MBA Theses and Dissertations

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Find here Theses and Dissertations for the award of Master of Business Administration (MBA). These works have been scanned and passed through the OCR. We do not hold liablity for correctness of content.

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A Heuristic approach in examining the factors influencing additional voluntary contribution in the public sector in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2023) Mugi, C. W.
There is prevailing confusion on the machinations of, and thus subscribership to pension funds in Kenya. The need for additional pension fund contributions is however apparent given insufficient funding towards catering to the aging population in the country. The current study aimed at shedding light on the factors affecting employee additional voluntary pension contribution in Kenya’s civil service. The objectives were as follows - to assess the effect of macroeconomic factors on employee additional voluntary pension contribution in Kenya's civil service, to assess the effect of industry-specific factors on employee additional voluntary pension contribution in Kenya's civil service and to assess the effect of personal factors on employee additional voluntary pension contribution in Kenya's civil service. A positivist approach employing a descriptive-correlational research design was applied. Data were collected, through a sampling approach, from all 22 ministries. Data on variables were collected through a structured questionnaire. An exploratory factor analysis was then performed on the data after which an ordinal logistic regression approach was employed in determining the impact of macroeconomic factors, industry-specific factors, and personal factors, on additional voluntary pension contribution in Kenya’s civil service. Personal factors were deemed impactful to employee additional voluntary pension contributions whereas industry-specific factors and macroeconomic factors were not considered impactful at the 95% confidence level. Study findings on the first objective indicate that macroeconomic factors should not be considered in shaping incentive packages to bolster additional voluntary contribution to pension schemes. Findings from the second factor indicate a need for further investigation into potential context-specific attributes that account for the lack of impact of industry-specific factors. Finally, personal factors, as indicated in the third objective, should be considered as an isolated subgroup to create effective additional voluntary contribution incentives that leverage short-term thinking and financial factors.
A Study of on-time performance and causes of delays at Kenya airways
(Strathmore University, 2011) Momanyi, Nester Asiko
Departure punctuality has increasingly gained attention over the last few years. This development is due to the realization what punctuality plays in the economics of the airline industry. Punctuality allows airlines to differentiate themselves from their competitors and holds a significant potential for cost savings. Kenya Airways (KQ) faced a lot of challenges with regard to punctuality from congested airport, persistent delays to flight cancellation. For this reason, KQ embarked on monitoring and improving its department performance. However, this was done at a central place with no detailed explanation of the root cause as on-time performance (OTP) performance remained low. This study aimed at establishing the OTP and the causes of delays at KQ and offer recommendations for improvement. It was a descriptive exploratory study where historical data was used to gather the relevant information. The study focused on on-time departure delays as this contributed to 95% of all KQ delays. A total of 379 flights were purposively and conveniently sampled. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 17. Frequencies and percentages of the variables were calculated and presented in graphs and tabular form. Cross tabulations, x2 test and Pearson correlation coefficient were used to examine relationships between variables. In addition, t-test was also used to 56% against a set target of 75% at p < 0.05. 60% of all delays were due to aircraft rotation which IAT A broadly classifies as reactionary type. 50% of all delays were attributed Boeing 737 type of aircraft. A high association (0.7) between delays attributed to sick crew and the month of the year- December. Domestic routes had a higher OTP as compared to the rest of the routes. The study recommended communicative, strategic, and operational techniques to enable KQ improve OTP. It further recommended the organization to consider incorporating "No frills" flights in some routes to have a competitive edge since already the routes OTP is within the set target of 75%.
A Study on the effect of Environmental Social and Governance adoption and bank characteristics on the financial performance of commercial banks in Uganda
(Strathmore University, 2023) Awuor, L.
Recent changes to corporate external reporting have sparked discussions around the need to evolve the practice. Reports by influential organizations suggest a need to incorporate forward-looking, nonfinancial, and soft information in financial reports for the benefit of all stakeholders, hence the emergence of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) disclosure requirements. In Uganda, the law does not require institutions to disclose ESG matters; this has, however, not deterred its voluntary adoption by players in the commercial banking sector. Most banks are, however, likely to face hurdles in compliance, and the lack of guidance on ESG disclosures makes it difficult for stakeholders to compare results across early-adopting organizations. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of ESG adoption and bank characteristics on financial performance in Uganda. Data from published financials and structured questionnaires was used to collect data from all the licensed commercial banks between 2012-2021. By employing a multivariate regression analysis, the study established that ESG has a slightly positive effect on ROE and a slightly negative effort on ROA. However, both relationships are not statistically significant. Therefore, this study has not approved or disapproved of any of the theoretical expectations of the two hypotheses that ESG positively or negatively affects financial performance. The relationship with bank characteristics has also shown that profitability positively and significantly affects ROE and ROA. Finally, the findings indicate that having ESG adoption enforced by regulatory bodies (both financial sector regulators and accounting bodies) would be the most effective way to ensure that banks in Uganda observe sustainable practices. Future studies could extend the investigations to longer periods to establish whether the current findings hold over time. Future research could also examine specific ESG factors in isolation, say environmental, social, and governance, to investigate their individual effects on the financial performance of Ugandan commercial banks. Keywords: Environmental, social, ESG reporting, sustainability disclosure, sustainability reporting, bank-specific characteristics, and financial performance.
