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PublicationOpen Access
Sustainable Supply Chain Strategies and Performance of World Food Programme in South Sudan
(International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications, 2024-06-06) Chagai, Veronica Nyidier; Barasa, Peter Wamalwa
Sustainable supply chain strategies are of paramount importance among humanitarian organizations for several reasons. The World Food Programme in South Sudan has adopted four key supply chain strategies, namely supplier relationship management, green procurement, reverse logistics, and transportation optimization. These strategies are employed not only to uphold World Food Program's mission of saving lives and changing lives for the better in South Sudan but also to enhance its operational efficiency, achieve cost reduction, and improve the overall effectiveness of its aid delivery. It however remains scantily explored in the South Sudanese body of knowledge, how these sustainable supply chain strategies have influence performance therefore, warranting the present study. Against this backdrop, this study set out to assess the effect of sustainable supply chain strategies on performance of World Food Program in South Sudan. More specifically, the study sought to establish the effect of supplier relationship management on performance of World Food Program in South Sudan; determine the effect of green procurement on performance of World Food Program in South Sudan; examine the effect of reverse logistics on performance of World Food Program in South Sudan; and assess the effect of transportation optimization on performance of World Food Program in South Sudan. The study adopted the descriptive design as it sought to collect data by survey tools, from which to give an accurate account of the effect of sustainable supply chain strategies on performance of World Food Program in South Sudan. The study relied on a mixed-method approach, whereby both quantitative and qualitative primary data were sought. While quantitative data were sourced from local suppliers that provide goods and services to World Food Program in South Sudan and members of the beneficiary communities through a structured questionnaire, in-depth key informant interviews were used to collect qualitative data from senior World Food Program staff involved in supply chain management, logistics, and procurement in South Sudan. The study furtherer employed a mixed-methods approach in data analysis, whereby both quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques were used. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data obtained from the in-depth key informant interviews. Both descriptive and inferential analysis were on the other hand be used to analyse the quantitative data obtained from structured questionnaires. The regression analysis results indicate that transportation optimization has the highest standardized coefficient (β = 0.523, p < 0.001), followed by green procurement (β = 0.159, p = 0.011) and reverse logistics (β = 0.167, p = 0.026), while supplier relationship management shows a non-significant effect (β = 0.008, p = 0.890). These results suggest that transportation optimization, green procurement, and reverse logistics significantly contribute to enhancing the performance of WFP in South Sudan, emphasizing the importance of these factors in humanitarian supply chain management.
PublicationOpen Access
Environmental Accounting Costs And Financial Performance Of Cement Manufacturing Firms In Coast Region, Kenya
(Journal of Economics and Finance, 2024) Mwarabu, Salim Hassan; Onsiro, Martin
Within the industrial landscape, the environmental impact of manufacturing operations has raised concerns about the associated costs for environmental remediation. This study delves into the interaction between these environmental accounting expenses and the financial performance of Cement manufacturing firms in Coast region, Kenya, moderating effect of corporate governance over the 2018-2022 periods. The research objectives were as follows: To analyze the influence of environmental remediation costs on financial performance, to evaluate the correlation between social activity costs and financial performance, to assess the effect of restoration cost on financial performance, to investigate the effect of upstream/downstream costs on the financial performance of Cement manufacturing firms in Coast region, Kenya moderated by corporate governance. The study was drawn from four foundational theories: Stakeholders Theory, Legitimacy Theory, Positive Accounting Theory, and Luhmann's Theory of Ecological Communication. These theories provided lenses to examine the intricate relationship between environmental costs and financial outcomes. Methodologically, a descriptive research design was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. The participant pool comprised 56 respondents, including Managers, Accountants, and Auditors. Data collection involved structured questionnaires for primary data and annual reports/accounts for secondary data from Cement Manufacturing Company Ltd in Coast Region. Data analysis encompassed descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation as well as inferential statistics including regression and correlation analysis using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings of the study indicated th,at environmental remediation cost (r=0.235, p=0.000), social activities cost (r=0.248, p=0.092) and environmental remedial cost (β = 0.538, p- value=0.000) all have positive and substantial link between environmental costs and the financial performance of coastal cement producing enterprises. It confirmed that corporate governance acts as a moderator P-value of 0.003 in the relationship between the predictor variables and outcome variables. Therefore,the inclusion of the indicated environmental cost clearly benefits the company by enhancing its image and boosting its financial performance in the eyes of its stakeholders. The study also concluded that there was a significant requirement to bear the expenses of environmental accounting for environmental remediation and restoration. The study suggests that organizations should incorporate the aforementioned environmental accounting costs into their annual reports as part of their corporate governance standards, especially considering the global adoption of green initiatives.
