Nairobi City Research Articles

THE INFLUENCE OF COUNTY ASSEMBLIES’ COORDINATING ROLE ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF STRATEGIC PLANS IN THE NAIROBI CITY COUNTY GOVERNMENT, KENYA

In Nairobi County, just like the rest of Kenya, the county assembly is responsible for legislation, oversight, and representation of the county executive who implements the county strategic plans developed from the devolved functions of the devolution. However, the achievement of strategic plans is still with flaws despite this. The purpose of the study was to assess the influence of the coordinating role on the implementation of strategic plans in the Nairobi City County Government, Kenya. The study was guided by the McKinsey 7s model, the Dynamic Capability Model, and the Resource-Based View Theory. The study was conducted using a quantitative research design. The target population was 123 members of the County Assembly, consisting of 85 elected and 38 nominated members. The population also included 3 officials from the County Assembly's Financial and Budget Office, Procurement Office, and Planning Department. The study involved 85 elected and 38 nominated county assembly members, using simple random sampling. Officials from the Financial and Budget Office, Procurement Office, and Planning Department were selected by census. Primary data was collected with 5-point Likert scales. SPSS regression analysis tested the relationships between dependent and independent variables, with multiple regression used due to activity interconnectedness. Results were presented in descriptive figures and tables, with regression outcomes shown in tables. The study's findings reveal a strong positive correlation (r = 0.847, p < 0.01) between the coordination role of MCAs and the implementation of strategic plans. The standardized coefficient (β =0.847; p =0.000) confirms the strong positive relationship between the coordination role and strategic plan attainment. The differing views among MCAs on coordination roles highlight the need for NCCG to enhance stakeholder engagement by creating clear communication frameworks, organizing regular interaction forums, and involving stakeholders in resource allocation to align their efforts with strategic objectives and improve the execution of strategic plans.

Teacher Characteristics Influencing Their Management of Pre- Primary School Pupils’ Disruptive Behaviour in Embakasi Constituency Nairobi City County, Kenya

Teacher Characteristics Influencing Their Management of Pre- Primary School Pupils’ Disruptive Behaviour in Embakasi Constituency Nairobi City County, Kenya

HYGIENE AND SANITATION PRACTICES ON CUSTOMER SATISFACTION IN ETHNICAL RESTAURANTS FOUND IN NAIROBI COUNTY

Hygiene is no new concept to humanity, more so where the hotel industry is involved. The world is becoming a busy globe and meals that were once shared at home are now being provided more and more in eating establishments. People in this case have to trust third parties to handle the preparation of their food and the question about how that food is handled is brought up. This is the same question posed as far as hotel establishments are concerned in Kenya. Can one really trust the people handling their food in hotel? What role does hygiene and sanitation, especially of the food play in convincing individuals to eat in a particular hotel establishment. To be able to answer this question, the study embarked on a study that sampled prominent ethical restaurant within Nairobi City County and interacted with 120 sampled respondents through stratification. The respondents participated in the study by answering a series of questions outlined in a structured questionnaire. The respondents were drawn from various ranks in the establishment ranging from the managers and owners of the restaurants. Data collected was analyzed by use of descriptive statistics with the aid of statistical packages for social sciences and presented in the form of tables, charts and graphs. The study findings showed that restaurants had clear policies for health and safety, though compliance was found to be a challenge leading to unhygienic handling of food and customer dissatisfaction. Structurally, health measures were ineffective in some restaurants, leading to customer discomfort and low frequency of visits. Customers expect a restaurant with good health on first instinct and determined preference. The study however established that the management responded to customer complaints and implemented hygiene changes. As such, it can be concluded that health measures, customer expectations and perceptions had an effect on customer satisfaction and the performance of the restaurants. The study recommends regular capacity building of staff on health and sanitation policies and standards. Also recommended were regular reviews of the restaurant buildings to ensure conducive environment for dining should be undertaken. Training of staff on food handling as well as effective supervision would enhance customer experience at the restaurants. The study recommends further studies in evaluate the effect of staff skills on customer satisfaction in restaurants and assessment of the effect of ethnic cuisines on the performance of restaurants.

