RP-Department of Business Administration

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Consumer Behavior Analysis in the Age of Big Data for Effective Marketing Strategies
(IPRJB, 2024-07) Williams, John
Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine the consumer behavior analysis in the age of big data for effective marketing strategies. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study found that consumer behavior analysis in the age of big data presents a transformative opportunity for businesses to enhance their marketing strategies and better understand their target audiences. The studies discussed demonstrate the effectiveness of leveraging Big Data analytics in various domains such as social media sentiment analysis, personalized marketing, predictive analytics, customer segmentation, locationbased marketing, and real-time personalization. These strategies enable businesses to tailor their marketing efforts more precisely, leading to increased consumer interest, improved engagement, and higher conversion rates. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social Identity Theory, Information Processing Theory & Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) may be used to anchor future studies on Consumer Behavior Analysis in the Age of Big Data for Effective Marketing Strategies. Promote the adoption of advanced data analytics tools and techniques by businesses to enhance their marketing strategies. Companies should invest in robust data infrastructure, analytics platforms, and talent to effectively collect, analyze, and interpret consumer data. By leveraging predictive analytics, sentiment analysis, customer segmentation, and real-time personalization, businesses can tailor their marketing efforts to individual consumer preferences and behaviors, leading to improved engagement, customer satisfaction, and ultimately, increased sales and profitability. Advocate for the development of regulatory frameworks that balance consumer privacy rights with the benefits of data-driven marketing. Policymakers should collaborate with industry stakeholders to establish guidelines and standards for ethical data collection, usage, and storage.
Monitoring and Evaluation Approaches and Implementation of Projects by Presbyterian Church of East Africa, in Nairobi Region, Kenya
(IJRISS, 2024-06) Wachira, Anthony Githae; Mutuku, Morrisson
Project monitoring and evaluation approaches when implemented are the watch dog of success of projects. Most monitoring systems are not meeting their obligatory requirements as decision making tools. Instead, their activities have been viewed as controlled by a bureaucratic management. In other cases, project monitoring and evaluation has been viewed as a donor and not necessarily a management requirement in the enhancement of program success. This study sought to determine the effect of monitoring and evaluation approaches on implementation of projects in Presbyterian Church of East Africa, Nairobi Region, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were; to determine the effect of participatory approaches, to identify the effect of evaluation approaches, to establish the effect of survey approach and to determine the effect of performance indicators approach on implementation of projects in Presbyterian Church of East Africa, Nairobi region, Kenya. The study was guided by three theories, namely; stakeholders’ theory, utility theory and theory of change. The study adopted descriptive research design. The study targeted projects implemented by PCEA in Nairobi Region, Kenya between 2017 -2021. Purposive sampling approach was used to in reaching the targeted respondents. The study relied on primary data collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive and multiple regression analysis were used for data analysis. All independent variables of participatory approaches, evaluation approaches, survey approaches and performance indicators approaches were found to have a positive statistically significant effect on project implementation. The study concluded that having sufficient monitoring and evaluation approaches policies enhances the quality of project implementation. The study recommended that the PCEA church n Nairobi Region, together with all other M&E practitioners should ensure sufficient monitoring and evaluation approaches are utilized, for a successful project implementation.
Strategic Marketing for Sustainable Development: Promoting Environmental Responsibility and Corporate Social Responsibility
(IPRJB, 2024-07) Kiptoo, Matthew
Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine the Strategic Marketing for Sustainable Development: Promoting Environmental Responsibility and Corporate Social Responsibility. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study found that strategic marketing plays a crucial role in promoting environmental responsibility and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) within organizations. The studies reviewed highlight the effectiveness of various marketing initiatives, such as green marketing strategies, cause-related marketing campaigns, and integrated communication approaches, in fostering positive consumer perceptions, enhancing brand reputation, and driving sustainable business practices. By prioritizing credible and transparent communication about CSR initiatives, businesses can strengthen stakeholder relationships, build trust, and differentiate themselves in the marketplace. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Stakeholder Theory, Relationship Marketing Theory & Diffusion of Innovation Theory may be used to anchor future studies on Strategic Marketing for Sustainable Development: Promoting Environmental Responsibility and Corporate Social Responsibility. Integrated marketing communication (IMC) that incorporates sustainability messages across all touchpoints is essential for promoting environmental responsibility and CSR effectively. Organizations should ensure that their communication strategies are consistent, transparent, and aligned with their sustainability goals. By integrating sustainability messages into marketing campaigns, product packaging, corporate websites, and social media channels, businesses can reinforce their commitment to sustainability and build trust with consumers. Businesses should actively engage in advocacy efforts to promote supportive policy frameworks that incentivize and reward sustainable practices. By collaborating with policymakers, industry associations, and non-governmental organizations, organizations can influence the development of policies that facilitate the transition towards a more sustainable economy.
