Bungoma County Research Articles

Adaptation Strategies for Enhancing Sustainable Smallholder Dairy Cattle Productivity under the Regime of Climate Change in Bungoma County, Kenya

The study evaluated adaptation strategies for enhancing sustainable dairy cattle herd productivity under the present of climate change scenario. The study was conducted in three selected Sub Counties of Bungoma County that is Tongaren, Mt. Elgon, and Kimilili, Sub Counties with estimated total population of 900 smallholders. A cross-sectional, correction and evaluation research designs was used to provide an accurate portrayal of the characteristics of the respondents. A sample size of 415 respondents was used and served with questionnaires to solicit their responses. A review of empirical reports, interviews of key stakeholders, NGOs, professionals in the Kenya Metrological Department as well as ministry of agriculture was used to compliment data gathered through questionnaires. Quantitative data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS software. From the results farmers use the following adaptation strategies as a matter of priority of strategies to enhance productivity; - growing of early maturing and drought resistant crops varieties. Making silage and preserving of farm residues for dry spells. Farmers are collaborating with veterinary officers during breeding so as to improve on the quality of cows kept. This study recommends to all stakeholder to formulate policies to empower farmers to effectively adapt to climate change and variability for enhancing smallholder dairy cattle herd productivity in the county.

Influence of Statist Inter-ethnic Economic Transformation in the Management of Inter- ethnic Conflicts in Bungoma County, Kenya

Globally, disputes over economic resources often complicated inter-ethnic conflicts. In Kenya, specifically in Bungoma County inter-ethnic economic reasons underpinned 1963 including 1992 conflicts. Objective of the study was to examine the influence of statist inter-ethnic economic integration in management of inter-ethnic conflict in Bungoma. A conceptual framework underpinned by Lederach’s Conflict Transformation and Gultang’s Conflict Triangle guided the study. A descriptive research design was applied. The study was conducted in Bungoma County. Population was sampled by Simple Radom and Purposively. The sample size of 400 participants used was derived from 1375065 population using Yamane 1967 formula. Questionnaires, interviews, Focus Group Discussions and document analysis were instruments used. Microsoft Excel, thematisation, corroboration and verification analysed data. The findings were: Unlike eldership 42%, intermarriage 23% and culture 20%, 15% of respondents agreed that trade initially influenced inter-ethnic co-existence. Its role was alienated and differentiated by colonization. Statist inter-ethnic economic transformation mutated from inter-ethnic inequitable: Economic distribution and access to lack of resources and high population all rated at 16% to inter-ethnic economic political neglect 21%, economic stagnation 15% and competition over resources 17%. Inter-ethnic economic integration diversity policies identified were to be guided by economic equity, population spread and affirmative action. Challenges established were inter-ethnic iniquities in economic, education and development. The study recommends enforcement of inter-ethnic equity policies in resource distribution, jobs and in development.

Yield of Tuberculosis Contact Screening and Predictors of Contact Tuberculosis Diagnosis in Bungoma County Hospital, Kenya.

Tuberculosis (TB) contact screening though highly recommended is seldom practiced in low- and middle-income countries due to lack of evidence-based approaches best suited to the local setting. We assessed the yield of TB contact screening and predictors of TB diagnosis at a county referral hospital in Western Kenya. We identified clients with TB disease at Bungoma county referral hospital between January and December 2021, who completed a standard questionnaire and identified potential close contacts. We described the characteristics and yield of TB disease among contacts using means, standard deviation, counts and proportions. We used logistic regression to determine factors associated with TB diagnosis for contacts and reported odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). We identified 105 index TB cases who identified 358 contacts. The yield of TB disease among the contacts was 11% (39/353). The mean age of the TB contacts was 29.2 years (SD 19.3) and 87.8% (310/353) were household contacts. Body mass index of 18.5 kg/m2 and above was associated with 89% lower odds of TB disease among contacts (OR 0.11, 95% CI: 0.05-0.25). Contacts who had ever smoked were 3 times more likely to be diagnosed with TB disease (OR 3.10, 95% CI: 1.56-6.15). Contacts who used wood/kerosene for cooking had 3.5 times higher odds of TB disease (OR 3.5 95% CI: 1.05-11.72). Contact screening has a high yield of TB disease. Targeted approach directed towards contacts with malnutrition, smokers, and those using wood/kerosene for cooking may increase TB yield among contacts.

