MBA Theses and Dissertations (2025)

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An Evaluation of organizational factors influencing the extent of digitalization of Deposit-Taking Savings and Credit Co-Operative Societies in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Muchika, D. M.
Kenya has gained global recognition for its advancements in financial technology, notably exemplified by the transformative impact of Mpesa on the economy since its inception in 2007. However, amidst Kenya's ongoing strides in financial sector innovation, the organizational factors influencing the extent of digitalization among Deposit-Taking Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies remain a compelling area for investigation. This study sought to elucidate the organizational factors influencing the degree of digitalization within Saccos, with a focus on understanding the effect of management support, organizational culture, and employee capability. The study carried out the control effect of firm size on the relationship between organizational factors and the extent of digitalization. The study was premised on the theoretical frameworks of the Diffusion of Innovation theory and Technology Acceptance Model and focused on the 176 licensed and authorized Deposit-Taking Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies in Kenya as of 2023. Data was gathered from secondary sources, such as the regulator’s portal, i.e., SACCO Societies Regulatory Authority websites, as well as primary sources, including sending questionnaires to the institution's management over one month. The collected survey data was analyzed using a mix of descriptive, correlation, and ordinal regression analysis. Correlation analysis showed that organizational culture had a weak positive and significant relation to the digitalization of Saccos. The analysis further revealed a positive and significant association between employee capability and digitalization. On the third variable, the results demonstrated that there was a weak and positive relation between management support and digitalization. The regression results confirmed that organization factors and firm size had a positive and significant effect on the digitalization among the Saccos in Kenya. Regarding the first objective of management support, the study revealed a positive and insignificant effect on digitalization among DT-SACCOs in Kenya. The research further established that the effect of organization culture on the digitalization among deposit-taking DT-SACCOs in Kenya was positive and statistically significant. The analysis of the third variable, employee capability, demonstrated that employee capability had a positive and significant effect on digitalization among DT-SACCOs in Kenya. The analysis of the moderator variable firm size indicated that both the number of branches and the age of the DTSACCOs had no significant effect on digitalization levels. The study then recommends that institutions cultivate a culture that values innovation, adaptability, and openness to technological change. The firms should make sustained investments in employee training, especially in emerging technologies relevant to financial services. The study further recommends that institutions should continue investing in advanced digital infrastructure, including mobile applications, online platforms, and secure transaction systems, that enhance service accessibility and efficiency. Further research could also be conducted on other financial institutions, such as microfinance banks or commercial banks, to offer insights into best practices, challenges, and unique factors influencing digitalization across different financial service providers.
An Examination of the relationship between emotional intelligence and opportunity identification among Small and Medium Sized Enterprises in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Arale, F. A.
Emotional antecedents of opportunity identification have long been neglected by researchers but have become more critical towards the survival and success of entrepreneurs. Indeed, there has been a deficiency in the level of understanding of the manner in which positive and negative emotions influence the identification of opportunities and the variation in these influences amongst novice and experienced entrepreneurs alike. The general objective of the study is to assess the relationship between emotional intelligence and opportunity identification in Small and medium enterprises in Kenya(SME). Its specific objectives include: to determine the effect of self-awareness on opportunity identification in SMEs in Kenya; to examine the impact of social awareness on opportunity identification in SMEs in Kenya; and to ascertain the role of self-management on opportunity identification in SMEs in Kenya. The study was underpinned by the Theory of Multiple Intelligences and the Social Cognitive Theory. It applied the positivism philosophy and a correlational research design. Primary data was collected from 398 individuals (the business owners of 398 firms within the Medium Trader Shop or Retailer Services and Small Trader Shop or Retail Services sector located within the Nairobi CBD using structured questionnaires. The data from the questionnaires was then cleaned, coded, and inserted in the Statistical Package for Social Sciences to facilitate the conduct of both descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. The study established that there is a positive correlation between emotional intelligence dimensions – self-awareness, social awareness, and self-management - and opportunity recognition. The implication is that SME proprietors who are self-aware are more capable of recognising opportunities. The study further established that there is a positive correlation between social awareness and opportunity recognition. This implies that SME proprietors who have higher social awareness are more capable of recognising opportunities. It also established that there is a positive correlation between self-management and opportunity recognition. The implication is that SME proprietors who have good self-management are more capable of recognising opportunities. The study recommends that policymakers and SME regulators expand emotional intelligence training initiatives to support opportunity recognition. Management should also foster emotionally intelligent work environments by enhancing self-awareness and encouraging empathy and adaptability to promote strategic decision-making and entrepreneurial resilience. Additionally, an enhanced focus on self-awareness will ensure the application of self-assessment which enhances the determination of whether conditions are prime for opening new business ventures.
Assessing the drivers of sustainable growth in Medium-Sized Agribusinesses in Nairobi County
(Strathmore University, 2025) Wainaina, E. M.
