Bomet County Research Articles

Benefits from Kipsigis Women Engaging in Socio-Economic Activities in Kericho and Bomet Counties, Kenya

Purpose: To investigate the impact of Kipsigis women group economic activities and how the public perceive this new undertaking in Kericho and Bomet Counties in Kenya. Methodology: The study used a qualitative research design, where different components of the study addressed the research problem. Probability sampling technique was used to select the participants in the study. The methods used to interrogate the participants included: focus group discussions, observation and face to face interviews. Each participant responded to the questions individually, as posed in the interview guide. This was later collected by the researcher for perusal and recording of the result that was compiled along with those from other methods. Along with the focus groups discussions, the researcher selected topics related to the topic of the study for discussion in the groups. The questions used in the different methods were posed to the participants who had been purposively selected to represent the rest of the population. This was done with the view of collecting the data that was later analyzed using tools such as NVivo or done manually. This study manually analyzed the data collected from the participants through the afore-mentioned research techniques for collecting the data. Findings: The findings showed that there was recognition of women’s contribution in society. The results from Bomet County indicated that 52% have embraced and supported women’s group activities, 24% see such group activities as making the women responsible and hardworking while another 24% feel that the women are not well supported in their group economic activities. In Kericho County, the results indicated that 54% felt that women’s contribution would improve living standards and another 46% felt that the group ability would significantly improve. The study also sought to find out the effect of women engaging in socio-economic activities on the home and family. The results from women in Kericho County show that 96% indicated that there was a positive effect on family and society as stated in the research outcome, 4% said there was no effect. The results from Bomet County showed that 98% of participants agreed that the women involvement in economic activities had a positive effect on family and society. Two percent were of the feeling that there was no effect on the home and family. Bomet had a percentage of respondents who indicated that women have not contributed much through their involvement in economic activities. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Critical Social Theory helps in understanding social functioning and behavior among gender groups in the society, where men and women roles among the Kipsigis is very distinct. Women assigned roles are undertaken by women and girls as their responsibilities lies in the kitchen and around the home. This is where the small children and the elderly are, and the women and the older girls are expected to undertake those roles without question.

Prevalence of Clinical and Subclinical Cattle Mastitis and the Associated Risk Factors in Bomet County, Kenya

Prevalence of Clinical and Subclinical Cattle Mastitis and the Associated Risk Factors in Bomet County, Kenya

Educational Intervention Effects on Bilateral Tubal Ligation Knowledge among Women Attending Antenatal and Family Planning Clinics in Bomet County

Bilateral Tubal Ligation (BTL) is a highly effective contraceptive method with more than 99% effectiveness at preventing pregnancy. Its uptake remains low in Sub-Saharan Africa, at 1.6%. The Kenya Health and Demographics Survey 2014, indicated that almost half of the married women did not desire further childbearing. The low acceptance of BTL as a method of contraception in this region has been attributed to a lack of knowledge and cultural and religious misconceptions. This study aimed to determine the level of knowledge about BTL at baseline and the impact of an educational intervention among women attending ANC/Family planning clinics at Tenwek and Longisa Hospitals in Bomet County. A quasi-experimental study design was used. Demographic characteristics, knowledge of BTL, perceived risks, and benefits were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. A difference measure was used to assess the impact of the intervention at 95% CI, with a p-value of 0.05 considered significant. The data was analyzed using STATA version 18. The mean age of the participants at baseline and post-intervention was 29.0±5.8 years and 29.2±5.6 years, respectively. Overall, 62% of participants said they would choose BTL, with 52% in the post-intervention arm. When asked if their religion allowed BTL, 80.6% said yes and were supported by their husband (92%), However, 62% said they couldn't have it if their spouse was against it. In general, lower knowledge scores were obtained in the post-intervention arm, implying that the educational intervention provided did not influence participants' knowledge of BTL. There was no statistically significant difference in the participants' knowledge levels at baseline and post-intervention [3.3 (-3.2 to 9.9); p-value=0.3]. Educating families, particularly women of childbearing age, about alternative family planning methods would increase uptake, allowing families to achieve desired family sizes while limiting the impact of unwanted pregnancies and maintaining a healthy population.

