MPPM Theses and Dissertations

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An investigation of healthcare systems and institutional performance vulnerability and variance to leadership and governance interventions : a case of the IPPF Ghana and Kenya chapters
(Strathmore University, 2016) Kiragu, Esther M.
There is a growing recognition that the global health agenda needs to shift from an emphasis on disease-specific approaches to strengthening of health systems. Building leadership, management and governance capacities within the healthcare systems provides an opportunity to strengthen healthcare workforce, improve program performance, develop relationships with target populations and enhance the ability of the health system to respond quickly and effectively to change. The objective of this study was to investigate healthcare systems and institutional performance vulnerability and variance to leadership and governance interventions in IPPF Ghana and Kenya Chapters. In order to achieve this main objective, the following specific objectives were laid down; to identify health leadership and governance vulnerability and variance facing the IPPF Ghana and Kenya chapters, to describe the variations in the implementation process in IPPF Ghana and Kenya Chapters and to describe potential contributors to the disparity in performance between the Ghanaian and Kenyan chapters of IPPF.. The study used a survey research design (survey monkey) to target 90 participants, 57 senior management staff and 33 national governing board members in IPPF Ghana and Kenya Chapters. Data was collected from 67 respondents (74.5%) out of a total of 90 participants in both IPPF Ghana and Kenyan Chapters using the administration of a questionnaire which had closed and open ended questions. An analysis of the data was conducted using descriptive method and the coding was drawn from the USAID/MSH/IPPF methodology (Yes=2), (No=1) and (N/A=0). Particular attention focusing on strong management systems as highlighted in the USAID/MSH leading, managing and governing for results conceptual framework and further, an exploration on how these interactions contributed towards strong healthcare systems was brought to light.
An assessment of male participation in maternal health care as a strategy to contribute to the deduction of maternal mortality rate in Ugenya Sub-County
(Strathmore University, 2016) Musira, Lucy
The Government of Kenya has shown commitment in delivering health facilities to the doorsteps of common people through, among others, innovative approaches such as Kenya’s First Lady-led Beyond Zero Campaign; free maternity services; devolving of health services; and facilitating the joint communiqué by 15 Governors whose counties were found to have the highest burden of maternal mortality rate. Despite this commitment, the high rate of maternal deaths in Kenya remains a concern. Cairo’s 1994 International Conference on Population and Development recommended that special efforts should be made to emphasize men’s shared responsibility in maternal health, among other areas. The Conference’s findings increased interest in male involvement in maternal health initiatives. It is therefore necessary to establish whether this recommendation is being implemented to contribute to the improvement of the formula for tackling the high maternal mortality rate globally, and what factors are influencing such adoption. This study covered Ugenya Sub-County, in Siaya County. The study observed that strategies to tackle the large number of maternal deaths in the Siaya County Health Policy, as well as in the Siaya County Integrated Development Plan did not include male participation in maternal health care. This study aimed to examine male participation in maternal health care as a strategy to contribute to the reduction of maternal mortality rate in Ugenya Sub-County. Specific objectives were to establish the effects of socio-economic; health facility; cultural; and perceptions/attitudes factors on male participation in maternal health care. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional research design. The population of interest included 48,105 households in Ugenya Sub-County’s four wards, West Ugenya; Ukwala; North Ugenya; and East Ugenya. A sample of 150 respondents from the population was selected, and the study used a self-administered questionnaire using face-to-face method. Quantitative data collected was analyzed through descriptive statistics using SPSS, and Qualitative data analyzed using content analysis. The study established that male respondents were aware of most pregnancy complications, though this awareness was from information shared within the community after death had occurred. The respondents’ level of knowledge on the importance and benefits of antenatal care, including the World Health Organization recommended number of visits for antenatal care, and importance of birth spacing was low. Most respondents cited Malaria as the highest cause of maternal deaths in the sub-county. The study found that pregnancy support was regarded as a female role; and it was a taboo for male to go into delivery rooms or labour wards. Negative attitude by healthcare workers and the community towards men who accompanied their partners to the clinics was found to impede male participation in maternal health care. Health care facilities were found to be not easily accessible, operating hours not conducive for men, and male friendly services and waiting areas lacking. Male participation was found to be generally low, and non-participation was not intentional, but influenced by these factors. The study recommends further studies in other Kenyan counties to establish the level of male participation, and what influences said participation. Also recommended for future research is whether male participation reduces maternal mortality rates. The findings of this study aim to contribute to the enhancement of health policies and strategies employed in tackling maternal deaths, and maternal health care. There is a need to undertake wider community sensitization on the importance of supporting men participating in their partners’ maternity care; addressing infrastructural health service issues; and improving comprehensive plans to overcome informational barriers by increasing men’s knowledge and awareness on the importance of their participation. This will entail planning and budgeting for such activities. Human Resources for Health also need to be looked into as this may influence health workers’ attitude toward their work and subsequently how they handle clients.