Relationship between the composition of the audit committee and earnings quality in Tier One banks in Nairobi City County, Kenya.

This study investigates the relationship between audit committee composition and earnings quality in Tier One banks in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The composition of audit committees, particularly the presence of independent directors, financial experts, and industry experts, is hypothesized to significantly influence the quality of reported earnings. Using a sample of six Tier One banks over the period 2016-2021, this study employs a correlational research design to examine this relationship. Data was collected through questionnaires administered to 90 respondents across operational, middle, and lower management levels, with a response rate of 67%. The study utilized descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis to analyze the data. Key findings indicate a positive and statistically significant relationship between audit committee composition and earnings quality. Specifically, the presence of independent directors (r = 0.38, p < 0.05), financial experts (r = 0.29, p < 0.05), and industry experts (r = 0.26, p < 0.05) on the audit committee were all positively correlated with measures of earnings quality. The regression analysis further confirmed these relationships, controlling for other audit committee characteristics such as size and meeting frequency. These findings suggest that the composition of audit committees plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of financial reporting in Tier One banks in Kenya. The study recommends that regulatory bodies and bank management prioritize the appointment of independent directors with relevant financial and industry expertise to audit committees. This research contributes to the existing literature on corporate governance in the banking sector and provides practical implications for improving financial reporting quality in emerging markets.

Influence of Organizational Culture on Performance of the Automotive Engineering Industry in Nairobi City County in Kenya

Influence of Organizational Culture on Performance of the Automotive Engineering Industry in Nairobi City County in Kenya

Economics and logistics of the Mombasa – Nairobi railway project

The study is devoted to the economic evaluation of the Nairobi – Mombasa Standard Gauge Railway Project in Kenya. The cost-benefit analysis method was used to evaluate this project, the purpose of which is to find the net social benefit by subtracting all the project costs from the total social benefits. Among the various cost analysis methods, the corridor analysis method was used, as well as the empirical method, which included mathematical calculation, analysis and comparison of information from different modes of transport operating between the two cities of Nairobi and Mombasa, obtained from different secondary sources in order to obtain the social present value. There is a social benefit of $ 75 million and thus the project was worth the investment. The analysis of the Nairobi – Mombasa Standard Gauge Railway Project will help reduce the negative reaction that the Kenyan government has faced from local residents for its huge investment in this project, proving that the project is economically beneficial and will have a positive impact on the social welfare of the residents.

E-banking Strategies and Growth of Selected Commercial Banks in Nairobi City County, Kenya

Purpose: The growth of Kenyan commercial banks has been sluggish despite the widespread adoption of the latest trends. This delayed progress can be attributed to the uncertainty surrounding the outcomes of the devised e-banking strategies by management. The growth of commercial banks in Nairobi City County, Kenya has been significantly affected by the rate of adoption of technology, which is one of the latest trends in banking. A majority of the clients of commercial banks in Kenya have been hesitant to embrace the new trends in form of online banking in preference for traditional banking as a result of a lack of trust. In addition, there have been also some challenges in Point of Sale (POS) systems, e-banking transfers, virtual assistants, and chatbots. This research aimed to investigate the impact of e-banking strategies on the growth of selected commercial banks in Nairobi City County, Kenya. Methodology: To achieve the study's objectives, a descriptive research design was employed. The target population comprised managers of commercial banks responsible for strategy implementation. The sample included Digital Banking Managers, Operational Managers, IT Managers, Customer Relations Managers, Finance Managers, and Business Development Managers, totaling 54 respondents. Before data collection, a pilot study was carried out to assess the feasibility of the research. Additionally, validity and reliability tests were carried out to ensure the research instrument accurately measures its intended variables. Data was collected through a combination of closed and open-ended questionnaires, administered via drop-and-pick methods. Subsequently, the collected data was analyzed through descriptive analysis. Results: The study found that e-banking strategies, including SMS banking, POS systems, Electronic Bank Transfers, and virtual assistants/chatbots, significantly impact the growth of commercial banks in Kenya, despite challenges such as unread messages and interoperability issues. Conclusion: It was concluded that banks should address usability concerns, strengthen security measures, and prioritize user-centric design to maximize benefits. Recommendations include enhancing SMS banking usability of commercial banks, improving transaction security, and investing in technological innovations for operational efficiency and competitiveness.