Access to digital Nano-credit and the economic welfare: a case study of the low-income earners in Nairobi County
(Strathmore University, 2020) Oyier, Jared Odhiambo
Digital nano credit has gained prominence in Kenya because it serves the portion of the population which has not been reached effectively by commercial banks. The requirements for qualification are relatively relaxed as compared to those of the commercial banks; they also process loan request faster than most of the commercial banks. The justification for the study is premised on the fact that little attention has been devoted to study the impact of digital nano credit on the economic welfare of the recipients. Moreover, the existing empirical evidence is inconclusive in the direction of the association. Therefore, the study sought to find out the impact of access to digital nano credit on the economic welfare of the low-income earners in Nairobi. The supplementary objective of the study included; investigating the factors considered by digital nano credit companies before they issue digital-nano credit and how the usage of digital nano credit affect the economic welfare of the low-income earners. The study was anchored on three theories; the neoclassical theory of welfare, restriction of opportunities theory of poverty and the individual deficiency theory. The research used a cross-sectional survey research design to collect and analyze the data. Purposive stratified random sampling technique was used to select a representative sample size of 196 respondents from the population. Data was gathered through a structured questionnaire on a target sample size across the 17 sub-counties in Nairobi. The response rate for the study stood at 85.71%. The study found that there is a statistically significant positive relationship between economic welfare, access to digital nano credit, usage of digital nano-credit, the age of the breadwinner, household income. The size of the household was found not to have a negative relationship with economic welfare; however, this relationship was not statistically significant. The study also concluded that there is a constant level of economic welfare which is not affected by access to digital nano credit. The study also confirmed the assumptions of the neoclassical theory of welfare and restrictions of opportunities theory. However, the results of the study do not support the assumptions of the individual deficiency theory. The research, therefore, proposes that the government should regulate the issuance of digital nano credit and engage in market correction policies which can ensure that micro businesses are adequately supported to grow. Finally, the study suggests that an independent study should be undertaken to assess the impact of digital nano credit to the performance of sole proprietorship micro businesses.
Affordable housing delivery and economic revival in the post COVID 19 era- a case of family homes fund in Nigeria
(Strathmore University, 2024) Gambo, M. M.
Africa is facing an unprecedented population growth and urbanization rate, coupled with the social and economic effects of the COVID pandemic; making it necessary to enhance mechanisms for social support such as housing. This study’s aim was to establish the role of affordable housing delivery and economic revival in the post COVID-19 era using a case study of the Family Homes Fund in Nigeria. Specifically, the study sought to analyze the different approaches to affordable housing delivery adopted and their impact on economic revival post COVID -19; determine the skills set of affordable housing delivery affecting economic revival in the post COVID-19 era in Nigeria; and to establish the critical success factors of affordable housing delivery affecting economic revival in the post COVID-19 era in Nigeria. The study was anchored on the Keynesian economic theory and the public interest economic regulation theory. A quantitative explanatory research design and a stratified random sampling technique were utilized. Primary data was collected using questionnaires. Reliability of the data collection tool was determined through Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient, while the data was analyzed by relevant statistical tools using the SPSS 24 package. Correlation results revealed that there was a positive but insignificant relation between the approaches to affordable housing delivery and economic survival in the post COVID-19 era in Nigeria. Further, skills set for affordable housing delivery had a statistically significant moderately positive correlation with economic survival in the post COVID-19 era in Nigeria while critical success factors had a significant weakly positive correlation. Regression analysis revealed that there a positive and significant relation between affordable housing delivery and economic survival in post COVID-19 era in Nigeria. The study also determined that there was no significant effect of the various approaches used in predicting economic revival in the post COVID-19 era in Nigeria. The analysis further found that there existed a positive and significant relation between the Skillset for Affordable Housing Delivery applied as well as Critical Success Factors for Affordable Housing Delivery and economic revival in the post COVID-19 era in Nigeria. The study recommends that the relevant bodies establish and strengthen skills development programs for professionals involved in affordable housing delivery. Additionally, the study recommends exploration of innovative financing models to support the development and implementation of affordable housing projects thereby enhancing the affordability and accessibility of housing options, leading to economic revival. Lastly, the study recommends adopting an integrated planning approach that considers affordable housing as a key component of broader economic revival strategies. Key words: Affordable Housing Delivery, COVID pandemic, Economic Revival, Nigeria.