The role of rules of procedure in mitigating against unintended consequences of public interest litigation: the case study of standard gauge railway
(Strathmore University, 2016) Kibui, David Njogu
This study examines the role of rules of procedure in mitigating the un intended consequences of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) with reference to the Standard Gauge Railway in Kenya as a case study. In other jurisdictions, PIL has arguably brought about social transformation and protection of social and economic rights. In Kenya, the Chief Justice formulated the Constitution of Kenya (Protection of Rights and Fundamental Freedoms) Practice and Procedure Rules 2013 that will make it possible to implement Article 22 of Constitution. PIL therefore offers a real opportunity to advance, shape and implement policies in the public sphere as expounded in the provisions of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010. These include the national values under Article 10 and which binds all State Organs, State Officers and Public Officers whenever any of them applies or interprets this Constitution, enacts or applies or interprets any law, makes or interprets public policy decisions. Article 258 allows individuals to bring actions in public interest while Article 259 allows a person to contemplate any type of litigation as long as it promotes values, rule of law, development of the law and good governance. The thesis reviews the role of rules of procedure in other jurisdictions such as United States of America, India, South Africa and Kenya for comparison purposes. Despite many positive outcomes of PIL, this paper argues that there are occasions where the objectives of PIL are outweighed by its un intended consequences. With reference to the development of the Standard Gauge Railway, it will be illustrated that the un intended consequences of PIL can be injurious to public good. Twenty one legal suits in a span of two years from 2014 have been filed against SGR. To determine the adequacy of the rules to mitigate on the un intended consequences, the Constitution of Kenya (Protection of Rights and Fundamental Freedoms) Practice and Procedure Rules 2013 applicable to PIL in Kenya were investigated to determine their adequacy as applied in SGR Cases. These rules of procedure as applied in the SGR case form the basis of this study. A review of these rules has revealed that there is need to amend the rules to include timelines, vetting potential PIL, placing of a bond before filing PIL, punishing petitioner among others in order to mitigate on the un intended consequences of PIL.
Effects of mergers and acquisitions on market equilibrium performance measures for processed milk market in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2016) Chege, Patrick Nderitu
The evaluation of the mergers and acquisitions effects on the main equilibrium performance measures is essential to the understanding of the competition policy dynamics in a market with few players. There is need for adoption of a robust mergers analysis model to address the shortcoming of the traditional SSNIP model which only focuses of prices and leaving out other important aspects of mergers and acquisitions. This study aimed to determining the effects of the mergers and acquisitions on market prices, consumer welfare, and aggregate profit of the merging firms and those of the non-merging firms and therefore answering the question on the overall effect of mergers and acquisitions on the equilibrium performance measures on milk market using data from all the 34 licensed and active milk processors in Kenya. A new model of analysis as developed from the Canadian Competition Policy maker i.e. The Canadian Competition Policy Merger Simulation Model was used. The study found that mergers and acquisitions lead to increase in market shares of the merging firms. Their non-merging counterparts also record a significant increase in their market shares after mergers and acquisitions have taken place even though they are not directly involved in the merger or acquisition. Herfindahl-Hirschman Index, or HHI which is a measure of the size of the firms in relation to the industrial and an indicator of competition and the concentration ratio (CR4) of the four largest firms in the industry increased. The study also found that mergers and acquisitions have a significant effect on product price. From the findings, the study concludes that mergers and acquisition not only leads to increase in market shares of both merging and non-merging firms but also creates market dominance due to reduction in the number of market players in the industry. This firms ends up dictating major terms of trade affecting different equilibrium measures such as product prices, volume of output released in the market, quantity produced and the social welfare. Therefore there is need for all competition policy practitioners to carry out robust analysis for proposed mergers or acquisitions before approval. However, due to the short-comings of the Canadian Competition Policy merger Simulation Model where only companies with a market share of one percent and above can be used, a mixed model approach can be used to help arrive to near accurate conclusions.
Single customs territory implementation ; its effect on revenue collection and trade facilitation : case of Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2016) Bifwoli, Thomas W.
In June 2013, the presidents of Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda decided to fast track the full implementation of East African Community’s Customs Union by launching a Single Customs Territory which is a form of a Customs Union. Its implementation and envisaged benefits have been documented. This study explores the details of aspects of SCT that could be having an effect on Kenya customs objectives which among others are revenue collection and trade facilitation. Data was obtained from Kenya Revenue Authority and analyzed. This data was for goods on transit from Mombasa through to Malaba exit point and of import data through Malaba. The period of the data under consideration was from January 2013 to December 2015. The defining date for this study is July 1 2014, when Single Customs Territory came in force. Analysis of the data was conducted to determine the effect of Single Customs Territory on trade facilitation and revenue collection before and after implementation of Single Customs Territory. Correlation analysis and a paired t-test ware done to compare extend of variance between the two periods, before and after SCT. The analysis showed that there has been significant increase in trade volumes of transit goods from Mombasa port through Malaba exit point. Similarly there has been an increase of goods imported through Malaba border point to Kenya. The increase in trade volumes is indicative of better trade facilitation by Kenya Revenue Authority after implementation of Single Customs Territory. Secondly the analysis showed that customs value reduced for both transit, and import goods through Malaba. Customs value is the basis for taxation. This means that with low customs value (tax base), revenue collection has also reduced. Based on this study, it is recommended that a review of the Single Customs Territory regime be undertaken by Kenya. The relevant government department should consider having an in-depth look into the observed negative effects of SCT in this case effect on revenue collection. Secondly necessary steps for implementation of a Customs Union needs to be completed including harmonizing of internal tariffs, common collection point of revenue among others. This will make it possible for the achievement of the SCT objectives.