Effect of Performance Planning on Employee Productivity in Broadcast Media Outlets in Bungoma and Busia Counties, Kenya

Numerous worldwide institutions have encountered challenges in achieving their intended objectives. These difficulties have even caused some organizations to collapse, resulting in more significant and costly issues. Performance management systems in organizations have been considered the most significant. Therefore, effective performance management systems have numerous benefits for any organization, and performance management stands as a primary responsibility of HR. The performance management system within media organizations aims to boost employee effectiveness by aligning individual goals with the overall objectives of the company. It entails performance planning, performance appraisals and reviews, ongoing feedback, performance improvement plans, and rewards. Despite the media houses having PMS, performance remains relatively poor. The objective of the research, therefore, was to analyze the effectiveness of performance management on employee productivity in media houses in Busia and Bungoma counties found in the Kenyan western region. The study’s specific objective was to determine the effect of performance planning on employee job productivity in media outlets in Bungoma and Busia counties. The descriptive research design was utilized. A total of 153 participants were selected based on the calculation from Slovin's formula, and stratified sampling was employed to classify management into top, middle, and low tiers. Questionnaires were utilized to gather data, and the credibility and consistency of the tool were verified. The outcomes indicated that performance planning (t = 2.858; p<0.05) had a statistically positive and significant effect on employee productivity in broadcast media outlets.

LEADERSHIP INFLUENCE OF GIRL-CHILD ACCESS TO SECONDARY SCHOOL EDUCATION IN BUNGOMA COUNTY: ACASE OF MOUNT ELGON DISTRICT, KENYA

The purpose of this study was to establish environmental influence ofgirl-child access to secondary school education in Mount Elgon District. Despite impressive development towards achieving gender parity on access to education, enrolment statistics in Mount Elgon District at secondary school level reveals a worrying experience due to unknown environmental factors. The objective of the study included: determine influence of community factors on girl-child enrolment, establish the influence of home environment on girl-child school attendance, Identify influence of school enrolment on girl-child access to secondary school and establish the influence of family factors on girl-child access to secondary schools in Mt. Elgon District Bungoma County. The researcher applied gender Schema theory bySandra Bern theory of 1981 that explains how as a cognitive theory to explain how individuals become gendered in society, and how sex-linked characteristics are maintained and transmitted to other members of a culture. The researcher employed descriptive design which involved gathering facts by obtaining precise information on the current status of phenomenon and drew conclusions from the facts. The target was 1611 on principals teachers and head girls from 31 schools. Simple random sampling and purposive population sampling techniques were applied on a sample of 102 respondents. The researcher administered the questionnaires and interview schedules in collection of the data. The findings were that parents prefer educating girls than boys though girls admire doing to schools, that the girls have no problem with the school environment and teachers and parental support and commitment was lacking towards girls education. The study concluded that the girl child loves education and would wish to continue with education to high level but is affected negatively with the family factors. The descriptive statistics were used to summarize the whole study and the interpretation accompanied. The study recommended that parents were to stop discrimination against the girl-child and sensitization of parents to take place on the importance of education to girl-child education .through the government policies on girl child education.

Effect of Expansion Decisions on the Financial Performance of SACCOs in Bungoma County, Kenya

