Kajiado County. The study recommends that more trainings should be done to enlighten the community on various ways of handling land conflicts. More intervention strategies should be put in place to minimize privatization of land hence improve on livelihood of the society.Item Influence of Public Participation on County Integrated Development Plan in Kiambu County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Kioko,Steven MusyokaLack of public input in the development planning process may have serious repercussions for County administration. If the public is not actively involved in making decisions, fewer voices will be heard and the interests and goals of certain groups may be neglected. Therefore, County governments have a duty to make every reasonable effort to inform and include as many residents as possible in County development plans. This study intended to access the influence of public participation on County Integrated Development Plan in Kiambu County, Kenya. With this study's findings in hand, policymakers would be able to implement reforms that reflect the ideals of Kenya's new constitution and usher in the desired "people - centered and politically-engaged open society" in the country. The specific objectives of the study included assessing public awareness, public involvement and assess participatory monitoring and evaluation on County Integrated Development Plan in Kiambu County, Kenya. Theories of social capital, stakeholder theory, and civic voluntarism served as the study's theoretical foundations. From a reachable population of 1005 consisting of Members of the County Assembly, officials from the Department of Administration, ward administrators and members of the public, a sample of 285 was selected through a stratified sampling technique. A qualitative and quantitative descriptive research design was employed, where data was collected from the selected participants using a questionnaire. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences tool was utilized to process and analyze the data. This included using percentages, frequencies, means, standard deviations, and regression for both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings show that public awareness, public involvement and participatory monitoring and evaluation influence the County Implementation Development Plan. The study concludes that there is great need for county governments to take into considerations the inputs of the members of public in County Integrated Development Plan, to provide a smooth and meaningful process. The county government should create public awareness on CIDP. Increasing public awareness empowers them to participate at all stages of decision-making. Lack of knowledge on how to participate may hinder individuals from participating, but if people are aware of and understand the processes and intended outcomes, successful public participation is attained. In line with the ethical guidelines, the researcher made some ethical considerations when conducting this research. These included, obtaining approval from the both Kenyatta University and the National Commission for Science, Technology, and Innovation (NACOSTI) to conduct the research. He also ensured that the respondents’ data was protected by ensuring anonymity was observed when answering the questionnaires.Item Public Participation and Its Effect on Selection and Execution of Projects: A Case of Siaya County(Kenyatta University, 2024-05) Omiti, Gedrick JohnThe public participation in project selection and implementation is a varied activity that entails the contribution and involvement of numerous stakeholders. The sustainability and viability of projects depend on how well they are carried out. The research aimed is to explore the effect of public participation in selection and execution of projects in Siaya County, Kenya. The study objectives were; to assess how public participation in project identification affect selection and execution of projects, to access the procedures used in public invitation on selection and execution of projects and to establish the ladder of public participation on selection and execution of projects in Siaya County, Kenya. Stakeholder theory and Arnstein's Theory of Public Participation served as the study's guiding theories. A descriptive research design was utilized for this study. The Siaya County residents who are the subject of the study are locals. The sample size was determined using the Fisher formula. To choose the 384 participants for the study, random sampling techniques were used. To gather information, questionnaires and interview schedules were employed. With the aid of SPSS version 26, the data was examined. Tables showing frequency distributions were used to depict the analyzed data. The study findings revealed that project identification, procedures used in invitation and ladder of public participation significantly impacted the selection and execution of projects. The results show that public participation throughout project processes fosters a sense of community ownership and support. It contributes to the identification and mitigation of concerns, promoting effective conflict resolution and consensus building. The engagement of diverse stakeholders, guided by the ladder of public participation, ensures that projects are designed with a holistic understanding of the community's needs, values, and aspirations. The study concludes that public participation plays a pivotal role in shaping the selection and execution of projects, influencing outcomes at various stages from project identification to implementation. The effectiveness of public participation is closely tied to the procedures used in invitation and the ladder of public participation applied throughout the process. Project identification, the initial phase of project development, benefits significantly from public involvement. The study recommends that the project team should invite community members to share their thoughts on various projects in order to facilitate community participation and guarantee a smooth project identification phase. The project team should involve community members in all planning activities, such as work sequencing, work scheduling, budgeting, staffing, and obtaining approvals from government agencies, in