MPPM Theses and Dissertations

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A Qualitative examination of factors affecting the retention of doctors at the Kenyatta National Referral Hospital in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2023) Robai, C.
Globally, governments struggle with providing quality, affordable healthcare to achieve Universal Healthcare Coverage (UHC). The World Health Organization (WHO) asserts that motivation and retention of healthcare personnel, including doctors, is essential for achieving UHC. Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) the largest referral hospital in Kenya offers specialised services but experiences shortages of various specialists and attributes this to high turnover due to the hospital's unattractive service model and poor working conditions in light of the lengthy training periods to acquire the necessary skills to provide such specialized healthcare. Therefore, there is a need to establish how to make the most of this rare resource, including how to work on the retention of doctors. This study is anchored on Herzberg's Two Factor Theory which argues that individuals are interested at two different areas of motivation. The study was based on Adam’s equity theory and Hezberg’s two-factor theory. An explorative qualitative study was conducted. In-depth interview was conducted among 24 doctors. Qualitative data was thematically analysed. The results showed that financial incentives affected their performance hence motivated them to stay. Financial incentives played a role on the decision to quit employment and recommended on the need to employ the contract doctors on permanent and pensionable terms. Career advancement opportunities were available for doctors employed on permanent and pensionable terms but not for medical officers on contractual terms of employment. This was a demotivating factor for the medical officers, increasing their turnover rates. Further, findings revealed that a good working condition at KNH a good working conditions at KNH was considered as one with good leadership, well structured shifts, availability of consumables, good equipment, positive culture and a good system. The working conditions had a huge effect on the motivation of doctors, retention and service delivery. All these conditions would enhance their retention in the hospital.
An Analysis of factors affecting Public-Private-Dialogue(PPD) in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2019) Aden, Abdikarim Daud
Through the public-private-dialogue (PPD) process, the Kenyan government has over some years now placed more emphasis on public-private-partnerships (PPPs) in an endeavour to realize its development agenda. However, several operational, strategy and policy challenges affect the PPD process in Kenya. Literature reviewed pointed out that the private sector's relationship with government is in some cases viewed skeptically as one that is driven by political pressure from the ruling elite and prominent personalities in government. This study sought to analyze the factors that affect the success of the PPD process in Kenya, by reviewing the PPD Charter of Good Practice (20 15) as the main empirical literature source. The researcher identified six (6) key factors that contribute to the success of PPD. This include the existence of an open governance process; an appropriate structure that facilitates wide representation and participation of a wide array of stakeholders; the achievement of quality outputs; an outreach and communications strategy; a monitoring and evaluation framework and a sustainability mechanism. Data collection was achieved by conducting interviews with 15 key informants (8 from public sector and 7 from private sector) that were purposively selected, based on their experience and knowledge of the PPD process within the Kenyan context, and on their willingness to participate in the study. The study reaffirmed that the PPD process is essential for spurring national development, employment creation and mitigating poverty levels. However, the PPD process in Kenya has not been optimally structured to reap the full benefits from the process. The recommendations made were that the government should become more open and approachable to the private sector to avoid the purpose of the PPD process being hijacked by a powerful elitist group. The process should be more inclusive in terms of representation and participation; there should be independent evaluation of PPD/PPP projects to assess their quality and outcomes; enhance information sharing amongst stakeholders and that the government should marshal more resources in support of the process for it to be sustainable in future. Considering that this was a qualitative study, the researcher recommends that a quantitative study be done to establish the extent to which these key factors affect the success of the PPD process in Kenya. Further studies should also be done to analyze key factors influencing the choice of PPP projects in light of the PPD process, with reference to international best practices.
An Appraisal of Kenya’s business regulatory environment: successes, challenges, and policy options
(Strathmore University, 2024) Oyier, O. A. A.