Career Environment Dynamics and Employee Career Development in Star-Rated Hotels in Nairobi City County, Kenya. An Empirical Evidence.

The progression of an individual's career is determined by the professional roles and activities they pursue throughout time, as well as the corresponding attitudes, skills, and knowledge which usually change with time. Career development encompasses an individual's personal and professional life as well as the relationships that exist between them. The process of developing one's career is influenced by the person, the organization, the management, the position among others. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of career environmental dynamics on employee career development in star rated hotels in Nairobi City County. The objectives were; to establish the influence of career orientation environment, teamwork and goodwill for careers on employee career development. Explanatory and descriptive research designs were used. The target population was 3114 hotel employees out of which 341 formed the sample. Purposive, stratified and systematic random sampling techniques were used to select the research participants. Structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The data was analyzed via structural equation modeling using SPSS in conjunction with AMOS v24 to test the hypothesis. The fit indices for the structural model fell within the acceptable range (CMIN=326.711, DF=134.000, CMIN/DF=2.438, CFI=0.934, TLI= 0.916, SRMR=0.071, RMSEA=0.072) R2=0.21, and was used to test the hypothesis. career orientation environment on employee career development was negative and significant (β=-0.482, p<0.05) Ho1 was not supported. teamwork on employee career development was negative but not significant (β=-0.215, p>0.05) Ho2 was supported. good will for career on employee career development was positive but significant (β=-0.542, p<0.05) Ho3 was not supported. the researcher concluded that career orientation environment and good will for career are instrumental in helping the employees in developing their careers in the hotels. It was recommended that managers need to create conducive work environment to support employees to develop their careers.

THE CONCENTRATION OF NATURAL RADIATION SOURCES (NRS), MAINLY 238U, 232Th, and 40K, IN BUILDING MATERIALS (SAND, CLAY BRICKS, AND CONCRETE BLOCKS) USED ALONG KANGUNDO ROAD, NAIROBI KENYA

This research aimed at assessing the concentration of Natural Radiation Sources (NRS), mainly 238U, 232Th, and 40K, in building materials (sand, clay bricks, and concrete blocks) used along Kangundo Road in Nairobi City County. Human exposure to ionising radiation is largely due to Natural Radiation Sources (NRS). These radioactive elements with long half-lives are found in the Earths lithosphere and in construction materials with radiation levels varying due to their geology. A purposive random sampling method was deployed in this work to collect samples of building materials for analysis. The radioactivity concentration levels in the sampled building materials were determined using a NaI (TI) spectrometer at Kenyatta University laboratory. The activity concentration of 40K varied from 151 ± 8 to 2392 ± 120 Bq/kg, 238U varied from 27 ± 2 to 412 ± 21 Bq/kg and 232Th ranged from 54 ± 3 to 612 ± 31Bq/kg. More than 70 per cent of the samples analysed had activity concentration surpassing the world permissible limits of 420 Bq/kg, 33 Bq/kg, 45 Bq/kg for 40K, 238U and 232Th respectively. The study therefore recommended that assessment of radioactivity concentration for samples with high radioactivity values.

