Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO

‘Satiricalization’ of A Pandemic: An Exploration of WHO’s Public Health Taxonomy for Social Listening in Covid-19 Caricatures in Kenyan Newspapers

2025-12-27T15:44:29+03:00

The outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic in Kenya in the year 2020 triggered a massive infodemic campaigns by the Kenyan government to raise public awareness about the disease. There was an overabundance of information globally about Covid-19 and the risk of misinformation and disinformation was very high. Although the masses were craving for news about the disease it was not easy to identify the trustworthy sources and reliable health guidance. This information confusion undermined the efforts to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. Recognizing the power of mass media contents in shaping public opinion, this article examined the use of the caricature as a platform of communication. It specifically analyzed how the Kenyan newspapers’ used caricatures and satirical techniques to deploy the World Health Organization’s Health Taxonomy for Social Listening frames in their Covid-19 messages. It uses the coinage satiricalization to emphasize the extent to which the caricatures deployed humour, mockery and infotainments to deliver their messages. To interpret and make sense of the caricatures’ messages, multimodal critical discourse analysis and content analysis were deployed. 261 caricatures were evaluated. The Key finding was that the three newspapers of Nation, Standard and the Star deployed caricatures as potent tools for communication and that, the WHO’s taxonomy of health messaging is a strategic asset that is used by cartoonists in their framing of health messages. It is recommended that, print media outlets in Kenya should continue using caricatures in their priming of key issues that affects the society.

The Evolution and the Landscape of Fact-Checking in Eastern Africa

2025-12-29T12:23:01+03:00

Fact-checking is vital for combating online misinformation in East Africa, where emerging fact-checking platforms, such as those that have appeared since 2000, face significant challenges. The purpose of this Article is to systematically review the literature published between 2000 and 2023 to understand the problem of fact-checking development in the region. The findings reveal that while these platforms have successfully debunked false claims, their effectiveness is limited by issues such as scarcity of funding and trained personnel, low public trust in media, and restrictive media environments. To overcome these obstacles, the Article argues for a multi-pronged solution, including government action to create an enabling environment, targeted investments in training and capacity building, and collaborative efforts via NGOs and social media campaigns to enhance public trust and accountability.

Cultivating the Democratic Commons: Media Responsibility, Social Cohesion, and the Sustainable Development of Kenya's Electoral Process

2025-12-29T12:58:45+03:00

Sustainable democratic development cannot be achieved without a peaceful and responsible media environment. While scholarly consensus acknowledges media's significant influence in conflict settings globally, substantial theoretical and empirical gaps persist regarding its precise role in either escalating tensions or fostering peace during electoral processes in Kenya. Existing literature reveals a critical disconnect between recognizing media's potential for peacebuilding and understanding the specific mechanisms through which media practices either reinforce ethnic polarization or cultivate social cohesion in volatile political contexts. This study investigates the complex interplay between media responsibility, social cohesion, and sustainable electoral development within Kenya's democratization process. Focusing specifically on Kisumu County as a critical case study of recurrent electoral challenges, the research analyzes how media practices during electioneering either undermine or enhance democratic consolidation through their impact on social cohesion. The study adopted a conceptual model which was guided by three main theories: Libertarian theory, Social Responsibility theory and Galtung’s theories of structural violence and structural peacebuilding (1969). Key government officials, media practitioners, security officials and journalists were key informants. The sampled respondents were a total of 420 household heads. The data were presented in tables, pie charts and interpreted into meaningful information. The findings reveal that media responsibility, conceptualized through principles of conflict-sensitive reporting, equitable access, and democratic accountability, serves as the crucial linchpin between media freedom and sustainable electoral development. This study ultimately argues that cultivating the democratic commons requires media ecosystems that prioritize social cohesion alongside journalistic independence, thereby contributing to more resilient democratic institutions and sustainable development outcomes in Kenya's evolving political landscape. The study recommended that government and media council to develop a legal and ethical framework that mandates peace-sensitive reporting, especially during elections, as a direct strategy for mitigating conflict and advancing SDG 16 to ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms.

Effects of the Multi-Currency Regime on Local Government Finance: A Case of Harare City Council (HCC)

2025-12-28T18:28:17+03:00

This qualitative case study examines the impact of the multi-currency regime on local governance revenue, with a specific focus on the Harare City Council (HCC) in Zimbabwe. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the impact of the multi-currency system on revenue generation within the HCC. The research also analysed the impact of the multi-currency system on resource allocation and service delivery. Using a purposive sample of 14 participants, including HCC officials and residents, the study utilized semi-structured interviews and open-ended questionnaires for data collection, analysing the findings thematically within the framework of fiscal federalism. The results reveal that the multi-currency regime presents significant challenges for HCC's revenue collection, adversely affecting resource allocation and service delivery. Key issues include the lack of control over monetary policy, which leads to conflicts between HCC and taxpayers struggling with currency instability. Recommendations to address HCC's revenue challenges include establishing transparent revenue collection systems, implementing innovative financing mechanisms, and strengthening intergovernmental fiscal relations to empower local authorities with sufficient resources and autonomy. This study enhances the understanding of multi-currency regimes' effects on local governance and service delivery in developing countries, aiding in the formulation of inclusive and effective policies. Lastly the research suggested approaches that can be employed by the HCC to address revenue and service delivery challenges under the multi-currency system.

The Commitment Anchoring Model (CAM): Strengthening Organizational Relationships in an Era of Emotional Volatility

2025-12-29T10:04:13+03:00

Organizations today are operating in environments marked by emotional volatility, rapid technological change, and rising uncertainty, which makes sustaining stability more challenging than ever. Although traditional organizational behavior models emphasize emotion-driven engagement and job satisfaction as key predictors of performance, these affective states shift quickly and often fail to provide durable stability. This paper addresses this gap by introducing the Commitment Anchoring Model (CAM), a conceptual framework developed through an integrative review and synthesis of literature in organizational behavior, psychology, and relational ethics. CAM positions commitment not emotion as the central stabilizing force in organizational systems. The model proposes that while emotions act as dynamic currents shaped by internal and external pressures, commitment provides the enduring anchor that holds organizational relationships steady. By reframing stability as a function of value-driven dedication rather than fluctuating emotional states, CAM offers a fresh theoretical contribution for understanding resilience, retention, and organizational cohesion. The paper outlines the model’s core assumptions, presents testable propositions, and highlights its implications for leadership, culture building, and workplace resilience, calling for future empirical studies to validate CAM across diverse organizational contexts.

