School of Arts and Social Sciences
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Item Nabongo Cultural Centre: A Heritage of the Wanga Kingdom in Kakamega County, Kenya(The Journal of Eastern African Oral Literature, 2025-06-30) Anyonje,Florence MuteheliThe Kenyan Constitution (2010) Article 11(1) recognizes culture as the foundation of the nation and the cumulative civilization of the Kenyan people and nation. In light of this many Kenyans identify with their tribes or ethnic groups and follow their traditions which include the way of dress, food, naming, work and rites of passage. Most Kenyans in the rural areas are proud of their language and cultural heritage (Akama, 2002). Through practice and celebration of our culture we are able to impart values and behavioral norms to the future generations who will in turn continue the legacy and Kenyan identity. D’Souza (1980) describes the Kenyan culture as a way of life that blends tradition and modernity. The question is then how will Kenyans be able to preserve their diverse cultures in light of technological advancements that have changed the way we do almost everything? This paper is a case study of Nabongo Cultural Centre, also known as ‘Eshiembekho’in the local language. It highlights the rich cultural heritage found in this cultural centre in order to create local and international awareness so that researchers, students, tourists among others can all learn the history of the Wanga Kingdom and experience the way of life of the Wanga sub-tribe from this resource centre in Kakamega County. This research was done through participant observation, interviews, document analysis, and archival studies found in Nabongo Cultural Centre. The findings of this paper indicate that indeed this cultural centre is a rich heritage of the Wanga culture and a research centre for Oral Literature.Item Al-Shabaab’s Financial Fortitude: The Link between Funding Strategies and Organizational Resiliency(Open Journal of Political Science, 2025-04-24) Odhiambo,Elijah Onyango Standslause; et.alAl-Shabaab poses a serious threat to regional stability and security. Its financial resilience is notable, as the group has maintained its operational capabilities despite increased global counter-terrorism efforts. The ongoing political instability in Somalia, combined with weak governance structures, has created an environment that allows the group to survive and adapt. Theoretical frameworks such as the Reach Theory, the Terror-Crime Nexus Model, and the Market Model provide important insights into Al-Shabaab’s strategies. A critical factor in Al-Shabaab’s effectiveness is its ability to diversify funding sources. The results of this research indicate that the organization’s territorial control is the major source of its funding. A comprehensive understanding of Al-Shabaab’s financial mechanisms is vital for informing policy decisions aimed at disrupting its funding networks.Item Influence Of Refugees’ Socio-Economic Security On The Livelihoods Of Host Community In Kakuma, Turkana West Sub-County, Turkana County, Kenya(Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies (JAIS), 2025-05-30) Odhiambo, Elijah Onyango Standslause; et.alThe purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of refugees’ socio-economic security, specifically access to healthcare services and housing conditions, on the livelihoods of the host community in Kakuma, Turkana West Sub-County, Kenya. The contention of the article is that amid increasing refugee inflows, host communities face mounting pressure on limited public services and natural resources, yet the localized impacts remain underexplored. Anchored in the Refugee Aid and Development Theory and Social Exchange Theory, the research sought to evaluate how refugee access to healthcare and housing infrastructure affects service delivery, environmental sustainability, and socio-economic well-being among host residents. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional research design and employed a mixed-methods approach. A representative sample of 418 households from the host community was selected through stratified random sampling. Data collection combined structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS for descriptive statistics, while qualitative insights were examined through thematic analysis. Ethical standards were strictly observed throughout the process. Findings reveal that shared healthcare facilities are congested, with 84% of respondents reporting overcrowding, 80% citing overstretched staff, and 73% highlighting frequent drug shortages. Refugee housing expansion was also found to affect land use and environmental stability, with 73% of respondents noting reduced access to traditional grazing land, and 76% linking refugee shelters to deforestation. The study concludes that although refugee integration brings infrastructure improvements, it simultaneously intensifies competition for scarce resources and creates tensions when host needs are inadequately addressed. It recommends inclusive planning, equitable resource allocation, improved healthcare staffing, and sustainable land use policies to enhance coexistence. The findings aim to inform policy and humanitarian strategies for fostering balanced, community-integrated refugee interventions.Item Women’s Political Participation Opportunities in the Nakuru and Narok Counties of Kenya(African Journal of Empirical Research, 2024-02-28) Odhiambo,; et.alThis 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.Item 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.alThis 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.Item Exploring the Interplay Between Multiagency Security Challenges and Economic Security in Lamu County, Kenya(African Journal of Empirical Research, 2025-02) Odhiambo, Elijah Onyango StandslauseThe article underscored challenges arising from multi agency security approach and economic security in Lamu County-Kenya. The specific objective of the study was to assess the efficacy of multi-agency security strategies adopted in enhancing economic security in Lamu County, Kenya. Various literatures were reviewed in a funnel shape from the global, continental, regional, national and then to area of study. The study was guided by system theory. It adopted descriptive research design since it was a mixed research approach. Purposive and snowballing sampling technique was utilized to reach respondents. Additionally, fishers formula was embraced to derive the sample size of 384 respondents since the target population was more than 10, 000 people from Lamu County, which has a total population of 143,920 persons according to Kenya 2019 census report. The data was analyzed by use of triangulation method of analysis whereby, content analysis, thematic analysis and verbatim quotations were used. The research article found out that lack of coordination and communication among security agencies significantly hampers multi-agency efforts to enhance economic security in Lamu County. Additionally, it emerged that, fragmented initiatives and resource limitations impede swift responses to evolving threats. Moreover, the research article concludes that; socio-political intolerance disrupts collaboration, fosters divided loyalties, and politicizes security efforts, undermining