This study set out to appraise Kenya’s business regulatory environment using the Ease of Doing Business index performance between 2008 to 2020, examining both its successes and challenges while also identifying potential policy options. The specific objectives of the study were: to critically review Kenya’s business regulatory reforms to identify reforms that improved or worsened the business environment as measured by the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) Index between 2008- 2020; to identify the key successes and challenges associated with Kenya's business regulatory reform experience; and to draw lessons for business regulatory reforms from Kenya’s experience and from global best practice. The theoretical anchorage of this study was drawn from transaction cost theory, institutional theory and stakeholder theory. These theories were reviewed alongside the public interest theory and enforcement theory. This study adopted the exploratory design and secondary data collection methods were deployed. Content analysis methods were used to identify themes and to develop key episodes informed by the performance in the EoDB index for the study. The purpose of the key episodes or phases was to identify key episodes that had contrasting performances and seek to explain the reasons for the different episodes based on performance and further map the episodes to specific reforms.
An Assessment of effects of compulsory land acquisition and resettlement on socio-cultural and economic lives of displaced persons in Kenya: a case of Karimenu II and Mwache multi-purpose dams
(Strathmore University, 2024) Wahome, C. W.
Compulsory Land Acquisition (CLA) has become an inevitable tool for governments in development and implementation of public infrastructural projects. CLA results to involuntary resettlement resulting to loss of property, loss of livelihood, physical relocation of people and social disarticulation. The study aimed to assess the effects of CLA and resettlement on socio-cultural and economic conditions of displaced residents in Kenya, describe resettlement challenges faced by displaced persons as well as suggest applicable measures in mitigating these resettlement challenges. The study integrated the Lockean Proviso Locke’s theory and the utilitarianism theory to explain the concept of CLA from perspective of protection of individual rights to property while acknowledging the power of the state to acquire private rights for greatest good of the society and the implications of such actions to affected persons’ socio-cultural and economic lives. The research was based on socio-constructivism philosophy and the researcher employed descriptive research designs utilizing both primary and secondary data sources. Probability sampling was used to select a sample of 518 from 1,478 displaced land owners. Data was collected through questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis techniques. The analyzed data was presented using charts, graphs and tables. The study findings are that CLA and resettlement adversely affected socio-cultural and economics lives of displaced persons and also subjected them to various resettlement challenges. The study also found that interventions such as assistance in resettlement, timely and adequate compensation as well as involvement of displaced persons in CLA process are significant in minimizing negative effects of CLA. The study recommended various strategies to promote sustainable livelihood restoration of the displaced persons including formulation of a National Resettlement Policy (NRP) that would stipulate general guidelines on the resettlement process for public projects and enforcement of the individual projects specific resettlement policies to ensure that government takes responsibility in livelihoods restoration over and above monetary compensation. The study will benefit policy makers, project implementers and scholars on better ways of alleviating negative impacts of CLA as well as mitigating resettlement challenges in future. The study will also be beneficial to land owners whose properties may be compulsorily acquired by enlightening them on their entitlements and that their livelihoods are safeguarded. Key words: Compulsory land acquisition, resettlement, involuntary resettlement and displaced persons.
An Assessment of the factors influencing the implementation of revenue automation process of Nairobi County, Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2024) Bwire, F.
Since the inception of the devolved system of governance, county governments have been grappling with revenue mobilization challenges. These challenges in collecting adequate revenue have resulted in increased shortcomings in meeting development and recurrent expenditure. This has necessitated the county governments to churn out traditional methods of revenue collection and management for a more robust automated system. However, to date despite the County Government of Nairobi, having three different leaders, the implementation of an automated revenue systems has been an elusive undertaking plagued by inconsistencies in implementation, continuous wrangles and lack of user acceptance. As such it’s imperative to have a deeper understanding of what leads to this persistent failure in the revenue automation process. Hence, this study sought to conduct an assessment of the factors influencing the implementation of revenue automation process of Nairobi County, Kenya. By doing so, this research was able to recommend possible measures and strategies that can equip the county governments in pursuing revenue automation process. Specifically, the study examined effect of policy factors, governance factors and human resource factors and how they influence the implementation of revenue automation process of Nairobi County, Kenya. The research applied a descriptive research design that was anchored on a pragmatism philosophy, and guided by the institutional theory and the diffusion of innovations theory. The population for the study was 94 employees within Nairobi County Government Revenue Administration Department. A census sample was obtained for this research. The research instrument was semi-structured in nature with open-ended questions and Likert scale statements. The research tool was pretested among 10% of the sample respondents who were not allowed to participate in the final data collection. The collected study data was analyzed using quantitative and qualitative approaches with findings presented in charts, bar graphs and tables. The research obtained 84% response rate which was considered sufficient for generalization of the results of the study. Regression findings showed that governance, human resource and policy factors lead to positive change in the implementation of revenue automation process in Nairobi County. The study concluded that policy and human resource factors do have a positive and significant effect on the implementation of revenue automation process in Nairobi County while governance factors did not significantly contribute to the automation process. The study recommends that the local governments ensure the develop relevant and up to date policies that can adequately address user’s expectations and their concerns, especially with regards to its impact on the employees’ jobs and ability to execute their duties. The study calls for regular, organizational and individual-specific IT skills competency building, professional development, and training as well as use of up-to-date performance metrics when rewarding and remunerating staff who play essential roles in the implementation of automated systems.