PublicationOpen Access
Influence of Strategic Management Practices on Performance of National Health Insurance Fund, Kenya
(International Journal of Business Management, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, 2024-06) Munene, Vincent; Muriuki, Jenifer Wanjiru
Strategic management remains crucial for organizations, regardless of their size, as it defines their success in navigating the external environment while optimizing internal resources. This study addressed a contextual problem where the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) in Kenya struggles to fully achieve its performance objectives despite implementing strategic management practices. The research identified a gap in understanding how specific dimensions of strategic management practices—strategic intent, formulation, implementation, and control of strategy—affect NHIF's performance. Financial strategies, technology, human resource planning, and customer service, often mistaken as strategic management practices, were re-examined under the correct strategic management dimensions. The study employed a descriptive research design to examine the influence of strategic management practices on NHIF's performance, targeting a sample size of 135 respondents selected using stratified random sampling from a population of 206 NHIF employees. Data collection was conducted using structured questionnaires, and the tools were pre-tested for validity and reliability, yielding a Cronbach Alpha index of 0.715, indicating satisfactory internal consistency. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation, and inferential statistics, specifically multiple linear regression analysis. The regression model indicated an R-squared value of 0.887, suggesting that 88.7% of the variability in NHIF's performance could be explained by the independent variables: strategic intent, formulation, implementation, and control of strategy. The adjusted R-squared value of 0.884 further confirmed the model's robustness. Findings revealed that strategic management practices significantly influence NHIF's performance. Specifically, strategic intent, formulation, implementation, and control were positively associated with improved financial management, technological adoption, human resource optimization, and enhanced customer service. For instance, financial strategies, when aligned with strategic planning, demonstrated a significant positive impact (β = 0.01, p < 0.05). Similarly, the adoption of technology as a strategic tool also showed a substantial positive effect (β = 0.01, p < 0.05). The study concludes that strategic management practices exert a substantial and statistically significant influence on NHIF's performance. This highlights the necessity for NHIF to continually refine its strategic planning processes, embrace technological advancements, optimize human resource planning, and prioritize customer service to enhance overall performance and service delivery. The recommendations emphasize the need for NHIF to develop comprehensive strategic plans, invest in modern technology, implement effective human resource management practices, prioritize customer satisfaction, and engage in continuous monitoring and adaptation to remain responsive to the dynamic healthcare environment
PublicationOpen Access
Effect of Contract Management on Performance of Market Development Projects in Meru County, Kenya
(International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews, 2024-07) Mbaya, Eric Mugendi; Ndolo, Jackson
The County government had set out its Integrated Development Plan for the 2018 to 2022 to implement various market development projects to reverse the weak business infrastructure in the county. Meru County intended to expand Nkubu and Ntharene Markets. Imenti North Sub County there were aims to establish a modern retail market at Gakoromone, while Buuri Sub County sought to expand Timau Market. Additionally, Igembe Sub County had plans to expand Kangeta Market. These projects did not get to completion as anticipated. As a result, this study sought to assess the effects of contract management practices on performance of market development projects in Meru County, Kenya. Steward theory led the research. It adopted a descriptive research design for the research methodology. The study targeted 410 officials directly involved in project implementation as respondents, who were selected using a simple random sampling method. The data obtained from the questionnaires were analyzed using both descriptive statistics and inferential statistics to draw meaningful conclusions. The regression model coefficients revealed that the effect of contract management was not statistically significant. The study concludes that contract management is positively correlated with the performance of market development projects in Meru County, Kenya
PublicationOpen Access
Influence of Apples' Competitive Positioning on Performance of Wearable Technology Market in Nairobi County, Kenya
(International Research Journal of Business and Strategic Management, 2024-06-24) Suto, Samuel Nyongesa; Simotwo, Peter
This study analyzed the influence of apples’ competitive positioning on the performance of wearable technology market in Nairobi County, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to determine the influence of customer service positioning and establish the influence of ecosystem lock-in position on the performance of wearable technology market, Kenya. The study utilized a cross sectional research design. A sample size of 118 respondents was determined from a target population of 177 people using Krejcie and Morgan Table. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used in collecting data. The instruments were tested for reliability using Cronbach’s Alpha while content validity was assessed using expert opinion. The study employed both descriptive and inferential statistics in analysis and used correlation and regression analysis as key analytical models. Results established varied disparities in performance of wearable technology market. Regression results demonstrated that apples’ competitive positioning (customer service positioning, and ecosystem lock-in positioning) had statistically significant influence on performance of wearable technology market. Pearson Correlation Analysis results further demonstrated a positive relationship among customer service positioning, and ecosystem lock-in positioning on performance of wearable technology market. The study recommends more pursuit of apples’ competitive positioning as demonstrated in the Resource-Based View Theory and Porter’s Five Forces Model of apples’ competitive positioning to enhance performance of wearable technology market. Apples’ stakeholders in the market, including industry experts and analysts, distributors of competing technology companies, and apple product distributors within Nairobi County should embrace on the strategies that improves apples’ competitive positioning in order to improve performance of wearable technology market.