The sustainable growth of agribusinesses is crucial to Kenya’s economic development, particularly for medium-sized entities that significantly contribute to employment and food security. However, many enterprises struggle to achieve long-term sustainability due to various internal and external constraints. This study aims to identify the determinants of sustainable growth among medium-sized agribusinesses in Nairobi County, focusing on three key factors: entrepreneurial experience, access to finance, and technology. The study also used firm size and firm duration as control factors. It was anchored on the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory, Dynamic Capabilities Theory, and Institutional Theory. A correlational research design was adopted. Primary data was collected through structured questionnaires administered to business owners and senior executives, with a pilot test conducted to ensure reliability and validity. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, correlation, and a multiple regression model to establish the relationship between the independent variables and sustainable growth. From the results, the study concluded that entrepreneurial experience is a significant determinant of the sustainable growth of medium-sized agribusinesses. Access to finance is a significant determinant of the sustainable growth of medium-sized agribusinesses. Technology adoption is a significant determinant of the sustainable growth of medium-sized agribusinesses. Firm size is a significant determinant of the sustainable growth of medium-sized agribusinesses. Firm duration is a significant determinant of sustainable growth of the medium sized agribusiness. The study recommended that medium-sized agribusinesses should strengthen entrepreneurial experience through targeted capacity building, mentorship programs, and exposure to best practices in agribusiness management. It is also essential for the medium-sized agribusinesses to improve access to finance by developing tailored financial products, flexible credit facilities, and risk-sharing mechanisms. The medium-sized agribusinesses should be encouraged and supported to adopt modern technologies through targeted incentives, training programs, and accessible digital infrastructure and should strategically build on their existing scale by expanding market reach, strengthening supply chains, and investing in capacity development. With regards limitations of the study, there are a number of research philosophies. However, the study was limited to a positivism research philosophy and a correlational research design. There are several agribusinesses operating within Nairobi County. However, the study was also limited to 100 medium sized agribusinesses operating within Nairobi City County, Kenya and hence the researcher administered 100 questionnaires to the respondents. The respondents were limited to the CEO, CFO, COO, or senior management officer. Thus, a census study of the 100 respondents and primary data that was gathered using a structured questionnaire.
Crisis response strategies and organizational resilience of cargo airlines in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Wachira, H.
During the COVID-19 Pandemic, the airline industry, cargo airlines included, faced major disruptions due to global travel restrictions. As uncertainty grew, these companies had to adopt different strategies to stay afloat. This study looks specifically at how cargo airlines in Kenya responded, focusing on how their crisis strategies influenced organizational resilience. The research set out to achieve three goals: to assess how positioning, cost-cutting, and diversification strategies affected organizational resilience among these airlines. The study was based on the established business framework, such as the dynamic capability view, and the research used a correlational design targeting 25 cargo airlines. From each airline, respondents included top-level, mid-level and lower management, totaling 75 respondents, and the data collection tool was sampled through a pilot study. Data was gathered using online questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlations and regression tests. The results indicated that diversification strategies had a positive and statistically significant effect on organizational resilience, underscoring the importance of strategic flexibility and market diversification in enhancing an organization's ability to adapt and thrive during crises. In contrast, both positioning and cost reduction strategies were found to have non-significant relationships with organizational resilience. The study contributes to theory by reinforcing the applicability of dynamic capability theory and Balance Scorecard in resilience research, and to practice by highlighting the importance of market and product diversification. Policy recommendations include the development of supportive frameworks for diversification and innovation in air cargo operations. Future research should explore the longitudinal impacts of strategic responses across varied contexts in Africa’s aviation sector.
Determinants of crowdfunding adoption among Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in Nairobi City: the moderating role of firm size
(Strathmore University, 2025) Murage, D.
While crowdfunding is a potentially viable and attractive option to get funding, its acceptance and adoption is low among Kenyan small medium enterprises. Therefore, the main objective of this research was to establish the factors that influence the adoption of crowdfunding as a viable financing option for SMEs in Nairobi City, Kenya. The specific objectives were to determine the influence of regulatory support, practical viability, knowledge and infrastructural support on the adoption of crowdfunding as a source of financing by SMEs in Nairobi City. The study also sought to examine how firm size influences the relationship between key determinants and the adoption of crowdfunding among SMEs in Nairobi City County. This study was anchored on the Unified Theory of Use and Acceptance of Technology (UTAUT) and the pecking order theory. The methodology for the proposed study was guided by the positivism philosophy. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional research design. The target population consist of 21,100 registered SMEs in Nairobi’s CBD Stratified random sampling was utilized in the selection of 392 small medium enterprises. Primary data was gathered using a structured questionnaire that was self-administered through a fill and wait method. To enhance validity, a pilot study and an expert review was carried out. For this study, the Cronbach’s alpha cutoff value that was adopted is <0.7. The data obtained from questionnaires was coded and entered into the SPSS. Descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation, was used to describe the data. Inferential analysis, using binary logistic regression, was used to examine the association between the dependent and independent variables. The findings of this study offered insights into the barriers and enablers of crowdfunding adoption, offering practical recommendations for policymakers, regulators, and SMEs to enhance crowdfunding uptake as a financing alternative, thereby fostering small medium enterprises’ growth and innovation in Nairobi City County. The study established that regulatory support has a positive and significant influence on the adoption of crowdfunding as a source of financing in SMEs in Nairobi City County. In addition, the findings showed that knowledge has a positive and significant influence on the adoption of crowdfunding as a source of financing in SMEs in Nairobi City County. Moreover, the study established that infrastructure support has a positive and significant influence on the adoption of crowdfunding as a source of financing in SMEs in Nairobi City County. However, the study revealed that practical viability does not have a significant influence on the adoption of crowdfunding as a source of financing in SMEs in Nairobi City County. Also, the study found that firm size has a positive and significant moderating effect on the relationship between regulatory support, knowledge, infrastructure support, and the adoption of crowdfunding among SMEs in Nairobi City County. Therefore, the study recommends that SME owners and managers should enhance their understanding of crowdfunding and financial literacy through educational programs, focusing on campaign creation and financial management. They should also improve digital skills and engage with crowdfunding platforms offering robust technical support. By leveraging their firm’s size and assets, SMEs can enhance their attractiveness to investors and improve crowdfunding adoption. Crowdfunding platforms should provide accessible educational resources, such as tutorials and webinars, to boost entrepreneur confidence. Policymakers should simplify the regulatory framework, enforce stronger privacy regulations, and improve oversight to build trust and encourage crowdfunding adoption.