Strategic Implications of Carrying out Public Sector Reforms in a National Police Service Organization: An Empirical Investigation of National Police Service in Kenya
(Science and Education Publishing, 2022) Awino, Philip Ouma; Kilika, James M.; Muathe, Stephen M.A
The study reports the findings of an empirical investigation on the experience of carrying out a public sector reform program in the National Police Service (NPS) in Kenya. The study conceptualized the reform program as an aspect of Organization Development (OD) process and anchored it on the aspects of strategic change. A representative sample of 294 senior officers in the NPS was drawn from the Nairobi Metropolitan Region and a structured questionnaire used to obtain the data. Data was obtained on the extent of implementation of four components of the OD process and the level of performance attained. The findings indicate that the police reforms anchored on the OD model were implemented to a moderate extent and that the corresponding level of performance was at the level of low extent. The four components of OD adopted in the study explain a relatively low percentage of the variation in performance of the NPS (Adj R2 =0.35) and while three of the components have a positive effect, OD Diagnosis has a significant negative effect on NPS Performance. The study explained both the level of variation and direction of effect to be associated with the lack of embracing a strategic orientation in designing and implementing the reforms. The findings confirm the theoretical and conceptual literatures advocating for integration of OD and strategic management and identifies the relevant implications for strategic management theory and practice.
Fiscal Decentralisation and Public Service Delivery: Evidence and Lessons from Sub-National Governments in Kenya
(cjlg, 2023-09) Mwangi, Justa; Naituli, Gitile; Kilika, James; Muna, Wilson
This paper provides empirical evidence on the effects of fiscal decentralisation on public service delivery in devolved systems of government in Kenya. A qualitative study interviewed 126 respondents and held two focus group discussions with key stakeholders from within two of Kenya’s 47 counties: Kiambu and Nairobi City. The paper focuses on key elements of fiscal decentralisation, namely: expenditure responsibilities, revenue autonomy and borrowing powers. Public service delivery was examined using affordability as a key measure of the quality of services. Results show that fiscal decentralisation did not necessarily lead to more affordable public services as there were significant contextual factors such as corruption, legal structures, cultural values, belief systems, pressure to conform and change agents that moderated this relationship. Corruption made public services less affordable in both counties, while Nairobi Metropolitan Services emerged as a change agent that improved the affordability of specific public services within Nairobi City county. The paper outlines a conceptual framework for further research into implementation of fiscal decentralisation in Kenya and elsewhere, especially in Africa, and calls for more qualitative studies, especially longitudinal studies, case studies and ethnographic approaches to enrich knowledge in this field.
Collaborative Leadership in an Organizational Context: A Research Agenda
(Stratford, 2022-03) Ang’ana, Gilbert A.; Kilika, James M.