PublicationOpen Access
Central bank of Kenya regulatory requirement and financial performance of commercial banks in Kenya, case of Embu town
(International Research Journal of Economics and Finance, 2024-07-02) Hassan, Wario Abduba; Muriuki, Jennifer
Despite the 2013 CBK prudential standards implementation, which governs commercial banks in Kenya, proposed project aimed at investigating the impact of various prudential standards set by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) on monetary ability of banks in Embu town. The study focused on minimum capital requirements and reserve requirements. To achieve these objectives, the researchers planned to collect primary data from 22 significant bank officials selected randomly from the Kenyan Commercial Bank and the Family Bank in Embu Town. Questionnaire was used to gather quantitative data. To examine data gathered, descriptive statistics was used. Theoretical foundations of research are Agency Theory and the Loanable Theory, which guide the interpretation and analysis of the findings. The ultimate goal of the study is to provide empirical data that can help Kenya's central bank in evaluating financial stability of commercial banks in Embu town. Potential benefits in this project include shedding light on impact of prudential standards on bank performance, providing insights into the effectiveness of corporate governance in the banking sector, and offering valuable data for further studies in this area. The research findings indicate that the financial performance is impacted by the regulatory requirements of the Central Bank of Kenya, specifically in terms of capital requirements. A reserve requirement is one of the major challenges that commercial banks face during the start-up process, thus negatively affecting the stability of the commercial banks. The study recommends central bank should have a policy which ensures commercial bank should have adequate capital requirement. This policy will ensure banks are well regulated thus protecting the welfare of all the stakeholders. The bank should also supervise and oversight their systems which enables them to compute minimum capital requirements adequately.
PublicationOpen Access
Assessment of the impact of level of environmental awareness on public health services in Mandera West Sub- County, Mandera County, Kenya
(African Journal of Social Issues, 2024-03-23) Alio, Abdllahi Maalim; Abuga, Issac
Environmental awareness plays a pivotal role in sustainable development and public health improvement globally. This study examines the impact of environmental awareness on public health services in Mandera West Sub-County, Mandera County, Kenya. The research underscores the relationship between heightened environmental awareness and enhanced public health outcomes, revealing that communities with greater environmental consciousness exhibit better waste management practices, reduced exposure to pollutants, and lower incidences of waterborne diseases. In Mandera West, the harsh climatic conditions, coupled with inadequate infrastructure and limited access to clean water, exacerbate public health challenges. Despite efforts by governmental and non-governmental organizations, the region continues to face high rates of waterborne diseases and poor sanitation. This study identifies a significant gap in the integration of environmental awareness into public health strategies. Utilizing a mixed methodology approach, the research incorporated both quantitative and qualitative methods, involving 141 participants from various levels of the Mandera Sub-County departments of Environment, Energy, Climate Change, Natural Resources, Water Safety, and Public Health. The findings highlight the critical need for enhanced environmental education and awareness programs to improve public health services. The study advocates for targeted educational initiatives and public awareness campaigns to foster a culture of environmental responsibility among stakeholders. By addressing the root causes of health issues through increased environmental awareness, this research provides actionable insights for policymakers, health practitioners, and educators to develop interventions that enhance both environmental and public health outcomes in Mandera West Sub-County. The study contributes to the existing literature by demonstrating the importance of environmental education in achieving sustainable public health improvements.