The financial performance of Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) in Kenya has been a major concern in recent years, as they play a critical role in promoting financial inclusion and economic development in the country. SACCOs in Kenya have been criticized for making poor expansion decisions, leading to losses and declining financial performance. Several studies have explored the effects of expansion decisions on the financial performance of SACCOs. However, these studies have not been able to fully solve the financial performance problem facing SACCOs in Kenya due to various factors. The study on expansion decisions' effects on SACCOs' financial performance in Bungoma County was significant for promoting financial inclusion and overcoming challenges faced by SACCOs, including competition from digital financial services. The study aimed at examining the effect of expansion decisions on the financial performance of savings and credit cooperative organizations in Bungoma County, Kenya. Transaction cost theory served as the study's guide. To achieve its objectives, the study used a quantitative cross-sectional survey design. A total of 640 respondents were targeted, and 240 respondents were sampled, including the Chief Executive Officers (CEO), Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), accounting staff, and administrative staff. Stratified, proportionate and simple random sampling were used. To ensure the validity and reliability of the data collected, the researcher used various methods. Firstly, expert review, construct validity, and criterion validity were employed to ensure the validity of the questionnaires used. Secondly, the Cronbach alpha method was used to test the reliability of the questionnaires. A pilot study was conducted to identify any issues with the questionnaires before the actual study. After collecting data, it was cleaned and coded to ensure that it was ready for analysis. Descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentages were computed to summarize the expansion decisions and financial performance. The findings were that the expansion decision was fairly agreed upon at 83 (51.2%) in relation to financial performance. Expansion decisions were a significant predictor of financial performance (t =12.678, p<0.05). An R-squared of 0.01 implied that the variation in financial performance at 50.1% was explained by an expansion decision. The recommendations were that SACCOs should make expansion decisions by opening more branches and increasing assets and portfolios so as to maintain the significance level of financial performance.

Strategies to Mitigate Challenges Facing Students in Selection and Progression in Agriculture Career in Tertiary Institutions of Kenya

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the strategies to be employed to mitigate challenges facing students in selection and progression in agriculture careers in tertiary institutions of Bungoma and Kakamega counties, Kenya. Further, the study formulated a conceptual framework based on the research variables, which also aided the formulation of hypotheses. Using a pragmatic philosophical standpoint as a lens, the study applied convergent design and convergent exploratory strategy for data collection, coupled with mixed methods applying both quantitative and qualitative for triangulation. The data was collected using questionnaires and interview protocols. Due diligence was taken into consideration while collecting and processing data to ensure both the reliability and validity of the study. The study used both descriptive and inferential techniques to analyse the collected data. Thematic analysis was appropriately used to guide and validate the contributions of the study. The greatest challenge to progression was poor Ministry policies on program selection in agriculture subjects in secondary schools of Kakamega and Bungoma Counties. The study revealed that the Ministry of Agriculture could review salary scales and create more job opportunities while the Ministry of Education could make agricultural programs business-oriented and lower entry grades to university or Technical and Vocational Education Training institutions, among other issues. The model coefficient analysis on strategies showed that creating more jobs (β=.221, p<.05), career guiding and counselling (β=.392, p<.05) and provision of scholarships (β=.137, p<.05) were some of the significant strategies to mitigate challenges facing progression in an agricultural career. The findings imply that the mentioned significant strategies are effective in mitigating challenges to progression in agricultural careers. The results obtained should guide efforts for suggesting strategies to promote the career progression of students in agricultural programs in Kenya and inform policymakers on the re-orientation of agriculture education

Prevalence of Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium Pulmonary Disease in HIV-1 Patients with Presumptive Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Western Kenya.

Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTMs) are ubiquitous, free-living, environmental saprophytic microorganisms. NTMs belong to the genus Mycobacterium which includes Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). NTMs have lately been a major cause of pulmonary disease (PD) in immuno-compromised individuals including HIV-1 patients. NTMs and MTB appear similar based on microscopy, radiology, and clinical symptoms; consequently, this may lead to misdiagnosis. This study sought to establish the prevalence of NTM pulmonary disease in HIV-1 patients presumed to have pulmonary tuberculosis. A cross-sectional analytical laboratory study design was used targeting 617 adult HIV-1 infected patients presenting with presumptive pulmonary TB at Bungoma County Hospital Comprehensive Care Clinic in Western Kenya between July 2021 to June 2022. A total of 75 (12.2%, 4.6 -9.8 CI) of the participants presented with presumptive MTB and had TB-like symptoms while 542 (87.8%, 12.5 -30.7 CI) were negative. Additionally, 56 (9.1%) were infected with NTMs. HIV-positive participants had a significantly higher prevalence of NTMs 62 (11.8%, 5.6 -9.2 CI) compared to 2 (2.1%, 0.4 -1.8 CI). In HIV + study participants P<0.0001. M. avium was the most prevalent NTM, 25(33.3%), followed by M. fortuitum 20 (26.7%). A significant number of the isolates were M. tuberculosis 10 (13.3%) as well as M. kansasii 8 (10.7%). There seems to be a high prevalence of NTMPD in HIV-1 patients which is assumed to be pulmonary TB. Differential diagnosis of the mycobacterium species is necessary to help improve disease management and outcomes in this group of patients.