Perception Influence on Adoption of Solar Energy Technologies at Household Level in Konoin Sub-County, Bomet County, Kenya

Perception Influence on Adoption of Solar Energy Technologies at Household Level in Konoin Sub-County, Bomet County, Kenya

Potential Environmental Risks During Fall Armyworm Management Strategies by Gender in Bomet County, Kenya

Potential Environmental Risks During Fall Armyworm Management Strategies by Gender in Bomet County, Kenya

Water and Sanitation Practices and performance of Bomet Water and Sanitation Company in Bomet County, Kenya

Water and sanitation provision practices are established with the intention to enhance performance, provision on clean water and enhanced sanitation services. However, globally, not all Water & Sanitation Companies are able to achieve their core mandate of provision of adequate clean water and sanitation services. All Water and Sanitation Companies adopt water and sanitation practices however the extent to which they affect performance of water and sanitation companies is has attracted divergent views while other scholar found a negative affect others found a positive effect and hence a dilemma exist as to what is the exact effect of water and sanitation practices on the performance of water and sanitation companies. At Bomet Water and Sanitation Company in Bomet County, very few studies exist that have been conducted on the subject matter and yet its performance is not optimal and the hence the reason as to why this study was conducted at the Water and Sanitation Company. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of water and sanitation practices on performance of Bomet Water and Sanitation Company in Bomet County, Kenya. Specific objectives of the study were to establish how resources influences performance of Bomet Water and Sanitation Company, to find out the extent to which stakeholder engagement effects performance of Bomet Water and Sanitation Company, to determine the effects of governance on the performance of Bomet Water and Sanitation Company and to examine the influence of information communication technology on the performance of Bomet Water and Sanitation Company. Theories adopted were; Resource Based View Theory, Stakeholder Theory, Stewardship Theory, Systems Theory and Balance scorecard Theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design and targeted 170 respondents drawn from commercial, technical and administration department. The sample size was 34 staffs selected using stratified random sampling technique. A pilot study was conducted to test the effectiveness and reliability of the research tool. The study used both primary and secondary data sources. Data was analyzed using quantitative approach which involved the use of descriptive statistics that entailed percentages, frequency, mean and standard deviation. Inferential statistic adopted was regression analysis was used to establish existing relationships between water and sanitation provision practices and performance of Bomet Water and Sanitation Company. Results were as follows; resources had a positive and significant effect on performance of BOMWASCO of (β=-0.229, p < 0.05). Stakeholder engagement had a positive and significant effect on performance of BOMWASCO (β=0.231, p < 0.05). Governance had a positive and significant effect on performance of BOMWASCO (β=0.451, p < 0.05). ICT had a positive and significant effect on performance of BOMWASCO (β=0.343, p < 0.05). The study concluded that resources, stakeholder engagement, governance and ICT have a positive and significant effect on performance of BOMWASCO. The study recommended that physical resources should used sufficiently and correctly to enhance equitable water supply all residents. The community should continue to be engaged in all water supply and solid waste collection practices in the County. BOMWASCO board structure should effectively represent diverse stakeholder interests. Current software solutions should continue being used in a manner that effectively meets organizational needs and requirements. The study recommends further studies should be conducted on Water and sanitation practices and performance of other water and sanitation companies in Kenya.

Safety and Health Risk Management in Selected Kenya Tea Development Agency Factories in Bomet County, Kenya

Safety and Health Risk Management in Selected Kenya Tea Development Agency Factories in Bomet County, Kenya

Influence of Social Interaction Interventions Used by Teachers on School Readiness among Pre-Primary Learners in Konoin Sub-County, Bomet County. Kenya

Transitioning to school is a significant developmental milestone for young children, and it is seen as a crucial "sensitive period" for future academic success. Despite the potential for such programs to have broad effects, little is known about the effects of intervention tactics in early childhood education programs on school preparation. This paper aimed at finding out the influence of social interaction interventions used by teachers on school readiness among pre-primary learners in Konoin Sub-County, Kenya. The study used descriptive survey design and targeted 312 pre-primary school teachers and 5 Ward Education Coordinators. A sample size of 172 teachers and 5 Ward Education Coordinators was used. Questionnaires and interview guides were used to collect data. Expert judgement was used to ascertain the validity while reliability was ascertained through piloting and use of Cronbach Alpha Coefficient. Quantitative data was analysed using frequencies, percentages and Pearson Correlation analysis. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed. The analyzed information was presented in tables and Figures. The study found out that there was a significant correlation between social interaction interventions (r = .278; p = .000), and school readiness. The study concluded that social interaction interventions influenced learners’ school readiness. For effective pre-school readiness, instructional support needs to be tailored to the needs of each child by the teachers, considering their strengths, interests, and learning styles. The study findings would enable early childhood education teachers to learn how to introduce learners to the school learning process by assisting them to adjust to a different environment from home.