Organizations not only exist to make a profit and be financially sustainable but also to make a difference and have a meaningful legacy using specific business models adopted. To achieve that outcome organizations must establish effective authority relationships to work together efficiently. This is what entails collaborative relationships and leadership. The literature on collaborative leadership despite having significant developments over the last two decades has been faulted. There have been vast perspectives from scholars with minimal consensus on what constitutes acceptable dimensions of collaborative leadership and how that fits in an organizational context. These misalignments have resulted in challenges to the full realization of the benefits of collaborative leadership as a result of its skewed implementation and application in an organizational context. The result is a lack of appreciation and belief by business practitioners and organization leaders on the implications of collaborative leadership application on their organization’s financial sustainability. This effect goes deeper in that organization leaders are not very clear on the impact of their organization's business model and their role in facilitating successful collaborative leadership. This conceptual paper aimed to bridge that gap by reviewing and integrating extant conceptual, theoretical, and empirical literature on collaborative leadership and present a case for the development of a new theoretical model suitable for the expansion of the current understanding of deployment of collaborative leadership in an organizational context. The paper reviewed 397 articles from various journals, which were searched through the google search engine. 132 articles were finally used in the development of this paper sieved by the year of publication from 2001-2021. The findings lead to the development of a proposed and integrated conceptual framework model linking collaborative leadership to financial sustainability as an organizational outcome while acknowledging the significance of the role played by the organization’s business model and top echelon support in the relationship. Several propositions are presented for consideration and validation through empirical work. The study calls on future research to consider the adoption of the proposed model in extending research on leadership to new frontiers.
Market system strategies: Antecedents to financial uptake among women-owned MSMEsin informal settlements in Kenya
(IJRBS, 2023-09) Kagiri, Regina; Makau, Stephen Muathe
Despite the effort to increase financial inclusion, women-owned Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) continue to face challenges in the uptake of financial services. Low financial uptake is strongly associated with business failure leading to low income and living standards among women entrepreneurs in marginalized areas. Market system strategies are crucial in determining businesses' level of financial uptake. The study investigated the effect of market system strategies on the financial uptake of women-owned MSMEs in the informal settlement of Nyeri County. Specifically, it investigated the effect of business readiness, financial literacy, investor relationships, and investment impact on financial uptake among women-owned MSMEs. The study variables were anchored on Ricky Griffin's model, Theory of Change, and Refinancing theory. The study used a descriptive research design, specifically a cross-sectional design. The target population was 890 women-owned MSMEs in the informal settlements of Nyeri county. Proportionate stratified and random sampling were used to obtain a sample of 275 businesses representing approximately 30% of the study population. Data was collected using structured questionnaires. A pilot test was conducted using ten individuals to test and improve the study questionnaire Reliability was tested using Cronbach's alpha, where an alpha of 0.7 was the acceptable threshold. Regression analyses indicated that the market system strategies, business readiness, financial literacy, impact investment, and investor relationship positively and significantly affected financial uptake, with p-values lower than 0.05 alpha. The study found that businesses with better market system strategies have a higher financial uptake. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that policies and interventions aimed at improving financial uptake among womenowned MSMEs should focus on enhancing business readiness and financial literacy and building strong impact investment and investor relationships. The county government, NGOs, and others interested stakeholders should encourage women entrepreneurs in informal settlements of Nyeri county to seek training and support to develop their business skills and increase their understanding of financial uptake. Furthermore, the county and national governments should connect women-owned MSMEs with impact investors and establish relationships to provide funding, support, and mentorship. Finally, policymakers and stakeholders in the financial sector should consider creating an enabling environment that supports and incentivizes impact investment in MSMEs, especially those owned by women, to increase their financial uptake
Stakeholder Engagement: Issues to Resolve for Sustainable Performance of Sugar Mills in Western Region, Kenya
(Abjournal, 2024-06) Wanzallah, Thomas Wetsakhulia; Muathe, Stephen Makau
The Kenyan sugar industry suffers from poor performance linked to corruption, mismanagement, reduced cane production, overreliance on imports and growing long maturing cane variety. These problems can be resolved by engagement of different stakeholders. This article is on stakeholder engagement and effect on sustainable performance in the sugar mills in western Kenya. The paper adopted the stakeholder theory, balanced scorecard model and human relations theory of management, as its theoretical framework. The descriptive research design was employed. The respondents included managers in the sugar mills, the permanently employed staff, government officials handling the industry in the region and representatives of cane farmers from the farmer blocs. Simple and stratified sampling technique was used and respondents filled the structured questionnaire from which descriptive, regression and correlation analyses were conducted. The findings revealed that respondents agreed that stakeholder relationship management increased sustainable performance of sugar mills. The correlation analysis results showed that stakeholder communication at (r =0.852), capacity building (r =0.551), stakeholder relationship management (r =0.742) and stakeholder control processes (r =0.641) were all closely associated with the dependent variable on sustainable performance. From the regression analysis, the results showed that 70.9% of change in sustainable performance in the sugar mills was influenced by stakeholder engagement. The beta coefficient results indicate that the four means of stakeholder engagement influenced performance of the sugar mills. The study concluded that aspects of stakeholder engagement improved performance as measured in terms of high-quality products, profit margin, sales volume and increased market share. It is recommended that the government as a key stakeholder of the sector should have policies to ban sugar free imports, enhance competencies of stakeholders through training, research on best cane variety and engage stakeholders to monitor and control activities in reducing corruption, mismanagement and misappropriation of resources. Engagement of stakeholders is important when seeking to grow and establish the industry.