The Role of Social Capital in Promoting Sustainable Livelihoods in Urban Informal Settlements in Nairobi, Kenya

2025-12-27T15:17:30+03:00

This study examines the role of social capital in sustaining livelihoods among residents of slums in Kenya. The focus is on Kibera, the largest informal settlement in the country, characterized by rapid urbanization and various socio-economic challenges. Understanding social dynamics in slums is essential, as 75% of Kenya's urban growth occurs in informal settlements, and 60% of Nairobi's population lives in slums. The study analyzed different forms of social capital available to slum residents, explored its contribution to sustainable livelihoods, identified socio-cultural barriers to its development, and examined coping strategies employed by residents. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were gathered from 100 households through structured interviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Findings showed that 90% of respondents participated in social groups that provided financial support, social networks, and vocational training. However, economic disparities, lack of trust, and high unemployment rates posed significant challenges to the effectiveness of these groups. The study underscores the importance of social capital in managing socio-economic pressures in urban settings, fostering community resilience and cohesion. Without access to these networks, households face substantial difficulties and often resort to negative coping mechanisms. This research emphasizes the need to enhance social capital as a pathway toward sustainable livelihoods in urban informal settlements.

Gender Disparities in Coastal Livelihoods: Climate Risks, Income Gaps, and Adaptation Barriers in Rufiji Delta, Tanzania

2025-12-28T20:16:12+03:00

Men and women in the coastal communities of Tanzania are affected by climate change differently. This paper explored the role of gender in access to livelihoods and climate adaptation in the Rufiji Delta, one of the most ecologically diverse but vulnerable areas in the country. Based on the data of 368 men and women involved in fishing, processing and trading. Ecosystem-based adaptation (EBA) examined income patterns, climate risks and participation. The results show that there is an evident imbalance, with 91 percent of women experiencing losses of income due to flooding as opposed to 65 percent of men, and only 9 percent of women participated in adaptation processes such as mangrove restoration, as opposed to 22 percent of men. Men still hold higher paying jobs like boat ownership with an average salary of 120 dollars a month, which is more than three times the salary of women in the same position. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) revealed that women are more vulnerable to climate shocks (β = 0.52) and this decreases their adaptive capacity (β = -0.26). Women are also limited in their involvement in adaptation by low income and absence of credit (β = -0.19). On the other hand, the availability of credit (odds ratio = 3.2) and education were the other factors that enhanced the probability of engaging in EBA. These findings indicate that there is a need to have inclusive policies that enable women to access resources, credit, and decision-making platforms to enable them to contribute equally to climate resilience in the coastal regions of Tanzania.

Organizational Practices, Governance Structures, and Sustainability of Women’s Self-Help Groups in Informal Settlements in Nairobi, Kenya

2025-12-29T13:46:49+03:00

Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have become a central pillar of grassroots socio-economic empowerment in Kenya, particularly for women in low-income urban contexts who rely on collective systems of savings, credit, and mutual support. However, despite their potential, many SHGs in informal settlements struggle to remain stable and sustainable due to internal organizational challenges. This study examined the organizational practices, governance structures, and sustainability factors of women’s SHGs in Viwandani informal settlements in Nairobi, drawing on responses from N = 73 members across seven groups. Guided by Social Exchange Theory and the T7 Model of Team Effectiveness, the study pursued three objectives to: identify organizational practices influencing SHG stability, analyze strategies used to address operational challenges, and examine how member characteristics contribute to sustainability. A quantitative design was applied using descriptive statistics. Findings show that SHGs in Viwandani are governed through frequent meetings, consensus-based decision-making, rotational leadership, and strong committee systems, demonstrating high levels of participation and accountability. Groups reported relying on disciplinary mechanisms, internal loan controls, welfare support, and collective problem-solving as strategies for addressing challenges, although limited market linkages and minimal external partnerships constrained growth. Member characteristics, particularly self-employment, low formal education, and heavy household responsibilities, shaped motivation, commitment, and cohesion, but also exposed groups to financial vulnerability. Overall, sustainability was linked to trust, perceived benefits, shared responsibility, and strong internal governance, while long-term growth required capacity-building, market integration, and stakeholder partnerships. The study recommends targeted training, stronger institutional support, and structured collaboration with financial actors to reinforce SHG resilience in informal urban settlements.

Implication of Urban Sprawl on Land Use and Forested Areas in Calabar Municipality, Cross River State, Nigeria

2025-12-27T16:06:41+03:00

The study examined the impact of urban sprawl on land use and forested Areas in Calabar Municipality, Cross River State. The main objective was to assess the rate of change in urban expansion between the period of 2000 and 2019. Data on land use cover change between 2000 and 2019 was gotten from Erdas imagine. The result proved that in the year 2000 built-up area was 132 sqkm and in the year 2019 built-up area was 232 sqkm, in the year 2000, water bodies covered an area of 14.7 sqkm and in the year 2019, water bodies covered an area 15.7 sqkm. Cultivated area as of 2000 was 112.3sqkm and reduced to 97.3sqkm in 2019, forested area was 147sqkm as at 2000 and reduced to 61.1sqkm. This showed that there was a drastic change between the year 2000 and 2019 with forested areas reserved as carbon sink being reduced drastically and thus implying that urban expansion has negative impact on land use particularly ecologically protected areas. The study recommends that government should strictly enforce its sustainable urban policies so as to control rapid urbanization to mitigate the impact of land use on ecologically protected zones in Calabar Municipality.