community trust and the impartiality of security measures. Therefore, the research article recommends that; in order to promote inclusivity and impartiality in security policies, ensuring measures are seen as fair and non-partisan, continuous training programs are essential for updating skills, particularly in technological and collaborative aspects of securityItem 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.alThis 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.Item 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.alIn 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, SomaliaItem The Aftermath of Disarmament on Community Security in Warrap State, South Sudan: The Case of Gogrial East Count(African Journal of Empirical Research https://ajernet.net, 2024-04-13) Odhiambo, E. Onyango Standslause; et.al.South Sudan has been in the limelight for security-related issues stretching beyond the independence and autonomy of the country. The insecurity saw many people armed with weapons in pursuit of protecting themselves from the constant insecurity. Traditionally, security issues were confined to the realm of states; however, a new emerging paradigm of security has given the community a say on these issues by putting the individual at the center of the debate. The fundamental indicators of community security in Gogrial East in the aftermath of disarmament are the safety of the local people in their communities, the protection of their animals while grazing in fields and at watering points, their security at home, their protection against raid attacks from armed clans, and human killings involving firearms. The purpose of the study was to establish the aftermath of civilian disarmament in Warrap State, South Sudan. This study was guided by the Post-Modernist Approach and Neo-Realist Approach theories. The study utilized a qualitative research design. The target population was 146,276. The village elders in the area of study, youth who serve as warriors in the cattle camps, and members of the Peace Committees in the homesteads formed the sample size. Additionally, representatives of law enforcement officers (LEOs) from the Sudan People's Defense Force, South Sudan National Police Services, and the Community Police. Lastly, the study incorporated key informants (KI) such as politicians, CSOs, and community elders. The study adopted purposive sampling, stratified sampling, and random sampling with the strata of interest; a sample size of 110 using Mugenda and Mugenda and Borg and Gall formulas was used. Primary and secondary data collection were used. Questionnaires, interview guides, and focus group discussions were the data collection instruments. The study adopted multiple sources of data, ranging from primary to secondary. Both quantitative and qualitative techniques were used for data analysis and presentation. The data obtained was presented in percentages, pie charts, bar graphs, and tables. The qualitative data captured was analyzed using a narrative approach. The study found that the government of South Sudan and the military comprehend their role to protect the state, but more importantly, the people of South Sudan as stipulated in the constitution, especially those affected by the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. On a positive note, the level of state security after the disarmament of 2018, especially the security of the local people in their communities and the safety of their animals while grazing in fields and at watering points, there is security at their homes (cattle camps), and their protection against raid attacks from armed clans and human killings involving firearms in Gogrial East County is significantly safer currently. As the SSPDF continues to refine the disarmament program and operations in Gogrial East, the need for increased focus on community security has also increased. The study recommends that state and civil society organizations should look for ways to supplement community safety initiatives by funding educational and employment-generating initiatives so that children, youth, the unemployed, and other marginalized groups have more opportunities to secure gainful employment. This process will address some of the root causes of personal, community, and national insecurity. Mental disarmament of communities rather than physical disarmament is preferred. If the communities are mentally disarmed to fully understand the danger of illegal firearms and get assurance of their protection by the government, they will voluntarily surrender their arms.Item Security-Diplomacy Nexus: Nature of Bilateral Cooperation in Kenya - India Military Diplomatic Relations Since 1963(2 African Journal of Empirical Research, 2024-10-01) Odhiambo, E. Onyango Standslause; et.al.Bilateral and multilateral agreements have been one of the mechanisms through which growth and development have taken place. The newly created independent states of the Cold War period presented a major paradigm shift in international cooperation to include military diplomacy. Kenya and India being among these newly created states have had their cooperation where by the two countries have used their good diplomatic relations to bolster one another's military capabilities. The current study sought to put into perspective the conduct of bilateral relations between Kenya and India. The objective of this study was to examine the nature of bilateral cooperation in enhancing Kenya-India military-diplomatic relations since 1963. The study was anchored on power theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The study was carried out in Nairobi County, Kenya with a specific focus on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Defence Ministry, and Indian High Commission. The target population was 2500. The sample size for the study was determined using Yamane's (1967) formula to calculate the sample size, which was 250 Qualitative data obtained from interviews were analysed using narrative reports using thematic techniques. Quantitative data from the questionnaires was edited, coded, and entered into a computer spreadsheet in a standard format to allow descriptive statistics analysis. Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) edition 24 and Microsoft Office Excel 2013 were used for the quantitative data. The findings of the study revealed that the nature of Kenya-India military diplomatic relations manifested in various forms including through High-profile visits by Kenyan and Indian officials to both states as a way of strengthening bilateral relations. Technological transfer was another way through which these two nations shaped their diplomatic relationship, particularly in information and communication technology (ICT). Additionally, Defense trade and trade agreements, Security Partnerships, Counterterrorism activities, Maritime Safety, and Peacekeeping missions were common areas of cooperation between Kenya and India. The study concludes that bilateral cooperation between Kenya and India has been instrumental in enhancing their militarydiplomatic relations since 1963. The study recommends that, to better understand the nature of bilateral cooperation, Kenya and India should establish a permanent joint military commission to oversee and coordinate defense initiatives.