Examining Islamic banking models in Kenya: a comparative study between First Community Bank and Kenya Commercial Bank
(Strathmore University, 2016) Abdulkadir, Jaafar Sheikh
Islamic banking is based on the principles of Islamic law (Shariah) and guided by Islamic economics. The basic principles of Islamic banking are the sharing of profit and loss and the prohibition of the collection and payment of interest. The Shariah principles also prohibit investments in non-permissible (haram), excessive risk taking that stems from speculative behaviour, businesses that carry uncertainty and instead promotes profit and risk sharing, financing on the basis of underlying assets as well as upholding sanctity of contracts. The concept of Islamic banking is generally getting into the mainstream global financial system as an alternative business model that enhances financial inclusion. Diversification of investment portfolio through Islamic banking models captures three perspectives: Customer (compliance to faith or religious believes), government (enhance foreign direct investment) and business community (access to source of revenue). The aim of the study was to compare Islamic banking models and assess the appropriate model for providing Islamic finance products and services to enhance financial inclusion. The study was carried out through a qualitative approach and multi-case study strategy where data were collected through semi-structured interviews from two banks that offer Islamic banking in Kenya using different models namely First Community Bank (FCB) (using the fully- fledged bank model) and Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) (using the window model). Data collected through face to face interviews were coded and analysed using thematic synthesis approach The findings indicated that window and full- fledged models were not different based on the challenges and coping mechanisms but were different on operational scale and size. Window model had better reach and significantly larger operational scale. Considering the cost of setting up a bank and the need for economies of scale, the window model was a more viable business model and was a good platform to have a better market reach. This is because the window model leverages on the existing infrastructure of conventional banking. Nonetheless, low market awareness, weak regulatory framework, technological inadequacy, lack of adequate experienced human capital and capacity challenges were common irrespective of which model was adopted. The key policy recommendations of the study were, providers of Islamic products and services should partner to continuously develop new strategies to enhance marketing of Islamic banking, lobby necessary arms of government to develop better regulation and supervisory framework and enhance research, training and development through consultation with academic institutions to build capacity of the banks in offering Islamic banking products and services.
Examining the adequacy of the regulatory framework for mobile payment services : milestones, challenges and solutions
(Strathmore University, 2016) Wamicwe, Andrew M.
Kenya’s mobile payment services sector has over the last few years been revolutionised with the introduction of innovative products such as M-Pesa, Airtel Money, M-Shwari amongst others. With a customer base of over 20 million users, the sector has grown despite the lack of a standalone legal and regulatory framework. The position has since changed with the introduction of a new standalone regulatory framework that came into effect in 2014. Further, the role of various regulators and in particular the Central Bank of Kenya, Communications Authority and Competition Authority is critical in providing the sector with the necessary support for it to flourish. The purpose of this study was to examine the adequacy of this new legal and regulatory framework both from the perspective of the regulator and the key market participants. Being a dynamic sector, the existing regulatory framework was examined on its capacity to overcome present day challenges such as cyber-crimes, coordination failure between commercial banks and telecommunication firms and on its capacity to provide a favourable business environment for telecommunication companies to operate. A qualitative research methodology approach was utilised. The respondents from amongst the regulators were the Central Bank of Kenya, Communications Authority and Competition Authority of Kenya. Respondents from the mobile payment services sector were Safaricom and Airtel, who account for more than 90% of market share. In terms of the legal and regulatory framework, this was found to be adequate though it was fairly new in the market. Mobile payment service providers proposed that trial run periods be introduced to allow for testing of innovative products. In terms of cooperation and interoperability, some progress had been made interconnecting systems though tangible positive results were yet to be realised. The dissertation concludes that the regulatory framework be implemented in full to allow the regulations to be tested across the sector. Licensing processes should be time bound and published in widely available service charters. For purposes of competition, the setting up of an industry-led mobile payment services management body or institution that can facilitate collaboration efforts was viewed as the best possible option. This would drive self-regulation as well as handle the complex challenge of network effects posing an advantage for one firm over another. Specific recommendations point to the requirement to the provision of insurance cover for funds held in a fiduciary position and the creation of an emergency special fund. These recommendations are key to providing the required support should the mobile payment services system suffer from systemic shocks such as receivership of the custodial bank or wide spread cyber-crime attack on the system.