An Analysis of customer satisfaction with procurement practices in manufacturing state corporations in Nairobi
(Strathmore University, 2017) Ogwang', John
This study analyzed customer satisfaction with procurement practices in manufacturing State Corporations in Nairobi. This study was informed by the contingency theory of management and the resource-based view of strategy. The study focused on six manufacturing State Corporations with headquarters in Nairobi. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. Structured questionnaires were administered to 66 respondents drawn from procurement, user departments, and external institutional customers of manufacturing state corporations. Quantitative data collected was summarized through the use of frequency distributions and analyzed using chi-square tests to show relations between respondents' ratings on procurement practices and study variables. The findings show that staffing levels in manufacturing state corporations do not affect cost efficiency in procurement processes in manufacturing state corporations. Cost efficiency, time efficiency, and quality control efficacy in procurement practices are cross-cutting issues that affect all manufacturing state corporations in a similar manner. To a moderate extent, cost efficiency in procurement processes in manufacturing state corporations is affected by transparency in the processes, the wastage due to paperwork, transport, and postage costs, many failed/abortive procurement processes, and the lengthy processes of sourcing for suppliers. The major causes of delays in the procurement processes, in manufacturing state corporations, are lengthy procurement process, requisition having to wait to be signed by the head of department, understaffing of procurement department, negligence by staff, lack of finance, Staff with vested interests and delays in paying of suppliers. The main measure of quality in manufacturing state corporations is whether goods supplied meet specifications or not. Price plays a significant role in quality determination due to the practice of picking bidders with the lowest pricing. Correlation analysis shows that lead times are strongly correlated to most complaints received from customers (end users and user departments). Additionally, there is a correlation between the quality of goods (measured in terms of meeting specifications) and most complaints from customers (internal and external). There is a correlation between procurement costs and common complaints from suppliers. There was no correlation between lead times, quality of goods procured, procurement costs, and the number of complaints received in the organization about procurement practices. The study recommends benchmarking among manufacturing state corporations and the adoption of e-procurement as ways of dealing with cost efficiency, time efficiency, and quality control challenges. The study also recommends a review of the Public Procurement and Disposals Act (PPDA) in order to shorten the lengthy procurement process but also provide mechanisms so that procurement managers can proactively purchase the best quality supplies at market prices.
An Assessment of consumer buying behavior of African aesthetic fashion brands in South Africa
(Strathmore University, 2019) Moret –Qubu, Natasha Eaglet Makgotso
African aesthetic brands have faced increased competition from global fashion brands within the local South African markets. Despite the normal market being perceptive to the brands, there has been limited growth within the sector. There is a demand for African fashion, and African fashion designers and South African businesses could benefit from a better understanding of consumer buying behaviour as improved insights on the targeted consumers could result in an increase in sales and profitability, and this could, in tum, improve the growth of fashion businesses in South Africa. The current study sought to determine how perceived quality, consumer perceived value, media influence and gender identity influence consumer purchasing behaviour. The research was premised on the social cognitive theory. The target population of the research was drawn from consumers within South Africa, and an appropriate sample was then scientifically determined. The collected research data was collected from primary sources using a structured questionnaire through Google Forms. The collected research data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The analysed data was presented using charts and tables. The findings of the research indicated that variations in the consumer purchasing behaviour of African aesthetic brands were determined by perceived quality, consumer perceived value, media influence and gender identity. The study concludes that an improvement in the above factors would enhance consumer purchasing behaviour. The study recommends that managers of African fashion brands firm should foster the cultural acceptability of their products, enhance their pricing mechanisms, increase their product durability and quality as well as increase their media visibility.