Utilization of glycemic index values of commonly consumed foods in the provision of nutrition care to patients with diabetes: a case study at Bungoma county referral Hospital

The estimated prevalence of diabetes in Kenya is around 2.2%. There is a lack of awareness on diabetes in Kenya, leading to delayed diagnosis and management. This lack of awareness hinders early intervention and control of the disease. The adoption of a more Westernized diet, which is often high in processed foods and low in nutritional value, coupled with a decrease in physical activity, has contributed to the rise in diabetes cases. Access to affordable medications, regular blood glucose testing, and specialized diabetes care can be challenging for many Kenyans. This can lead to inadequate glycemic control and increased risk of complications. Knowledge of the glycemic index is therefore key in managing the conditions; therefore, we explore how well healthcare providers understand and apply GI values of widely consumed foods together with the patients. Data was collected and analyzed using a descriptive cross-sectional study design, involving both care providers and patients. Most care providers had knowledge of GI but only 3/4 reported utilizing its utilization. Patients, therefore, had issues because of ignorance and consumed food with high GI. Healthcare providers should be better equipped and acquainted with the G.I concept to provide the right information to patients and follow up in management.

Influence of Statist Inter-ethnic Political Leadership Transformation in the Management of Inter-ethnic Conflicts in Bungoma County, Kenya

The study interrogates the influence of statist inter-ethnic political leadership transformation in the management of inter-ethnic conflicts in Bungoma County. In Kenya, specifically in Bungoma, the 1963 conflict in the region acquired a political and national outlook. In 1992, despite 29 years of independence, the violence was unparalleled. The specific objective of the study was to examine the effect of statist inter-ethnic political leadership integration in the management of inter-ethnic conflict in Bungoma County. The study followed a conceptual framework that was based on Lederach's Conflict Transformation and Gultang's Conflict Triangle theories. A descriptive research design was adopted. By using the Yamane 1967 formula, a sample size of 400 participants was derived from the 1375065 population. Participants were distributed randomly, purposefully, and proportionately. Questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions (FGD), and document analysis were used to collect primary and secondary data, respectively. Microsoft Excel performed both quantitative and qualitative data analysis through thematization, corroboration, and verification. The findings were: Unlike inter-marriage (23%), culture (20%), and trade (15%), 42% of respondents concurred that elders were key in influencing inter-ethnic co-existence. However, colonisation alienated them and made them distinct in their roles. Independent statist political leadership transformation mutated from precipitating inter-ethnic inclined: corruption and greed 17%, political repression 16%, political participation in government 15%, punishment 14%, torture 13%, and demotion 12% to inter-ethnic integration of glimpses of diversity policies into political leadership. Even though peacebuilding was going on, the biggest problems that still needed to be solved were the enforcement of inter-ethnic political leadership integration policies in Bungoma County, the translation of the inter-ethnic political leadership transformation initiative into documentary and creative art, and the separation of administrative and political boundaries from ethnic boundaries.

Adequacy of Physical Infrastructure on Trainees’ Performance in Public Technical and Vocational Education Training Institutions in Bungoma County, Kenya

This study sought to establish how adequacy of physical infrastructure and trainers in public Technical and Vocational Education Training institutions in Bungoma County influences trainees’ performance. Education Production Function Theory (EPFT) is the theoretical foundation upon which this study was grounded on. Prior to the study, a preliminary survey was carried out to ensure that research instruments employed was reliable. Descriptive research design was utilized in the study. The target population was 1,563 it involved 1 county director, 82 principals, 250 Head of Departments and 1,230 trainers, Data was collected from 1 county director, 25 Principals, 75 Head of Departments, and 302 trainees from study institutions. County director were purposively sampled while random sampling was employed to sample Principals, Head of Departments and trainers. Data were collected through questionnaires, interview schedule, and document analysis guide. Qualitative data was systematized under various themes then evaluated using inferential statistics while quantitative data was analyzed by frequencies, standard deviation, percentages and mean. Hypothesis were tested using simple linear regression with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. The study established that there’s limited and inadequate infrastructure in the study institutions.