An Assessment of the impact of the Integrated National Transport Policy in the road sector within Nairobi County
(Strathmore University, 2019) Adhiambo, Evelyn Maureen
"Moving a working Nation" was the driving theme in the formulation and implementation of the Integrated National Transport Policy, 2009. The policy document identified several challenges which were, inhibitors in the sector from performing its role with respect to National, Regional, and international integration. Some of these challenges included inadequate infrastructural development and maintenance, insufficient funding, and gaps in the legal, institutional, and regulatory framework for the sector. The policy document subsequently provided policy solutions for each sector with a view to addressing the said challenges. This study investigated the impact of the Integrated National Transport Policy in the road sector within Nairobi County from 2010 to 2015. This was done by identifying impacts on implementation by assessing the policy overlaps, policy gaps, and system and institutional failures, that have either emerged or have persisted over time, with a keen focus on the policies that guided infrastructure, funding, regulation, and enforcement. Data was collected using both primary and secondary sources. Primary data relied on empirical scholarly research articles, self-administered questionnaires, and in-depth interviews with public officers at levels or ranks drawn from various state agencies who were purposively selected. Secondary data was sourced from organizational records, surveys, and reports for other research and surveys conducted that were associated with the road sector within Nairobi County. The findings of this study found that the Integrated National Transport Policy in the road sector had a positive and significant effect on infrastructural development and the expansion of roads. It also had an Integrated National Transport Policy in the road sector, which had a positive and significant effect on funding, and it was further observed that implementation of the road transport policy had a positive and significant effect on regulation & enforcement. This study, therefore, recommends a complete overhaul of the road sector transport policy to fully address the question of infrastructural, funding, and review or realignment of the various legislation to facilitate ease of enforcement of the various road laws within Nairobi County.
Analysing the effect of public participation on Nairobi County government’s legislation
(Strathmore University, 2024) Ireri, C. M.
The problem addressed in this research pertains to the challenges faced by Nairobi County in effectively implementing constitutional mandates for robust public participation in legislative affairs. Despite constitutional provisions advocating for citizen involvement, concerns persist regarding the adequacy and implementation of guidelines governing public participation. These deficiencies have led to judicial interventions nullifying legislative enactments due to insufficient public engagement. The key objective of the research was to analyze the effect of public participation on legislation enacted by the Nairobi County Assembly. To achieve this, the research was grounded in stakeholder theory, emphasizing the importance of considering the needs and interests of all individuals and groups affected by organizational decisions. Adopting a mixed methods approach, the study integrated quantitative and qualitative methods to comprehensively analyze the research phenomenon. Methodologically, the research employed systematic sampling to collect data from adult residents (370) and key informants (25) involved in legislative processes. Quantitative data was obtained through a semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS software. Qualitative insights from unstructured interviews were transcribed and analyzed thematically. Quality control measures were implemented to ensure data validity and reliability, with strict adherence to ethical considerations throughout the research process. The findings of this research provided valuable insights into the state of public participation in Nairobi County's legislative process. Residents expressed concerns about limited access to information, hindering their active participation in legislation. Varying opinions emerged on the influence of public consultation, with some perceiving a significant impact while others called for more effective mechanisms. Additionally, gaps in public involvement were identified, including limited outreach and perceived inefficiencies in participation processes. The study also underscored the lack of structured feedback mechanisms, impacting public empowerment and trust in legislative processes. Based on these findings, comprehensive recommendations are proposed to address the identified challenges. These include proactive publication of draft policies and bills coupled with robust civic education to improve access to information. Improving the impact of public consultation requires reviewing processes for meaningful consideration of public input and establishing transparency mechanisms. Increasing awareness and engagement of marginalized groups is essential for improving public involvement, while structured feedback and reporting systems are vital for fostering public empowerment and trust in legislative processes. Overall, these recommendations aim to create a more inclusive, transparent, and participatory legislative environment in Nairobi County, aligning governance with the needs and aspirations of its residents.