Access to reproductive health services by female survivors of sexual gender-based violence: a descriptive cross-sectional study of Nairobi City County, Kenya

Background: Sixty percent of women globally are exposed to reproductive health problems related to sexual gender-based violence. In Kenya, sexual violence is one of the top 10 risk factors for disease burden. The study aimed to determine access to reproductive health services by female survivors of sexual gender-based violence in Nairobi city county, Kenya. Methods: The study adopted descriptive cross-sectional design using pretested questionnaires. Study population was 269 female survivors of sexual gender-based violence. Data was analysed thematically and presented by use of percentages and frequencies distribution tables. Binary logistic regression model was used to determine relationships between dependent and independent variables. Odds ratios were evaluated for significance by considering the 95% confidence interval at p value ≤0.05. Results: Access to reproductive health services by female survivors of sexual gender-based violence was 26%. Service availability for survivors in the facilities had a 3 times likelihood of access sexual, knowledge on failure to seek immediate medical attention had 4 times likelihood to increase access while awareness of the period to have prophylaxis had 4.66 times likelihood to increase access. Services provided to survivor had 39% likelihood to increase access, survivors screened for sexually transmitted disease before admission had 10% more likelihood to access and survivors who received post exposure prophylaxis had 0.62 times likelihood of access to sexual reproductive health services. Conclusions: Availability of comprehensive sexual reproductive health services at the facility and good knowledge would increase access to reproductive health services.

Supplier Communication and Performance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Nairobi City County,Kenya

The study investigates the relationship between supplier communication and the performance of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nairobi City County, Kenya. Supplier communication was found to play a pivotal role in the operational efficiency and overall performance of MSMEs, especially in dynamic markets. Despite adopting Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) practices, many MSMEs continued to experience challenges such as poor record management, unclear expectations, and a lack of timely feedback. These communication issues contributed to delays, misunderstandings, and increased costs, which negatively impacted business growth. The study applied the Communication Accommodation Theory to explain how MSMEs adapted their communication styles in both high-context and low-context cultures. Using a cross-sectional research design, the study collected data from 373 MSMEs under the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) program. The results revealed a significant positive relationship between supplier communication and performance, with regression analysis showing that supplier communication explained 58.7% of the variance in MSME performance. The findings aligned with previous studies, emphasizing the importance of communication for successful supplier collaboration and supply chain management. The study concluded that frequent, transparent communication with suppliers improved product and service delivery and operational efficiency. Recommendations included investing in technologies that enhance communication and developing policies to support ongoing supplier relationship management. Further research could explore the impact of digital technologies on supplier communication and how communication with international suppliers influences MSME performance.

Effectiveness of eLearning for educational advancement in selected universities in Nairobi City County, Kenya: The role of gender-based factors

eLearning has provided a favourable education platform for access to timely, quality, and cost-effective education advancement in Kenyan universities. It has not, however, achieved its expected potential and suffers numerous challenges that affect its full implementation. A notable challenge is its effectiveness in catalysing educational advancement by enhancing transition and completion rates in various academic programs. This study aimed to assess the gender disparities that influence the effectiveness of eLearning in select universities. The indicators for effectiveness were defined as the functionality of the eLearning Management Systems (ELMS), benefits accrued from eLearning, and progression and completion rates in the programs offered under eLearning. This was a descriptive study using multistage sampling with a sample size of 395 students and 32 KII. The questionnaire, key informant interview guide, and content analysis were used as the data collection tools. Data was quantitatively and qualitatively analysed. Analysis of the ELMS found that the instructor’s availability and guidance on inline interaction was the most effective functionality of ELMSs with means of 4.10 and 4.31 for males and females, respectively. The least concern was the provision of technological devices for eLearning, 3.49 and 3.42, for males and females respectively. There was notable gender disparity in information received during course registration, protection of student data, academic progress data, and support by technical staff. The composite means were 3.81 and 4.01 for males and females respectively. Most females (3.92) found that simplification of e-materials was the most important enabler for eLearning whereas males (3.68) stated that eLearning had improved their accessibility to educational advancement. The highest gender disparities influencing eLearning were the cost-effectiveness and availability of e-materials. These factors influenced completion rates which were slightly higher for males than females as previously reported. This study provides data that can be used to formulate gender-responsive policies that promote, enhance, and sustain the effectiveness of eLearning by minimizing gender-based disparities that would otherwise negatively impact educational advancement.