Determinants of organizational performance of Micro and Small Enterprises in the Kamukunji Area, Nairobi County, Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Macharia, E.
Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) are vital to Kenya’s economic development, yet their performance remains weak due to persistent challenges such as limited financing, weak entrepreneurial capacity, and burdensome tax systems. This study investigated the determinants of organizational performance of MSEs in the Kamukunji area of Nairobi County, focusing on three key factors: access to finance, entrepreneurial orientation, and taxation policies. The study was grounded in the Pecking Order Theory and Dynamic Capabilities Theory, which together provide a framework for understanding how internal financial decisions and adaptive capabilities influence business outcomes. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted, and data were collected from 227 MSE owners and managers using structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including multiple linear regression. The findings revealed that all three factors, access to finance, entrepreneurial orientation, and taxation policies, have significant positive associations with organizational performance. Among them, entrepreneurial orientation emerged as the strongest predictor. The results underscore the importance of internal capabilities and strategic behavior in driving performance, particularly in dynamic and resource-constrained environments. The study recommends that policymakers improve access to credit, simplify tax compliance procedures, and strengthen entrepreneurship development programs. MSE managers are also encouraged to enhance their financial management skills and embrace innovation and proactive strategies. These insights contribute to the broader discussion on MSE performance by offering evidence-based guidance for improving performance outcomes in urban informal economies.
Determinants of turnover intention in Gen Z employees in commercial banks in Nairobi, Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Mugambi, C. M.
Across the globe and in Kenya, the labor market is experiencing the entry of Gen Z employees; however, their turnover rate is high. As a result, this study examined the factors affecting turnover intention in Gen Z employees in Nairobi, Kenya. The specific objectives were to examine the effects of job satisfaction, emotional exhaustion, and organizational commitment on turnover in Gen Z employees working in Nairobi. The study was based on Mobley’s Model of the Turnover Process (MTP) and the Conservation of Resources Theory (COR). Positivism philosophy with the descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted. The population for this research comprised of Gen Zs employed in banks in in Nairobi. The required sample size for this research is 389, which was obtained using judgmental sampling. the eligibility criteria that were employed included being a Gen Z (1997-2012), and being in the formal workforce. To collect primary data, self-administered structured questionnaires were used, which were distributed using email invitations, Google forms and paper-based questionnaires. The collected data was analyzed using correlations and multiple linear regression through Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. The findings revealed a strong and statistically significant positive correlation between emotional exhaustion and turnover intention, indicating that higher levels of emotional exhaustion were associated with increased intentions to leave the organization. Regression analysis further showed that emotional exhaustion was the strongest predictor of turnover intention. These results suggest that when employees experience mental exhaustion, job stress, fatigue, burnout and frustration, they are more likely to consider leaving their jobs. Therefore, organizations that fail to address emotional exhaustion risk losing their younger workforce to burnout-driven turnover. Secondly. The results showed a significant negative correlation between job satisfaction and turnover intention, meaning that as job satisfaction increases, the likelihood of turnover decreases. Regression results confirmed this relationship, indicating that job satisfaction significantly and negatively predicted turnover intention. These findings underscore the importance of cultivating job satisfaction through meaningful work, supportive environments, autonomy and work relationships as a way to minimize employees' intention to leave. In addition, a significant negative correlation was found between organizational commitment and turnover intention, which suggests that employees who feel more emotionally connected and loyal to their organizations are less likely to consider leaving. Regression analysis further supported this finding by showing that organizational commitment was a significant negative predictor of turnover intention. Thus, strengthening commitment through enhancing employees’ pride in their organization, their emotional connection to the organization, sense of loyalty and responsibility, and reciprocity can be a key strategy for retaining Gen Z talent in the banking sector.
Effect of organization culture on employee burnout in the banking industry in Nairobi County, Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Kagose, E.