Social Capital and Performance of Manufacturing MSMEs in Kenya
(Hrpub, 2022-09) Kaberia, Salome Kanini; Bula, Hannah O.; Muathe, Stephen M. A.
ustained growth and development of economies is mainly attributed to the manufacturing sector, and is often the differentiator between developed and developing countries. In Kenya, the sector has played a crucial role, with a contribution of 10% to gross domestic product for the duration from 2008 to 2014. Statistics show that in 2017, 2018 and 2019, the contribution deteriorated to 8.4%, 7.7% and 7.54% respectively, which implies possible deindustrialization. The government’s goal of achieving a robust manufacturing sector through Big Four Agenda may not be fruitful if this trend continues. Informed by these trends, the study sought to establish the connection between social capital and firm performance among the micro, small and medium manufacturing enterprises. Keys among the existing theories applied in the study are social capital theory and behavioral theory of the firm. The sample size was 384 licensed manufacturing businesses operating within Nairobi City County, derived from a population of 61,931. The study applied descriptive and explanatory research designs. Primary data was collected, and analysis was done using descriptive and inferential statistics. The outcomes showed that relational and cognitive social capital had a positive and significant effect on performance of micro, small and medium manufacturing ventures, whereas structural social capital was noted to have a significant effect. This study recommends that the firms’ management taps into additional and diverse networks to drive innovation, and subsequently create a competitive edge for their firms
Dynamic Capabilities and Competitive Advantage of Deposit Taking Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(IJSSHR, 2024-05) Ntoiti, Purity Nkui; Njuguna, Videlis Njeri
Despite providing financial support and access to over 48% of the adult population and 82% of small enterprises in Kenya, Deposit Taking Savings and Credit Cooperatives faced intense competition from other financial institutions, leading to reduced competitiveness. The general objective of the study was to investigate the effect of dynamic capabilities on the competitive advantage of Deposit Taking Savings and Credit Cooperatives in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The specific objectives were to explore the effect of marketing capability, knowledge management capability, technological innovation capability, financial management capability on the competitive advantage of Deposit Taking Savings and Credit Cooperatives in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The study was grounded in Marketing Mix Theory, Knowledge-Based Theory, Technology Acceptance Theory, Resource-Based Theory, Dynamic Capabilities Theory, and Competitive Advantage Theory. It employed a descriptive research design, with a target population of 47 Deposit Taking Savings and Credit Cooperatives operating in Nairobi City County. The units of observation included 384 top and middle-level management staff in key departments. The study used a stratefied random sampling for sampling, involving all 47 Deposit Taking Savings and Credit Cooperatives in Nairobi. Additionally, a sample of 196 top and middle management staff was selected using the Yamane Formula. A structured survey tool was utilized for gathering data. Secondary data on competitive advantage was sourced from published articles, referred journals, and other relevant materials. The data gathered included both quantitative and qualitative elements, analyzed descriptively and inferentially, with averages, frequencies, and percentages serving as useful metrics. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis and presented in narrative form. The relationships between variables were examined through regression analysis, with tables used to summarize responses. The study analyzed the response rate to understand the participation and engagement level of 196 respondents in a sample of Deposit Taking SACCOs, consisting of 55 senior managers and 141 middle-level managers. The overall response rate was 94.4%, with senior managers returning 90.9% of questionnaires and middle-level managers returning 95.7%. The regression analysis showed that marketing capability, knowledge management capability, technological innovation capability, and financial management capability had a significant positive impact on the competitive advantage of Deposit Taking SACCOs in Nairobi City County. These capabilities contributed to competitive advantage through various factors, such as market expansion, communication efficiency, and financial stability. Recommendations for SACCOs included developing strong marketing strategies, implementing knowledge management systems, investing in robust technology, and enhancing financial management practices. Suggestions for future studies encouraged further exploration of dynamic capabilities and competitive advantages in SACCOs, as well as other financial institutions in Kenya.