Nanotechnology Potentials in Climate Change Mitigation and Socio-Cultural Acceptability Issues in Africa

2025-12-28T19:39:28+03:00

Global warming and climate change remain the foremost environmental challenges worldwide, primarily driven by human-induced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These emissions originate largely from the combustion of fossil fuels in industries, transportation, and power generation. Since the industrial era began, GHG emissions have steadily risen, with industrial processes alone contributing about 78% of the increase between 1970 and 2010, according to the IPCC. Developing countries, especially Africa, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change due to low adaptive capacity, economic constraints, and weak institutional frameworks. In most Africa countries, challenges such as overpopulation, deforestation, poor waste management, poverty, desertification, and farmers-herders’ conflicts, further compound the problem. The Africa continent, especially the West Africa sub-region, faces various climate-related impacts. In Nigeria for example, while southern part of the country experiences sea level rise, flooding, coastal erosion, the north part endures desert encroachment, heatwaves, reduced rainfall and marked rainfall variability. A stark example was the 2012 flood in Nigeria which displaced over 2.1 million people across 30 states. Amid these challenges, nanotechnology emerges as a promising tool for climate change mitigation and environmental management. It offers potential applications in carbon capture, renewable energy, pollution control, water purification, waste degradation, and energy storage. Innovations include photovoltaic solar cells, hydrogen fuel technologies and advanced insulation materials. Despite its promise, large-scale adoption of nanotechnology in Nigeria faces significant socio-cultural and economic barriers. Public skepticism, lack of awareness, inadequate regulatory frameworks, and high costs hinder widespread implementation. Cultural attitudes towards risk and innovation further influence acceptance. This review explores the potentials for nanotechnology applications in climate change mitigation and socio-acceptability issues in Africa. More so, it highlights the need for comprehensive socio-cultural and economic assessments to understand public perception, ethical implications, and financial viability. Emphasis is placed on aligning nanotechnology with local content development to ensure sustainability and inclusivity. For nanotechnology to effectively contribute to Nigeria’s climate resilience, integrative strategies must be adopted. These should address public engagement, regulatory clarity, ethical considerations, and equitable access, ensuring that technological innovation complements the country’s social and economic realities.

Wastewater Treatment in a Growing Municipality: Evaluating the Efficiency of the Suneka Plant in Kisii, Kenya

2025-12-29T10:53:17+03:00

Wastewater stabilization ponds (WSPs) are widely used in the tropics for sewage wastewater treatment because they are inexpensive to operate. However, they have been associated as being point sources of pollution to the environment. The purpose of this study was to assess Suneka WSP's wastewater treatment efficiency. Sampling was done from May to August 2021. Dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS) and electrical conductivity (EC) were measured in situ using YSI multi-parameter probe model 35C. Ex situ analyses of nutrients, total suspended solids (TSS), total and fecal coliforms (TC and FC), and chlorophyll-a were conducted in accordance with the standard protocols outlined in APHA, 2014. The effluent's levels of physical, chemical, and biological (coliform) parameters were compared to those set by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA). The mean EC, DO, TDS, SRP, NO₃-N, NO₂-N, TN and TP differed significantly among the sampling sites (ANOVA; p < 0.05). The means of TC and FC were 37.64 ± 3.3 and 17.94 ± 2.3 counts/100ml. TDS, temperature, pH, and NO₃-N were within NEMA, WHO, and EPA standards while others were above, indicating that the plant did not efficiently polish the wastewater. Moreover, most of the assessed parameters including TP, TN and coliforms had polishing efficiency below 70% in addition to not meeting the required standards. As a result, the poor water quality and eutrophication of Riana River can be attributed to the two nutrients. To further polishing of the effluent from the WSP, this study recommends construction of a wetland.

Heavy Metals Bioaccumulation in Celosia argentea L. and Corchorus olitorius L. Grown on Refuse Disposal in Igabi Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria

2025-12-28T20:25:03+03:00

Leafy vegetable farmers nowadays in part of the country gathered manure from dumped sites for growing vegetables due to the nation's high cost for both organic and artificial fertilizers. However, because of this, this study was carried out to evaluate bioaccumulation of heavy metals in Celosia argentea L. and Corchorus olitorius L. grown on heavy metal-contaminated manure from refuse disposal, employing Igabi local Government Area of Kaduna State as a case study. Two (2) species of leafy vegetables Cockscomb (Celosia argentea L.) and Jews mallow (Corchorus olitorius L.) were grown on three different pots I, II and III replicated three (3) times respectively. (control soil, contaminated soil that was gathered from disposal locations, and a mix of control and contaminated soil). After being digested using the wet acid method, the collected vegetables were subjected to atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) for heavy metal. The mean ± standard deviation was used to express the results, and Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) is used to separate the mean values. The findings were contrasted with recommendations from the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Results demonstrated that the leafy vegetables' accreted levels of (Cr) chromium (Cockscomb-1.36 + 0.062 mg/kg; Jews mallow - 1.10 + 0.050 mg/kg) and (Cd) cadmium (Cockscomb- 1.65 + 0.076 mg/kg; Jews mallow - 0.98 + 0.045 mg/kg) are beyond the WHO/FAO-permissible limits(Cr -1.3 mg/kg; Cd - 0.2 mg/kg).However, Jews Mallow surpasses the allowable limit of 0.2 mg/kg in Cadmium (Cd) only, whereas Cockscomb has levels of Cadmium (Cd) and Chromium (Cr) that are higher than the permissible limits of 0.2 mg/kg and 1.3 mg/kg, respectively Accumulation order varies according to the species and soil's supply. Inconclusion, the two (2) Leafy vegetables (Corchorus olitorius L and Celosia argentea L) absorbs and accrues heavy metals above WHO/FAO permissible limit standard. In the two vegetables, the levels of cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr) is above the allowable limits respectively. When the two vegetables are compared, Celosia argentea L.( 6.66mg/kg) absorbs and accumulates greater heavy metals as opposed to Corchorus olitorius L.(4.18mg/kg) Therefore, it is recommended that farmers should be sensitized of the dangers of using soil from dumping sites or any other polluted soil for crop and vegetable cultivation, as well as the needs for appropriate pollution management.