Knowledge and Attitude of Health Managers Towards the Annual Health Sector Planning and Budgeting Process in Bungoma County, Kenya

The focus of health planning and budgeting is to identify priorities that, in turn, guide budgetary allocations aimed at improving health outcomes. The shift towards decentralization has necessitated reforms in the planning and budgeting processes. These reforms encompass the enactment of legislation, the formulation of process guidelines, and the utilization of program-based budgeting (PBB). Despite the institutionalization of these reforms, healthcare administrators continue to encounter the challenge of insufficient technical capacity and motivation, which hinders their effective participation in the process. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the knowledge and attitudes of health managers toward the annual health sector planning and budgeting process. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative data were collected from 170 health managers drawn from all levels of the county health system, while qualitative data were collected from 3 county health executives. Quantitative data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS v. 29.0), while qualitative data were thematically analyzed. Fifty-eight percent of the health managers had not received training on the annual planning process, and 81% had not been trained on PBB. Only 41% were oriented on MoH planning guidelines and 40.5% on legal frameworks. Just 42% of health managers were knowledgeable about the planning and budgeting process. Chi-square tests indicated a significant association between training and the knowledge level of health managers, χ2 (1, N = 170) = 94.76, p &lt; 0.001, as well as between the knowledge level and the use of legal frameworks, χ2 (1, N = 170) = 53.67, p &lt; 0.001. Trained health managers displayed higher knowledge and utilization of legal frameworks. Although 93% of health managers acknowledged the process is essential for their units, only 40% affirmed their motivation to participate, and 78% disagreed with having a positive attitude toward the process. Top of Form To enhance the knowledge and attitude of health managers towards planning and budgeting, the county health department should allocate funds for training in the annual planning and budgeting process—including PBB. Additionally, the county health department should implement comprehensive orientation programs for health managers, encompassing the Ministry of Health's planning and budgeting guidelines along with the relevant legal frameworks.

Prevalence of Dental Caries among Adult Patients in Bungoma County, Kenya

Globally, dental caries has affected nearly 100% of adult teeth. Dental caries is caused when microbial biofilm converts free sugar contained in such foods and drinks into acid which corrodes the tooth structure. In Kenya, the prevalence is 34%. This high prevalence has led to the negative impact associated with the disease. Therefore, this study’s main aim was to determine the prevalence of dental caries among adult patients in Bungoma County, Kenya. This study was conducted in Bungoma County and adopted a cross-sectional design. The target population was adult dental patients and the key informants were the dentist and dental technologist. Participants were selected using multistage sampling techniques. The sample size of 347 dental patients was arrived at using Cochran’s formula. Data were collected using the WHO-modified assessment questionnaire. WHO DMFT index checklist was also used. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences 25.0. Data were presented using tables and figures. Logistic regression was used to determine the direction of the association at the significance level set at 0.05. Thematic analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. The researcher observed the ethical principles applicable to the study. The prevalence of dental caries among adult patients was 43.7% with a mean total DMFT index of 3.249 which signifies a moderate distribution among the adult population. Kimilili sub-county hospital had a moderate mean DMFT index of 4.47 and Webuye County hospital had a low mean DMFT index of 1.585. Dental caries was more prevalent in youths aged between 18 years to 35 years (60.1%). Moreover, the female gender has more dental caries prevalence at 57.4% as compared to male patients. The prevalence of dental caries is more prone among the rural (56.8%) as compared to the urban (43.2%). According to incomes, individuals who earn more than Ksh. 23,750 have a higher prevalence of 65.6%) than those who earn less than Ksh. 23,750 (34.4%). Dental caries is more prominent in the lower jaw. Those who do not brush their teeth were 4 times more likely to develop dental caries as compared to those who practise good oral hygiene practices (OR =3.0). Those who consume sugary foods and drinks frequently (OR: 2.4) and those who smoke tobacco (OR: 2.0) were times more likely to develop dental caries compared to those who did not consume sugary foods and smoke tobacco. Conclusion: The prevalence of dental caries among adults is moderate with the prevalence being higher in youths, female, low-income earners (&lt; ksh.23,750) and rural dwellers. In terms of the jaws, the lower jaw is more susceptible to caries attack compared to the upper jaw and also the posterior teeth (premolar and molars) are more susceptible to caries compared to the upper jaw. Recommendation: There is a need to conduct a community-based campaign even through Chiefs’ Barazas on the importance of proper oral hygiene practices in Bungoma County.