Burnout is prevalent in the workplace in varying degrees across nations, sectors, or categories of employees. In Kenya, past studies on employee burnout report a prevalence of 62% in the banking industry. Given that banking plays a significant role in the national economy, it is imperative for commercial banks to develop and implement strategies to reduce this burnout. Global evidence suggests there is a role for organizational culture on burnout among bank employees. Yet, research on this relationship in Kenya’s banking sector remains scarce. Therefore, this research investigated effect of organization culture on employee burnout in the banking industry in Nairobi County, Kenya. Its specific objectives were to: analyse market culture effect on employee burnout in the banking industry in Nairobi County; examine clan culture effect on employee burnout in the banking industry in Nairobi County; determine hierarchy culture effect on employee burnout in the banking industry in Nairobi County; and assessing adhocracy culture influence on employee burnout in the banking industry in Nairobi County. The study was underpinned on competing values framework theory and job demands-resources theory. A positivist research philosophy that integrated descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted. Out of a population of 12,882 clerical staff around the country, the target population of the study was 271 clerical staff in headquarters of commercial banks in Nairobi County. Using a sample size determination formula, 161 participants were decided as the sample size. A structured questionnaire adapted from previous studies was administered to respondents after a pilot study and confirming its validity and reliability. Both drop and pick later method and online Google forms modes of administration were used. The data was analysed descriptively first and thereafter followed by inferential statistical analysis by way of the Pearson (r) correlation and multiple linear regression using the statistical package for the social sciences. The findings were captured in tables and supported by interpretation and discussions. The findings revealed that the four organizational culture types explained 17.4% of change in employee burnout and this was statistically significant. The coefficients indicated that market culture, adhocracy culture, and hierarchy culture did not have any relationship with employee burnout. On the other hand, the study found that clan culture had a negative and significant effect on employee burnout implying that increasing clan culture practice would reduce burnout among clerical staff. The study concludes that clan culture has a positive outcome for employee burnout. Market culture, hierarchy culture, and adhocracy culture did not have any outcomes on employee burnout among clerical staff. The study recommends that the government, through the Central Bank of Kenya, the government can support initiatives aimed to promote wellness in the sector such funding for counseling and treatment centers for mental health issues. The study recommends for top management in banks to promote the tenets of clan culture into their company’s vision, mission, and core values. This can be achieved by creating initiatives in the organization that recognize and award team work and collaboration among employees.
Effect of technology adoption on the sustainable competitive advantage of commercial banks in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Muriuki, C. M.
The banking industry had been grappling with a dynamic landscape characterized by rapid technological advancements, regulatory changes, and evolving customer preferences. The proliferation of fintech innovations and advancements in digital technologies had been transforming the banking landscape, compelling banks to adapt and incorporate digital solutions to remain relevant and competitive. The objective of the study was to determine the effect of technology adoption capabilities on the sustainable competitive advantage of commercial banks in Kenya. The specific objectives were to investigate the impact of automation on sustainable competitive advantage of commercial banks in Kenya, to establish the impact of alternative channels on sustainable competitive advantage of commercial banks in Kenya, to determine the impact of optimization of Human Capital on sustainable competitive advantage of commercial banks in Kenya and to determine the impact of customer relationship management on sustainable competitive advantage of commercial banks in Kenya. The study was anchored on four theories: resource dependency theory, technology adoption theory, expectation disconfirmation theory, and Porter’s theory of competitive advantage. Furthermore, the study was framed within the pragmatist point of view, employing a descriptive research design to elucidate the correlation between the variables under investigation. The population under scrutiny encompassed the 39 commercial banks operational in Kenya as of December 2023. Data collection hinged upon a semi-structured questionnaire, which was administered to two respondents from each bank. The targeted participants consisted of managers within the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Business Development departments or individuals occupying analogous roles. The findings revealed that the automation of the bank processes enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and improves service delivery, while alternative banking channels such as mobile and internet banking increase accessibility and customer convenience. In relation to the role of adopting technology in the bank alternative channels, the findings reveal that it significantly enhances sustainable competitive advantage by increasing accessibility of the bank products, improves customer engagement, and facilitate personalized financial services. In relation to the technology adoption of the human capital function, the findings reveal that the bank operations are optimized because it improves the organization training and talent management, which in turn enhances productivity and innovation, fosters customer loyalty and brand reputation. Technology adoption in the CRM technologies was found to enhance the organizations data analytics capabilities, which in turn led to improved customer satisfaction, loyalty, and long- term business growth. The study underscores the need for banks to integrate technology adoption with digital transformation and regulatory compliance to maximize competitiveness. In regard to the digitalization of customer It also highlights policy implications, emphasizing the role of regulators in fostering a supportive environment for financial innovation. By aligning with the resource-based view (RBV) theory, this research contributes to existing knowledge on technology-driven competitiveness in the banking sector, offering insights for scholars, industry practitioners, and policymakers. Key words: Sustainable competitive advantage; Alternative channels, automation, human capital
Effects of internationalization strategies on the organizational performance of emerging multinational enterprises in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Ndengah, B. L.