Stakeholders’ perception of the implementation of the Supreme Court of Kenya’s advisory opinion on gender representation: policy lessons and perspectives.
(Strathmore University, 2016) Otieno, Oketch William
The study examined stakeholder perceptions’ of the implementation of the Supreme Court of Kenya’s advisory opinion on gender representation. It aimed to establish the stakeholder perception of the implementation based on four variables of government policies, capacity, satisfaction and implementation tracking. The opinion of stakeholder groups that either affected or were affected by the advisory opinion was sought through a descriptive cross-sectional study in which the researcher conducted a survey using questionnaires to interview then collecting the necessary data. The study collected data from 90 respondents representing different groups interested in the Supreme Court’s advisory opinion on gender representation. The research adopted a descriptive research design where respondents were identified using purposive random sampling approach. Data from the respondents was collected through use of a semi-structured questionnaire. Ten open-ended questions were also included on the survey to capture participants’ own views on the implementation of the advisory opinion. To better understand and complement analysis of the quantitative survey data, qualitative analysis of the ten open-ended questions was also conducted. Data was coded and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The study reveals that significant differences exist in the perceptions of stakeholders regarding the four variables under study. No considerable differences in their perception of the government’s commitment to the implementation of the advisory opinion. Other findings reveal that various stakeholder perceptions in the study supported the view that the judiciary has a significant role influencing public policy through its advisory opinion such as the one under study. The study also assessed the stakeholder perceptions of the implementation progress and challenges deriving policy lessons and perspectives. However, a majority felt that little had been achieved on implementation of the advisory opinion which was due to lack of stakeholder consensus. Based on these findings, it was recommended that government sets up formal institutions or mechanisms for stakeholder negotiations towards securing legislative consensus. The government to support the process and also fast-track legislation that would provide a formula for realizing the two-thirds threshold as well as put in place a monitoring mechanism to track the implementation steps of the advisory opinion in Kenya. Lastly, government agencies should be allocated adequate resources to enhance their compliance to policy reforms that will realize the gender representation principle.
An examination of the effect of Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) programme on performance of youth owned enterprises in Nairobi County in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2016) Gichuhi, Monica
Through Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO), the government seeks to unlock the potential of the youth by empowering and giving them more opportunities to do business with the government. Out of 30,000 youths, People with Disabilities (PWDs) and women owned companies, only 6,000 have benefited from government procurement opportunities between 2013 and 2014. Empirical evidence on AGPO and its influence on performance of youth owned enterprises in Kenya are non-conclusive as it fails to clearly link the effect of preferential procurement policy, capacity building component of AGPO and availability of information on AGPO to performance of youth owned enterprises in Kenya. This study sought to investigate the influence of access to government procurement opportunities programme on performance of youth owned enterprises in Nairobi County in Kenya. Specifically, the study aimed to; establish the effect of preferential procurement policy on performance of youth owned enterprises in Nairobi County in Kenya; establish the influence of capacity building component of AGPO on performance of youth owned enterprises in Nairobi County in Kenya; and determine the effect of availability of information on access to government procurement opportunities programme on performance of youth owned enterprises in Nairobi County in Kenya. This study used an exploratory research design. The target population was 1000 youth owned enterprises in Nairobi County that have registered with AGPO program. Stratified random sampling and proportionate sampling techniques were used to select a sample of 150 youth entrepreneurs. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect primary data while secondary data was obtained from AGPO related publications. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics; nonparametric test (Chi-test) and correlation analysis. The qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. Reliability of the instrument was estimated using Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient after pilot study. Findings indicated that preferential procurement policy, capacity building component and availability of information on AGPO have a significant effect on performance of youth owned enterprises in Nairobi County in Kenya. The study recommends that the government should scale up capacity building by AGPO to be carried out nationally and make it mandatory for all its agencies to publicize tenders through channels that are easily accessible to the general public particularly the youths. There should be monitoring of AGPO programme to ensure that government agencies set aside 30% tenders for the youths and other special interest groups. Youth entrepreneurs should actively build their skills and knowledge on how to participate in public procurement to fully benefit from the 30% government tenders allocated for them. The study recommends for formulation of new theories to guide public procurement meant for special interest groups that do not follow the classical theories of procurement but seem to contradict them.