Health Managers’ Utilization of Evidence to Inform Annual Health Sector Planning and Budgeting Process in Bungoma County, Kenya

Evidence-based planning and budgeting within the health sector are essential in strengthening the health system building blocks. Decentralization has presented opportunities for collecting local and reliable data to facilitate evidence-based planning and budgeting. Despite the increasing availability of routine health information at all levels of the health system, its effective utilization among health managers in lower and middle-income countries remains inadequate. This study, therefore, aimed to assess the health managers’ utilization of evidence to inform the annual planning and budgeting process. The study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional design, incorporating quantitative and qualitative research methods. Quantitative data were collected from 170 health managers, while qualitative data were gathered from three county department of health executives and 83 community health committee members across eight functional community health units. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS v. 29.0) was employed for analyzing the quantitative data, while thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data. Only 42.4% of health managers received training in planning, budgeting, and annual performance reviews (APRs). Among the 45.9% who conduct APRs, only 47.4% use the findings to inform the process. A significant association was found between training and conducting of APRs, χ2 (1, N = 170) = 21.73, p &lt; .001, and between training and the utilization of APR findings in decision-making, χ2 (1, N = 78) = 14.72, p &lt; .001. Although 75% of health managers acknowledged the availability of health information, 71% disagreed that they have skills in data use for planning and budgeting and 54% disagreed regarding the reliability of the available data. The health managers who were trained in health sector planning, budgeting, and APRs were more likely to use findings to inform the process. To improve evidence-based planning and budgeting, the county health department should allocate additional funding towards conducting APRs as a critical first step in guiding the identification of priorities. Additionally, there is a need to implement capacity-building initiatives targeting health managers across all tiers of the county health system, focusing on data management and its effective utilization in planning and budgeting.

Can Learners Taught through Problem-Based Learning Strategy Demonstrate an Obligation to Conveying Positive Motivation towards Physics Enhanced Enrolment?

The government of Kenya has invested enormous resources such infrastructure development, learning materials and professional development of teachers. Despite the efforts put in place to support access and quality education, enrolment and performance in physics in most Sub-County girls’ secondary schools in Bungoma County at Form 3 remain relatively low and poor. The study aimed at investigating whether learners taught through Problem Based Learning Strategy demonstrate an obligation to conveying positive motivation towards Physics enrolment. The objective of the study was to establish the effect of problem-based learning strategy on girls’ motivation towards “Fluid Flow” as compared to conventional teaching methods. The study adopted constructivist theories of learning. Quasi-Experimental design was used with 4 girls’ schools targeted in Bungoma County. The study sampled Form two students because the topic of fluid flow is taught at form two. Simple random sampling was used to assign schools to experimental and control groups. The study used motivation questionnaire, physics Achievement Test (PAT) and Observation schedule. Two groups of each n=40 were either control or experimental were exposed to pretest and post-test. The reliability coefficient was calculated using KR-Fomulla-20 at 0.75. With the aid of SPSS 26.0, data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and presented in form of tables. Results show statistically significant difference in the ability of Girls to derive the to perform better in the topic of Bernoulli’s effects using PBLS and its effect on girls’ motivation was relatively higher than use of conventional methods (ANOVA (F(4,155) = (Q2 = 459.886; Q16 = 462.375; Q24 = 831.272; Q26 =614.907 and Q28 = 406.743), p = .000). The study recommends the method should be strongly advocated by policy makers, the Government, Principals and teachers while teaching science subjects for effective skill development among the learners. The study is significant in bringing total reforms to CBC that call for the use of learner-centered instructional strategies to develop key competencies.