Zooplankton Community Structure in a Wastewater Treatment Plant. A Case of Suneka Wastewater Treatment Plant, Kenya

2025-12-29T14:31:44+03:00

Water quality determines aquatic organisms’ community structure. As a result, selected planktons have been used as bioindicators of water quality. In the current study, we determined zooplankton community structure and diversity in Suneka wastewater treatment plant in addition to selected physical and chemical parameters of the wastewater. The zooplankton samples were collected in triplicate once every month from August to December, 2019 from seven sampling points at sub-surface level. Temperature, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and dissolved oxygen (DO) were measured in situ using calibrated portable professional series (YS1) multiparameter meter model 35C at each sampling point. Nutrient analysis, wastewater samples were collected in triplicate using acid-washed bottles from the different sampling points and analyzed ex-situ using the spectrophotometric method for the determination of water and wastewater according to APHA, 2014. The results revealed the presence of 13 zooplankton species belong to three taxa: Cladocera, Rotifera, and Copepoda. In terms of abundance, Cladocera was the most dominant group, while Copepoda and Rotifera maintained lower and more stable populations across the sampling stations. Moreover, the study revealed there was spatial and temporal variation in zooplankton in terms of diversity and distribution. The variations in zooplankton diversity can be attributed to changes in physical and chemical parameters in addition to primary productivity in the respective sampling stations. The study findings form baseline information on the zooplankton assemblage for the Suneka wastewater treatment plant for future studies.

Levels of Heavy Metal Contaminants in River Chemosit, Due to Urbanization of Chemosit Town, Kericho County, Kenya

2025-12-28T17:45:57+03:00

Access to clean water is a key aspect in modern day life. Heavy metal contamination is a detrimental aspect in drinking water. River Chemosit serves as a crucial water source for domestic, agricultural, and industrial purposes, thus sustaining the local livelihoods. The escalating concern regarding river pollutants poses a significant threat to public health. This study aimed to evaluate the water quality of River Chemosit to assess its pollution current status. Both upstream and downstream areas of Chemosit Centre were surveyed in this study while monitoring the vary levels of Heavy metals. Water samples were systematically collected during Wet and Dry seasons along this river from Kipkerieny, Chemosit Centre, and Kabitungu sampling points. These samples underwent comprehensive analysis for Heavy metals analysis where ICP-MS was used. The collected data was statistically analyzed using SPSS version 22. Spatially, the mean values for the parameters were as follows: copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) met WHO guidelines for domestic water use both spatially and seasonally. However, mean values for aluminum (Al) and iron (Fe) exceeded WHO limits during the dry season. Pollutants originating from anthropogenic activities and discharge from domestic and industrial sources underscores the imperative for continuous water quality monitoring to ensure compliance with NEMA and WHO standards.

Analysis And Characterization of Clay Earthy Mineral Aggregate Deposit from Nyeri County for Removal of Nitrates, Phosphates and Heavy Metals from Water

2025-12-29T11:51:41+03:00

It is important to characterize clay minerals in order to be able to determine their applications. Knowing the characteristics of clay minerals can help us to understand their potential use in various fields, such as agriculture, construction, and manufacturing. Characterizing clay minerals can help us to identify the best possible applications for them, which can be beneficial for both the environment and society. To investigate the characteristics of the Nyeri County Clay minerals, various methods were used, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (EDXRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Before the characterization, the clay mineral was calcined at 700°C for 2 hours, then it was hydrothermally treated for 3 hours using an 8M NaOH solution and finally recalcined at 650°C for 2 hours. The paper aims to give suitable remediation for removal of heavy metals phosphates and nitrates in wastewater using natural clay soil.

Analysing Socio-Economic Characteristics Influencing Disaster Risk Management Approaches for Food Crop Production in Siaya County, Kenya

2025-12-27T14:13:09+03:00

Socio-economic characteristics are a complex interplay of factors that have shown a changing trend and diversities worldwide. In Siaya County, food crop production has negatively been affected by climate change, making households to engage in different disaster risk management approaches to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change for increased food crop production. Socio-economic attributes have potential influence on the choice and adoption of the disaster risk management approaches used to increase food crop production. This study analyzed the socio-economic characteristics influencing disaster risk management approaches for food crop production in Siaya County. The study used descriptive survey and correlation research designs. A sample size of 385 households was determined through sampling techniques comprising multistage and proportionate. Secondary data were obtained from the publications, Journals, internet sources and newspapers. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to correlate socio-economic characteristics and the disaster risk management approaches using Statistical Package for Social Scientist (SPSS) Version 20.0 for percentages, frequencies and level of significance while narrative analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Findings revealed varying strengths of relationship between socio-demographic characteristics and disaster risk management approaches. Age (r = 0.594, P<0.05), Gender (r = 0.610, p < 0.05), Marital status (r = 0.899, p<0.05), Education level (r = 0.072, p > 0.05), Occupation (r = 0.537, p < 0.05), Year of residence (r = 0.880, p < 0.05), Monthly income (r = 0.523, p < 0.05), Family size (r = 0.456, p > 0.05) and land tenure (r = 0.878, p=0.05). The study concludes that all the socio-economic characteristics influenced disaster risk management except education level with a correlation coefficient of 0.072 which was not statistically significant at 0.697, p > 0.05. There is therefore need for concerted efforts by various stakeholders in food crop production and disaster risk reduction to consider socio-economic factors when planning for interventions and advocate for application of the disaster risk management approaches to mitigate agricultural risks from the changing climate for sustainable food crop production.