order to maximize participation in the planning phase and successfully complete the projects.Item The Role of Information and Communication Technology on Perfomance of Small and Medium Enterprises: Case of Nairobi City County(Kenyatta University, 2024-04) Twaha, Sakwa WaziriItem Determinants of successful recruitment and selection practices in selected donor organizations in Somalia(Kenyatta University, 2024-05) Amukuzi, Shirley KisiaEffective workforce development strategies in any organization necessitate the recruitment and selection of skilled and capable employees. The process of recruitment and selection extends beyond simply choosing the most suitable candidate; it also influences a candidate's decision to accept a job offer and commit to the organization long-term. Poor selection decisions can lead to various negative outcomes for both the organization and the employee, including higher turnover costs, reduced performance, decreased job satisfaction, and diminished motivation. In this context, Somalia is characterized by political instability, conflict, and fragile governance structures, creating a complex environment for humanitarian and development activities. The ability of donor organizations to attract and retain skilled individuals is crucial for effective program implementation and impact. However, it is uncertain whether various factors determine the successful recruitment and selection in donor NGOs in Somalia. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the key determinants of successful recruitment and selection practices in specific donor organizations operating within Somalia. The study's objectives were as follows: To assess if government frameworks determine the 1effectiveness of 1recruitment and 1selection 1practices in 1Somalia, To examine whether financial resources determined the success of recruitment and selection practices in Somalia donor NGOs, To analyze if advertising determined the success of 1recruitment and 1selection 1practices in Somalia and To evaluate whether remuneration packages determined the success of 1recruitment and selection practices in Somalia. The research employed a descriptive research design, concentrating on Non-Profit Organizations operating in Somalia. Out of the 234 organizations in the region, the study's target population consisted of 234 individuals, comprising both senior and mid-level HR professionals. Purposive sampling was employed depending on the proximity of the firm, with each chosen organization designating either a senior HR official or a mid-level representative to complete the questionnaire. Using the Yamane formula, a 1sample of 148 1respondents was 1selected. 1Primary 1data was 1collected from 1the 1study 1population via 1self-administered 1questionnaires to 1fulfill the 1research 1objectives. Descriptive statistics, including percentages and means, were utilized to present the data comprehensively. Additionally, regression 1analysis was employed 1to assess 1the 1strength of the relationships among the 1research 1variables. The study's findings revealed that government frameworks, financial resources, advertising strategies and remuneration packages determined the successful recruitment and selection practices in donor organizations in Somalia. Consequently, the study recommended that NGOs should invest more in attractive remuneration packages and advertising efforts to attract a larger pool of potential candidates and ensure the success of their recruitment processes.Item Public Participation and Its Effects on Policy Formulation in Budgeting Process in Kericho County.(Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Chelangat FaithPublic participation is the new approach in the modern and democratic society though unpopular in many parts of the world. Public participation uses several mechanisms to design, evaluate, and implement policies and projects. However, the process of participation during preparation of budgets has shown to affect the common citizens. While favouring mostly the elites in a number of societies despite being adopted by most democratic governments today in the world. In Kenya public participation has not been achieved especially at county level in which Kericho County is one of them. In addition, there have been limited studies that have been done in the county to verify if public participation in policy formulation has been going on since the county came into being. This study sought to investigate public participation and its effects on policy formulation during budgeting process in Kericho County. Specifically, my research institute the effects of problem identification among public policy formulation in budgeting process; examine the effects of public agenda setting on policy formulation in budgeting process; explore the effects of development policy alternatives by public on policy formulation; access the effects of models used in public participation on budgeting process in Kericho County. This study was guided by public participation and policy formulation theory. The research adopted descriptive research design. The study targeted 30 ward administrators, 30 members of the county assembly, 85 village elders, and local residents of Kericho County. Using stratified random sampling technique, the study obtained a sample size of 196 respondents who participated in the study. Primary data for the study was gathered through the use of an interview guides and a questionnaire. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the analysis of the quantitative data obtained through the use of a questionnaire and SPSS version 25. Frequency and percentage were the precise descriptive statistics that were employed, and regression analysis and correlation were the inferential statistics. To illustrate the connection between the independent variables and the creation of policy, a multiple linear regression model was employed. Tables, charts, and bars were used to display the findings. The findings revealed R-squared of 0.630, implying all the four components of public participation; problem identification among the public, public agenda setting, development of policy alternatives by the public, and models used were able to explain 63.0% of the variation in policy formulation. The study found that there was significant relationship between various aspects of public participation and policy formulation in the budgeting process in Kericho County. The study also found that problem identification among the public (β = 0.184, p = 0.020), public agenda setting (β = 0.053, p = 0.007), and development of policy alternatives by the public (β = 0.465, p = 0.000) had positive and significant effect on policy formulation. However, the choice of models used in public participation, while positively related, did not reach statistical significance (β = 0.155, p = 0.104), indicating a moderate but insignificant effect on policy formulation. The study in addition found that active public involvement in problem identification, agenda setting, and policy alternative development positively affect policy formulation in Kericho County. The study concludes that the government, citizens, special interest groups, the media, and the private sector all have a role to play in the policy-making process. It is therefore recommended that policy makers should consider the input of these stakeholders when making decisions, as their actions can have a large impact on the implementation of policies.Item Implementation of the Charter for Change Commitments and Localization of Aid in Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2023-10) Matheka,Denis KiokoThe study investigated the progress of commitments made under the Charter for Change (C4C) in Kenya, focusing on aid localization. This initiative aimed to ensure more leadership, representation, and participation of local and national actors in humanitarian coordination and decision-making. The study used Aldrich's resource dependence model and conducted a census of C4C signatories and endorsers in Kenya, with a 52% response rate. Regarding funding, 43% of endorsers reported that funds from international NGOs (INGOs) were consistently disbursed on time, while 58% noted occasional delays or lack of appropriateness in disbursement. Capacity strengthening initiatives were participated in by 71.4% of local non-governmental organizations (LNNGOs) with support from INGOs, focusing on areas like strategic planning and resource mobilization. In terms of partnerships, 42.9% of LNNGOs reported having collaborative partnerships with INGOs, and 50% had inclusive partnerships. However, none reported having accountable partnerships. The study concluded that funding models, capacity strengthening, and partnership relations significantly impact aid localization in Kenya. LNNGOs have begun long-term resource mobilization strategies to complement INGO support. Capacity strengthening efforts between LNNGOs and INGOs were found to influence aid localization. LNNGOs with particular strengths have supported other organizations in areas such as advocacy and governance. Transparent, results-oriented, and equitable partnerships were identified as essential for aid localization, with a majority of LNNGOs having inclusive partnerships with INGOs. Recommendations included resourcing C4C Kenyan Chapter operations by INGOs, adopting localized capacity strengthening approaches, and fostering peer-to-peer capacity strengthening among local actors. Growing C4C membership in Kenya through community-focused communication and highlighting benefits of C4C membership was suggested. Decentralizing C4C decision-making through a regional delegate system was proposed to ensure participatory governance. Equitable, accountable, and principled partnerships between local and national NGOs and INGOs were emphasized to support aid localization effectively.Item Community Participation and Security Control in Mt. Elgon Constituency, Bungoma County Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Masudi,Emmah CherotichThis study sought to analyze community participation and security control in Mt. Elgon constituency, Bungoma County. The thesis of this study is that community participation seems to be more prominent as an alternative strategy in combating insecurity in Mt Elgon. The main objective was to find out how effective community participation is in combating insecurity in Mt Elgon constituency. This is because insecurity in the Mt Elgon region continues to be a challenge and does not seem to end soon. This study was informed by complexity theory and Stakeholder theory to offer insights on social relations and behavior relevant for peace building. These theories were purposely selected since it explains and enhances a better understanding of the variables affecting the research questions. Methodologically, the study adopted both the qualitative and quantitative methods, drawn from the primary and secondary sources. This study primarily targeted community policing committees (4), national government administrative officers (17), religious leaders (2) and the Kenya police (4 OCS). By use of Yamane formula, 127 respondents were selected to take part in the study. A non-probability sampling technique that adopts a purposive sampling method was used in selecting respondents. Besides, descriptive statistical methods were used in processing and analyzing data. Primary data was obtained using questionnaires and interview guides. A pilot study was carried out to test the validity and reliability of data. The study found out that neighborhood watch, community intelligence gathering, community meetings, community hotlines and community policing are some of the most effective community participation mechanisms effective in security control in Mt Elgon constituency, Bungoma County. Further, the results indicated that indigenous and restorative practices significantly contribute to security control in Mt Elgon region. Nevertheless, there are specific areas like re-integration and compensation that need improvements. Besides, the relationship between the police and community in Mt Elgon region was poor, thus the need to create trust and hold community meetings to improve the relationship. This study recommends that the National Police Service should having units specifically trained on dealing with the community participation. The NPS should also educate and create awareness to the local communities and other stakeholders on the importance of contributing to national security.Item Effect of Devolution on Expansion of Medical Infrastructure in Nakuru