Integration of Information Communication Technology Instructional Resources on Students’ Motivation and Achievement in Chemistry Practical in Secondary Schools in Kenya.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of integration of ICT instructional resources on learners’ motivation and achievement in chemistry practical in secondary schools in Kenya. The objective of this study was to establish the perception of teachers and learners towards use of ICT instructional resources in teaching and learning of chemistry practical in secondary schools;&#x0D; Methodology: Descriptive survey design and quasi experimental research design were utilized in this study. The target population was teachers of chemistry; form three learners and heads of institutions in the secondary schools in the Bungoma County. Stratified random sampling was used to select the schools from which respondents were chosen, the main stratum was the category of schools according to the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology. Simple random sampling was applied to select chemistry teachers, and learners in the sampled schools. Data was collected using questionnaires, and work sheet. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.&#x0D; Findings: It was perceived that integration of ICT resources led to motivation of both teachers and learners in classroom instruction. There was improved performance in chemistry practical with the use of ICT resources. The teachers and learners were motivated when ICT was utilized in teaching and learning of chemistry practical&#x0D; Unique Contribution to Theory and Practice: The conclusion drawn from these findings is that integration of ICT has led to increased teachers’ and learners ’motivation and achievement. Moreover, the policy makers would be informed by this research to formulate the policies that will provide direction and ensure quality of application of ICT to knowledge and practice. The Competency Based Curriculum would apply ICT which then be used to replace the need for realia. The recommendations made from this study are that heads of institutions should be good managers of ICT to ensure that they benefit both teachers of chemistry and learners.

Entomophagy in western Kenya: consumption patterns and the role of psychological and socio-cultural factors

Abstract Owing to its potential as an alternative source of protein, entomophagy (insect eating) has received substantial attention from researchers and development actors. However, despite its relatively high acceptance in some regions, such as western Kenya, there is a limited understanding of the factors that drive entomophagy. Therefore, we conducted a study in western Kenya in Bungoma and Trans-Nzoia counties utilising data from a random sample of 442 households to analyse consumption patterns and determinants of insect-eating behaviour. The analysis used the extended theory of planned behaviour and structural equation modelling to determine entomophagy. Termites, grasshoppers, locusts, dung beetles, crickets, and black ants are examples of insects eaten by these communities. Termites are the most known and consumed insect among households. Most households prefer to eat the insects as a whole and not processed. Results indicate that attitude (ATT), perceived behavioural control (PBC), social norms and objective knowledge (OK) positively and significantly influence households’ intention to eat insects, whereas environmental concerns and perceived barriers (neophobia) have no significant effect. In the model where we include objective knowledge and environmental concern, the effects of ATT and PBC are lower. PBC reduces the effect of ATT on behavioural intention while directly negatively affecting entomophagy. Intention to eat is positively associated with insect-eating behaviour. In addition to these psychological factors, we found that culture significantly explains entomophagy. Once we condition on psychological factors, socioeconomic factors do not have any influence on entomophagy. ATT and OK about insects and culture significantly predict preference for termites over beef – suggesting the positive role of nutrition information. These results show the importance of psychological variables and culture in influencing entomophagy.

Lessons From a Behavior Change Intervention to Improve Provider-Parent Partnerships and Care for Hospitalized Newborns and Young Children in Kenya.