An Assessment of employees' perception of factors influencing the performance of existing mergers and acquisitions in the aviation industry in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2019) Yakub, Ismail Anwarali
The purpose of this study was to determine the employees' perception of the factors influencing the performance of existing Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) in the aviation industry in Kenya. The specific objectives that acted as a guide for this study included: investigating the influence of firm size on the performance of existing M&A in the aviation industry in Kenya, determining the influence of corporate culture on the performance of existing M&A in the aviation industry in Kenya, to establish the effects of legal and regulatory compliance on the performance of existing M&A in the aviation industry in Kenya, to find out the influence of management structure on performance of existing M&A in the aviation industry in Kenya. The descriptive survey research had a targeted population of 403 staff working in all 6 aviation firms. Thirty percent (30%) of the entire staff population of staff in the six firms was chosen using a stratified random sampling method. The sample size was therefore 121 possible respondents. The research instrument was a questionnaire which helped collect primary data. Data collected in this study analysed via quantitative and assembled to form the final findings and interpretations. Data gathered quantitatively from various close-ended questions will be classified into various groups and an analysis done. The SPSS program helped calculate the expected parameters. Descriptive statistics revolve around charts, graphs as well as the frequenq1 percentages utilized in measuring the central tendencies and reporting the data assembled from the findings extracted from the close-ended items. Above the inferential statistics like regression analysis, other forms of analysis such as ANOVA and correlation were used. The study concluded that; there was a rise in the number of various firm outlets in the recent past, the staff is aware that there are a series of product diversity potential consumers enjoy since the merger and/or acquisition, and the staff was aware of a series of associated benefits accruing from firm size, especially in the spread of risks and other related expenses. The shared norms as well as the beliefs in studied firms have helped them to stand at a good position in the aviation industry their organization has shared values and assumptions which are well a1ticulated in the strategic plan being implemented, and the management in their aviation firm is responsible to the harmonization of different types of cultures. It was noted that; the legal policies governing the operations of their firm are simple and understandable; the government's requirements on the level of adoption of legal policies are a serious hindrance towards the overall performance of this firm. Finally, the study noted that; there is an adequate management structure in place in the firms that articulates the operations of employees the management structure categorization is effective in defining each role of the staff in the M&A, the staff has experienced challenges associated with the division of roles/duties by top management in this organization.
An Assessment of internal factors influencing the performance of state-owned corporations operating in Kenya’s public construction industry
(Strathmore University, 2024) Kiptoon, E. K.
The performance of public construction initiatives, particularly in developing economies like Kenya, often falls short of expectations due to limited resources, and a heavy reliance on loan funding. This study, grounded in the Resource-Based View theory, aimed to examine the internal factors influencing the performance of public construction firms in Kenya, utilizing McKinsey's 7S framework to assess the company's internal aspects. Guided by inquiries into the impacts of McKinsey's hard and soft factors on the performance outcomes of state-owned corporations in Kenya's public construction industry, this research utilized structured questionnaires for data collection and employed both ordinal logistic regression and Spearman's rank correlation for analysis. Findings reveal significant positive correlations between both hard (Strategy, Structure, Systems) and soft (Shared Values, Style, Staff, Skills) factors and organizational performance, underscoring the complex interplay between these internal elements and their impact on operational success. Specifically, strategy and structure exhibited strong positive relationships with performance, highlighting the importance of clear strategic planning and efficient organizational structures. Systems also positively influenced performance, although some variability in system effectiveness was noted. Soft factors such as leadership style and staff competencies showed strong positive impacts on performance, emphasizing the critical roles of effective leadership and skilled staff. Shared values and organizational culture also positively influenced performance, though some challenges in alignment were identified. The study, however, faces limitations including a lack of top management input, and its focus on Kenya's public construction sector, which may limit the generalizability of findings. Future research directions include longitudinal studies to explore causal relationships, comparative analyses across different sectors or regions, and qualitative inquiries to delve deeper into the organizational navigation of the 7S factors' challenges and opportunities. These suggestions aim to refine the understanding of how internal factors contribute to enhancing organizational effectiveness within the public sector, offering a foundational basis for both theoretical exploration and practical application.
An Assessment of the factors affecting the achievement of turnaround strategies at Kenya Airways
(Strathmore University, 2023) Wanyama, E.
By December 2019, the turnaround strategy at Kenya Airways had shown improved revenue. There was an increase in number of revenue passengers and new routes were opened to Geneva and Rome with connections to Malindi. Just as the turnaround strategy was gaining success, the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic resulted in suspension of flights and government lockdowns which severely impacted the achievement of the turnaround strategy. These factors forced Kenya Airways to implement significant cost-cutting measures. The purpose of this study was to assess the factors that affect the achievement of turnaround strategies in airlines, with a focus on Kenya Airways. The specific objectives were; to examine the effect of strategic alliances, competitive strategies, leadership and Covid-19 pandemic on the achievement of turnaround strategies at Kenya Airways. The study was grounded on the strategic turnaround theory. Descriptive research design was adopted for this study and the researcher probed for information from employees using survey methodology. The unit of observation was managers at Kenya Airways from the following departments: Strategy and Finance department, Human Resources, Technical Operations, Ground Services and Flight Operations. The unit of analysis was 155 employees drawn from senior level, middle level and lower level of management at Kenya Airways. The sample size for the study was 112 employees drawn from the 4 departments. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Simple random method was applied on respondents earmarked for participation in the study then descriptive and inferential statistics were finally used to analyze and interpret the data. The researcher ensured that the study complies with research quality standards including validity, objectivity and reliability. The study was able to obtain 78% response rate which is adequate when conducting quantitative analysis. Correlation tests showed strategic alliances, competitive strategies and leadership have a positive effect on competitiveness and profitability of Kenya Airways. The study concluded that achievement of turnaround strategies within Kenya Airways is positively related to the execution of strategic alliances, competitive strategies, leadership and Covid-19. Independently the research concluded that strategic alliances, competitive strategies and leadership do have a significant positive effect on achievement of turnaround strategies. The research further concluded that Covid-19 had a negative and insignificant effect on the achievement of turnaround strategies at Kenya Airways. The research recommended that the airline should cooperate more with other major airlines globally that will help in enhancing the diversification of the services offered by the airline. The study recommends that management should consider more hybrid strategies that are more practical when operating in a fluid environment. This will help in avoiding any corrosive effects to the profitability and competitiveness of the airline. The study also recommends that management should implement better recruitment and retention of a highly qualified and diversified workforce which will enhance the effective execution of strategies which can lead to better performance.