The internationalization of multinational corporations from emerging markets is a growing phenomenon in international business. Yet, their expansion into developing and developed markets remains sparsely explored in international business research. Empirical evidence of factors influencing their performance in these developing markets is limited. Accordingly, this study examines the effects of internationalization strategies on the performance of emerging multinational enterprises in Kenya. The specific objectives were to: (1) assess the influence of the amalgamation strategy, (2) examine the effect of the ambidexterity strategy, and (3) evaluate the influence of the adaptability strategy on the organizational performance of emerging multinational enterprises in Kenya. The study was anchored on the Springboard Theory of International Business and the Balanced Scorecard framework of organizational performance. A postpositivist research philosophy and a descriptive research design were adopted. The target population was 213 multinational corporations from which 47 emerging multinational enterprises headquartered in Nairobi County represented the study unit of analysis. The purposive sampling method was used, targeting 3–5 top-level managers per firm, resulting in a sample size of 235 respondents. Data collection was carried out using a structured questionnaire, which was pretested for reliability and validity. The results indicated that both ambidexterity and adaptability strategies had a significant positive impact on organizational performance, whereas the amalgamation strategy demonstrated no statistically significant effect. The study concludes that ambidexterity and adaptability strategies drive success for emerging multinational enterprises in Kenya. The study recommends policies to support talent development in meeting emerging multinational enterprises’ human capital needs and implementing intellectual property reforms to foster innovation. For practitioners, emerging multinational enterprise managers should prioritize market-specific product design and leverage local resources, technical expertise and natural assets to establish themselves in developing markets such as Kenya.
Effects of training and development on sustainability of social enterprises: a case of Sisters´ Blended Value Project
(Strathmore University, 2025) Nasiali, C. M.
This study assessed the effect of training and development on the sustainability of social enterprises, focusing on the participation of the Catholic sisters in the Sisters´ Blended Value Project (SBVP) in Kenya. The dependent variable was sustainable social enterprises, which was measured by studying the performance of social, economic and environmental principles. The study was anchored on innovation theory, theory of change and stakeholder theory. A pragmatism research philosophy was adopted with a mixed method approach where both quantitative and qualitative approaches to data collection were used. Quantitatively, a survey was administered while qualitatively, interviews and Focused Group Discussions (FGDs) was acquired. Descriptive research design was used to implement quantitative and qualitative data collection. The target population was 280 from which a sample of 160 was derived using the Yamane’s formula (1967) and purposive sampling applied. This involved sisters who had benefitted from the SBVP and stakeholders. Quantitative data was collected using a survey Google form, and a link was sent to the study respondents via email or WhatsApp. This comprised questions that sought demographic information connecting to the research competencies. Structured interview questions were prepared for the interview and used for the FGDs. In addition, the study will be significant in that it will facilitate different stakeholders, including policymakers in the Catholic Church and academicians on how to continue supporting the project's beneficiaries. This study was carried out in Kenya between April and May 2024. The study found that financial literacy is statistically significant to sustainability of Catholic sisters’ social enterprises, marketing skills statistically significant to sustainability, and entrepreneurial skills statistically significant to sustainability of social enterprises of Catholic sisters in Kenya. The study concluded that training and development have significant effects on the sustainability of social enterprises of Catholic sisters in Kenya. The study recommends that Catholic sisters operating Blended Value Projects should ensure implementation of training and development programs for their employees to sharpen their skills and capacity in delivering the desired operation outcomes in order to foster business sustainability. Keywords: Social Enterprise, Sustainability, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Leadership development, Capacity building
Factors affecting adoption of digital transformation among vehicle automotive firms in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Kyalo, C.
Digital transformation has been reshaping industries worldwide, with a growing emphasis on creating new business models for customized products and enhanced customer experiences. In the automotive sector, this study explores the effects of resource, leadership, and organizational factors on digital transformation adoption in Kenya. This study leverages Disruptive Innovation Theory and Resource based View (RBV) theory. Through descriptive research and stratified sampling, 306 respondents were surveyed, revealing effects of digital, leadership, and organizational factors on absorption of digital transformation in the motor vehicle industry. The study uncovered a significant positive correlation between digital resource factors and the industry's ability to absorb digital transformation. Moreover, the research highlighted the crucial role of leadership factors, demonstrating their statistically significant influence on the absorption of digital transformation. This supports the idea that organizational resources act as a competitive advantage, aiding in the adoption of appropriate business models. Additionally, the study emphasized the impact of organizational factors, revealing a consensus among participants regarding their effect on digital transformation absorption. Overall, the findings underscore the importance of digital resources, leadership, and organizational factors in driving successful digital transformation initiatives within Kenya's motor vehicle industry. List of Keywords: Adoption of Digital Transformation, Digital Resources Factors, Leadership Factors, Organization Factors
Factors influencing customer satisfaction with online food Delivery platforms in Nairobi County
(Strathmore University, 2025) Mbau, B. N.