County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-02) Omondi, Edward OtienoMedical infrastructure is regarded as among key service delivery component in devolution of care. It relates to all physical infrastructure including medical equipment, ambulance services and Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) required for effective service delivery. The study sought to investigate the effect of devolution on medical infrastructure in Nakuru county. The investigation was guided by the following specific objectives: to investigate the effect of devolution on the expansion of medical laboratories, expansion of surgical theatres as well as to assess the effect of devolution on the expansion of maternity wards in Nakuru County, Kenya. The investigation adopted a descriptive research design. The population target was 4840 health workers in the purposively selected public hospitals in Nakuru County. The research employed Agency theory. Using purposive sampling technique, the hospital heads were included in the sample size while the health workers were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Sampled size was 126. Primary data was obtained using Interview guides and questionnaires. The hospital heads were interviewed while the health workers responded to the questionnaires. Research supervisor was consulted in the review of content and predictive validity. Test-retest coefficient tested the reliability of research instrument; a reliability of 0.7 was accepted. SPSS helped analyze data obtained. Interpretation and discussion of the results were guided by the investigation objectives. The research findings revealed that devolved medical laboratories have an inverse and insignificant effect on Medical Infrastructure Expansion in Nakuru county (β1=-0.209, p-value= 0.322). The findings also showed that devolved surgical theatres have an inverse and insignificant effect on medical infrastructure expansion in Nakuru county (β2=-0.376, p-value= 0.063). The research further concludes that devolved maternity wards had a productive and remarkable impact on medical infrastructure expansion in Nakuru county (β3=0.938, p-value=0.000). The study recommends the Kenyan government and policy implementers to consider equipping surgical theatres and enforce already existing laws on medical equipment procurement and asset acquisition to help enhance devolved medical theatres in the devolved units and nationally. Devolved units through the Ministry of lands should also consider acquiring and utilizing idle public lands for the expansion of medical infrastructure. The study further recommends the Kenyan government to consider increasing funds and resources on research and innovation programmes including training for surgical and laboratory equipment operators as well as embark on a recruiting exercise for midwifery and nurses in Nakuru county as well as the country at large.Item Corporate Governance Practices and Service Delivery in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2023-10) Ouma,Edna AtienoThis study was guided by three objectives. One, to establish the influence of transparency on service delivery, secondly, to determine the influence of objectivity on service delivery and, thirdly, to establish the influence of accountability on service delivery within Uasin Gishu County. Grounded on stakeholder and agency theories, this research utilized cross-sectional design and a mix of stratified and random sampling targeting people who sought services in the social services, education, environment, and water and agriculture departments within the study area. The targeted respondents were those seeking services in these departments in the first week of May 2021. The study selected five departments for sampling and 35% of the customer population in each department selected constituted the sample size for the research. The customers were then randomly selected from the average number of customers that visited the departments within a week. A total of 213 respondents participated in the study. Inferential analysis was used to analyze data along the research questions which was then presented in descriptive statistics, tables and percentages. The findings revealed that corporate governance practices affect service delivery in Turbo Sub County, Uasin Gishu County. Specifically, the study found that transparency, objectivity and accountability impact service delivery positively and, that transparency enhances service delivery within Turbo Sub County, Uasin Gishu County. Subsequently most of the participants also reported that accountability as a corporate governance practice was primary in public service delivery as cited by a significant percentage of the respondents. Further, the study made the conclusion that objectivity has the greatest impact on service delivery followed by transparency and lastly accountability has the least impact. The study recommends that Uasin Gishu County policy makers need to empathize capacity building on accountability, transparency and objectivity in order to enhance service delivery in its departments.Item Institutional Capacity and Implementation of Financial Management Regulatory Framework in Devolved Government of Embu County,Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-01) Ng'ang'a, Lorena NjokiBetween 2013 and 2022, the county government of Embu faced persistent challenges in public resource management, leading to unfavorable audit opinions despite guidance from the Public Finance Management. Reports from the auditor general (2017, 2019, 2021), the controller of the budget (2019, 2020, 2022), and internal financial documents highlighted issues such as inefficiency, poor budget management obstructing development, low absorption capacity, and misalignment with the integrated development plan. This study investigated the effect of revenue, information sharing, budgeting, and expenditure management capacities on the implementation of the Financial Management Regulatory Framework in Embu County, Kenya. The study is anchored on the agency theory, institutional theory and resource dependency theory. Descriptive research design was adopted for this study, focusing intently on Embu County as the epicenter of the investigation. The research participants comprised 65 senior administrators