The Effectiveness of the Nyumba Kumi initiative as a police reform strategy in Nairobi County
(Strathmore University, 2016) Muchangi, Nancy
Since the Reform Agenda began in the police service in Kenya, little effort has been made to look at the contribution the reform processes and the strategies employed have made to performance in security. The study focused on examining the effectiveness of the Nyumba Kumi Initiative, as a police reform strategy, in the County of Nairobi. This dissertation was guided by the following specific objectives: to determine the extent of awareness of the Nyumba Kumi Initiative in Nairobi, assess the nature of training of police officers in the improvement of the security situation through the Nyumba Kumi Initiative in Nairobi and to evaluate various legal frameworks available. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The population of the study was all the general public residing in Nairobi. Random sampling was used to get a sample of 200 respondents. The study used primary and secondary data to answer the specific objectives of the study. Data collected using self-administered questionnaires were coded, verified for completeness and accuracy and were analyzed using a quantitative approach to derive descriptive statistics and outputs. The study used the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) to generate reports and the descriptive statistics for various variables in the study. Content analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data collected from in-depth interviews. The research produced a number of findings: that accountability, Information and awareness, specific training of police officers and a legal framework were necessary to significantly improve performance in security through the Nyumba Kumi Initiative as a strategy in Police Reform. The main conclusions drawn from this research were that lack of awareness and readiness by the general public and public authorities to understand urban set-ups and technologies become a significant barrier and that majority of city dwellers do not have much confidence in the Nyumba Kumi Initiative. The study recommends for more investment in the Nyumba Kumi Initiative as it can offer positive contribution to improved performance in security. Also recommended are constant publicity, training and sensitization to improve public and neighborhoods awareness on the Nyumba Kumi Initiative.
An Assessment of the implementation of the Constituency Industrial Development Centres (CIDCs) project in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2017) Muindi, Julie Mueni
The challenge of inadequate worksites for micro and small enterprises (MSEs) has been acknowledged in Kenya through various policy documents such as such as Sessional Paper No. 1 of 1986, Sessional Paper No. 1 of 1994, Sessional Paper No. 2 of 1996 and the Economic Recovery Strategy for Wealth and Employment Creation (ERS) (2003 – 2007). Measures such as the establishment of Rural Trade Promotion Centres (RTPCs), “Nyayo” sheds and Constituency Industrial Development Centres (CIDCs) have been put in place to address the challenge. However, not much effort has been made to assess whether the implementation of each of the projects has been effective. This study focused on the implementation process of the CIDCs project in Kenya and was guided by the following specific objectives: to identify the nature and type of services offered at the CIDCs, to establish the factors affecting the implementation of the CIDCs project and explore the effect of the new devolved system of governance on the implementation of the CIDCs project. Literature concerning the implementation of policy was extensively reviewed and it was established that majority of the scholars agreed that policy characteristics and resources were significant in the implementation process. With regard to research methodology, a qualitative approach was used for data collection so as to answer the research questions. The population of the study was the operational CIDCs in Kenya. Purposive sampling was used to get a sample of seven (7) CIDCs. Data was collected through in – depth interviews and review of formal policy and strategy documents. Content analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data collected from the in - depth interviews. The research produced a number of findings: firstly, the activities undertaken at the CIDCs varied and were not limited to the metalwork, wood work, construction and automotive sectors as initially prescribed in the ESP; secondly, several factors such as content of policy / policy characteristics, operational demands, resources, availability of land, organizational structure and clients / coalitions / key stakeholders, influenced the implementation process; thirdly, the new devolved system of governance has not significantly affected the implementation of the CIDCs project. The main conclusion drawn from this research was that implementation of the CIDCs project faced a myriad of challenges which can be attributed to the factors established herein such as the lack of resources. The study recommends that the Ministry of Industry, Trade & iii Cooperatives needs to prioritize the complete implementation of the CIDCs project and address the challenges militating the implementation process.
An Analysis of revenue and expenditure performance of county governments in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2017) Kerich, Judith Chelangat
This study examines Revenue and Expenditure performance of county governments during the financial years 2013/14 to 2015/16. Kenya began the fiscal decentralization journey at independence through the creation of regionalism commonly known as Majimboism. Since independence Kenya has experimented on various forms of decentralization such as the Special Rural Development programme of 1966 among others. In 2010 a new constitution was promulgation which paved way for decentralization reforms that saw the devolution of functions, Resources and creation of 47 county governments. Key objectives of this study is to assess revenue performance by analyzing own revenue performance and the level transfer dependency of county governments. Expenditure performance was assessed by examining budget implementation at the county level, utilization of revenue, pending bills and compliance on 30% requirement on development expenditure. The absorptive capacity of counties is also analyzed to assess the extent to which counties are utilizing their resources. The study has used secondary data obtained from the reports of the Controller of Budget, The National Treasury and County Allocation Revenue Act. Data has been obtained for all the 47 county governments. The findings of the study indicate that counties are dependent on national transfers at an average of 87% and have been performing dismally on mobilization of own revenue. On the expenditure side there are counties whose expenditure exceeds available revenue. Compliance with development expenditure found that on average over the three years there are 24 counties that have not met the 30% requirement on development expenditure. The study established that actual allocation of resources to devolved functions namely Agriculture, Health and Water and Environment is different from planned expenditure which means that resources on devolved functions are being reallocated after the budget has been approved. The study concludes that revenue performance at the county level has been poor and several counties have not been able to achieve their revenue targets, hence making counties dependent on national transfers. On the expenditure, the study shows that fiscal discipline is lacking at the county level and compliance with 30% requirement on development expenditure is a challenge for at least 50% of the counties. On absorptive capacity the study concludes that a number of counties are not able to utilize or absorb the resources given to them which is an indication of poor implementation of programs and poor financial management practices because of large pending bills within counties. The study recommends a review of the legislative and policy framework to address the issue of fiscal discipline. The current framework gives guidelines on what should be done but does not provide sanctions on what happens when the stipulated requirements are violated.