An analysis of Kenya’s counter-terrorism policy and its implications on Police Community Relations
(Strathmore University, 2018) Kurui, Sheila Chepkorir
The threat of terrorism has emerged as one of the biggest influences of modern day public policy. High profile events such as the August 1998 bombing of the US Embassy in Nairobi,West Gate Mall and Garissa University attacks have transformed the manner in which the government and citizens conduct their day to day affairs. Kenyan government has employed institutional and legislative actions aimed at addressing this threat as reflected in the national counter terrorism policy documents.This study, using Kamukunji Constituency as a case study sought to investigate the interaction between police and the community in addressing the threat of terrorism. Utilizing a descriptive survey design, it specifically intended to examine the experiences of diverse communities and the voices of those charged with the responsibility of policing terrorism. The findings of the study reveal that community-police relationship that is built on trust and mutual respect is much more likely to give early warnings about terrorist acts.The study therefore recommends that the role of police in counter terrorism stands to benefit greatly if conceptualized with the aim of reaching out to the communities and fostering partnership that promotes safety and security by creating a network of individuals who feel it is in their best interest to create an environment hostile to criminals of all types.
An Analysis of Kenya’s water sector institutional and regulatory framework from 2002-2017
(Strathmore University, 2020) Korir, Belinda
Water is key for human survival as well as the economic and social development of all nations. It is, however, a scarce resource making effective water governance crucial in its efficient use and distribution among the various competing needs. Water governance is dependent on a framework of policies, legislation and institutions. Over the years, Kenya has enacted a number of water legislation that have led to the creation of multiple water institutions. However, challenges have still been experienced which have been attributed to the multiplicity of institutions and the lack of coordination mechanisms amongst them. This study sequentially examined the water regulatory and institutional framework for the water sector from 2002 to 2017, identified gaps in the regulatory framework, and the resulting challenges in execution of their mandates. It used a cross-sectional and descriptive research design and is qualitative in nature. The study population included the water institutions with the Water Act, 2002, the Water Act, 2016, the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 forming other sources of data. Purposive sampling was used to identify key informants and snowballing used to refer the researcher to the appropriate/relevant staff members. Data collection was conducted by document analysis of the Water Act, 2002, the Water Act, 2016 and the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with key officials of the water institutions. Data were transcribed, coded and categorized then themes, patterns and relationships elicited from the data. Data interpretation was done by scanning data for repetitive words and phrases and comparing the findings from the interviews and document analysis with the findings of literature review and discussing similarities and differences between them. The study found that the regulatory framework establishes institutions for regulation of water resources and water service provision, water works development and water harvesting and storage and financing of water services. Each institution has roles assigned to it which cater for principles of participation, accountability, and tariff setting. Despite this, gaps still exist in regulation of some institutions, overlaps in roles and lack of coordination mechanisms among the institutions and challenges in funding, regulation and coordination. As a result, the study proposes the inclusion of coordination mechanisms, clear outlining of roles, regulation of institutions involved in water works and envisioning of mechanisms for County Government involvement on matters that directly involve them in the Water Act.
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.
Analysis of the influence of social capital on the utilization of maternal health services in Kibera Informal Settlements, Nairobi, Kenya.
