School of Arts and Social Sciences

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Assessing the Effectiveness of Local-Based Approaches Adopted Towards Addressing Terrorism in Lamu County, Kenya and Baadadhe District, Somalia
(African Journal of Empirical Research, 2024-02-18) Odhiambo, Elijah Onyango Standslause; et.al
In the global context, terrorism has evolved into a complex and transnational threat. Al-Shabaab posed significant threats, particularly to East African countries, due to its capacity for numerous attacks in Somalia and neighboring nations. Despite employing alternative strategies, such as a multiagency and comprehensive government approach to tackle terrorism in Lamu and Baadadhe, acts of terror persisted in the region. The study explored the efficacy of a populace-centered approach in curbing terrorism in Somalia and Kenya. The populace-centered approach aimed to actively involve the local population in Lamu County, Basuba Ward, in socio-economic development initiated by security personnel to address the root cause of insecurity problems. The approach was guided by the Securitization theory, System theory, and Power theory, which held a significant relationship with the terror threats and insecurity challenges in Lamu County and Baadadhe district. The study employed a descriptive research design with stratified sampling, with target population 4506 and a sample size of 363 obtained through Slovin sampling formula. It gathered stakeholders' perspectives through questionnaires, interviews, and group discussions. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses . Quantitative data was analyzed through statistical analysis while qualitative data was analyzed thematic analysis. The analysis revealed community responses to terrorism, including physical and cyber threats, through initiatives like neighborhood watch groups and religious collaborations. The study highlighted the importance of strengthening existing structures like neighborhood watch groups and enhancing collaborations with religious leaders and schools. The study concluded that the populace involvement in countering terrorism in Lamu, Kenya and Baadadhe, Somalia reflects a vigilant and multifaceted approach encompassing various aspects, from physical to cyber threats. Further, the research concluded that populace-centered approach is effective in curbing terrorism through information sharing. The study recommended for active involvement of community leaders in security committees and advocated for a legal framework supporting a populace-centered approach to counter-terrorism. Policymakers and security agencies should consider diverse economic and environmental contexts in Lamu County, Kenya, Baadadhe, Somalia
Assessing the Socio-Economic Impact of the Chinese Transfer of Values, Skills, and Technology in Infrastructural Development in Kenya
(African Journal of Empirical Research, 2023-02-18) Odhiambo, Elijah Onyango Standslause; et.al
This study assessed the socio-economic impact of Chinese principle of transfer of values, skills and technology in infrastructural development in Kenya. This study was based on dependency, modernization and power theories which informed the conceptual framework of the research. This study adopted descriptive research design. Data was collected by the use of Questionnaires, interview guides and focus group discussion and desk top review. Qualitative and quantitative techniques were used for data analysis and presentation. The data obtained was presented in bar graphs, tables and percentages. The study found that during Chinese infrastructural development in Kenya, the informal sector benefited from China's skill transfer. The study concluded that Kenya-China bilateral relations has impacted positively on Kenya's international relation which is indicated by increased Foreign Direct Investments into Kenya by specifically Western states. The researcher recommends that Kenyan government should formulate a policy that will ensure that the technological skills impacted on Kenyan workers by the Chinese construction firms should be improved and included in the Kenyan schools’ curriculum.
Challenges to Peaceful Nominations: Youth Participation in Politics in Homa Bay County, Kenya
(African Journal of Empirical Research, 2024-02-18) Odhiambo,Elijah Onyango Standslause; et.al
This research article underscored challenges to peaceful nominations by focusing on youth participation in politics of Homa Bay County Kenya. The research reviewed various literatures that informed the findings of the study. The article was informed by two theories; institutionalism theory and pluralism theory. Since it was a qualitative study, it adopted cross sectional research design. Data was collected by use of interview guides, focus group discussions and secondary sources. It was analyzed by use of content and thematic analysis. The analyzed data was presented by use of themes and verbatim quotations. The researcher found out that; Political violence, fueled by socio-economic and ethnic tensions, disrupts peaceful nominations in Homa Bay, compromising democratic integrity and limiting youth participation. It concluded that; Political violence undermines Homa Bay’s democratic stability, fostering fear and exclusion. Institutional and pluralism theories support reforms for inclusive electoral processes. Therefore, the researcher recommended that; Strengthen electoral institutions, ensure transparency, foster socio-economic development, and promote dialogue to reduce political violence and support youth engagement.