The Impact of an educational intervention on the knowledge of bilateral tubal ligation (BTL) among women attending antenatal and family planning clinics in Bomet county: An interventional study

Background: Bilateral tubal ligation (BTL) is a highly effective contraceptive method with more than 99%efficacy in preventing pregnancy. Its uptake remains low in Sub-Saharan Africa at 1.6%. The KenyaHealth and Demographics Survey 2014 indicated that almost half of the married women did not desirefurther childbearing. The low acceptance of BTL as a contraceptive method in this region has beenattributed to a lack of knowledge and cultural and religious misconceptions.Objective: This study aimed to determine the baseline level of knowledge about BTL and the impact ofan educational intervention among women attending antenatal care and family planning clinics at Tenwekand Longisa Hospitals in Bomet County.Methods: A quasi-experimental study design was employed. Demographic characteristics, knowledge ofBTL, perceived risks, and benefits were assessed at baseline and postintervention. A difference measurewas used to assess the impact of the intervention at 95% CI, with a p-value of 0.05 consideredsignificant. The data were analyzed using STATA version 18.Results: The mean age of the participants at baseline and postintervention was 29.0±5.8 years and29.2±5.6 years, respectively. Overall, 62% of the participants reported they would choose BTL, with 52%in the postintervention arm. When asked if their religion allowed BTL, 80.6% responded yes and weresupported by their husband (92%); however, 62% reported they could not have it if their spouse wasagainst it. In general, lower knowledge scores were obtained in the postintervention arm, implying thatthe educational intervention did not influence participants' knowledge of BTL. There was no statisticallysignificant difference in the participants' knowledge levels at baseline and postintervention [3.3 (-3.2 to9.9); p-value=0.3].Conclusion: Educating families, particularly women of childbearing age, about alternative family planningmethods would increase their adoption, allowing families to achieve desired family sizes while limiting theimpact of unwanted pregnancies and maintaining a healthy population.

Effect of socio-economic and institutional factors on common bean commercialization among smallholder farmers in Chepalungu sub-county, Bomet County, Kenya

Smallholder common bean commercialization is a critical factor for rural development as it provides a pathway for improving productivity, food security and alleviating poverty. However, common bean sector is dominated by subsistence farming which is not economically efficient as the level of commercialization is low at 0.4. Therefore, the study intended to determine the effect of socio-economic and institutional factors on common bean commercialization in Chepalungu sub-county, Bomet county. The study utilized cluster sampling procedure to obtain a sample size of 313 and data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and Tobit regression model were utilized to analyze the data through SPSS version 29 and Stata version 15 software. The average level of common bean commercialization was 0.39 indicating a low level of input and output market participation. The model showed that market distance and access to extension services were significant at 1% and positively influenced common bean commercialization among smallholder farmers while marketing experience and total land size were significant at 5% and positively influenced common bean commercialization. Age was significant at 1% and negatively influenced common bean commercialization. Strategies need to be developed to improve farmers’ market participation in input and output markets based on these variables. Youth need to be involved more on common bean production and marketing and the county government can provide training and extension services to farmers to increase level of productivity and commercialization.

Effects of Financial Literacy on Sustainable Entrepreneurship among the Youths in Bomet County, Kenya

Effects of Financial Literacy on Sustainable Entrepreneurship among the Youths in Bomet County, Kenya