PublicationMetadata only
Influence of Organizational Human Resource Practices on Employee Retention in Ideal Security Services in Kenya
(International Journal of Business & Management, 2024-08-13) Marimba, Domiciano Mborio; Nyabonga, Ibrahim
In today's competitive business environment, attracting and retaining a dedicated workforce is paramount for organizational success. This study investigated the key strategies influencing employee retention within Ideal Security Services Limited, encompassing both the head office and its eight zonal offices. It was guided by the following objectives: To determine the influence of recruitment and selection on employee retention at Ideal Security Services, To assess the impact of training and development on employee retention at Ideal Security Services, To evaluate the influence of performance management on employee retention at Ideal Security Services, To analyze the impact of the reward system on staff retention at Ideal Security Services. By identifying effective practices for staff retention, this research contributes to the company's competitive edge and operational excellence. Utilizing a descriptive research design, this study targeted a population of 341 employees across the organization. The head office accommodates 51 employees, while the remaining 290 are distributed among the zonal /sub-county offices, each with a designated supervisor. A sample size of 181 respondents was selected using stratified random sampling, with simple random sampling employed within each stratum. The researcher administered questionnaires, and collected data was subjected to descriptive statistical analysis, including percentages, means, and standard deviations. Additionally, a multivariate regression model was used to assess the relative significance of five variables—reward system, training and development, performance management, work environment, and recruitment—in relation to staff retention. The study's findings are presented through tables and charts, revealing the substantial relationships between staff retention and its determinants. Specifically, the research explored whether the absence of performance-linked rewards significantly impacts employee retention at Ideal Security Services. It also examines the positive influence of employee involvement in setting performance targets on retention rates. The study further sought to establish the impact of recruitment and selection practices on staff retention and emphasized the importance of effective recruitment processes in curbing high turnover rates. Furthermore, the study evaluates the role of training and development in preparing employees for greater responsibilities and enhancing communication among peers and superiors. The research aims to recommend improved training strategies that facilitate employee growth, positively affecting performance and ultimately increasing staff retention. Similarly, by investigating the implementation of robust reward systems to motivate employees, the study aims to provide insights that lead to improved performance and enhanced staff retention. This study is geared towards enhancing Ideal Security Services Limited's employee retention strategies. By comprehensively assessing the impact of various factors on staff retention, the research offers valuable recommendations for private organizations aiming to foster employee growth, motivation, and operational excellence.
PublicationOpen Access
Effect of Supplier Rating on Supply Chain Performance: A Case Study of Star-Rated Hotels in the Coast Region, Kenya
(International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications, 2024-06-26) Webure, Jescah; Wamalwa, Barasa
The hospitality industry, particularly star-rated hotels, heavily relies on efficient and reliable supply chains to maintain high service standards and customer satisfaction. By specifically investigating the impact of supplier financial stability, reliability, flexibility, and ethics on supply chain performance, this research seeks to provide valuable insights that can guide hotel management in optimizing their procurement strategies. Understanding how these individual factors contribute to the overall supply chain dynamics will not only enhance the operational efficiency of star-rated hotels but also contribute to the broader knowledge base in supply chain management within the hospitality sector. Therefore, the main goal of the study was to analyze the effects of supplier rating on supply chain performance among star-rated hotels in the coast region. The following specific objectives were used to provide guidance; to determine the influence of supplier financial stability on supply chain performance, effect of supplier reliability on supply chain performance, to determine the influence of supplier flexibility on supply chain performance and to determine the effect of supplier ethics on supply chain performance. This research adopted the transaction cost economics theory, agency theory and the resource based view theory. A descriptive research design was used in this research. The population of the study were the 343 senior level managers among the 49 star-rated hotels in the coast region. Stratified random sampling technique was used to arrive at the sample size. The sample size was 105 respondents. Primary data collected using structured questionnaires was used in this study. The administration of the questionnaires was through Google forms. The collected data was converted into quantitative format to make analysis using SPSS. The statistics generated were descriptive statistics which included frequencies and percentages