Contribution of Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices on Food Availability among Smallholder Farmers in Laikipia County, Kenya
(Rigorous Journal of Research and Development (RJRD), 2024-11-13) Recha, Charles W.; et.al
Climate change has negatively impacted on bio-diversity, rural livelihoods, national and global economies. Several smallholder farmers in Laikipia County have adopted a number of Climate Smart Agricultural Practices (CSAPs) as mitigation measures and coping strategies, including water harvesting and use, conservation agriculture, agroforestry, pest and disease control, and crop diversification. This study sought to assess the contribution of climate smart agricultural practices on food availability among smallholder farmers in Laikipia County, Kenya. It was guided by the action theory of adaptation and the correlation research design was used. The accessible population were 74,282 households who were practicing small scale farming in Laikipia County during the 2021/2022 cropping season. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to obtain a representative sample of 384. Questionnaire and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were used to collect primary data. Descriptive and inferential statistics (ordered logistic regression) using Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) program version 28 were used to analyze data. Results showed that food availability significantly improved as a result of climate-smart agriculture [the coefficient for Climate-Smart Agriculture (0.400) was positive and statistically significant at 5% (p-value = 0.000)]. Smallholder farmers who have not implemented CSAPs recommendations should be encouraged to start practicing due to its positive contribution to food availability.
Disaster Response Operations Incident Command Systems in Mombasa County, Kenya
(Open Access Library Journal, 2023-06-06) Odhiambo, E. Onyango Standslause; et.al
Most of the previous disaster response by first responders shows the insigni ficant existence of a management structure that syntheses complex disaster scenarios and response under exceptional circumstances as a unitary system. Cases of Delay in response to emergencies resulting in death and uncoordi nated response are prevalent among response organizations due to minimal use of Incident Command System. Globally, the U.S. response organization’s ability to provide effective and coordinated responses to complex incidents came under intense scrutiny in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the dissemination of anthrax in 2001. Regionally, the response to the Ebola virus outbreak in Sierra Leone overwhelmed the national capacity to contain it necessitating a massive international response. The inapplicability of the Incident Command System contributed to the duplication of efforts between the coordination groups, and slow resource mobilization. At a national level, the 2002 Mombasa attack was a two-pronged terrorist attack on 28 November 2002 in Mombasa, Kenya against an Israeli-owned hotel and a plane belong ing to Arkia Airlines. An all-terrain vehicle crashed through a barrier outside the Paradise Hotel and blew up, killing 13 and injuring 80. At the same time, attackers fired two surface-to-air missiles at an Israeli charter plane. The Pa radise Hotel was the only Israeli-owned hotel in Mombasa. The Paradise Ho tel terror attack in 2002 in Mombasa and the Westgate terror attack in 2013 in Nairobi showed operation decay. The Westgate terror attack siege lasted 80 hours and resulted in at least 67 deaths and more than 175 people wounded in the mass shooting. A fatal friendly fire incident between security forces undermined the response and left the attackers free to prolong their slaugh ter. This research, therefore, sought to examine the structure of Mombasa County Incident Command System of a few selected organizations influen cing disaster response operations. Contingency theory and goal theory guided the study. A descriptive research design was used. A stratified sampling tech nique was used to determine the sample category of 155 respondents from, the Red Cross Society, Kenya Police Service, Mombasa Fire Brigade, and National Youth Service. The instruments of data collection were structured questionnaires. SPSS version 27 was used to analyze data and then presented it on tables and graphs. Test validity refers to the degree to which the test ac tually measures what it claims to measure. Test validity is also the extent to which inferences, conclusions, and decisions made on the basis of test scores are appropriate and meaningful. Validity was determined using content va lidity while reliability using a retest process. Results indicated that differences in organizations’ Incident Command System affected effective response to disaster operations. Also, lack of cooperation by multiagency, waste and dup lication of resources, and difficulty in coordinating response activities were the challenges identified that an organization face while responding to large disasters in the absence of the Incident Command System. The study recom mends that response agencies should embrace fostering cooperation during joint operations to avoid waste of resources and duplication of roles and dif ficulty in coordinating response activities through the use of the Incident Command System.