The online food delivery sector in globally has experienced substantial growth, largely due to the increasing reliance on digital platforms for food ordering. This study explored the key factors influencing customer satisfaction with online food delivery services in Nairobi, focusing on aspects such as food quality, service quality, order fulfillment, and platform usability. The research was anchored in two theoretical frameworks: the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which highlights the importance of perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness in technology adoption, and the SERVQUAL Model, which evaluated how different service quality dimensions impact customer satisfaction. A quantitative research approach was employed, utilizing data collected from Nairobi residents who actively use online food delivery applications. The study sample was 385 respondents who were sampled randomly from the residents of the county. The research adopted structured questionnaires in the data collection with electronic and physical questionnaires designed for the data collection process. The study applied quantitative analysis using a mix of descriptive and inferential approaches with tables and figures used in the presentation of the results. Conclusions were that food quality has an insignificant effect on improving the level of customer satisfaction with online food delivery services among Kenyan consumers. The findings supported the conclusion that both platform usability and service quality significantly improved the customer satisfaction with online food delivery services. The study concludes that customers are satisfied with the delivery time which is reasonable and meet customer expectations. Further, it was established that customers find online food delivery platforms to be easy to navigate, stable and free from crashes and glitches that can cause customer satisfaction. Recommendations on policy development were that the hotels should focus on food quality factors such as freshness and packaging to ensure these are maintained at healthy and clean levels to meet customer expectations. The study also recommends that managers strive to adapt platforms that are flexible and easy to use as this would increase customer satisfaction. Further the firms should strive to maintain a manageable customer base to ensure they maintain timely delivery times and ensure they control food temperature and presentation during delivery. Finally, the study calls on these firms to adopt digital technologies to improve route optimization and improve delivery time to maintain freshness and temperature.
Factors influencing the adoption of electric vehicles in Nairobi County, Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Narandass, A. H.
While EVs have been touted as one of the key solutions to the problem of climate change, the adoption of these vehicles is low, especially in developing countries. This study addressed disagreement and contextual gaps in the literature regarding the adoption of EVs in developing markets where adoption rates are low. The aim of the study was to examine the factors that influence the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Nairobi City County. The specific objectives were to examine the effect of technological, economic, and infrastructural factors on the adoption of EVs. The positivism philosophy guided the study. The research employed a descriptive cross-sectional design with a sample of 400 registered drivers and vehicle owners. Structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data. Analysis of the data was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics used were means and standard deviation, which were used to summarize the variables. Inferential statistics, especially multiple linear regression, was used to examine the association between the dependent and independent variables. The statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software was used to analyze the data. Findings from multiple regression analysis indicate that economic and infrastructural factors have significant positive effect while the effect of economic factors is positive but not significant. Therefore, this study concludes that economic and infrastructural factors are significant predictors of EV adoption in Nairobi City County. It, therefore, recommends the government and actors in the automotive industry to adopt industrywide strategies aimed at improving economic conditions and infrastructural factors to increase the adoption of EVs. Keywords: Electric Vehicles, technological factors, economic factors, infrastructural factors
Factors influencing the adoption of open banking by employees of commercial banks in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Wokabi, A.
The banking sector is experiencing rapid digital transformation, with open banking emerging as a disruptive technology. Open banking enables third-party financial service providers to access customers’ banking data through Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). While developed nations increasingly embrace open banking, its adoption in Kenya remains limited. Some factors attributed to this limited penetration include an organisation’s readiness, regulatory support or uncertainty, digital literacy, and technological infrastructure. This study explored the factors influencing open banking adoption among employees of Kenya’s commercial banks. Specifically, the study examined how regulatory support, technological infrastructure, digital literacy, and organizational readiness determined open banking adoption. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) models were the frameworks that allowed for an understanding of the study’s variables. Adopting a positivist research philosophy, this study employed a descriptive cross-sectional research design. The researcher then collected data from employees working in Kenya’s licensed commercial banks through structured questionnaires using a five-point Likert scale. The sample size of 387 respondents was determined using Yamane’s formula to ensure diverse representation across the three bank tiers. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including multiple linear regression, were used to analyse the relationships between the variables. The findings revealed that technological infrastructure and regulatory support significantly impact employees’ intention to adopt open banking, with organizational readiness influencing adoption moderately. Conversely, digital literacy was found to have a weak influence on bank employees’ intention to adopt open banking. The study concluded that banking institutions should prioritise stronger regulatory frameworks, robust technological infrastructure, and organizational readiness for open banking adoption to succeed in Kenya. These findings provide insights to guide policymakers, commercial banks, and regulators in improving the regulatory and technological environment for open banking to flourish in Kenya. Although the study fulfilled its intended purpose, it was limited as its findings were not generalisable to other regions of Kenya, as the focus was on commercial banks in Nairobi County. Another limitation was that the study only focused on a limited set of variables, including regulatory support, technological infrastructure, organisational readiness, and digital literacy.
Impact of change management on the performance of Small and Medium Enterprises within the healthcare sector in Nairobi County
(Strathmore University, 2025) Githige, C. W.