Outcomes of Trial of Labor after a Cesarean Section in Bomet County, Kenya

Trial of labor after cesarean section (TOLAC) is recommended for women with one prior cesarean section. However, TOLAC positive outcomes depend on selecting candidates to achieve higher success rates. Most available TOLAC data to inform patient selection originates from developed countries, which limits a patient-centered TOLAC practice in low-resource settings. Thus, we used a prospective observational cross-sectional approach to assess the success rate of TOLAC and establish the maternal and fetal factors associated with successful TOLAC in 170 women with one previous scar at two referral hospitals in Bomet County, a low-resource setting in Kenya. The primary maternal and neonatal outcomes were compared between those who had a vaginal birth after a cesarean section (VBAC) and those who had an emergency repeat cesarean section (ERCS) following a failed TOLAC between October 2022 and June 2023. The TOLAC success rate was 48.2% with the most common indication for emergency repeat cesarean section being failure to progress (34.1%). Factors associated with successful TOLAC included inter-delivery interval >60 months (p-0.044), and parity 2-4 (p- <0.001). Breech presentation and non-reassuring fetal status (NRFS) as indications for previous cesarean section, were associated with a successful VBAC (p-< 0.001, 0.033). In contrast, a birth weight of >3500 g was associated with an increased risk of ERCS. Moreover, a failed TOLAC was associated with a prolonged (>4 days) hospital stay (p-0.012). Our findings suggest that with proper patient selection, TOLAC remains a viable option with better outcomes if successful. However, TOLAC candidates should be evaluated based on the contextual factors of a given setting, hence careful patient selection is recommended to improve outcomes associated with TOLAC.

Students Perceptions on School Counselors and the Counseling Services Provided in Secondary Schools in Konoin Sub-County, Bomet County, Kenya

Schools with the support of the Ministry of Education have worked tirelessly to eliminate disruptive tendencies in learning institutions. However, despite all the efforts, students’ unrests have continued to be witnessed in many secondary schools. Many a time, these unrests have been violent and destructive of property and even life. There seems to be a lack of effective alternative strategies to contain students’ indiscipline. Although guidance and counseling has worked in many different situations, its effectiveness in the management of discipline in secondary schools has not been established especially from the students’ perceptions on their counselor(s) and the counseling services that are availed in their schools. The purpose of this study therefore was to examine students perceptions on School Counselors and the Counseling Services Provided in Secondary Schools in Konoin Sub-County, Bomet County, Kenya. To achieve this objective, the study employed a descriptive survey research design. A sample size of 327 students was chosen from a population of 2200 students who comprised of all the form three students in the 40 Secondary schools in Konoin sub-county, Bomet County. Thereafter, simple random sampling was adopted in selecting actual respondents for the study. The study adopted the ex post facto research design in which survey method of cross sectional type was used to collect data using a self made five- point likert scale with the following response categories: Strongly Disagree = 1; Disagree = 2; Not Sure = 3; Agree = 4 and Strongly Agree = 5.The findings revealed that students had negative perceptions on seeking counseling services and lacked confidence (60%) in school counselors who were perceived not to have the ability to help and lacked ethics (58%). The implication of this finding was that the more the students had negative perceptions on the school counselors and the counsling services availed to them, the higher the likelihood of the students not to seek counseling services in school and also from their counseling teachers. From the findings, it is recommended that the ministry of education provide targeted professional learning and development for school leaders and people working in guidance and counseling roles.

Drinking Water Quality in Shallow Wells in Kipsonoi Sub Catchment in Bomet County, Kenya

Drinking Water Quality in Shallow Wells in Kipsonoi Sub Catchment in Bomet County, Kenya

How Women’s Financial Exclusion is Affecting Gender Equity in Tea Farming in Singorwet Ward, Bomet County

Access to finance by women within communities is key to ensuring improved economies and better livelihoods. Having money at hand means women can purchase/ access quality seeds, good farm equipment and efficient technologies. Indeed, money will help women improve their own life style and that of their families (FAO, 2019) The research objectives were to examine the extent of financial exclusion of women in tea farming from the farm all the way to accessing benefits from tea and how it’s affecting gender equity. A cross sectional study design was used and a sample size of 532 tea farmers’ respondents (comprising of 431 male tea farmers and 101 female tea farmers), 2 directors and 10 farm labourers were involved in this study. Purposive sampling was used to pick two director zones in Singorwet ward and stratified random sampling to pick five tea buying centres within Singorwet Zone and Mugango Zone. Questionnaire, interviews and observation schedule were used for data collection. From the findings, it is evident that women though the majority in the tea farming workforce; are the minority in tea farm monthly pay and bonuses. The study recommends a detailed and close to communities’ financial literacy that presents information on owning a tea farm, having a bank account, savings and getting credit from credible sources.