Effectiveness of Multitrack Diplomacy Actors in Critical Assessment of Kenya’s Presidential Election Outcomes, 2007-2017
(Journal of Political Science and International Relations, 2021-02-18) Odhiambo, Elijah Onyango Standslause; et.al
In Kenya’s last four presidential elections, election observers had been seriously looked upon by both the Kenyan voters and the international community to provide alternative but credible information on the process and outcomes of presidential elections in Kenya. This was expected to promote legitimacy of the outcomes. Given that there was a dearth of specific scholarship to address the question, this study was conducted. This paper therefore examines the effectiveness of multitrack diplomacy in monitoring Kenya’s presidential election outcomes. The study was epistemological. It was conducted in 8 of the 17 constituencies of Nairobi City County which hosts the Kenya’s largest city and its capital with a natural representation of the population of the entire country. Out of the over 4 million residents of Nairobi City County, total sample size was 441 (384 questionnaire respondents, 32 focus group discussion participants and 25 key informant interview respondents). The study reached 436 (384 questionnaire respondents, 32 focus group discussion participants and 20 key informant interview respondents) out of 4 million people. Targeted were Kenya citizens who had voted at least once for a presidential candidate in any of the presidential elections held between 2007 and 2017 for the survey; individuals working with and for government institutions in Kenya’s electoral systems especially the election management body, ministry of foreign affairs, members of parliament, the Chief Justice, pollsters, the media, non-governmental organizations, religious institutions across all faiths as to Muslims, Christians and Hindu, major political parties, former election observers and diplomatic missions. The study found that multitrack diplomacy (MTD) actors or election observer missions (EOMs) observed election irregularities to above 50%. They detected electoral fraud in the 2007 presidential elections, identified election irregularities in the 2013 and the 2017 presidential elections but could not deter nor prevent outcome fraud. The paper, based on the study, concluded that multitrack diplomacy actors that monitored the presidential elections were fairly effective, they had reasonable capacity, fairly above 50%. Overall, multitrack diplomacy is effective in monitoring of Kenya’s presidential election but inefficacious in preventing and deterring election outcome fraud. Multitrack diplomacy actors-the election observation missions (EOMs) to use enhanced technology to match the electoral systems technology, improve on their objectivity during monitoring and be granted full accesses by governments and election management bodies (EMBs) for systematic, comprehensive and accurate monitoring.
Extent of Adoption of Selected Climate smart Agricultural Practices among Smallholder Farmers in Laikipia County, Kenya
(International Journal of Environment and Climate Change, 2024-08-31) Recha, Charles W.; et.al
Aim: Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) is an integrative approach to address the challenges of food security and climate change. This study sought to assess the extent of adoption of climate smart agricultural practices in Laikipia County, Kenya. Study Design: This study used correlation research design. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Laikipia county. Specifically in the sub counties Laikipia West, Laikipia East and Laikipia North. The study was carried out in July – August 2022. Methodology: A multi-stage sampling technique was used to obtain a representative sample of 384 smallholder farmers households across the three sub-counties. Systematic random sampling was used to select every tenth household from the sample size. A questionnaire was used to collect data from the sampled households (all of whom were smallholder farmers). Descriptive statistical analysis was used to determine the extent of adoption of selected Climate Smart Agricultural Practices among smallholder farmers in Laikipia County, Kenya. The study used a chi-square (X²) test of independence to establish a relationship in the adoption of CSA practices across the three study sites Results: This study found that crop diversification (87%), mixed farming (crop farming and livestock keeping) (83%), use of pesticides and fungicides (80%) and crop rotation (74%) were the most adopted climate smart agricultural practices (CSAPs). On extent of adoption, full adoption was highest on pest and disease control (54%) and diversification of farming practices (52%); partial adoption was highest in conservation agriculture (54%); and non-adoption was highest on agroforestry (42%). Conclusion: It is recommended that stakeholders should improve the adoption of water harvesting/use, conservation agriculture and agroforestry – critical climate smart agricultural practices in semi-arid environments.