Risk Avoidance Strategy and Performance of Non-Withdrawable Deposit Taking Saccos in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(IJIRAS, 2024-05) Oluoch, Lilian Akinyi; Muchemi, Anne
Saccos provide savings and credit facilities to their members and like other organizations in the financial sector, it undergoes several economic challenges which threaten their growth. The non-withdrawable deposit taking Saccos subsector have undergone performance failures leading to some collapsing, hence the necessity of a successful risk management plan to meet their goals. The objective of this research was to investigate the effects of risk avoidance strategy on performance of non-withdrawable deposit taking Saccos in Nairobi County. The research was grounded on modern portfolio and agency theories. For this investigation, a descriptive research design was used and the target population constituted 132 non-withdrawable deposit taking Saccos in Nairobi County. A census method was employed to choose the 132 Saccos while purposive sampling was adopted to select 1 respondent in management position, from each of the Saccos. Primary data was gathered by questionnaires, and secondary data came from documented information in regulatory bodies reports, journals, books amongst others. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in to analyse the data. The results of the investigation demonstrated that risk avoidance has a positive and significant (p=0.0000<0.05) relationship with performance. The study recommends that stakeholders of non-withdrawable deposit taking Saccos should focus on the use of adequate credit securities, staff and board training, and comply to regulatory laws and policies for better performance of their Saccos and other financial institutions.
Strategic positioning and is it a useful construct in improving performance of microfinance institutions in Kenya
(IJRBS, 2023) Kapukha, Jackline Nekesa; Muathe, Stephen Makau
his paper aims to examine the effect of strategic leadership, resource allocation, information technology, customer focus, and differentiation on the performance of microfinance institutions in Nairobi City County. The study was founded on a resource-based view, dynamic capability and life-cycle theories. A target of 300 employees was targeted from which a sample of 172 research participants was recruited. The sample was selected through a combination of both stratified and sampling techniques. Questionnaires were used for primary data collection. Analysis used both descriptive and multiple regression analyses. The findings of the study indicated the urgency for microfinance organizations to adopt growth strategies that encompass innovative digital advancements, the introduction of novel products, innovation-focused strategies, and the digitization of services. The findings further highlighted the pivotal roles played by strategic positioning, strategic leadership, information technology integration, and differentiation in significantly shaping microfinance institutions’ performance. The findings also indicated that a unit enhancement of strategic positioning indicator had a significant enhancement on their individual performance. However, the effect of customer focus and resource allocation did not exhibit the same level of significance. The study recommended the reinforcement of strategic positioning, optimized resource allocation, embracing technological integration, and an unwavering focus on customer needs. The study recommended the exploration of diverse leadership styles, resource allocation strategies, and the undertaking of comparative analyses to draw insights into the effects of these factors on microfinance institutions
Understanding Performance of Public Hospitals: Operational Strategies Approach in Kajiado County, Kenya
(IJRBS, 2024-05) Nyaboga, Judith Maganya; Muathe, Stephen Makau
The performance of the healthcare sector is crucial for delivering optimal patients care and creating efficient healthcare systems. However, Kajiado County in Kenya faces various challenges that obstruct effective performance. This paper aims to assess the impact of operational strategies on performances of public hospitals in Kajiado County, Kenya. Specifically, it aimed to investigate the effect of information management strategy, continuous quality improvement strategy, innovation strategy, and resources management strategy on hospital performance. This study was anchored on balanced scorecard model, resource-based theory, quality improvement theory, and technology acceptance model, and employed a descriptive research design. Primary data was gathered through questionnaires distributed to full-time healthcare workers, following a successful pilot study in Narok County. Data collection utilized the drop-and-pick later method. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software was used to analyze the data, involving descriptive statistics such as percentages, frequencies, means, and standard deviations while multiple regression model was used to test the relationship between independent variables and the dependent variable. Main findings of the study revealed that there exists a statistically significant relation between information management strategy and hospital performance, as well as continuous quality improvement strategy, innovation strategy, and resource management strategy, respectively. Consequently, the study recommended that the County Health Department should initiate a comprehensive training program for healthcare professionals, collaborate with hospital management to adopt innovative technologies, and identify and address skill gaps while promoting a positive work environment within public hospitals in Kajiado County. These actions aim to enhance hospital performance and ultimately improve patient care in the region.
