Thesis:

Community radio programmes in solving defilement cases: a case of Nyamira county, Kenya

Defilement is a pervasive problem with devastating consequences for survivors, families, and communities worldwide. Despite efforts by various stakeholders to address the issue, rates of defilement remain high, leading to stigma, fear, and limited access to justice. Community radio programmes have been used in the fight against defilement cases. The present study aimed to establish the effectiveness of community radio programmes in addressing defilement cases in Nyamira County. The specific objectives were to: examine the role of community radio programmes in handling defilement cases among community members in Nyamira County; assess the impact of community radio programmes in encouraging reporting of defilement cases to the relevant authorities in Nyamira County; explore the perceptions of community members towards the effectiveness of community radio programmes in addressing defilement cases in Nyamira County; and identify the challenges faced by community radio programmes in addressing defilement cases in Nyamira County. The study was anchored in agenda-setting theory (AST) and cultivation theory. A mixed-methods research design was utilized. The target population was a total of 226 respondents, comprising community members (109), local administration (8), and victims of defilement (32), family members (52), and radio presenters (25). The sample size was calculated using the Yamane formula (1967) to get 144 respondents. Furthermore, purposive and random sampling techniques were used to select the 144 respondents. The study employed questionnaires and key informant interview guides as data collections tools. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, thematic analysis. Further, all predictor variables (Impact of Community Radio Programmes, Challenges Faced by Community Radio Programmes, Perceptions towards Community Radio Programmes, and Best Practices) have positive coefficients. The best practices included Some of the best practices identified include; culturally sensitive, consistency and effectiveness of prevention messages aired, foster social cohesion and collective action against defilement by providing platforms for community dialogue, and public education campaigns conducted through community radio programmes to raise awareness about defilement laws were found to be the best practices that enhance the effort of addressing defilement cases in Nyamira county. Further, results revealed that community radio Programmes in Nyamira County have played a significant role in shifting public attitudes, raising awareness, and increasing the reporting of defilement cases, with community leaders playing an active role in supporting these efforts and facilitating access to support services for victims. The research recommended that community radio stations be built up in terms of capacity for them to be effective.