(Strathmore University, 2017-06) Gitimu, Anne Muthoni
Evidence linking social capital to lower levels of mortality exists. However, little is known about the relationship between social capital and utilization of maternal health services in resource-poor countries such as Kenya. The maternal health goal under the Millennium Development Goal showed slow progress. Maternal health indicators are largely informed by utilization of various services. This study sought to examine the association between structural social capital and the utilization of three types of maternal health services—antenatal care, skilled delivery, and family planning in informal settlements. The study’s objective was to examine the influence of bonding, bridging and linking social capital on the utilization of maternal health services in Kibera informal settlements, Nairobi, Kenya. This study interviewed 391 women who had given birth in the years 2015 and 2016. Questionnaires were administered to these women and interviews were conducted among leaders of community based organizations, Ministry of Health staff, Ministry of Social services staff, and local leaders using a Key Informant Interview guide. Independent variables ─ bonding, bridging and linking social capital were examined in relation to the dependent variables on utilization of the three types of maternal health services (antenatal care, skilled delivery and family planning). Data from the study was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The analysis indicated that bonding social capital was not significant in the utilization of the three types of maternal health services. Bridging social capital was significant in utilization of family planning services only. Linking social capital was significantly associated with utilization of antenatal care services and family planning with both positive and inverse relationships. None of the three types of social capital influenced skilled delivery. The findings of this study will be useful in informing maternal health strategies and programs as well as informing health policy on the important forms of social capital for availing maternal health services in informal settlements. Key words: Maternal health, Social Capital, Informal Settlements
Analyzing the drivers and challenges of feed-in tariff policy in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2019) Engola, Monica Katungi
Feed-in in Tariffs (FITS) policies are used by many developed and developing countries world over as a mechanism to promote renewable energy development across various technologies including hydro, wind, solar PV, geothermal, biomass and biogas. The tariffs are administratively determined and producers of power from renewable energy sources are guaranteed a right to sell the power generated to an off-taker at a fixed tariff for a set period. The research focused on the Kenyan FIT policy which was introduced in 2008 and revised in 2010 and 2012. The research problem was that if the FIT policy for Kenya remains in place electricity prices will not be competitive, project development will delay, it will not attract investment in some technologies and the country’s energy targets will not be met. The general objective was to analyze the drivers and challenges of the FIT policy in Kenya. The study approach was descriptive and qualitative and relied on secondary data sources and primary data collection from key informant interviews (KIIs). A purposive sample of key informants was used. Qualitative data analysis adopted a thematic analysis approach whereby common themes were identified from the KIIs. Findings from the study reveal that the main drivers for the FIT policy were to promote generation of electricity from renewable sources, attract investment and independent power producers (IPPs) to the sector, reduce transaction and administrative costs and the need for conformity with global standards or commitments. Secondly, findings reveal that the key challenges for the FIT policy relate to the unavailability of technical expertise for policy design and inefficiencies in policy implementation. The findings on alternative mechanisms to promote the generation of electricity from renewable energy sources include net metering, mini-grids and auctions or competitive tendering. FIT policies achieved marginal effects with the lack of impact on the energy industry attributed to ineffective implementation of policies and a general misalignment of interests among stakeholders. The main recommendation from this study is that the FIT policy should be revised to address the challenges associated with it and retained for projects below 10MW and the auction mechanism should be introduced for projects above 10MW. In addition, that net metering and mini-grids should be implemented as alternative options
Appraisal of the regulatory framework governing property actors in the housing sector: a case study of Nairobi City County
(Strathmore University, 2024) Mwaura, H. N.