An Evaluation of determinants of innovation adoption by analytical laboratories in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2024) Okwaro, D. R.
Innovation plays a key role in improving the performance of firms. However, innovation adoption in Kenya is generally low in most sectors, including the analytical laboratories sector where most testing is still performed using old methods and technologies. Therefore, the aim of this research was to examine the determinants of innovation adoption by analytical laboratories in Kenya. The specific objectives of this study were to examine the effect of firm level, industry-level, and macro-environment determinants of innovation in analytical laboratories in Kenya. The theories that guided this research were Technology Acceptance Model and the Open versus Closed Innovation model. The positivism philosophy was adopted for this research. The methodological approach research entailed the use of the descriptive cross-sectional research design to investigate the associations between the dependent and independent variables. The target sample size for this research was 100 respondents. Data was collected using questionnaires that were administered to 88 respondents comprising of general managers, senior analysts, analysts, business development and marketing managers, quality managers/officers, finance managers, head of research and development (R&D) and human resource managers. The findings of this study showed that firm level, industry level and macroenvironment determinants had a significant positive influence on innovation adoption in analytical laboratories in Kenya. First, the findings suggested that firm level determinants have a significant positive influence on innovation adoption in analytical laboratories in Kenya. These findings imply that innovation adoption was higher in large firms, those with high product diversification, those that focus on continually developing new products/services rather than improving existing ones, older firms, those with high financial and human capabilities, and those pursuing open and closed innovation strategies. This finding suggests that enhancing firm-level determinants can improve the adoption of innovation in analytical laboratories. Secondly, the results showed that industry level determinants have a positive influence on innovation adoption in analytical laboratories in Kenya. The findings suggested that high innovation adoption was associated with high intensity of competition, high buyer power, high supplier power, high threat of substitutes and low entry barriers. This finding suggests that enhancing industry level determinants can improve the adoption of innovation in analytical laboratories. Lastly, the results showed that macro-environment determinants have a positive influence on innovation adoption in analytical laboratories in Kenya. Economic growth, regulatory environment and sustainability standards were found to have a positive influence on innovation adoption in analytical laboratories. This finding suggests that enhancing macroenvironment determinants can enhance the adoption of innovation in analytical laboratories. From the study, it is recommended that policy makers need to strengthen the regulatory environment, develop industry standards and foster compliance in order to encourage innovation in analytical laboratories. Additionally, managers of analytical laboratories should consider strengthening their firm level determinants through increasing their human and financial capacity for innovation. Managers of these firms also need to monitor industry-level determinants as well as changes in the regulatory and economic environment and respond appropriately using innovation. Keywords: Analytical laboratories, firm-level determinants, industry-level determinants, innovation adoption, macro-environment determinants,
An Evaluation of factors affecting the performance of mobile lending FinTech companies in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2024) Wamahiu, J.
The FinTech sector experienced unprecedented growth over the past decade, marked by escalating investments that underscored its disruptive potential and critical role in reshaping the global financial landscape. This growth was especially significant in Africa, where FinTech acted as a pivotal conduit for the unbanked population, providing innovative alternatives to conventional banking challenges. In Kenya, a key player in the African FinTech arena, mobile lending companies formed an essential segment of this burgeoning industry. This study undertook a detailed examination of the factors influencing the performance of mobile lending FinTech companies in Kenya, motivated by a need to elucidate the complex interplay of internal and external elements that determined their success. The primary aim of this research was to dissect and understand the determinants of performance within this sector, with specific focus on: Assessing the impact of internal operations and strategy factors on the performance of mobile lending FinTech companies in Kenya. Evaluating the influence of regulatory and compliance factors on their performance. Investigating how market presence and outreach affected their performance. The findings of the study revealed that performance was significantly influenced by three principal factor groupings: Regulatory and Compliance, Internal Operations and Strategy, and Market Presence and Outreach. Regulatory and Compliance factors were critical, as they encompassed the challenges and opportunities presented by evolving legal frameworks, which necessitated a delicate balance between fostering innovation and adhering to regulatory mandates. Internal Operations and Strategy factors highlighted the crucial role of effective management practices, ongoing innovation, and strategic alignment in propelling organizational success. Meanwhile, Market Presence and Outreach underscored the importance of robust marketing strategies and active customer engagement in securing a competitive advantage. This research further explored the implications of these findings for FinTech companies, regulatory bodies, and policymakers, offering targeted recommendations to cultivate an environment conducive to the sustainable growth and innovation of the FinTech sector. Future research directions suggested included examining the adoption of emerging technologies, understanding customer behaviors and trust dynamics, and analyzing the nuanced impacts of regulatory changes on innovation. By detailing the dynamic factors that affected mobile lending FinTech companies in Kenya, this study enriched the understanding of the sector’s challenges and opportunities. It provided invaluable insights for stakeholders aiming to navigate the complexities of the digital finance ecosystem, emphasizing the necessity for a strategic, regulatory, and market-focused approach to enhance the performance and innovative capacity of FinTech enterprises.
