Utilization of Nutritional Information for Health Purposes in Loima Sub-County in Turkana County, Kenya.
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Date
2024-07
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Kenyatta University
Abstract
The objective of the research was to assess the importance of traditional communication methods in disseminating nutritional information in order to allow pastoral communities to obtain essential information on nutritional value in Loima Sub-County, Turkana County. To achieve this, the study was guided by four specific objectives; Establish knowledge level on the available food staff in supporting nutrition and food security among pastoralist community; To determine the effectiveness of integrated information dissemination in supporting nutrition and food security among pastoralist community; To analyze the effect of contemporary information dissemination approaches on pastoralist communities’ nutritional wellbeing and to analyze the challenges faced in disseminating information on nutritional and health development. A case study research design was used to discuss the emotions, perceptions, conduct and attitudes of the individuals or groups or a phenomena being investigated. The technique was used to gather information. The target population consisted 62 respondents and included; 21 health officers, 2 administrative officers (chief and assistant chief), 10 political representatives, 7 library personnel, 12 religious leaders and 10 community leaders at Loima. The study used census sampling technique and only 52 respondents participated giving an 82% response rate which was considered adequate. Questionnaire was the primary data collection tool employed. For analysis the research used both descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential analysis (Correlation and regression) to determine the distribution and relationship between the dependent and independent variables. The findings were represented using tables and figures. In terms of food staff knowledge levels, it was established that the education level of the community significantly affects awareness and knowledge of nutrition and food security. Low educational levels have resulted in poor nutrition education and limited technical advice from experts. The community relies on traditional skills and knowledge to enhance productivity and resilience in their food systems. They possess adequate knowledge about the production, preparation, and consumption of nutritious foods. Indigenous agricultural methods and knowledge are effective in achieving food security among pastoralist communities. For Contemporary Information Dissemination technique, the results revealed that a majority indicated that they utilize short message service (SMS), cell phone dissemination, television, oral communication, and news portals to create awareness on food security and nutritional values among pastoralists. The community prefers television, but also effectively use SMS, cell phones, oral communication, and news portals. The study established that contemporary information dissemination approaches allow information to be transmitted within limited distances but quickly due to the presence of many microblog fans. These approaches improve disaster management by providing communications for respondents during natural or man-made disasters. They are used for long communication periods via media, enabling public organizations to reach a wide audience. Additionally, contemporary approaches enhance the decision-making process by providing more data compared to traditional media. The study established that accessing information through web health searches takes a long time, and there are limited resources for disseminating data on nutritional and health development among pastoralists. Additionally, there is no link between all actors involved in disseminating this information. The findings indicate that there is a significant positive correlation between food staff knowledge level and the dissemination of information (r=.351, p = 0.000). Integrated information dissemination (r = .782, p = 0.000), contemporary information dissemination techniques (r =.097, p =0.000). Challenges faced during the dissemination of information had a negative insignificant correlation (r =-.281, p = .540). The regression model indicated a moderate correlation (R = .632) between the predictors and the use of nutritional information, with 39.9% of the variance explained (R Square = .399). The study recommended the need to improve capacity building initiatives that empower the community to utilize traditional skills. This can include training programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities that promote sustainable farming practices and agricultural innovation. To further enhance engagement, it is recommended to establish regular channels of communication and collaboration with community leaders to gather feedback, understand specific needs, and adapt information dissemination strategies accordingly. There is also a need to develop engaging and culturally sensitive educational materials, such as brochures, videos, and interactive workshops, to effectively communicate nutritional information. In order to reach a wide audience, stake holders need to provide basic literacy and numeracy training programs to improve overall literacy rates within the community. They may also utilize audio-based methods of information dissemination, such as radio programs or podcasts, to reach those with limited reading abilities.
Description
Research Project Submitted in Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Masters of Science in Record Management and Archives Administration Kenyatta University, July 2024.
Supervisor
Ben Namande