Determinants of Household Food Security Status Among Smallholder Farmers in Laikipia County, Kenya

2025-12-27T13:45:31+03:00

There are numerous factors that determine household food security status among smallholder farmers; and a variety of methods have been developed to measure food security. This study sought to establish the factors that determine household food security status among smallholder farmers in Laikipia County. Multistage sampling technique was used to select 384 smallholder farming households in Laikipia County during the 2021/2022 cropping season. Data was collected by using a questionnaire to household respondents and an interview schedule for key informants. Data collected was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28. Food security was measured using Food Consumption Scores (FCS) and Household Dietary Diversity Scale (HDDS). Descriptive statistics and ordered logistic regression analysis was used to establish the lead determinants of food security status. Results showed that the most accessed food groups were cereals and grain (82.0%), milk and other dairy products (49.5%), green leafy vegetables (45.3%) and roots and tubers (43.8%). The average Food Consumption Score (FCS) was 8.5 - food security status of ‘poor’. While the Household Dietary Diversity Scale (HDDS) was 3.9, implying households accessed four (4) out of sixteen (16) food groups. Gender (0.56), marital status (0.6), land size under cash crops (0.5) and land ownership (0.28) were the lead determinants of the Food Consumption Score. The study recommends that targeted support for female- and older-headed households, land titling, agribusiness and cash crop capacity building, robust extension services, and continued fertilizer subsidies should be implemented in order to improve food security situation among smallholder farmers in Laikipia County.

Adoption of Technology Enabled Agricultural Extension Services by Kenya’s Youthful Farmers

2025-12-29T12:08:47+03:00

Agricultural extension services are vital for ending hunger, achieving food security, and improving nutrition. The integration of Information and Communication Technologies has enhanced the reach, efficiency and effectiveness of these services. This study examined the factors influencing the adoption of Technology-Enabled Agricultural Extension Services (TEAES) among youth farmers in Kenya, guided by the Technology Acceptance Model. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, involving 325 young women and 243 young men who provided data through structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used for analysis. The findings revealed that gender, education level, access to digital devices, and internet connectivity influenced TEAES adoption, with education level emerging as the most critical determinant. Youth farmers expressed a strong preference for blended delivery models, indicating a willingness to engage with digital platforms when infrastructural and socio-demographic conditions are favorable. The study concludes that TEAS adoption is shaped not only by technological availability but also by digital literacy, access barriers, and inclusivity in design. It recommends targeted digital literacy initiatives, improved digital infrastructure, provision of affordable devices, and the development of inclusive, mobile-friendly content tailored to the needs of young women and underserved rural communities.

Community Perception on the Impact of Community-Based Wildlife Conservancies on Pasture Resources in the Lake Bogoria Landscape, Kenya

2025-12-29T13:09:52+03:00

Community wildlife conservancies provide vital biodiversity values and ecosystem services that sustain livelihoods in arid and semi-arid lands, as they are habitats for endemic flora and fauna, provide pasture for livestock, and have eco-tourism potential. This study examined the impact of establishment of Kiborgoch, Chuine and Irong’ conservancies on pasture resources for Endorois community’s livestock within the semi-arid Lake Bogoria landscape in Baringo County. The study was conducted from December 2022 to February 2023 and questionnaires were administered to 100 household heads, sampled using stratified sampling technique. Moreover, key informant interviews and focus group discussions were held with officials from the three conservancies and relevant wildlife and livestock authorities. Grass, shrubs and tree leaves constituted pastures. The Spearman’s rank correlation and Pearson’s Chi-square test indicate a weak non-significant relationship between establishment of the community wildlife conservancies and pasture availability, based on communities’ perceptions (ρ = 0.122, p = 0.226; χ² = 3.763, df = 4, p = 0.439). The communities did not feel the impact of conservancies’ establishment on forage availability, attributing this to invasion by Prosopis juliflora and Acacia mellifera and overgrazing within the conservancies. Hence, future studies should apply integrated ecological assessment methods to provide empirical assessments.

Cultural Heritage Preservation Through Ushanga Initiative Cooperatives in Narok County Kenya

2025-12-28T19:50:16+03:00

Beadwork is still a potent way to preserve cultural identity while promoting and cultural heritage. Cooperatives have become essential avenues for group action and community empowerment. Ushanga cooperatives demonstrate an innate ability to recognize and capitalize on the inventive qualities of the cultural and creative industries. Despite all of this evidence, neither academics nor the cooperative movement itself have thoroughly examined the connection between CCS and cooperatives too far. Thus paper focuses on the contribution of cooperatives on cultural heritage preservation. The study adopted descriptive research design that combines both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study was conducted in Narok county where Five Ushanga cooperatives operating both in Maasai Mara game reserve and Narok town with a membership of 1400 were purposively selected from the twenty (20) registered cooperatives due to their active participation and high membership. Simple random sampling procedure was used to select 300 active members from the five (5) Ushanga initiative cooperatives. Key informants were purposively selected and comprised of five leaders of Ushanga initiative cooperatives and one chief executive cooperative officer. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and key informants' interview schedules. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics for quantitative data and content analysis for qualitative data. From the study results females dominated in the Ushanga initiative cooperatives with a representation of (91.80%). This is an indication that beadwork enterprise is predominantly undertaken by females. Items such as leather bracelets (99.4%), beaded necklaces (99.2%), wristbands (99.2%), beaded rungus (98.1%) and woven garments (97.3%) were the most commonly produced items. Ushanga initiative cooperatives not only promote economic empowerment but also cultural resilience. The study comes to the conclusion that bolstering cooperative frameworks can be a successful cultural preservation tactic and suggest policy assistance to increase their influence among indigenous groups.