An exploratory study of market segmentation in container shipping in Kenya
Njoroge, Simon Peter
The ocean shipping market has been characterised by tremendous change since the advent of containerised liner shipping in the mid-1950s. Liner shipping firms are increasingly seeking to improve their positions in the market by retaining existing customers and attracting new ones with innovative product offerings. The ship owners and their management are obliged to operationalize specific concepts of marketing to secure and retain their competitive advantage and secure returns for their shareholders. One way to do this is to focus their efforts on distinct pockets of the market where customers with similar service requirements could be optimally targeted with the most attractive offers. By successfully segmenting its market, a carrier could derive greater value from capitalising on the potentially substantial future growth of export container traffic. The respondents for this study were drawn from the members of the Kenya Shippers Council and their carrier selection decisions investigated. Three service related aspects of containerised transport were related to the key exporter related attributes of freight bill, cargo volume and cargo type. The study undertook a logistic regression analysis of these factors to determine the significance of the relationship. The findings provide evidence of the existence of defined sets of export shippers for whom the selection of carrier is influenced by their export cargo type and cargo volumes. The study reveals that exporters with annual shipments of 50 forty foot equivalent units and annual freight bill of 50,000 US dollars should be targeted by ship owners and shipping line managers with service propositions focussing on reliability of service, safety of cargo and accessibility of services. The study contributes to a better understanding of the importance of and attitude towards market segmentation in the growing export of goods by sea from Kenya. A similar study would be useful for developing an understanding of customer segmentation in other modes of transport for the export of goods from Kenya and the rest of East Africa.
An exploratory study on venture capital growth and regulation in Kenya
Mathenge, George; Kerrets, Monica
The dissertation is a qualitative exploratory study that looked at Venture Capital growth and regulation in Kenya. Inspite of the significant role played by Venture Capital (VC) in financing entrepreneurial ventures in the West the same level of VC funding uptake does not seem to have taken root in Kenya. Three main objectives therefore formed the basis of this study. First to find out what form of regulation was needed for VC to grow in Kenya, secondly to identify what criteria various institutions, which are not licensed by the Capital Markets Authority were using in advancing VC Funds and lastly find out what factors accounted for the slow pace/ growth of the VC industry in Kenya. The research study used a semi structured in depth face to face interviews with industry players, the Capital Markets Authority, the Africa Venture Capital Association and the Nairobi Securities Exchange The results reveal three main issues. Firstly, the industry in Kenya was young and regulation needed to be considered in this light. Secondly, the type of regulation needed was a facilitative one that would allow the industry to grow. Finally, the VC Industry was also affected to a great extent by government policies especially taxation and legislation. The study concludes by making recommendations on what needs to be in place to encourage VC set up and growth in Kenya. This includes having the government stimulating entrepreneurship, reconsidering the taxation regime, developing a legal framework for the industry. The Capital Market Authority playing a facilitating role and the Securities Exchange increasing the depth of its offerings. It also requires the industry to organise itself so that it can effectively be able to lobby various constituents on matters affecting the VC industry.