An Analysis of the factors that would influence investment in infrastructure assets by managers of pension funds in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2017) Mareri, Emma Kerubo
Infrastructure investments have traditionally been financed by governments but competing needs for limited resources has seen an increase in private sector funding of infrastructure projects. Given the large capital requirements needed for infrastructure investments, pooled savings such as those held by pension funds, insurance companies and endowments funds have been identified as potential sources of funding. The unique characteristics of infrastructure assets such as the long term horizon, stable, predictable and inflation linked cash flows match the liability profile of pension funds making them an ideal potential source of funding for infrastructure. In developed and emerging countries, pension funds have invested in infrastructure assets notwithstanding various barriers that exist. This study sought to analyze the factors that would influence investment in infrastructure assets by pension funds in Kenya. The review of theoretical and empirical literature identified nine factors that could influence investments in infrastructure assets. Questionnaires were issued to managers of pension funds in Kenya and 48 responses out of a targeted 66 respondents were received attaining a 73% response rate. The extent of influence of these factors on investment in infrastructure assets by managers of pension funds in Kenya was measured using an ordinal Likert scale and this was corroborated by a question that asked them to rank the relative importance of each of the factors. Factor analysis was then carried out to reduce the factors. The findings showed that the main factors that would influence the investments in infrastructure assets in Kenya were: the structure and investment characteristics of infrastructure assets, the expected return, governance of pension schemes and risk and regulation. Policy makers in Kenya should engage with the pension industry and address the potential impact these factors would have on attracting private capital as they structure infrastructure assets. Further research can be conducted on the feasibility of Public Private Partnerships in Kenya that require user fees on public utilities to be charged in the long term to meet the asset-liability match required by pension funds.
An Assessment of consumer protection in the Kenyan insurance sector
(Strathmore University, 2017) Kiptum, Godfrey K.
The general objective of this research was to assess the effect of insurance features on consumer protection in Kenya’s insurance sector. The study specific objectives were to; examine the extent of consumer awareness on consumer protection in Kenya insurance sector; determine the effect of insurance regulatory framework on consumer protection in Kenya insurance sector; assess the extent of the effect of disclosure of insurance product information on consumer protection in Kenya insurance sector and establish the effect of equitable and fair treatment of consumers on consumer protection in Kenya insurance sector. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and the target population was a total of 700 consumer’s documented insurance complaints in the year 2014. The study applied a stratified random sampling technique to select 230 respondents as the sample size for the study. The study used data collected from secondary sources obtained from documented insurance complaints reports for the year 2014. The study collected documented consumer complaints reported from 42 insurance companies that had complaints made against them. Data of 150 consumers was sampled by the study. The findings indicate that knowledge on consumer education is low, that the insurance framework as currently is affords consumers little protection, product coverage and disclosure is still at the nascent stage and that consumers are not accorded fair treatment by the insurers. The study drew conclusion that the consumer awareness and hence protection in Kenya’s insurance sector was low due to low level of knowledge on insurance matters. This affects consumers’ ability to enforce their contractual rights. It was further noted that the lack of awareness by insurance consumers affected consumers’ protection in Kenya’s insurance legal regime. It is evident that the lack of clear understanding by policy holders on insurance legal legal regime disefranchised consumers and hence may not be able to seek protection provided by the various laws that protect consumers i.e. the Insurance Act and the Consumer protection Act. The study further concluded that lack of clear disclosure of insurance product information by insurance agents or insurance brokers negatively impacted on consumer protection in Kenya’s insurance sector and finally it was concluded that lack of knowledge on particular product or range of options available and the provisions to safeguard consumer rights that are standard contract provision like mediation or arbitration hampers the achievement of equity in resolving consumer complaints and hence the unintended discrimination in resolution of customer complaints. The study recommended that insurance companies’ agents or brokers should properly increase on consumer awareness on insurance products by equipping insurance policy holders with clear knowledge on insurance products. The insurance companies should also ensure that their insurance brokers or agents explains to their customers on the scope of benefits of their insurance covers.