well-versed in the nuances of the Public Finance Act of 2012. Due to the manageable size of the target population, a census study approach was adopted, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Both primary and secondary data sources were tapped into. Primary data collection methods included structured questionnaires meticulously designed to extract specific insights, in-depth interviews for nuanced perspectives, and credible reports from authoritative sources. Secondary data, vital for contextualizing the primary findings, were sourced from a plethora of academic books, scholarly journals, and previously conducted research studies. The collected data was analyzed using a combination of descriptive statistics portrayed by percentages, mean scores, median charts and graphs. The inferential statistical analyses used is done through Anova, regression and R-squared. The study unearthed critical insights into the existing financial management capacities within Embu County. The findings collectively underscore the integral role of various capacities - revenue management, information sharing, budget making, and expenditure management - in ensuring robust financial accountability. Through examination of these capacities, the study illuminates the interconnections between efficient financial practices and regulatory compliance. The conclusion drawn from these findings emphasized the pressing need for strategic interventions within Embu County's financial management system. The study made the following recommendations: To enhance revenue management, the county was advised to overhaul its revenue collection systems, employing innovative technologies for efficiency and accuracy. Information sharing mechanisms were recommended to be streamlined, ensuring real-time communication between various governmental bodies and departments. Participatory budgeting processes, involving both public and administrative stakeholders, were recommended to instill transparency and community-driven decision-making. Furthermore, robust internal control systems for expenditure management were deemed imperative, necessitating the implementation of stringent audit protocols and oversight measures.Item Technology Application and Its Effects on Transport Services in the Parliamentary Service Commission of Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-03) Kanuku, SamuelTransportation is an important part of any economy and has a direct effect on how a country grows and develops. While the private sector’s focus across the world is maximizing profits and gaining a competitive advantage in and through transportation, the public sector’s attention is provision of efficient, effective transport services while guaranteeing prudent use of public resources in all the transportation processes. The efficiency and effectiveness of fleet management in public institutions depends on how well the fleets are supervised and managed. There is need to not only manage and reduce costs, but also become efficient and prudent without compromising the quality for transport services provided by public institutions. Since the provision of transportation services has become such a significant expense for governments and the public sector, it has become the focus of numerous initiatives, the most successful of which has been the adoption of technological solutions. However, there has been a slow adoption of technology in fleet management in Kenya's public sector. This study presumed use of technology as the superlative solution to improved, efficiency and effectiveness in fleet management and intended to find out what the motivators to public institutions in Kenya were to uptake and use technology in fleet management with a focus on the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC). The study sought to establish how the application of technology affects maintenance efficiency of the fleet, fleet running costs and fleet utilization. The study stratified all the one thousand six hundred (1600) staffers of PSC, arrived at a purposeful sample of one hundred and seventy five (175) and censured all of them. The study exploited a descriptive research design with the entire stratified sample, achieving a response rate of 94%. New Public Management Theory, Unified Theory of Acceptance and use of Technology and Technological, Organizational and Environmental Frameworks constructs the guiding pillars of this study. Questionnaires and interviews were used by this study to collect data which was presented in tables and pie charts. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to conduct both descriptive (mean and standard deviation.). For data collected, content analysis was used. Pie charts, frequency tables and percentages were used to present the findings. The study ensured that the ethical standards of confidentiality, objectivity, informed consent and anonymity were upheld. The study revealed significant positive impacts. The majority of respondents reported frequent technology usage, resulting in improved vehicle maintenance efficiency, reduced operational costs, and enhanced fleet utilization. However, varying adoption levels among service areas emphasized the need for a tailored approach. The study recommended proactive technology adoption, ongoing evaluation, and collaboration with other public sector agencies. It also called for further research into technology adoption across government agencies, emphasizing longitudinal analysis and cost-benefit assessments to inform resource allocation and technology optimization in public sector fleet management. In the context of the broader transportation landscape, the research highlighted the critical role of technology in achieving efficient and effective transport services in the public sector, aligning with the overarching goals of maximizing efficiency while ensuring prudent resource utilization.Item Men’s Contribution in Championing Women Leadership in Kenya: A Case Study of Nairobi County Assembly(Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Edwine, Collins AyooThis research project embarked on an analysis of men's historical contributions to championing women's leadership in Nairobi County, with a specific focus on the Nairobi County Assembly. The thesis hypothesized that meaningful contributions and