Housing is a basic need crucial for human life. Article 43(1) (b) of the Constitution of Kenya states that every person has a right to accessible and adequate housing and reasonable sanitation standards. The study's main objective will be to appraise the regulatory policy framework for actors in the property sector in the housing sector: A Case of Nairobi City County. Due to the contribution, the housing sector plays in the economy it is imperative to have the housing industry perform optimally. The sector has complaints regarding loss of investments by consumers, lack of fulfillment of obligations by developers, and disputes in courts, which highlight policy gaps in the industry. The study would therefore help in developing an understanding of factors to ensure that consumers’ ownership is safe and their investment guaranteed in schemes involving developers in property transactions. The study is guided by the following specific objectives: assess implementation of the regulatory policy framework-governing actors in the property sector; identify gaps in the current regulatory framework; provide recommendations to enhance efficiency in the sector. Descriptive correlational research design was used for this study and the sample size for the study was 131. Data analysis was carried out by use of simple mean comparisons, percentages, standard deviations, Chi-Square test and correlation. This was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 28. Based on the analysis, the study concluded that there is a weak and ineffective implementation of the regulatory framework, which has contributed to lack of consumer protection leading to loss of investments amongst the customers, investors and stakeholders. This is due to the prevalent reported number of cases involving of fraud and unethical practices within the industry. Further, challenges relating in clients obtaining proprietary documents such as title deeds, lack of respect for the rights of property owners, and distorted market prices for properties. The study therefore recommends the need to improve the enforcement of regulatory framework that governs the property actors in the housings sector in order to improve the performance.
An Appraisal of Youth Enterprise Development Fund: challenges and policy options
(Strathmore University, 2021) Kurgat, Bridgit Chepkoech
The Kenyan government like most developing countries has put in place various initiatives that aimed at addressing youth unemployment one of them being the Youth Enterprise Development Fund. The overall goal of the Youth Enterprise Development Fund is to expand the window of opportunities for Kenyan youth to get involved in the growth of the country by encouraging them to be job creators rather than job seekers through providing easy and affordable loans and business development support services to those expanding their enterprises. Youth unemployment rate in Kenya is estimated to be at 18.47 % with 7 million Kenyans entering the job market annually. Further, 9 out of every 10 unemployed Kenyans are below 35 years and the majority are between the age group of 20-24 years. The review aimed to assess the impact of active labour market policies adopted by the government to curb unemployment with specific emphasis on Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF). The specific objectives of the study were; to review Youth Enterprise Framework & identify gaps and emerging issues, identify factors that have undermined the success of youth funds in creating opportunities for the youth and to suggest measures of enhancing effectiveness of youth fund by drawing lessons from other country experiences. The data used cross-sectional and descriptive design and is qualitative in nature. The study population was Youth Enterprise Fund. Purposive sampling was used for key informant interviews. Data collection was conducted by document analysis and Key Informant Interviews of YEDF beneficiaries and staff. Data was transcribed, coded and put in themes, patterns and relationships drawn out. Data evaluation was carried out by scanning data for recurrent words and phrases and contrasting findings from interviews conducted and document analysis with findings from literature review and discussing similarities and differences. The study identified gaps and emerging issues emanating from external and internal factors of the fund’s framework, challenges in the implementation of the fund’s mandate and suggested policy design options based on other country experiences. As a result, the study proposes investment of comprehensive business development support programs, establishment of an effective monitoring and evaluation system and coordination with other government agencies.
Assess the perceptions of personal data privacy amongst users and developers of mobile applications in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2018) Njuguna, Roselyn Muthoni
This paper aims to demonstrate the importance of understanding the right to privacy of personal data relating to someone’s personal life. The objectives guiding this study were: to establish to what extent users of mobile applications understand that personal data collected through these applications was private. To understand the role of mobile application users in enhacing the knowledge of role of privacy when using mobile application. Finally, to establish to what extent mobile application users understood that they have a responsibility for their personal data. The paper utilized a descriptive research design. A total of 259 respondents were interviewed in Nairobi County. The study found out that most users of mobile applications were aware of their right to privacy of personal data regarding their personal lives and families. The study found out that if mobile application users understood that they had rights with respect to personal data relating to their private and family life, they are most likely to protect any information they share when using mobile applications. Those who were aware of their rights to privacy were most likely to refuse to provide any information. However, majority of users were not aware they had a right to access and correct any personal data collected from their mobile applications. From a mobile developers perspective, the study found out that creating knowledge on privacy amongst mobile application users such as purpose of collecting personal data, recipient of the data and how the data was to be processed increased users likelihood to know their rights to privacy. The study also found out that mobile application developers had an important role in educating users on how their information is being used. The study further found out that those agencies that had full access of your personal data, were most likely to transmit it to third parties. The study recommends that there is a need to fast track the Data Protection Bill in Kenya currently under discussion. Additionally, there is a need for greater collaboration amongst private and public sector organisations to enhance knowledge on the role of rights to privacy when collecting personal data.