Information Systems and Performance of Insurance Firms in Nairobi County, Kenya
(IPRJB, 2024-06) Wanjohi, Peter Ngari; Waithaka, Stephen
Purpose: The goal of the study was to ascertain how information systems influenced the insurance industry's performance in Nairobi County, Kenya. Methodology: This study employed a descriptive research design. The respondents were drawn from all 58 insurance firms in Kenya as listed by Insurance Regulatory Authority (2023). The study sample comprised of five senior management officer from each of the target population of 58 insurance companies in Kenya. Stratified sampling procedure was applied to select the subjects of study based on geographical location in Nairobi County. Data collection was done using structured questionnaires. The questionnaire had both open-ended and closed-ended questions. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed in the study to analyze the data. The coding and analysis were performed using SPSS version 21, and the results were shown as tables. Findings: The study concludes that technical factors have a positive and significant impact on Nairobi County insurance businesses' performance. The study discovered that the performance of insurance companies in Nairobi County is influenced by information system compatibility, confidentiality, ease of use, and reliability. the study comes to the conclusion that Nairobi County's environmental features significantly and favorably affect the performance of insurance companies. The study found that the performance of insurance companies in Nairobi County is influenced by competition, industry size, and pressure from suppliers and customers. Additionally, the study concludes that organizational factors have a positive and significant impact on Nairobi County insurance companies' performance. The study discovered that supplier and consumer pressure, industry size, and competition all had an impact on Nairobi County's insurance companies' performance. Resources factors encompassing availability of financial, human, and technological resources were established as the most influential component of the information systems with regard to performance of the insurance firms. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study was ancored on Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The study also recommends that management should allocate financial resources strategically, focusing on areas that directly contribute to business growth, such as marketing, technology upgrades, and talent acquisition. In addition, management should ensure efficient use of financial, human and technology resources by closely monitoring expenses, avoiding unnecessary costs, and seeking opportunities for cost-saving measures.
The Role of International Trade Agreements in Shaping Labor Standards and Worker Rights
(IPRJB, 2024-06) Wanjiru, Mary
Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine the role of International Trade Agreements in Shaping Labor Standards and Worker Rights Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study revealed that trade agreements have both positive and negative impacts on labor standards depending on the specific provisions, implementation strategies, and contextual factors. While some agreements contribute to the convergence of labor standards and promote improvements in areas such as workplace safety and environmental regulations, others may lead to downward pressure on labor standards due to intensified competition and weakened enforcement mechanisms. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Neo-liberal theory, dependency theory & institutional theory may be used to anchor future studies on the international trade agreements in shaping labor standards and worker rights. Enhance the capacity of international organizations and national governments to monitor and enforce labor standards effectively within the framework of trade agreements. This includes investing in robust inspection systems, implementing transparent reporting mechanisms, and providing adequate resources for enforcement agencies. Embed comprehensive social clauses in trade agreements that prioritize the protection of labor rights and promote decent work for all. These clauses should encompass core labor standards as defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO), along with provisions for non-discrimination, gender equality, and social protection.