Cultural Determinants in Conversation Approach to Family Mental Health in Isukha Central, Kakamega

2025-12-29T11:21:29+03:00

Conversational approach is increasingly recognized as a central determinant of family mental health. It functions as a relational process nurturing trust, emotional expression, and shared coping. Globally, it is increasingly recognized as a driver of family mental health. In many African societies, including Kenya, conversations are shaped by deeply rooted cultural norms and communal value systems. Isukha Central in Western Kenya presents a culturally distinct context, characterized by strong traditional practices and tightly knit community structures. Anchored in Communication Accommodation Theory, this study investigated how indigenous cultural norms, values and conversational approach influence family mental health. Adopting a qualitative case study with a narrative orientation guided by an interpretivist-constructivist paradigm, data was collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Purposive and snowball sampling strategies were used; thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo. The findings enrich the growing body of knowledge on culturally responsive family mental health strategies in Sub-Saharan Africa, providing practical insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers seeking to bridge traditional knowledge systems with contemporary mental health frameworks. The study concludes that culturally responsive conversational approaches integrating traditional values with mental health literacy are essential for strengthening family-based mental health interventions. Thereby, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal No. 3 on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.

Establishing Climate Variability for Adaptation of Maritime Cultural and Natural Heritage to Climate Change in South Coast, Kenya

2025-12-28T18:43:16+03:00

Climate variability presents novel challenges to the conservation of maritime cultural and natural heritage. In the south Kenya coast, responses to extreme temperatures and sudden onset high rainfall worsen the condition of historic buildings and sacred landscapes, putting maritime communities at risk. To provide a baseline for prioritizing conservation planning initiatives, the paper sought to establish climate variability for the adaptation of maritime heritage to climate change. Between 1994 and 2024, average maximum and minimum temperatures rose by +1.6°C and +1.4°C, respectively. Linear regressions of average maximum and minimum temperatures showed high extremes of 32.10°C to 32.40°C and low extremes of 19.8°C to 20°C, respectively. The leptokurtic distribution showed a substantial chance of severe outcomes in average minimum and maximum temperatures in September and November, respectively. Over 30 years, the average maximum rainfall increased by 190mm with linear regressions indicating high extremes between 1500mm and 1600mm. The leptokurtic distribution revealed a substantial chance of extreme outcomes in average maximum rainfall in November. Average maximum and minimum temperatures for the final two years were considerably higher than the first two years; t (-5.2086, 1.0000) = 6.3138, P=0.0604) and t (--3.7226, 1.0000) = 6.3138, P=0.0835). However, average mean rainfall over the first two years was significantly lower than that over the latter two years t (-0.525, 1.000) = 6.3138, P =0.3460). Overall, unpredictability of short and long rainy seasons has increased during the last ten years compared to the previous twenty. Conservation planning is to consider physical stabilizations, shoreline consolidation, mangrove restoration, land use control, adjustments of setbacks and buffer zones to adapt maritime heritage to climate change.

A Historical Analysis of Agrarian Land Use Systems and Their Cultural Significance Among the Luo of Nyanza, Kenya, 1895- 1963

2025-12-29T11:35:08+03:00

This paper examines how colonial agrarian policies transformed the traditional Luo land use systems and reshaped cultural practices in Nyanza, Kenya between 1895 and 1963. In the Literature review section, the archival and secondary sources were used. The modernisation theory was also used to trace the transition from communal to individualized land tenure. This theory analyzed colonial data in reference to their precolonial land systems. The researcher conducted a comprehensive literature review using secondary sources to gather pertinent data for this study. The finding showed that the colonial land alienation, cash crop introduction, and th Swynnerton Plan disrupted communal structures, leading to socio-cultural and ecologhical consequences that persist today. These consequences include, conflicts, tensions, social stratification, reduced subsistence production of traditional crops, food shortage, , less dietary, and general depletion of biodiversity, undermined ecological balance and further fosterd environmental degradation. The data derived from archival sources reveal that the colonial administration prioritised the introduction of new crops and the disruption of traditional agrarian land patterns among the Luo, while imposing Westernisation, rather than reinforcing native interests. in conclusion, the Luo land tenure reflect a dynamic interplay of ecology, culture, and history, offering resilience and vulnerabilities of smallholder farming in a rapidly changing world. These systems were not merely economic strategies but embodied cultural identities, social cohesion, and sustainable relationships with the land. However, colonial land alienation, post-independence privatization, and the global push for cash crops disrupted these equilibria, fragmenting communal tenure, eroding soil health, and deepening socio-economic inequalities.

Middlemen and Marginalization: Analyzing the Social Consequences of Economic Exploitation in the Kisii Soapstone Industry, Kenya

2025-12-27T14:50:15+03:00

The objective of this paper was to investigate how middlemen’s economic exploitation of soapstone carvers shaped the social fabric of their community. It examined the ripple effects of this economic injustice—poverty, resentment, and social division—among the carvers. Ultimately, the study aimed to reveal how unequal trade relations eroded both livelihoods and social harmony. The analysis was grounded in Marxian theory, which provided a framework for understanding the class struggles between the middlemen—who controlled and profited from the soapstone trade—and the working-class carvers, who remained underpaid and marginalized. Ultimately, the study established that such exploitative dynamics resulted in economic deprivation, thereby restricting access to quality education and healthcare among the affected communities. To investigate these concerns, the study utilized both primary and secondary sources. It involved interviews with a randomly selected group of 30 respondents drawn from soapstone carvers and miners. These sources provided firsthand insights into the social impact of economic exploitation. The findings revealed that most of these intermediaries were privately owned companies and wholesalers who purchased carvings from local carvers at ridiculously low prices, only to resell them at exorbitant rates in international markets. This systematic exploitation trapped the carvers in cycles of poverty, giving rise to a host of social problems. Equally, lack of fair compensation bred animosity between the haves and the have-nots, deepening social divisions among the carvers. Similarly, widespread poverty followed, driving many into desperate survival strategies. Consequently, crime, poor access to healthcare, and prostitution surged—intensifying the spread of HIV and AIDS within the soapstone carving communities. Moreover, the study found out that poverty curtailed access to education, as many parents could neither afford school fees nor meet basic medical needs.

