National Policy Framework and Protection of Marginalized Communities: Case of Kwale County, Kenya
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Date
2024-11
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Kenyatta University
Abstract
Various scholars from different fields, including political science, economics, human rights advocacy, and conflict resolution, have engaged in intense discussions regarding the issue of marginalization and its potential impact on national unity. The current study aimed to explore the effect of national policy framework on protection of marginalized communities in Kwale County, Kenya. The research objectives were; to determine the effect of social assistance policy on the protection of marginalized communities, to assess the effect of social security policy on the protection of marginalized communities and to establish the effect of health insurance policy on the protection of marginalized communities in Coastal Region, Kenya. The research was guided by Relative Deprivation Theory. A descriptive research design will be utilized. The study targeted 80 committee members (stakeholders, Non-government Organizations) involved in the protection and promotion of marginalized communities. Both questionnaires and interview schedules were utilized in data gathering. A pilot study was conducted at Kilifi County. A total of 10 participants were selected and given questionnaires for pilot study. This was done to verify that the research instruments' language is understandable. The validity and reliability of the research tools was verified using the results of the pilot study. Both qualitative and quantitative data was gathered. The descriptive analysis of the quantitative data was performed. The descriptive statistics utilized were mean, standard deviations, frequency, and percentage. Thematic analysis and narratives were used to present the qualitative findings. Tables were used to display the research findings. The findings revealed that coefficient of correlation was 0.786, an indication that the study variables (social assistance policy, social security policy and health insurance policy) significantly affect the protection of marginalized communities. This indicate that 60.9% of variation in protection of marginalized communities was explained by the independent variables (social assistance policy, social security policy and health insurance policy). Further, the findings revealed that strong social assistance policy ensures that individuals facing economic challenges have access to resources and services that help meet their basic needs. The social security policies are vital for ensuring income security, pensions, and disability benefits for marginalized individuals. Further, the findings revealed that access to affordable and quality healthcare is essential for marginalized communities, and a well-structured health insurance policy make a significant difference in their overall well-being. The study concludes that national policy framework significantly affect the protection of marginalized communities in Kwale County, Kenya. The study concludes that social assistance policy, social security policy and health insurance policy affect the protection of marginalized communities. The study recommends that vulnerable group planning frameworks should focus on expanding coverage to include informal sector workers and those without formal employment. Government of Kenya through ministry of health should also consider implementing educational initiatives to inform marginalized communities about their rights and the benefits available to them through social security programs. The ministry of health in Kenya should establishment of universal healthcare coverage to guarantee access to quality medical services for all individuals, including marginalized communities.
Description
A Research Project Submitted in the School of Law, Arts and Social Sciences for Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of Degree of Master’s In Public Policy and Administration of Kenyatta University, November 2024.
Supervisor
Daniel Mange Mbirithi