Enhancing respectful, responsive, integrative, and nurturing care for hospitalized newborns and young children (aged 0-24 months) is globally recognized but under-researched in low- and middle-income countries. Responsive, family-centered interventions target providers and parents and emphasize partnership in caring roles. From February 2020 to August 2021, we engaged in a participatory co-creation process with parents, providers, and newborn and child health stakeholders in Kenya to develop a comprehensive provider behavior change intervention and implemented it across 5 hospitals in Nairobi and Bungoma counties in Kenya. The multifaceted intervention included a 7-module orientation, feedback meetings, job aids, and psychosocial support-leveraging in-person and remote modalities-for providers working in newborn and pediatric units. We used a mixed-methods evaluation drawing on a pre-post provider survey, pre-post qualitative interviews with providers and parents, and a follow-up parental survey. There were significant post-intervention improvements in provider knowledge on safeguarding sleep, positioning and handling, and protecting skin. However, there were also significant reductions in providers' knowledge in identifying a child's pain, parental stress, and environmental stress. Among parents who received coaching from providers, there were higher levels of interpersonal communication between parent and provider, parental empowerment, and improved ability to provide integrated, responsive care to their child. Despite the challenges of implementing a provider-focused intervention to improve care for hospitalized newborns and young children during the global COVID-19 pandemic, we have demonstrated that it is feasible to implement a hybrid virtual and in-person process to influence several outcomes, including provider knowledge and practice, improved provider partnerships with parents, and parents' capacity to engage in the care of their newborn or young child.

Interpretability of English medical discourse into Lubukusu

In this era of massive travel and inevitable migration, many doctors encounter patients with whom they do not share a common language. Whenever doctors encounter patients with whom they have no common language, interpretation is the most solicited solution. This paper examines the interpretability of English - Lubukusu medical discourse in Bungoma County in Kenya. English has unique scientific jargon used in the medical field which have no equivalents in Lubukusu. This study sought to establish the degree to which such terminologies are interpretable from English into Lubukusu in medical consultations. The consultants for the study were two non-native doctors at each of the six selected hospitals in Bungoma County in Kenya, their interpreters and six Standardized Patients (nurses) working at the health facilities and six real patients. The researcher audio recorded two consultation sessions for every doctor with one patient or SP on different appointments and analyzed the data majorly by qualitative methods. The results of this study reveal that there are English medical terms that have no equivalents in Lubukusu hence are non-interpretable. The results suggest ways that can be utilized by governments in ensuring that their citizens benefit most from the presence of the doctors from other countries in their hospitals.

Effect of Parenting Practices on ECDE Learner Achievement in Mathematics Activities in Chwele Zone, Kabuchai Sub-County, Bungoma County, Kenya

Proper parenting practices are instrumental in determining learner achievement in learning outcomes. While appropriate parenting practices enhance learner achievement, inappropriate parenting practices inhibit learner achievement in education. In Chwele zone ECDE centres, most children go to school hungry and unkempt; they hardly avail to school what they are asked for, and mostly thought to blame it on parenting practices. Few studies carried out in the area addressed matters of Free Primary Education (FPE), School Feeding Programs (SFP), and instructional materials versus children’s learning and development. Adequate efforts have not been made to establish the relationship that exists between parenting practices and learner achievement in Mathematical activities. This study examined the effect of parenting practices on learner achievement in Mathematics activities in the Chwele zone, with the purpose of establishing the effect of the provision of basic needs and supportive home conditions by parents on learner achievement in Mathematical activities. The theoretical framework used was derived from Lev Vygotsky’s theory of childhood psychological development. The theory states that parents have a vital role in supporting their children’s learning. The study employed a descriptive survey design to study the population of 27 Early Childhood Development (ECD) teachers in charge and 2097 parents. A convenience sampling technique was used to select a sample of 10 teachers and 150 parents from 10 ECDE centres. Questionnaires and interview schedule tools were administered to teachers and parents, respectively, to collect data. The instruments were formulated from the study’s objectives and given to an expert to check their appropriateness. Descriptive analysis in frequency counts and percentages analysed quantitative data. Content analysis analysed qualitative data, which were presented in frequency tables and graphs. Findings indicated that the majority of parents did not take good care of their children in terms of healthy feeding, appropriate clothing, proper care, and demonstration of active participation in mathematics activities. From interviews, results showed that the only way in which parents involved children in mathematical activities at home was by helping with home chores. The study recommends children’s healthy stimulation to be parents’ paramount endeavour because helping children to develop holistically is necessary for meaningful learning. Parents should also be made aware that proper nutrition and general child care enhance proper brain development, a condition that spurs the learning of mathematics activities.