The Use of Descriptive Written Feedback for Enhancing Students’ Mathematics Achievement

Giving learners high-quality feedback as part of formative assessment is a high-yield method teachers can use to support learning and raise academic achievement. Despite its significance, the influence of Descriptive Written Feedback (DWF) on students’ mathematics achievement has yet to be widely studied. This study, therefore, investigated the influence of the teachers’ descriptive written feedback on mathematics achievement in selected secondary schools in Konoin Sub-County of Bomet County, Kenya. The study adopted a quasi-experimental design to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between the independent (Descriptive Written Feedback) and dependent variable (Mathematics Achievement). The Student Achievement Test (SAT) scores attained by the students right after covering the topic of the gradient and the equation of a straight line were used to measure the students’ mathematics achievement. A simple random sampling method was employed to select the ten schools used in this study. ANOVA was used to analyse the data. The study findings showed that descriptive written feedback significantly influences mathematics achievement. The study suggested that mathematics teachers should provide students with descriptive written feedback for improved attainment of expected learning outcomes and enhanced student performance.

The Effect of Frequency of Teacher Performance Appraisal Activities on Teacher Progression in Bomet County, Kenya

Performance appraisal is critical for evaluating teachers' job performance and providing feedback. This study explores the frequency and effectiveness of teacher performance appraisals in relation to teacher progression in secondary schools in Bomet County, Kenya. The research involved 423 participants, including teachers, principals, and education authorities. Random sampling was employed to select teachers in the different sub-county. School principals, TSC County, and Sub-County directors were proposed, selected, and interviewed during the study. Questionnaires were used to collect data from teachers. The study revealed that regular performance appraisals allow teachers to enhance their teaching skills and monitor their progress. Most respondents (67.54%) reported being appraised more than three times, emphasizing the importance of frequent assessments for professional development. Teachers informed in advance of their appraisals (88.39%) reported better preparation, leading to improved student outcomes. Performance appraisals were seen as a means to enhance professional progress, with 84.31% of teachers reporting an improvement in their career development. Most teachers (67.83%) also received feedback after appraisals, contributing to their professional growth. The study highlights the significance of regular, well-informed, and feedback-rich performance appraisals in improving teacher progression. It underscores the need for educators and education authorities to maintain a structured appraisal process to support teachers in their professional development and enhance student achievement

Corporate Governance Practices and Performance of Imarisha Sacco in Bomet County Kenya

The problem in the Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations industry, particularly in the teaching industry in Bomet County, is the presence of challenges related to corporate governance and organizational performance. There are issues with accountability, transparency, and risk management practices. Additionally, low levels of financial literacy among members, limited access to finance, and inadequate technology and systems further contribute to the performance-related challenges faced by these Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations. The study was on the effect of Corporate Governance practices on the performance of Imarisha Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisation in Bomet County. The purpose of this study was to investigate how board competence, legislation, roles and responsibilities and internal controls affects performance Imarisha Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisation. The literature review focused on various theories which include core competence model, regulatory capture theory, legalistic theory, attribution theory and the balanced scorecard theory. The study design adopted was descriptive in nature considering a total population of 65 senior management, middle management, and support staff of which a complete census will be considered. Stratified sampling was used since the population was already broken down into the respective categories. Data was gathered using questionnaire and it was tested for validity and reliability. Content validity was tested with a content validity index threshold of 0.8 or higher. Reliability was tested with a Cronbach's alpha threshold of 0.70 or higher. Data was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that board competence, legislation, roles and responsibilities, and internal controls had a positive and significant effect on performance, that is, β= 0.469, p < 0.05), β=0.022, p < 0.05, β=0.404, p < 0.05) and β=0.045, p < 0.05 respectively. The study concluded that board competence, legislation, roles and responsibilities and internal controls improve performance. The study recommended that board members should continue to have strategic thinking skills and front the vision of the organization. Imarisha SACCO should have adequate internal policies that help to govern SACCO activities. Duties of board members at the organization should continue being properly described. The oversight committees should continue to meet regularly to oversight SACCO activities. The study recommended that further studies should be conducted on effect of corporate governance practices on performance of Imarisha SACCO in Bomet County. Indicators of corporate governance practices adopted in the study are board competence, legislation, roles and responsibilities and internal controls. The study recommends a similar study to be conducted on the subject matter but should be conducted on SACCOs’ in other Counties in Kenya.

Socio-cultural Factors That Influence Men’s Participation in Family Planning in Bomet County, Kenya

Socio-cultural Factors That Influence Men’s Participation in Family Planning in Bomet County, Kenya

Nexus between Participation in Agriculture and Youth Welfare in Bomet County, Kenya

Nexus between Participation in Agriculture and Youth Welfare in Bomet County, Kenya