This study aimed to assess the impact of change management on the performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within the healthcare sector in Nairobi County. Change management is crucial for organizational success as it defines standards and procedures that enhance performance. The study focused on three objectives: examining the impact of strategic leadership change, investigating the effect of technological changes, and evaluating the influence of organizational culture change on SME performance. The findings will help SMEs develop policies to drive growth. The study was based on Kotter’s 8-step model, Lewin’s 3-step model, and the Balanced Scorecard. A cross-sectional survey design was used for data accuracy, targeting senior managers from healthcare SMEs. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to respondents to collect data for the study, which used descriptive analysis and SPSS for both qualitative and quantitative data. The correlation tests revealed statistically significant positive linear associations between strategic leadership, technological changes, organizational culture, and the performance of SMEs within the healthcare sector in Nairobi County, Kenya. Regression analysis further confirmed a significant positive relationship between change management and SME performance. Additionally, the analysis found that technological changes and organizational culture had a significant effect on the performance of healthcare SMEs in Nairobi County. The study recommends that the government should introduce grants and subsidies to support the adoption of advanced technologies in healthcare SMEs. The study also suggests that managers and leaders should clearly communicate the organization’s vision and mission to all employees as well as aligning organizational goals with the vision and mission to ensure everyone is working towards common objectives. The study also recommends that organizations should promote behaviors and practices that create a conducive and motivating work climate.
Impact of organizational characteristics on change management practices at digital credit providers in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Wandurwa, D.
The Central Bank of Kenya's 2022 Digital Credit Providers Regulations introduced clear standards to ensure transparency and ethical practices in digital lending. This study aimed to examine the effect of organizational characteristics on change management practices implemented by Digital Credit Providers in Kenya in response to these regulations. The specific objectives were to determine the influence of governance structure, financial performance, firm age, and ownership structure on strategic changes and operational changes among Digital Credit Providers in Kenya. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative insights and quantitative analysis through questionnaires administered to employees of Digital Credit Providers regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the quantitative data, while qualitative data from open-ended questions were examined using content analysis techniques to provide deeper insights into the providers' experiences and perspectives. The study found that governance structure, financial performance, firm age, and ownership structure had significant positive influences on both strategic changes and operational changes. Regression analysis revealed that these organizational characteristics collectively explained a substantial portion of the variation in strategic changes and operational changes. Financial performance emerged as the strongest predictor of strategic changes, while ownership structure showed the strongest influence on operational changes. Governance structure demonstrated a significant impact on both strategic adaptations and operational adjustments, with robust governance mechanisms enabling effective decision-making and compliance management. Firm age had a positive effect on strategic changes and operational changes, with established regulatory relationships and accumulated operational insights facilitating smoother adaptation. The study concludes that organizational characteristics play a pivotal role in shaping digital credit providers' ability to implement strategic and operational changes in response to regulatory requirements. The findings underscore the importance of well-designed governance frameworks, robust financial standing, accumulated experience through firm age, and clear ownership structures in driving successful regulatory compliance and adaptation. The study recommends that policymakers should consider providing guidance on optimal board compositions and structures, implementing supportive measures to help providers manage the financial impact of compliance, adopting a tiered approach to compliance requirements based on firm age, and establishing guidelines related to ownership structure to promote transparency and responsible practices.
Influence of Corporate Social Responsibility strategies on corporate performance in the food and beverage industry in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2025) Sang, H. K.
The fundamental concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is conducting business in a way that satisfies or goes beyond societal norms in terms of ethics, law, commerce, and public perception. Corporate performance is the sum total of financial, operational and social responsibility performance. Several studies have been conducted on CSR, however, there are limited studies focusing on CSR in food and beverage industry in Kenya. The main objective of the study is: To establish the influence of Corporate Social Responsibility strategies on corporate performance among food and beverage companies in Kenya. The specific objectives of the study are: To determine the effect of environmental strategies on the corporate performance of food and beverage companies in Kenya. To establish the effect of social strategies on the corporate performance of food and beverage companies in Kenya. To find out the effect of economic practices on the corporate performance of food and beverage companies in Kenya. The study provided firms that aimed at maximizing their corporate social responsibility policies with useful insights by elucidating the distinct impacts of environmental, consumer, employee, and community interactions on performance. The study was anchored on social exchange theory, and stakeholder theory. It was an examination of the corporate social responsibility strategies implemented by food and beverage companies in Nairobi as given by KAM (2019). This included 86 companies in the food and beverage industry. The study took one respondent per company targeting a total of 86 participants. The research philosophy to be adopted in this study was the positivist approach. Positivist researchers follow highly structured methodology in order to facilitate the hypothesis as was followed in this study. The research utilized a descriptive cross-sectional research design as a result of the ability of the design to accurately portray the characteristic of a phenomena. The sample size was composed of 86 respondents selected from the 86 identified organizations where only head of department or deputy head of department was given a chance to participate in the study. Data collection method incorporated structured questionnaires. The study adopted quantitative and qualitative data analysis. Data entry was done using SPSS software to generate the descriptive statistics like standard deviation for each study variable. Content analysis was used whereby information collected would be categorized in text, verbal or behavioral information with the purpose of classifying, summarizing and tabulating. Pearson Product-Moment correlation was calculated to establish the relationships between the variables. Regression analysis test was utilized to give the linear relationship between the predictor and dependent variable. The findings underscored the significant role of CSR in enhancing corporate performance. A majority of respondents (72%) indicated that CSR initiatives, such as green procurement positively influence corporate performance by reducing operational costs and fostering innovation. Similarly, CSR such as education support was established that it created shared valued by advancing social and corporate agenda.