Analysing the determinants of the performance of listed Real Estate Investment Trusts in Africa
(Strathmore University, 2021) Chirchir, Linda Chepkorir
The emergence of real estate investment trusts (REITs) was expected to be a game changer within the financial markets in Africa. However, reports have shown that there has been low uptake of REITs which has been attributed to the general poor performance of the market, among other challenges. Despite the notable performance struggles within REITs, there has been insufficient examination of the determinants of the financial performance of the REITs. This study analysed the determinants of the financial performance of the listed REITs in Africa. The study specifically focused on the interest rates, inflation rates, gross domestic products (GDP), and firm characteristics effect on financial performance. The study was premised on the resource-based view theory. The research adopted a positivism research philosophy with a descriptive correlational research design being the central design guiding the study. The target population for the study was the 34 listed REITs in South Africa and Three in Nigeria, and One in Kenya. The study adopted a census survey of all the listed REITs in the continent. Data were collected using a secondary data extraction form from the financial statements of the listed REITs between 2010 2020. The collected panel were compiled in Microsoft Excel and analyzed using Stata 16. The research adopted descriptive analysis, correlation analysis, and panel regression analysis. The findings were presented in line with the objectives of the study. The panel regression results indicated that interest rates, inflation rates, GDP, leverage, liquidity, firm age, and size were responsible for 52.70% of the financial performance of listed REITs in Africa. The study concluded that inflation rate, interest rate, and liquidity had an insignificant effect on the financial performance of the listed REITs. Conclusions were further made that GDP, leverage, firm size, and age of the firm had a significant effect on the financial performance of listed firms in Africa. The study recommends that the firms should collaborate with regulatory bodies in the development of institutional benchmarks to guide the management of inflation and interest rates as well as guide REITs investments during economic boom periods. Further, the study recommends the firms should focus on strategies that will guide the management of the debt within the firm as well as advocating for prudent management of the firm assets and investments. Lastly, the firms should develop clear liquidity management measures that will ensure that the firm is able to meet its financial obligations.
Analysing the forms of contract and the role that written and unwritten contracts play in the resolution of commercial disputes in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2024) Mmbogori, A. G.
As the world develops, so do business dealings and interactions. These interactions can give rise to disputes, and the resolution of these commercial disputes is becoming more important to many businesses. In essence, a commercial dispute can be viewed as a dispute between two or more business people or entities. Commercial disputes generally arise when a term to a contractual undertaking is breached or there is a disagreement between parties regarding how contractual terms are interpreted. Once a commercial dispute emerges, parties can use a number of ways to resolve such disputes including negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or Court-based litigation. Regardless of the dispute resolution method chosen, contractual claims are easier to enforce when a written contract exists, yet, many businesses enter into contracts by word of mouth. This study aimed to analyse the legal contractual environment of conducting business in Kenya and determine the role of both written and unwritten or oral contracts in commercial dispute resolution. The study adopted a descriptive research design which targeted individuals and entities involved in commercial litigations for dispute resolution. Ten litigations were selected and analysed using the doctrinal legal research method. This study found that parties who conducted commercial transactions on the basis of oral or unwritten contracts had great difficulty in proving the terms of their agreement or even proving that a contract between them and their counterpart existed in the first place. In contrast, the study found that where a written agreement was provided, the Court tended to stick to the express terms of the agreement and did not allow parties to vary the agreed terms, even when one party argued that the terms of the agreement had been orally renegotiated. The particulars of the manner in which Courts look at contracts in Kenya have been explored throughout this study. Based on the findings, this research recommends observing the requirements of a valid contract and making sure the terms of the agreement are written and related records preserved including communication between parties being documented in writing.
Analysis of challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in accessing finance in Kenya - a case of women entrepreneurs in Nairobi Central Business District
(Strathmore University, 2016-06) Kabukuru, Aiddah
Access to adequate and affordable credit for businesses remains one of the key challenges to economic development in Kenya despite efforts by various stakeholders. This study sought to analyze the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in accessing finance in Kenya and focuses on Nairobi central business district. the study was guided by the following specific objectives: to determine the extent to which literacy levels of women entrepreneurs affect their access to finance in Nairobi central business district; to determine the extent to which the number of lending institutions available affect access to finance by women entrepreneurs in Nairobi central business district; to determine the extent to which collateral requirements by financial institutions affect access to finance by women entrepreneurs in Nairobi central business district; and to determine the extent to which interest rates charged by financial institutions affect access to finance by women entrepreneurs in Nairobi central business district. In order to undertake the study a descriptive survey was used. The target population was drawn from the female owned enterprises in Nairobi central business district. A sample size of 400 women entrepreneurs was used in the study. Primary data was collected from the proprietors/managers of the enterprises aided by a semi-structured questionnaire. Data pertaining to the objectives of the study was analyzed using descriptive statistics. In order to evaluate the relationship between the independent and dependent variables, multiple regression was undertaken. The study findings indicate that majority of the women entrepreneurs had attained at least a tertiary level of education. It validated that lack of collateral is the most significant constraint to women entrepreneurs in Nairobi in accessing loans despite different social economic characteristics. The study also found that number of lending financial institutions as not being a significant constraint in accessing finance for women entrepreneurs in the CBD. The study recommends risk free line of credit to banks by governments and non-governmental organizations. The study also recommends that financial institutions partner with non-governmental organizations and the government in obtaining low interest rates funds for onward lending to women entrepreneurs. Further studies may be carried out examining a wider area, including other urban areas and rural areas. The study also focused only women entrepreneurs but further studies may be done with a focus on financial institutions.