Effects of gender, labour and market availability on technology adoption by dairy farmers in Keiyo South
(Strathmore University, 2017) Korir, Steve Kipng'eno
This study was undertaken in Keiyo South, Elgeyo-Marakwet County to identify factors affecting dairy technology adoption. Specifically, the study investigates the role of market availability, labour availability and gender in determining technology adoption. The three technologies under study were: grade cattle, Artificial Insemination (AI) and zero grazing. The study also tested if the technologies are jointly adopted as complements or substitutes. The primary data collected from 250 sample households was analyzed with multivariate probit model. The study established that the three technologies are strongly correlated i.e. they are complementary where adoption of one technology increases the likelihood of adopting either of the other two technologies. Using a multivariate probit model, the study finds that gender differences in the adoption of some technologies do exist. Jointly managed dairy projects were more likely to adopt zero grazing and AI whereas female managed dairy projects are more likely to adopt grade cattle compared to male managed dairy projects. Market and labour availability influenced adoption of zero grazing, however, there was no influence on the two dairy technologies under study i.e. Artificial Insemination and grade cattle. Availability of extension services influenced the adoption of Artificial Insemination and grade cattle. Land size did not influence the adoption of any of the three technologies. Capital costs and running costs were identified as the main challenges inhibiting the adoption of zero grazing and grade cattle. Other than the cost of semen, other challenges which were noted by the farmers included the low success rates, delays in response by the Artificial Insemination providers and the unavailability of this technology through government extension officers. Understanding the key determinants of adoption and challenges of these technologies is critical as adoption leads to improved production which in effect has an impact on the welfare of the households. The study recommends that enabling policies should be set up to ensure that small scale farmers have access to affordable credit to improve adoption technologies such as grade cattle. Improved extension services will also ensure dairy farmers are able to access affordable and reliable dairy cattle breeding services such as Artificial Insemination. Reliable extension services by the government should be accessible to the farmers.
Factors affecting retirees’ consumption pattern in Nairobi County, Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2017) Chebii, Simon Kibet
Globally, the elderly comprise 10.4% of the global population and is projected to increase to about 21.7% by 2050 with about 80% living in developing economies. Old age poverty have several secondary consequences. Owing to HIV/AIDS pandemic, the older assume more responsibility for caring orphaned and vulnerable grandchildren. As they age, the elderly are more vulnerable to disability, suffer from high incidences of sickness and lack financial resources to access medical care. Shielding the elderly from the risk of poverty is a major challenge to any developing economy. Since 1948 when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognized income security in old age as a fundamental human right, the rich economies have invested heavily in providing income security for older people, while coverage of formal pension schemes has remained low in poor economies. Public pension programs have major impact on old age poverty. Pensioners’ consumption pattern also play a critical role in mitigating against poverty at old age. The objectives of the study were to determine the factors that affect the consumption pattern of the retirees and to identify the effect of lump sum pension, monthly pension, income from invested pension, education level and time taken to disburse the pension funds on the consumption patterns of retirees. The study findings are expected to contribute to knowledge on pension utilization; inform social protection policy; provide useful insights to the retirees on how to best manage their consumption patterns; and useful to researchers, academicians and policy makers by contributing to the body of knowledge on retirees’ consumption patterns for the purpose of shaping policy and practice. This study sampled 105 respondents, employed non-experimental research design and sought to investigate factors that influence retirees’ consumption pattern in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study considered Friedman’s permanent income hypothesis model and Keynes absolute income hypothesis. The study used structured and semi-structured questionnaires to collect the primary data. The study revealed that whereas education level has a positive influence, Lump sum and monthly pension have negative influence on retirees’ consumption pattern. However, monthly income from invested pension and the time taken to disburse pension have no influence on retirees’ consumption pattern. The study recommends full implementation of policy on pension payment that is compulsory to all employers, revision of guidelines to ensure schemes nurture a savings culture and increase contributions to reasonable levels, a robust and comprehensive retirement planning package, and adequate pre-retirement information to help retirees make informed choices.
Influence of demographics and weather information seeking behaviour on food production by small-scale farmers, Mbeere South sub - county, Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2017) Nthigah, Silas Wachira
The agriculture sector in developing countries is increasingly becoming knowledge intensive due to weather and climate change. Climate change has been affecting the amount of rainfall that some areas have been receiving, both in quality and quantity. This therefore, affects the production of crops in areas where farmers rely on rain fed agriculture. Seasonal weather forecasts have a great potential for helping in improving food and nutrition security, human livelihoods and agricultural potential of areas where rainfall patterns have changed and extreme weather events are expected. The main objective of the study was to establish the influence of information seeking behavior on food production by small-scale farmers, Mbeere South sub-county, Kenya. This study employed descriptive research design. The population for this study involved 26,037 small-scale farmers and the sample size was 150 small-scale farmers. The main instruments for the study was the use of questionnaires that was administered to the respondents. The study used quantitative techniques in analyzing the data. Descriptive analysis was employed. Inferential statistics such as correlation and regression analysis were used. The organized data was interpreted because concurrence to objectives using assistance of a computer software to communicate the research findings. The research found that demographic factors have positive influence on food production by small-scale farmers in Mbeere South sub-county. It also found out that there was strong positive correlation between the factors influencing weather information seeking behavior, preferred sources of weather information, effects of information seeking behavior and crop production in Mbeere South sub- county. An increase in any one of them would result in an increase of the food production in the targeted area. The researcher recommended that policies should be put in place that would improve delivery and use of weather information to small-scale farmers, which would in turn help in improving the food production by the small-scale farmers.