Relationship Between Income Generating Activities and School Operations in Public Secondary Schools in Nakuru County, Kenya

2025-12-29T13:24:03+03:00

Free Day Secondary School Education policy was introduced in Kenya to ensure accessibility of education to all. Public secondary schools have consistently not been able to mobilize enough funds for their operations over the years. The inability to mobilize adequate funds not only affects school budgets but also core functions such as teaching and learning. Income diversification is among the strategies that schools can adopt to mitigate against financial constraints. This paper investigated the relationship between income generating activities and operations of public secondary schools in Nakuru County. The study was grounded on the Resource-Based Theory and adopted the correlational research design. The target population was 365 public secondary school principals and the same number of school bursars in Nakuru County. Random sampling was done using a formula developed by Nassiuma (2000). to get a sample size of 51 school principals and 51 school bursars. A bursars’ questionnaire and principal’s interview schedule were used to collect data. The face and content validity of the bursars’ questionnaire and principals’ interview guide were checked through expert judgment. The reliability of the bursars’ questionnaire was estimated using the Cronbach Alpha method. The instrument was reliable as its coefficient was 0.762. Quantitative data was analyzed with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Science. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically through the inductive method. Hypothesis was tested at the .05 level of significance using Pearson’s Correlations. The findings indicated that the income generating activities schools engaged in were farming (49.3%), charging registration (49.3%) and tuition (38.7%) fees. Schools’ operations index was at 2.88 out of 5 points rating scale. The results also indicated that there was a positive and statistically significant relationship between engagement in income generating activities and school operations, r(29) = .500, p =. 004.The study concluded that engagement in income generating activities influences schools’ operations. These findings may assist school managers come up with measures that help schools reduce disruptions to their calendar due to financial challenges.

Student-Athletes’ Perceptions of Coaches’ Coaching Competency in Kenyan Universities: The Case of Kenyatta University

2025-12-29T12:44:57+03:00

Coaching competency is essential in sports, encompassing the skills, knowledge, and abilities coaches need to support athletes’ technical, cognitive, strategic, and psychosocial development. Understanding how athletes evaluate their coaches is important for improving coaching practices and enhancing overall performance. This study explored student-athletes’ perceptions of coaching competency at Kenyatta University, specifically assessing perceived competency levels among athletes in individual sports (Taekwondo and Swimming) and team sports (Soccer and Volleyball). It also examined differences in perceptions based on sport type and gender. An analytical cross-sectional design was used, involving 150 student-athletes who completed a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results showed that female athletes rated their coaches higher in game strategy and motivation, while male athletes rated their coaches higher in technique and character building. Athletes in individual sports generally rated their coaches higher across all competency domains than those in team sports. However, no significant differences were found based on gender. The study recommends expanding research to include athletes from other universities and examining additional variables such as duration of participation, coach athlete gender dynamics, and athletes' team roles to better understand their influence on coaching competency perceptions.

Adapting Mobile Technology to Enhance Access to Quality, Equitable and Inclusive Education in Fragile Contexts: The Case of Kakuma Refugee Camp Primary Schools

2025-12-28T18:03:31+03:00

This study investigated the use of mobile technology to enhance quality, equitable, and inclusive education in primary schools within Kenya's Kakuma Refugee Camp. Its objectives were to examine the influence of digital tools on teaching and learning experiences, assess learners' and teachers’ digital competencies and needs, and to seek views on how a toolkit and guidelines can be developed for the purpose of optimizing mobile technology use in refugee learning centers. The target population entailed 24 primary schools, 645 teachers ,164000 leaners and 1 education officer. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data were gathered from 89 participants—including learners, teachers, head teachers, and an education officer—through questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. Both random and purposive sampling strategies were applied. The findings indicate that mobile digital devices significantly enhance educational access, engagement, and interaction in refugee settings. However, to translate this potential into improved learning outcomes, the study underscores the need for an integrated strategy. This includes creating culturally appropriate and engaging content, equipping teachers with the necessary skills, ensuring the technology is age- and language-sensitive, expanding access to quality devices, and incorporating inclusive features. Recognizing the complex challenges of Kakuma—such as inadequate power supply, weak internet infrastructure, and overcrowded learning environments—the research advocates for a context-specific guidelines. This guide should extend beyond technical instructions to include pedagogical strategies aligned with the unique needs and constraints of refugee learners and educators. Significantly, the study positions mobile technology not as a standalone solution but as a catalyst for educational equity and inclusion when implemented thoughtfully and systematically.

Ethical Concerns and Institutional Policy Responses to Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Higher Education Across Sub-Saharan Africa

2025-12-29T13:56:02+03:00

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming higher education, yet its ethical implications and governance structures remain unevenly developed in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study investigates emerging ethical concerns related to AI use—specifically academic integrity, data privacy, fairness, institutional accountability, and human oversight—and examines how these issues intersect with weak or absent institutional policies. The study pursued three objectives to: identify the predominant ethical concerns surrounding AI use in higher education, assess the existence and adequacy of institutional AI policies, and determine priority areas for ethical, inclusive, and sustainable AI governance. A descriptive, cross-sectional survey of N = 374 faculty and students across public, private, and technical institutions was conducted. Quantitative analyses measured ethical awareness, perceived risks, and policy readiness, while qualitative thematic analysis identified key ethical and policy domains. Findings show strong concern about plagiarism, data privacy violations, and algorithmic bias, yet fewer than one-third of respondents reported having clear institutional AI policies. Five ethical domains and five policy priorities emerged, revealing a widening gap between ethical awareness and governance preparedness. Interpreted through Diffusion of Innovation theory, Deontological Ethics, and Virtue Ethics, the results indicate early moral awareness but delayed institutional response. Sustainable AI integration will therefore require universities to strengthen ethical governance so that AI enhances, rather than undermines, educational integrity, fairness, and accountability.