A global perspective on soil science education at third educational level :
(Elsevier, 2022-07-10) Recha, Charles W.; et.al
The pivotal role of soil as a resource is not fully appreciated by the general public. Improving education in soil science represents a challenge in a world where soil resources are under serious threat. Today’s high school students, the world’s future landowners, agriculturalists, and decision makers, have the potential to change society’s apathy towards soils issues. This research aimed to compare the level of soil education in high and/or secondary schools in forty-three countries worldwide, together comprising 62% of the world’s population. Comparisons were made between soil science content discussed in educationally appropriate textbooks via a newly proposed soil information coefficient (SIC). Interviews with teachers were undertaken to better understand how soil science education is implemented in the classroom. Statistical analyses were investigated using clustering. Results showed that gaps in soil science education were most commonly observed in countries where soil science is a non-compulsory or optional subject. Soil science concepts are predominantly a part of geography or environmental science curricula. Consequently, considerable variability in soil science education systems among investigated countries exists. Soil information coefficient‘s outcomes demonstrated that a methodological approach combining textbooks and the use of modern digitally based strategies in the educational process significantly improved soil education performances. Overall, soil science education is under-represented in schools worldwide. Dynamic new approaches are needed to improve pivotal issues such as: i) promoting collaborations and agreements between high school and universities; ii) encouraging workshops and practical exercises such as field activities; and, iii) implementing technology tools. This, in turn, will prepare the next generation to contribute meaningfully towards solving present and future soil problems.
The impact of youth financial empowerment in promoting peace, stability, and development: A study of selected faith-based organizations
(International Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Studies www.socialstudiesjournal.com, 2022-08-04) Korir, Simion Kiprotich; et.al
Regardless of the religious affiliation, the needs and expectations of young people in society are not easy to meet and sustain. Subsequently, different faith-based organizations have responded in different ways resulting in varied levels of success and failure. This paper sought to highlight lessons that the church in Kenya can learn from the Islamic faith based institutions in relation to youth empowerment programs. The goal of the research was to unveil information that would facilitate the enhancement of the present empowerment programs alongside devising strategies on how to develop others to ensure that the needs of the young people are adequately addressed. Using the explorative strategy to survey relevant literature, the study established that the Somali youth empowerment model is structured. On the other hand, most Kenyan churches lack a structured model of financing. Subsequently, Christian faith-based organizations should be encouraged to establish her independent financial institution that can lend to the youth using biblical principles that are not exploitative in nature. Those that already have such in place should improve their operational framework to realize better outcomes. A low interest loan culture should be underscored to encourage many youth to borrow so that they can actively participate in Entrepreneurship.
The Relationship between Political Administrative Interface and Leadership Performance in the Ministry of Petroleum of the Republic of South Sudan
(Open Access Library Journal, 2023-05-24) Odhiambo, ,Elijah Onyango Standslause; et.al
The objective of this study was to examine the influence of political adminis trative interface on leadership performance in the Ministry of Petroleum of the Republic of South Sudan. The study was guided by Leader Member Ex change Theory. The study adopted quantitative descriptive research design targeting 1973 employees working in the Ministry of Petroleum. The re searcher adopted Yamane sampling formula to arrive at 333 employees as the sample size. The main data source was primary data collected using ques tionnaires and interviews. Descriptive statistics techniques were used to ana lyse quantitative data which include frequencies, percentages and mean. Re gression analysis technique was used to analyse the inferential statistics and to test the set hypothesis. The findings were presented in the form of tables and figures. The study established significant influence of political administrative interface on leadership performance in the Ministry of Petroleum and to as sess intervention strategies that could be adopted to improve public leader ship effectiveness in the Ministry of Petroleum. The study further concluded that the poor leadership performance in the Ministry of Petroleum of the Republic of South Sudan was due to weak political administrative interface caused by the existing ineffective organizational structures. The study re commends that the Ministry of Petroleum should enhance the institutional structures for improved leadership performance there should be checks and balances in the operation of the ministry to achieve the desired accountabili ty. Such checks and balances will go a long achieving operational efficiency and optimum resource utilization.