advocacy by men could pave the way for achieving gender parity in political leadership. The objectives of the study were; to establish the effect of financial support on women leadership in Nairobi County Assembly, to determine the role of mentorship and modeling for women leadership in Nairobi County Assembly and to assess the effect of individual advocacy on women leadership in Nairobi County Assembly. The study was guided by Informed by Social Identity Theory and Telic Theory. A descriptive research design was adopted. The study targeted administrative leaders of the county, county assembly employees and members, national gender commission and non-governmental organizations. However, a sample size of 221 respondents was achieved. Respondent selection adhered to a non-probability sampling technique, specifically utilizing a purposive sampling method. Data was gathered by questionnaires and focus group discussion. The researcher obtained authorization letter from the Graduate School-Kenyatta University and research permit from National Commission for Science Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI). Descriptive statistical methods were applied for data processing and analysis. The findings highlighted the multifaceted nature of men's contributions, indicating varied levels of impact across different sectors. While some men played a pivotal role in fostering women's leadership, challenges and disparities persisted. In light of these findings, recommendations have been formulated to inform strategies and interventions aimed at strengthening women's participation and leadership within the intricate political landscape of Nairobi County. This study aspires to contribute to the broader discourse on achieving gender parity in political leadership, building upon the historical contributions and evolving dynamics of men's involvement in championing women's leadership.Item Drivers of Uptake of National Hospital Insurance Fund in Kajiado County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-05) Chenonge,Judith ChenobotAccording to the Constitution of Kenya (2010), the healthcare is a devolved function and all persons are entitled to receive affordable health care. With Universal Health Coverage, the County Government of Kajiado seeks to guarantee all its citizens the right to affordable health care such that residents do not have to worry about incurring financial hardship arising from prohibitive healthcare expenses. However, the communities in the county have not yet completely embraced this program, as seen by the low level of participation in the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). The study examined drivers that influence the uptake of NHIF cover in Kajiado County. The objectives of this study were: to examine how the level of awareness, accessibility, income level and education affect the uptake of NHIF in Kajiado County. The study target population was the 150 NHIF inpatients from eight health centers in Kajiado Central Sub County. They were identified using purposive sampling technique from the medical facilities records. A census of all the 150 patients was undertaken with another 78 healthcare workers involved. The research was guided by the conventional health insurance and diffusion theory of health insurance. The study employed descriptive research design and both primary and secondary .data collection tools were questionnaire with both closed and open-ended questions and an interview guide. With the help of Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS), descriptive statistics were done using mean and standard deviation, while the inferential statistics was done using regression and correlation. The data is presented using frequency tables, percentages, and the regression model. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. The survey found that just a small portion of the sampled population had health insurance coverage and despite widespread knowledge, there was little comprehension of the advantages of health insurance. The study found that the enrollment rate for the National Hospital Insurance Fund was at 34.5% with majority of them learning about health insurance from their family and friends. The results showed that the uptake of NHIF was determined more by the accessibility (57.3%), awareness (42.6%) and the level of income (4.7%). The education level was found to have a positive correlation with high uptake of the NHIF (60.8%). From the results, the study recommends that the enrollment and uptake of the NHIF can be enhanced if more residents acquire a higher level of education. Accessibility of the cover is enhanced and could increase coverage within the county. There is also need to increase awareness with more campaigns and marketing through various means that are appealing to the locals who are dispersed and pastoralists in nature.Item Access to Basic Education in the Context of Intercommunal Conflict and Learning of Primary School Going Children in Turkana County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024) Jimbo, Tom OderaAccess to basic education in conflict-prone communities is a significant challenge in Kenya. Empirical reviews had suggested that, during intercommunal conflicts, various factors influencing access to basic education were compromised. However, these influences manifest differently in distinct situations and locations. There has been limited research on how access to basic education was affected following intercommunal conflicts in Kapedo, Turkana County. The study aimed to examine access to basic education in the context of intercommunal conflict and the learning of primary school-going children in Kapedo ward of Turkana County. The specific objectives of the study were: to determine the effects of availability of learning resources and facilities on learning of primary school going children; to examine the effect of family income levels on learning of primary school going children; to establish how cultural practices and tradition affect learning of primary school going children; to interrogate how school infrastructure affects learning of primary school going children in Kapedo ward, Turkana County- Kenya. The study drew on three theories: Relative Deprivation theory, System Resource Theory, and Hierarchy of Needs