Interpersonal Communication and Alcohol Abuse among College Students: The Role of Demographic Characteristics

2025-12-29T10:16:58+03:00

The paper sought to examine the effect of interpersonal communication on alcohol abuse among college students, and the moderating role of demographic factors. This comes amid growing concern of a surge in alcohol abuse among college students, a menace to the country’s public health and overall socio-economic development. Despite empirical evidence showing a strong correlation between interpersonal communication and behaviours, this has not received adequate backing in Kenya’s context, particularly on alcohol consumption behaviour among college students. The paper was anchored on social cognitive theory and used a descriptive cross-sectional survey design to survey 384 respondents drawn from Kenya Medical Training College. A questionnaire and key informant interviews were used to collect data from the respondents, which was analysed using quantitative (descriptive and inferential statistics) and qualitative (content analysis) approaches. The findings revealed that interpersonal communication had a strong and significant correlation with alcohol consumption among college students. Demographic factors were also found to significantly moderate the relationship between interpersonal communication and alcohol consumption among college students. The study concluded that interpersonal communication among college students was a major driver to increased alcohol consumption among the students. Further, it was concluded that demographic factors including age, gender and financial status stimulated the ability of interpersonal communication to influence alcohol consumption among college students. It is therefore recommended that policy makers and education stakeholders create awareness on the dangers of interpersonal communication on influencing alcohol consumption among college students. It is also essential for the college administrators and relevant ministries to undertake mentorship programs, embrace targeted communication strategies, and peer-led interventions tailored to students' age, gender, and economic backgrounds to curb harmful drinking behaviors among college students.

The Role of Co-operative Societies in Promoting Sustainable Agriculture in Kenya: A Systematic Review of Literature

2025-12-28T18:14:29+03:00

Sustainable agricultural practices are essential for responding to the twin pressure of climate change and rapid population growth in Kenya. Identifying mechanisms that accelerate the uptake of these practices remains a policy priority. Agricultural cooperatives societies (ACSs) have been proposed as a key institutional channel for supporting this transition. However, existing research on how ACSs influence the adoption of sustainable agriculture in Kenya is fragmented and significantly gaps persist regarding the consistency and strength of this relationship. This review synthesizes current empirical evidence and highlights methodological and theoretical limitations within the literature. A systematic search was conducted using google scholar, yielding 832 initial records. Studies were included if they examined Kenyan ACS and their relationship with sustainable or climate-smart agricultural practices, applied empirical methods, and were published in English. After screening, 22 studies met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted on study characteristics, methodological approaches, and reported outcomes. Quantitative and qualitative findings were convergent. A majority of studies (86.4%) found that ACS membership was consistently associated with higher adoption rates of sustainable and climate-smart agricultural practices. Key mechanisms identified included improved access to information, collective resource mobilization, strengthened market structures, enhanced farmer inclusion, and support for innovation. Despite these benefits, several studies reported neutral or negative associations, often linked to governance weaknesses, limited technological capacity, and low farmer engagement. Additionally, 72.7% of the studies lacked a guiding theoretical framework, limiting explanatory depth and cross-study comparability. The evidence suggests that ACSs play a significant enabling role in advancing sustainable agriculture in Kenya, although their impact is uneven and context specific. Policymakers should prioritize strengthening CAS governance, investing in cooperative infrastructure, and promoting farmer participation. Future research should integrate robust theoretical frameworks to better explain causal pathways and variation in ACS effectiveness.

Specialized Subject Laboratories and Implementation of Science and Computer Studies Curriculum in Public Junior Schools in Narok County, Kenya

2025-12-29T12:35:44+03:00

The implementation of Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) depends on access to specialized laboratories that support practical, learner-centered pedagogy in science and computer studies. This study examines how laboratory availability influences CBC implementation in public Junior Secondary Schools in Narok County. Using a cross-sectional mixed-methods design, data were collected from 25 schools across three sub-counties. Quantitative analysis revealed that most schools lacked adequate laboratory infrastructure, relying on improvised setups. Teachers cited laboratory shortages as a major barrier to effective curriculum delivery, while learners reported limited engagement in practical activities. Correlation analysis showed a significant relationship between laboratory availability and CBC implementation from teachers’ perspectives, but not from learners. Qualitative insights confirmed gaps in equipment, reagents, and ICT integration. The study concludes that infrastructural deficits undermine CBC goals and recommends targeted investment in laboratory construction, virtual labs, teacher training, and public-private partnerships to enhance inquiry-based learning and equip learners with 21st-century competencies.

Impact of Performance Management on Resource Utilization and Improved Results in Kenyan TVET Institutions

2025-12-29T09:48:14+03:00

Performance management in Kenya’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions has been anchored on performance contracts and individual performance appraisals to enhance accountability, resource utilization, and service delivery. This study sought to: examine the performance management process in Kenyan TVET institutions, assess the impact of performance contracting on resource utilization and institutional results, evaluate the influence of performance appraisal on institutional performance and service quality, identify challenges and gaps in implementation and provide recommendations for strengthening performance management practices. The study adopted a desktop research design that relied exclusively on secondary data obtained from academic journals, dissertations, and government publications by the Ministry of Education, TVETA, and the Public Service Commission. Official performance contracting and appraisal guidelines, institutional evaluation reports, and credible online sources were also reviewed. Searches were conducted through databases such as Google Scholar and ERIC using combinations of key terms related to performance management and TVET outcomes. Materials published from 2009 onwards were prioritized to reflect sustained implementation periods. Data were thematically analyzed, and narrative synthesis with simple vote counting was used to identify convergence across findings. The results indicate that performance contracting has moderately improved the utilization of teaching and learning resources, while structured performance appraisals are linked to enhanced service delivery and accountability. However, these gains are uneven due to inadequate staff training, limited resources, inconsistent target setting, and perceptions of the process as a bureaucratic formality. The study concludes that while performance management frameworks foster a culture of efficiency and results, their success depends on effective implementation, continuous training, staff participation, and adequate resource support. Strengthening ICT infrastructure, standardizing practices, and enhancing feedback mechanisms are essential to realizing sustainable institutional improvements across Kenya’s TVET sector.