An Assessment of the factors affecting price discovery in the procurement of Public - Private Partnership projects in Sub-Saharan Africa
(Strathmore University, 2017) Wamukoya, Hosborn Abasa
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) have become a common development strategy for governments especially in developing countries. Given that PPPs are a form of public procurement paid for by public funds, it is crucial that governments getting into PPP arrangements ensure that they are value for money. This starts at the project procurement stage through a price discovery process which is supposed to reflect the true price of projects given the factors of price discovery which are market structure, information flow, risk management strategy and market behaviour. This study therefore purposed to assess the factors affecting price discovery in the procurement of Public-Private Partnership Projects in sub-Saharan Africa. It examined the extent to which the four factors of price discovery were important to the price discovery process in the procurement of PPP projects in sub-Saharan Africa. Using a mixed research methodology approach to draw from the strengths of both quantitative and qualitative data, the study assessed sixty PPP projects from across twenty sub-Saharan African countries. The study found that in sub-Saharan Africa, risk management strategy is the most important factor affecting the price discovery process while market behaviour is the least important. The study concludes that all the four factors are important to the PPP price discovery process, albeit with varying degrees of importance. Also, unlike other markets which lean on either market structure or information flow as the most important factors of price discovery, the PPP market reorganises these factors and places more importance on risk management strategy. The study recommends what governments in sub-Saharan Africa, private sector and development partners need to implement in order to create an environment where PPP initiatives achieve desired price discovery outcomes. Specific recommendations include establishment of an enabling environment for PPPs, incentivising private sector participation, strengthening institutional capacity to enforce PPP-supportive laws, project design that minimizes complexity, provision of low-cost financing, enhancing information flow through production of quality documentation, transparency and use of efficient communication tools, embracing public participation and ethical business practice, and establishment of robust risk management strategies and systems.
Longevity improvement: financial implications to public defined benefits pension schemes in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2017) Koross, Kiprono David
Provision of old age social security benefits by governments, pension schemes and insurance companies form the largest proportion of age related spending across the world. It has also been established that people are living longer than initially projected. In Kenya, people born between 1980 and 2000 are living longer and healthier lives than those born before 1980 (World Population Prospects, 20 12). It has also been established that overall liability arising due to longevity of life for the hypothetical defined benefits schemes is estimated to increase. This research examined the implications of longevity improvement on the liabilities of existing public Defined Benefits pension schemes in Kenya which is an issue to both the members and the financiers of the scheme as they represent uncertainty for the amount required to plan for the retirement fund adequately. The research first determines whether pensioners are living longer and then calculates the impact of the longevity improvement on the liabilities of pension schemes. Finally, the paper discusses several policy issues on how to deal with longevity risk while emphasizing the need for policy guidance from the industry regulator. The research applied quantitative analysis. The results of the study show that the members of the Defined Benefits Schemes are living longer than expected and this has a financial impact on the liabilities of the scheme. The findings also establish that the pension funds did not fully account for future improvements in mortality and life expectancy. In response to the changes in lifetimes of the retirees, one policy response was to increase the retirement age from 50 to 60 years and to increase the pension factor thereby increasing the productivity period of an individual while deferring the retirement liability.
Evaluating compliance of water policy with World Health Organization standards: a case study of county government of Machakos
(Strathmore University, 2017) Mukunya, Sheila Mueni
Standards are established through consensus building by organizations with the prerequisite authority to do so for purposes of giving guidance for optimal realization of any given objective whilst a public policy being a statement of intent by a public sector entity provides a future solution to the society in a predetermined way. The World Health Organization (WHO) is a body mandated to set norms and standards in the area of international health by the United Nations. The objectives of this study are firstly to determine the application of distance and water consumption standards in the implementation of Machakos County water policy; secondly to establish the number of boreholes and the number of litres required based on the compliance to the WHO standards and thirdly to determine the status of the implementation of the Machakos County Water policy as at May 2017. The World Health Organization (WHO) is a body mandated to set norms and standards in the area of international health by the United Nations since access of water is recognized as a right in as far as the right to health is concerned. The standard with respect to distance is 1 km from home to source of water, while the standard with respect to consumption is 50 litres per capita per day. A hybrid of qualitative and quantitative research methods known as the mixed method approach, was used in this study and the following findings made; i) the full implementation of the Machakos County Water policy will increase the consumption per capita per day by to 52.5litres thus comply with WHO standard on consumption however, it will reduce the distance from the home to the source of water to 3 km which is not in compliance with WHO standard on distance ii) the status of the implementation of the policy as at May 2017 has not reduced the distance as such the distance is still a 5 km while the consumption of water per capita per day has increased to 39.5litres.

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