Influence of Enterprise Risk Management integration on financial performance of non-life insurance companies in Kenya with the moderating effect of regulatory framework
(Strathmore University, 2025) Njiru, A. K.
Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) is a comprehensive approach, encompassing processes, structures, culture, and infrastructure, that organizations implement to identify and manage potential risks within their risk appetite. It is integrated into strategic planning and operational activities to provide reasonable assurance of achieving organizational objectives. While the theoretical benefits of ERM are well-established, its practical implementation, particularly within the dynamic and often volatile non-life insurance sector, presents significant challenges. This study addresses the empirical problem of understanding the specific influence of integrated ERM systems on the financial performance of non-life insurance companies in Kenya. It aimed to evaluate the distinct impacts of ERM process, culture, structure, and infrastructure integration on financial performance of non-life insurance companies in Kenya. To achieve this, the study was guided by guided by agency theory and contingency theory which provided a comprehensive theoretical framework. A descriptive research design was employed, targeting managers of five key departments (chief risk officers, chief finance manager, head of claims, head of underwriting, and head of sales/business development) across all 37 non-life insurance companies in Kenya who were selected using a purposive sampling method with a targeted population of 185 staff and a respondent sample size of 155 staff. Primary data was collected using structured questionnaires, while secondary data, including financial reports, was gathered using data collection sheets. Both descriptive and inferential statistical methods were adopted for data analysis. Findings suggest a state of underwhelming adoption of ERM components, especially ERM processes, structures, and infrastructure in Kenya’s non-life insurance sector. Inferential statistics reveal that integrating ERM culture and structure yields significant positive effects on both ROA and ROE whereas ERM process and infrastructure, while significantly predictive of ROA, does not extend to ROE. Additionally, the current regulatory framework does not significantly moderate the relationship between ERM practices and financial performance. Therefore, this study recommends that policymakers should enhance the regulatory environment to better complement the integration of ERM practices and that individual non-life insurance companies should prioritize investing in ERM culture and structure integration to optimize their financial performance, particularly in terms of improved ROA and ROE.
Integrated Financial Management Information System and financial accountability among government agencies in Kenya: the moderating role of IPSAS accounting standards
(Strathmore University, 2025) Maina, E. W.
Corporate accounting scandals and financial scandals in the public sector have become more prevalent in Kenya in recent years, according to reports from governance institutions like the Office of the Auditor General, Controller of Budgets, and Ethics and Anticorruption Commission. IFMIS was expected to reduce such incidences by enhancing financial accountability. The main aim of this research proposal is to assess the effect of IFMIS on financial accountability among government agencies in Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to; analyse the effect of IFMIS electronic procurement on financial accountability, to establish the effect of IFMIS budgeting on financial accountability to assess the effect of IFMIS financial reporting on financial accountability, and to assess the moderating effect of IPSAS on financial accountability in the public sector. The research adopted the agency theory, institutional theory, and the technology acceptance model. A descriptive research design was used in this research. The study population was the 401 government agencies in Kenya. The unit of observation was the head of internal audit in each government agency. The study utilized primary data collected using a questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the acquired data after it has been converted into a quantitative format. Mean and standard deviation will be included in the descriptive statistics, while the Pearson correlation and regression analysis was included in the inferential statistics. This study examined the relationship between IFMIS procurement, IFMIS budgeting, IFMIS financial reporting, IPSAS accounting standards, and financial accountability in Kenya's public sector. Further, the IPSAS accounting Standards were introduced as a moderating variable in the study. The study findings revealed significant positive correlations between the three independent variables and financial accountability. The regression analysis established a significant positive causal relationship between IFMIS electronic procurement and financial accountability, a significant positive relationship between IFMIS budgeting and financial accountability, and a significant positive relationship between IFMIS financial reporting and financial accountability. Further, IPSAS accounting standards were found to enhance the relationship between the IFMIS elements and financial accountability. This was indicated by an increase in the explanatory power of the model after accounting for the moderation effect, showing that the IPSAS accounting standards enhance this relationship. These results suggest that effective adoption and implementation of these systems significantly improve transparency, accountability, and overall public financial management. The study concluded that IFMIS and IPSAS accounting standards play critical roles in enhancing financial accountability within Kenya's public sector. It recommended capacity-building initiatives to improve user proficiency, regular system audits, and stricter adherence to IPSAS standards. Additionally, harmonizing regulatory frameworks and fostering transparency through open data initiatives were suggested to enhance system effectiveness. For future research, the study recommended investigating other financial management tools, analyzing contextual factors influencing system effectiveness, and employing mixed methods to capture diverse perspectives on financial accountability.

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