Analysis of counterfeit- drug-prevention strategies on financial performance of Nairobi’s drug retailing pharmacies
(Strathmore University, 2021) Cheruto, Molly
Kenya Association of Manufacturers indicates that up to 40% of the medications in circulation are falsified. The main implications of this high proportion are the ineffective treatment of the population and disruptions in the pricing mechanism of medicines in the country. These concerns are of pertinence to private pharmacies seeking to avail medication to the population; inefficacious medication results in a loss of trust by patients. This reduces customer flow whereas ineffective pricing results in unjustifiably low costs by competitors sourcing products from competitors’ falsified outlets. Both these concerns have implications for the financial performance of pharmacies. The study is guided by Reasoned Action and Planned Behaviour's theory with the assertion that an understanding of the merits of the anticounterfeiting approaches would inspire action towards proper implementation. Implementation of the approaches would serve to improve the performance of the pharmacies. The general thrust of extant empirical findings was that anticounterfeiting approaches positively impact the performance of pharmacies. The central objective of the research was to examine the anti-counterfeiting strategies employed by retail pharmacies in Nairobi County and their impact on the financial performance of the retail pharmacies. The population of the study consists of pharmacies in Nairobi County. Therefore, the specific objectives were to establish the effect of chemical-physical anti-falsified strategies on the performance of pharmaceutical retail pharmacies in Nairobi. To establish the effect of tracking anti-falsified strategies on the performance of pharmaceutical retail pharmacies in Nairobi. To establish the effect of supply chain integration anti-falsified strategies on the performance of pharmaceutical retail pharmacies in Nairobi. Data was collected from retail pharmacies in Nairobi County through the use of questionnaires. An Ordinary Least Square regression model was then used to address the objectives of the study. Findings indicated that none of the approaches had a bearing on the financial performance of pharmacies in Nairobi. Therefore, the conclusion was that current anti-counterfeiting approaches were inefficacious in impacting the performance of pharmacies. The recommendation forthcoming from the finding is that pharmacies should assess their rigor in implementing anticounterfeiting approaches as extant literature indicates that there is a link between proper utilization of the approaches and performance of pharmacies.
Analysis of critical factors affecting enterprise development in Kenya: a case of 2017 top 100 mid-sized companies in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2019) Patel, Jaymit S.
Enterprise development is one of the most important ingredients of economic growth. In particular, SMEs contribute 45% to the GDP in Kenya. Despite the economic contributions of enterprises among the SMEs in Kenya, little information is available on the impact of some of the critical factors affecting enterprise development in Kenya. This study sought to determine the effect of the critical factors on enterprise development based on SMEs in the country. To do this, primary data was collected using structured questionnaires from the 2017 Top 100 mid-sized companies in Kenya listed by KPMG. Both descriptive and inferential statistics was used to analyze the data. The results of the study show that infrastructure, access to affordable capital and credit, fiscal policy alignment, interest rates, balance of payments, government debt, workforce development and export trade had a significant impact on enterprise development. The findings also outlined that there were strong correlations amongst the factors under study and a change in any one factor would lead to a snowballing effect resulting in a significant impact on enterprise development. Customizing policies with a strategic focus on some of the key factors identified in the study will significantly impact enterprise development. The study will also guide policy makers to understand implications on SMEs before making policy related decisions.
An Analysis of evaluating sales promotions effectiveness in the fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2010) Kamau, Anne Kagure
This dissertation was an exploratory survey on the evaluation of the effectiveness of sales promotion in the fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry in Kenya whose key objectives were; to establish how firms allocated marketing budgets, what objectives they sought to achieve through sales promotions as well as whether and how these firms in Kenya evaluated the effectiveness of sales promotion as a marketing strategy and the challenges faced in the process. A comprehensive literature review was conducted before collection of qualitative and quantitative primary data from 19 FMCG companies that were derived from the list of top 100 advertising spenders in 2007. The target respondents were senior and mid level managers who had great influence, or were final decision makers in developing, implementing and evaluating marketing strategies for their companies. The most important conclusion was that, while all companies claimed to be evaluating the effectiveness of their sales promotion, the evaluation seemed superficial or less than objective owing to the fact that majority did not have well established tools or systems to carry out adequate detailed analysis. This was partly due to what was highlighted as the biggest challenge — the unavailability of accurate and reliable trade and consumer data. The need for development of tools/models or structured and systemised mechanics for this purpose was brought out strongly by the respondents as a key recommendation to address the problem. However, the researcher noted that most of the other suggestions put forward to improve the evaluation process were within easy reach of the respondents and it was not clear why it seemed that little or nothing much was being done to address the challenges. Another finding from the study was that a big proportion (89%) of all FMCG companies engaged in sales promotions. A conclusion deduced from this finding was that the firms acknowledged the importance of, and actually carried out sales promotions regularly as part of their marketing strategy.

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