Assessing citizens’ perception of service quality at Huduma centres in Nairobi County, Kenya.
(Strathmore University, 2018) Murage, Wangui
The needs of citizens and their demands of their governments are changing around the world, including in Kenya. This change is creating complex working environments for governments that are compounded by the finite resources available to cater for multiple competing needs in service provision. In Kenya, the promulgation of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and the aim to provide quality services, both from private and public institutions, has catapulted the focus on quality of government services to the forefront while requiring the government to provide more services to the citizens with greater efficiency.Kenya Vision 2030 recognizes that an efficient and effective public sector is a pre requisite to achieving global competitiveness and a high quality of life by 2030 and requires reforms to the public service. Further, the current government’s manifesto singles out public service delivery, efficiency and innovation as one of its key focus areas specifically through the use of the government’s Citizen Service Centres otherwise referred to as Huduma Centres.In order for the Huduma Centres to deliver on the desired level of efficient, transparent and innovative service delivery for citizens, service quality has to be assured.Measuring the quality of service has long been a topic of discussion in the private sector, recognizing that it is difficult to measure the quality of services due to the inherent characteristics of services. It is important for the public managers to measure the service quality across government agencies and the citizen service centres because the citizens are co- producers in the service encounter and their perceptions of service quality would serve to inform the design and service standards and communications about the service by the producer and between the producer and the citizen. Further, studies have shown that levels of citizen satisfaction and the levels of trust in the government of the day are positively correlated.This study sought to assess the citizens’ perceptions of the service quality at the Huduma Centres in Nairobi County and also to ascertain if there was a correlation between service quality and citizen satisfaction. The data collected for the study are both qualitative and quantitative in nature with the qualitative being scheduled interviews with the service centre iv managers as the service providers and the quantitative being data collected through structured questionnaires to the citizens.The findings of the study reveal citizens are overall satisfied with the services at the Huduma Centres and were satisfied with the performance of each dimension of service quality measured. Further there is need for the Huduma Kenya Programme (HKP) to design the service offering in such a way that reduces the turnaround time for the citizens receiving services; invest in stable Information Communications Technology (ICT) systems and connectivity with the mother ministries; continually train the staff at the centres on customer service; and roll out other channels of service that lessen the need to physically visit the centres to get service; and more importantly continue focusing on the citizen needs in order to better serve them. Areas of further study include similar studies in more counties in Kenya to establish if there are significant differences with Nairobi County as well as comparative studies with other Citizen Service Centres around the world.
Assessing the factors influencing the adoption of off grid renewable energy technologies in Kenya - a case for Kisii County
(Strathmore University, 2024) Nyangaresi, A. N.