Management Information Systems Adoption and Performance of Long Distance Public Transport Bus Companies in Lamu County, Kenya
(IAJHRBA, 2024-06) Kimondio, Bernard Mulingulu; Tumuti, Joshua
Despite the fact that long distance public transport bus companies in Kenya had invested heavily in the adoption of MIS with an aim of enhancing their performance, some of them were still struggling to achieve the expected profitability and productivity. This was mainly due to the differences in the extents of technology adoption in electronic document management, electronic parcel management, electronic booking and electronic fleet management systems respectively. This meant that companies who were not able to remain updated in the adoption of their management information systems soon became irrelevant to their customers and hence loss of business to their competitors who were updated. Additionally, the high capital involved in venturing into long distance transport business only to be brought down by technological issue which could be researched, identified and resolved was a big matter of concern among the long distance public transport bus companies. This as a result left many investors in this industry wondering why they were not performing as expected despite their efforts to adopt MIS and which was why there was need to provide an answer through a research study. This research therefore sought to assess the information management systems adoption and performance of the long distance public transport bus companies in Lamu, Kenya and focused on the extent of adoption which seemed to affect the performance of the said bus companies. Specific objective was to establish the extent of adoption of electronic document management on performance of the long distance public transport bus companies in Kenya. Technology Acceptance Theory (TAT), Resource based view theory and Diffusion of Innovation Theory were used. Qualitative research methodology was used and descriptive data collection techniques and interpretation was applied respectively. The study used inferential statistics to examine the data in order to draw a summary and finally bring the study to its conclusion. Data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics by use of SPSS V20. The study revealed that Management Information Systems (MIS) adoption had a great influence or effect on the performance of the long distance public transport bus companies. Such included the adoption of Electronic Document Management Systems (EDMS), which enabled the companies to save on office space, increase data security, efficiency and productivity. The study concluded that EDMS had a great influence on the performance of the long distance public transport bus companies. The study recommended that every long distance public transport bus company should work hard toward full adoption of their IMS in order to achieve the maximum profitability in the public transport industry. The study equally recommended that the government of Kenya to withdraw taxes for ICT equipment in order to enable the companies to afford the ICT gadgets.
Market Penetration as an Imperative of Firm Performance in the Context of Cement Manufacturing Firms Listed in Nairobi Securities Exchange Kenya
(RJI, 2024-06) Ollonde, Joshua Oketch; Kinyua, Godfrey Muigai
The cement manufacturing sector plays a crucial role in job creation, social and development agenda and GDP of the country. However, the sector suffers challenges including high energy costs, production inefficiencies and high competition leading to poor performance in terms of low production and consumption trends. To resolve the performance challenge, this study employed use of market penetration as a method. The specific objective was market penetration employed to improve performance outcomes. The study was supported by the dynamic capability theories and balanced scorecard model. It deployed descriptive research designs while targeting 216 employees working in the three listed companies. Stratified and simple random samplings were utilised in grouping respondents as per company and position and in selecting the respondents to take part in the research. The Yamane formula was employed to get the sample size of 139 respondents who filled the structured questionnaire as the research tool. The questionnaires were tested for validity and reliability using 13 employees from the non-listed cement companies and Cronbach Alpha was employed at a standard of 0.7. The researcher collected primary data from the respondents and produced qualitative and quantitative data. Analysis included entering the data into SPSS where descriptive statistics was done to obtain mean, standard deviation, frequencies and percentages. In addition, inferential statistics was analysed using linear regressions and correlation analysis to show effect of the variable on performance. The study revealed that market penetration (β=0.713; p=0.00), led to a positive and significant effects on performance of listed cement manufacturing firms in Kenya. The study concluded that market penetration as a variable significantly affected the performance of listed cement manufacturing company. The study recommended that management of NSE listed cement manufacturing firms need to implement strategic pricing method to facilitate market penetration
Career Planning and Performance of Uniformed Employees at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations Headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya
(AJEBI, 2024-06) Obuya, Vivian A.; Ndegwa, Priscilla W.; Oringo, James O.