and inferential statistics which included a multiple linear regression. The relationship between the response and predictor variables was shown using multiple linear regression. The study found out that supplier-related factors including financial stability, reliability, flexibility, and ethics have significant positive correlations with supply chain performance. Specifically, organizations that prioritize financially stable suppliers experienced improved supply chain efficiency, reduced disruptions, and enhanced operational effectiveness. Moreover, collaboration with reliable and flexible suppliers led to better adherence to delivery schedules, minimized disruptions, and maintained consistent performance standards. Ethical sourcing practices were also found to positively influence supply chain integrity, reputation, and long-term sustainability. The study concludes that integrating supplier-related considerations into procurement strategies and practices is crucial for optimizing supply chain resilience and effectiveness. Organizations should prioritize supplier financial stability, reliability, flexibility, and ethics in supplier selection processes to mitigate risks, improve operational efficiency, and achieve sustainable performance outcomes. The study recommends that organizations conduct thorough supplier assessments to evaluate financial stability, reliability, flexibility, and ethical practices. Clear criteria and benchmarks should be established for supplie
PublicationOpen Access
An Analysis of Elements Influencing Electronic Procurement Performance in Kilifi County Government, Kenya
(International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications, 2024-06-06) Mutula, Jane Mwende; Barasa, Peter Wamalwa
This research endeavoured to Analysis the Elements Influencing Electronic Procurement Performance in Kilifi County Government, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were; to examine the effect of public procurement regulations on electronic procurement performance in Kilifi County Government; to establish the effects of staff competence in ICT on electronic procurement performance in Kilifi County Government; to identify the effect of managerial commitment on electronic procurement performance in Kilifi County Government and finally to assess the impact of Information communication technology infrastructure on electronic procurement performance in the Kilifi County Government. The researcher employed a descriptive research methodology. The target population included 200 personnel from diverse departments in Kilifi County Government, Kenya. The study aimed at extract valuable insights from key participants from the department of the Human Resources, Finance, Inspectorate, ICT, Procurement departments, and members of the Budget Committee. For a precise analysis, the researcher employed purposive sampling methods to curate a subset of 60 respondents for our study. Our primary data collection tool was semi-structured questionnaires. Subsequently, the data underwent analysis using the SPSS software, version 24. To ensure the reliability of our findings, the researcher applied the internal consistency technique, leveraging Cronbach’s alpha. The results indicated that there is a significant positive relationship between public procurement policies and Electronic Procurement Performance in Kilifi County Government, Kenya with the coefficient of correlation (r = 0.839, p = 0.000). The results also showed there is a significant positive relationship between ICT proficiency and Electronic Procurement Performance in Kilifi County Government, Kenya with (r = 0.572, p = 0.000). The results also indicated a significant positive relationship between management support and Electronic Procurement Performance in Kilifi County Government, Kenya with (r = 0.627, p = 0.000) and finally there existed a significant positive relationship between ICT infrastructure and Electronic Procurement Performance in Kilifi County Government, Kenya with (r = 0.971, p = 0.000). In terms of the weight of the variables; public procurement regulations which (53.5%), followed by managerial commitment at (43.7%), Staff competence in ICT at (12.8%) then ICT infrastructure at (12.6%). Policies and guidelines are essential in any process for they stipulate the process on how work should be done. The researcher recommends that the County Government of Kilifi should ensure not only the implementation of these procurement policies but also enforcement should be done through strict monitoring and evaluation of the progress. On the issue of ICT proficiency, the recruitment criteria of County government should be designed and followed strictly to ensure that the County hires staff with the necessary job experience and expertise. This will help to eliminate mistakes in the procurement process which may be costly to the county government and which may go a long way in denying it the value for money. Management support and goodwill also acts as a motivation to the staf who feel facilitated to undertake their roles within the organization. The County Government of Kilifi should not only ensure that the electronic procurement system is put in place but also ensure that it’s up to date with the technological changes that are dynamic in nature. They should also ensure that experienced and skilled staffs are hired to run the system. Lastly, The County Government of Kilifi should ensure that it invests heavily in the ICT infrastructure like computers and an effective system as well including reliable internet which will facilitate the efficiency of electronic procurement processes.