Developing resilient energy systems is imperative for enhancing electricity accessibility, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, and improving the welfare of residents in remote areas. However, many Sub-Saharan Africa countries with inadequate national power distribution systems often overlook energy provision in remote settlements due to their geographical isolation, low electricity demand, and limited financial resources. This study addresses the critical factors surrounding the low uptake of Off-Grid Renewable Energy Technologies (OGRETs) in Kisii County, Kenya, aiming to assess the constraints households face in adopting these technologies. Anchored in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Diffusion of Innovation theory, the research investigates how technological characteristics, socioeconomic conditions, environmental considerations, and psychosocial factors influence the adoption of OGRETs. The study is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) and aims to contribute to meet the Kenya's Vision 2030 and climate change agenda by tackling the slow progress towards universal energy access. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey employing structured questionnaires incorporating the TAM framework with Likert scale responses, data were collected from a sample of 400 households. Analysis involved inferential statistics and a multiple regression. The findings highlight environmental concerns as a significant driver of adoption, with higher levels of concern positively associated with increased adoption. Additionally, risk and trust, awareness levels, relative advantage, and ease of use displayed significant positive associations. However, initial cost and financial incentives showed minimal impact. Policymakers should prioritize implementing targeted financial incentives and support mechanisms, alongside comprehensive awareness campaigns, to promote OGRET adoption in Kisii County, Kenya. Keywords (Energy access barriers, renewable energy adoption, renewable energy technologies, off-grid, Technology Acceptance Model, sustainable energy, energy access)
Assessing the influence of the Health Labour Market Framework in addressing health worker availability: a case of Turkana County
(Strathmore University, 2018) Wambua, Prisca Mwithi
The United Nations has projected a shortage of 18 million health workers if the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs’) are to be attained. Kenya has developed a national human resources for health strategy which gives policy and strategy guidance to County governments which are now responsible for management of their health workforce. This study referenced the health labour market framework as a basis to review how effectively the county has identified and addressed the health worker demand and supply factors. The study employed a mixed methods approach. The target population was all health workers in level 2-4 facilities in Turkana County. The population comprised of staff at the 153 operational health facilities in Turkana County. The study also targeted the members of the County Public Service board in Turkana and the health management team members in the county including the Chief Officer for Health, the County Human Resources for Health officer and County Public Service Board HR Manager. The sample size of the study was 100 health workers. Stratified sampling was used to sample the health workers while purposive sampling was used to pick the key informants. Data collection involved administration of questionnaires, conducting key informant interviews and review of secondary data. Quantitative data was analysed through descriptive statistics while qualitative data was analysed through content analysis. The study established that the current implementation of the measures has positive effect on availability of health workers across the county. The study recommends that the prioritization and sequencing of measures be aligned to the needs of health workers and that further studies be conducted to determine the factors influencing the implementation of HRH policies in Turkana County.
An assessment of challenges of administering turnover tax collection: a case study of Kenya Revenue Authority
(Strathmore University, 2018) Karanja, James Kairu
Turnover Tax (TOT) was introduced in Kenya in the 2006 Finance Act, and rolled out in January 2007. TOT was designed as a presumptive tax or estimate charge computed at 3% of the sales turnover of businesses making Kshs. 5 million or less. This step was designed as a revenue measure to broaden the tax base by bringing the largely untapped informal sector into the tax base. More than 10 years on the tax gap from the informal sector indicates the collections at a meagre 0.15% of the true tax potential. This study is focused on challenges faced by Kenya Revenue Authority, the single collector of national government revenue, in administering the TOT. The objectives of the study were; to assess the perceptions by KRA officers of application of trust and facilitation measures in collection of TOT in Nairobi Kenya; assess the perceptions by KRA officers of extent of application of enforcement measures in collection of turnover taxation of the informal sector; and based on the responses to identify priority areas for policy, legal and KRA administrative reform in collection of tax from the informal sector. The study identified the independent variables for this research to be trust and facilitation (simplification and education/advice) and enforcement (powers and procedures, detection capabilities and punishment). A target population of 235 KRA staff was selected and a total sample size of 147 was selected as representative, to be the focus of this study. A descriptive survey design was used. Stratified sampling technique was used to create a sampling frame ensuring that all Nairobi Domestic Tax Department (DTD) offices were included in the survey. Data was collected using self–administered questionnaires and direct interviews. Statistical Package for Social Scientist software (SPSS version 20) was used to perform descriptive and inferential analysis on the collected data, and findings presented using tables. The principal findings were that KRA has been hampered in its efforts to implement the policy on informal taxation largely due to lack of adequate resources, a poorly implemented strategy of taxpayer facilitation and lax enforcement among the informal sector largely leading to lower than expected tax gains from TOT. The study could not establish positive effects of the KRA radical shift towards trust and facilitation on the TOT collections since the launch of the 6th Corporate Plan in 2015. The study finds that a more focused investment by KRA in reviewing powers and procedures, detection of non-compliant taxpayers and punishing of those who wilfully comply has the potential of increasing the TOT revenue base.

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