Over the years, there have been documented cases of low prosecution of criminal cases attributed to weaknesses or failures in the office of DCI in Kenya and especially cases involving serious crimes such as murder, rape, defilement, corruption, assault and economic crimes. Loss of cases has been linked to poorly conducted investigations, corruption, and insufficient procured evidence to convict the perpetrators, leaving the blame to investigative officers. Some studies have attributed the challenges in the office of the DCI to include infrequent training, low support from senior officers, and lack of sufficient information on career pathways and plans for DCI officers. However, these studies have glaring gaps in terms of concept, context and methodology. Accordingly, this study intended to fill the gap by researching the career planning and performance of uniformed employees at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations Headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya. In specific focus, the study investigated the effects of opportunity analysis, periodic review of the plan, career goals, and occupational options on the performance of uniformed employees at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations Headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya. This study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population comprised a total of 943 uniformed employees working at DCI headquarters. The sample size of 272 was determined scientifically aided by Kothari formula. The study collected primary data by use of a structured questionnaire that had closed-ended questions. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 28) was used in the data analysis. The collected quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found a positive and significant association between career planning and performance outcomes of the assessed uniformed employees at DCI. This confirms that career planning contributed to the improved employee performance at the DCI headquarters in Kenya.
Improving performance of public universities in Kenya: does innovativeness, risk-taking, proactiveness, and self-renewal matter?
(ajoeijournals, 2024-04) Otolo, Margaret K.; Muathe, Stephen M.A.; Kimencu, Linda
Purpose of Study: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of intrapreneurial strategies on performance of public universities in Kenya. The study investigated the effect of innovativeness, risk-taking, pro-activeness, and self-renewal on performance of public universities, and was guided by Schumpeter innovation and the resource-dependency theories. Statement of the Problem: Over time inadequate funding has adversely affected the performance of Kenyan public universities with only one Kenyan public university ranking among top 200 universities in Africa in 2023 and earlier years, in the Webometrics ranking. Adoption of intrapreneurial strategies has been found to be key to performance in various sectors, including public universities in developed countries. Methodology: The study used a combination of descriptive and explanatory research designs. The unit of analysis was 36 public universities in Kenya. A total of 400 respondents, chosen using multi-stage sampling was the unit of observation. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Multiple regression models were used to test the association between variables. Result: The study revealed that innovativeness (β-0.146, p=0.013<0.05), risk taking (β-0.065, p=0.032<0.05), pro-activeness (β-0.163, p=0.023<0.05) and self-renewal (β-0.446, p=0.000<0.05) have a positive and significant relationship with performance of public universities in Kenya. Conclusion: The study concluded that the adoption of intrapreneurial strategies improves performance of public universities. The study, therefore, recommends Vice-Chancellors of public universities to adopt innovativeness, pro-activeness, risk-taking and self-renewal as these have a significant and positive relationship with performance. Recommendation: The study recommends the Ministry of Education, Government of Kenya and relevant policy makers to institute reforms and organise forums that promote intrapreneurship adoption within public universities, as this promotes overall university performance.
Under Performance; Why Intrapreneurial Strategies and Operating Environment Matter in Fixing Performance of Public Universities in Kenya
(HM Publishers, 2024-03) Otolo, Margaret K.; Muathe, Stephen M.A.; Kimencu, Linda
Abstract: The Kenyan government in 2023 unveiled a new funding model aimed at promoting affordable and equal access to higher education as well as breath life to public universities that would otherwise collapse due to financial challenges. Improvements in performance is seen through intrapreneurial strategies and that is the focus of this study. The unit of analysis was 20 public universities and the unit of observation was 400 participants. A combination of descriptive and explanatory research designs was used. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data; which was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and content analysis. Multiple regression models were used to test the association between variables. The study found a statistically significant (β-0.620, p=0.000<0.05) and partially moderating influence of operating environment between intrapreneurial strategies and performance of public universities in Kenya. The study concluded that the operating environment moderates the relationship between intrapreneurial strategies and performance of public universities in Kenya. The study recommends that Vice-Chancellors of public universities should adopt innovativeness, pro-activeness, risk-taking and self-renewal intrapreneurial strategies with an awareness of the external and internal operating environment. as they have a significant and positive relationship with performance. The study also recommends that the Ministry of Education, Government of Kenya and relevant policy makers should institute reforms and organise forums that promote intrapreneurship adoption within the public universities to promote overall organisational performance.

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