The Nature of Gender Mainstreaming Policies in Nakuru and Narok Counties, Kenya
(African Journal of Empirical Research, 2024-02-18) Odhiambo , Elijah Onyango Standslause; et.al
This study examines the implementation of gender mainstreaming policies at various levels of public administration in Nakuru and Narok Counties, Kenya. It explores the integration of global conceptions, national policymaking, local self-governance, and feminist ideology in achieving gender equality. The research addresses the debate on the capacity of local versus national governments to implement gender equality initiatives. Feminist Theory guided this research. Using a comparative evaluative study design, the study investigates why these policies have not effectively increased women’s political participation. The target population comprised of elected leaders, civil society and the general public of Nakuru and Narok Counties. Stratified random sampling was employed to derive a sample of 335 respondents comprising of 92 elected leaders, 22 civil society members and 221 members of the general public. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions, involving key informants and community members. Quantitative data was analyzed through descriptive statistics while qualitative data from interviews and focus group discussions was analyzed through content analysis. Findings revealed that there was no good familiarity with gender mainstreaming by 135(40.3%). Most of those unfamiliar with gender mainstreaming were from Narok, 68 (50.7%) followed by Nakuru 67(33.3%). Similarly, research showed that a significant portion of respondents in both counties agreed to their awareness of equality and equity, with 32.8% (66) in Nakuru and 28.4% (38) in Narok. This suggests that many people in both Counties recognize the importance of these concepts. The study concludes that the government has significantly shaped these policies, which have advanced gender equality in various ways. However, challenges remain, requiring a comprehensive approach that includes legal reforms, cultural shifts, and targeted support programs. The research recommended that promoting gender-friendly political cultures, challenging patriarchal norms, and providing support and training are essential for empowering women to take on leadership roles and contribute to the political process. This holistic approach is crucial for achieving gender parity in politics and ensuring women’s voices are heard in decision-making.
Women’s Political Participation Opportunities in the Nakuru and Narok Counties of Kenya
(African Journal of Empirical Research, 2024-02-28) Odhiambo,; et.al
This paper focused on the political opportunity to empower women in Nakuru and Narok counties of Kenya by conducting comparative evaluative research. Feminist Theory informed this study, which focuses on gender disparities and how political, economic, and social factors dictate women's roles and engagements. This research aimed to assess the KB clown sketches and their impact on women's political chances. A purposive sampling procedure was adopted in which 335 participants with critical informants, ordinary citizens, and young women interested in leadership positions were sampled. Quantitative and qualitative research was used, and questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions were used to collect data among women to understand the current political situation. Data analysis was done in two ways, which include descriptive and thematic analysis. The quantitative data from the administered questionnaires were analyzed descriptively to produce frequencies and percentages for the findings on women’s political participation opportunities. The information collected from interviews and focus group discussions was analyzed through thematic analysis to develop trends and findings on socio-cultural perspective, policy understanding, and institutional support for women in politics. Research outcomes revealed that despite the improvement in electoral democracy and female representation in the political process, barriers including but not limited to inadequate resource mobilization, conflict of cultures and practices, and unequal/ irregular championing of gender mainstreaming policies and frameworks still inhibit inclusion. These policies were deemed critical because they informed women as to how they could extend effective democracy in political systems while also ensuring that people in a community understood the gains that could be derived from having women's leadership. Research concluded that this can be achieved through efforts to strengthen mentorship programs, increase public appreciation for the importance of women's participation in leadership and governance, and improve the application of supportive policies and laws. Some recommendations focus on political capacity-building and gender sensitization training to empower women for political positions and call on the political parties to encourage gender parity on their list of candidates. Using media and technology in leadership and management to promote role-modeling to women leaders is also essential in establishing relationships and collaboration with other regional and global organizations on lobbying for women's political rights. Research into these matters should be conducted with backup data for a substantive approach to the progress of Nakuru, Narok, and other counties. Individually, these measures present a trajectory toward improving the environment of women's political participation in Kenya.

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