Theory. It employed a descriptive survey research design, and the census approach that ensured participation of the entire population with two Ministry of Education officials, four headteachers, and twenty-four teachers as respondents. Data collection used a semi-structured questionnaire and an interview schedule, ensuring voluntary participation, confidentiality, and clarity of the study's purpose. Prior to data collection the instruments were subjected to validity check with help of university experts, and reliability tests using the Cronbach Alpha threshold of 0.7. The analysis combined descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, and averages) and inferential statistics (regression analysis) and presented results through charts and tables, with qualitative data analyzed thematically. The study revealed that despite intercommunal conflicts in Kapedo, Turkana County, learning resources remained accessible, correlating with better academic performance among primary school children. Family income affected education, with conflict-induced economic instability leading to resource allocation challenges and school attendance issues, especially for girls. Cultural practices diverted children from education, causing absenteeism. Parental negligence hindered progress, despite a positive correlation with conducive practices and learning outcomes. School infrastructure challenges persisted, with a positive correlation to learning outcomes but not guaranteeing success in conflict-affected areas. Holistic interventions, considering teacher quality, safety, and resource availability, were recommended. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education and Local Authorities maintain the provision of essential learning resources, emphasizing administrative functionality, classroom safety, and resource access to enhance learning outcomes. Non-Governmental Organizations and Donors should support programs to address economic challenges during conflicts, offering financial assistance, livelihood opportunities, and scholarships for children's education. Community leaders and elders should promote education-friendly cultural practices, discouraging those hindering access to learning and resolving conflicts affecting cultural obligations. Government Authorities should prioritize school infrastructure reconstruction in conflict-affected areas, including classrooms, furniture, and security measures, recognizing their significant impact on learning outcomes.Item Effects of County Governance Practices on Promoting Rural Development: A Case Study of Wajir County(Kenyatta University, 2023-06) Abdi, Hussein KalilAnalysis reveals that the impact of devolution on the effectiveness of governance practices in Wajir County, Kenya, is a topic of significant importance. Devolution, which entails the decentralization of authority, resources, and decision-making power from the central government to local or regional authorities, has significantly transformed the governance structure within Wajir County. In the previous centralized system, the national government held responsibility for the administration and provision of services in Wajir County. However, with the introduction of devolution, the county government has taken on the responsibility for managing health services, animal welfare, road construction and maintenance, revenue collection and generation, and Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) service delivery. This shift has brought about notable changes in governance processes, decision-making, and the allocation of resources. The effects of devolution on the efficiency of key service delivery can be analyzed from multiple perspectives, including accessibility, quality, fairness, cost-effectiveness, and satisfaction of service recipients. Devolution has the potential to enhance access to key services in Wajir County by bringing decision-making and service delivery closer to the local population. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of governance practices on effectiveness of service delivery in Wajir County. The study specific objectives were to examine how accountability influences rural development in Wajir County, to evaluate how transparency affects rural development in Wajir county as well as to establish how implementation of policies affect rural development in Wajir County and to examine how the rule of law influences rural development in Wajir County. Specifically, it aims to assess the changes in access, quality, equity, efficiency, and public satisfaction and participation in key decision making resulting from the shift in governance structure and decision-making authority from the national government to the county government. This study was guided by several theories including the good governance theory, participatory development theory and stakeholder management theory and conceptual frameworks to analyze the effect of county governance practices on accountability and service delivery effectiveness. This study utilized a mixed-methods approach to gather comprehensive and robust data. Quantitative data is collected through structured surveys administered to a representative sample of county government workers in Wajir County. The surveys captured information related to access to accountability, perceptions of service quality, satisfaction levels, and equity in service delivery. Qualitative data was obtained through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with key stakeholders, including county government officials, county management and lower carder staff in the county. These qualitative data sources provide insights into the contextual factors, challenges, and potential opportunities associated with devolution and its impact on service delivery effectiveness and public participation on key decision making processes. The study reveals that transparency in communication, information access, and public service delivery is relatively well-established within the county. The study concluded that governance practices are important in promoting rural development. The study recommends that county governments should find ways of promoting policy initiatives to enhance transparency, policy implementation, and accountability to promote sustainable rural development in the region.