Manifestations of Respiratory Dust Related Health Effects among Quarry Stone Diggers in Small Scale Quarries in Nairobi City County, Kenya

Manifestations of Respiratory Dust Related Health Effects among Quarry Stone Diggers in Small Scale Quarries in Nairobi City County, Kenya

The role of gender-based factors on the levels of student participation in eLearning in select universities in Nairobi City County, Kenya

The role of gender-based factors on the levels of student participation in eLearning in select universities in Nairobi City County, Kenya

Performance of Modified Polymer as a Binder with Qarry Dust and Ballast in the Production of Paving Blocks

The city of Nairobi is in need of pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure as an answer to an increasing reliance on automobiles. Collaborative efforts are underway to reduce congestion, although challenges such as sand mining persist. The utilization of plastic waste and Quarry Dust (QD) may provide a sustainable solution. The proposed study aims to assess the mechanical properties and optimal blend design for the production of paving blocks using a modified polymer and a combination of ballast (B) and QD. The gradation curve constituted a pivotal stage in the research process, as it provided vital information regarding the ratio of B and QD required for the optimal mix design. The study methodically explored the optimal ratio of materials for the production of paving blocks incorporating a modified polymer, QD, and B. It was observed that there were minor reductions in strength under acidic conditions, which suggests that the proposed paving blocks may be suitable for use in a variety of outdoor applications. Additionally, it would be advantageous to investigate innovative solutions for Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) infrastructure.

Fungal spore air pollution in selected environments in Nairobi, Kenya

ABSTRACT Fungal spores constitute major bioaerosols and are important indicators of bio-pollution. The rural–urban migration has increased human activity, causing air pollution concerns globally. This study explored the seasonal load, distribution, and diversity of fungal spores at different strategic sites in Nairobi, Kenya. The fungal air spores were systematically collected from markets, roads, and recreational, and dumping sites within Nairobi City County. Briefly, Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) plates were exposed on site for 5 minutes, and transported for incubation at 28°C for 7 days. Temperature, humidity, and wind speed data were recorded using the AccuWeather mobile app. Fungal cultures were identified using standard macro and micro-phenotypic features. The relationship between the fungal concentration and meteorological parameters was analyzed using multiple regression and PNiger. The wet season had the highest number of fungal spores (5318.88 CFU m− 3) compared to the dry season (1929.58 CFU m− 3.) We identified 502 isolates across two seasons; 16 genera and 38 species comprising Ascomycota 426 (89.31%), Basidiomycota 21 (4.40%), Deuteromycota 17 (3.56%), Muromycota 7(1.47%) and Zycomycota 6(1.26%). The most isolated fungal genera included Candida (17.13%), followed by Penicillium 66 (13.15%), Fusarium 62 (12.35%), Aspergillus 61 (12.15%) and Cladosporium 60 (11.95%). Temperature, humidity and windspeed significantly affected airborne fungal concentration (p = .000), (p = .0280) and (p = .000), respectively. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the temperature negatively correlated with the fungal concentration significantly (p = .000), humidity positively correlated with the fungal concentration significantly (p = .001), and wind speed negatively correlated with the fungal concentration significantly (p = .000). Our findings highlight the significance of fungal air pollution and the possible risks of human mycoses. The significance of fungal spore pollutants and human mycoses to climate change needs to be explored.

E-Government Services and Performance of County Governments in Kenya: The Case of Nairobi City County

E-Government Services and Performance of County Governments in Kenya: The Case of Nairobi City County

Maternal nutrition knowledge and mothers ability to utilize mobile phone application for health information sharing at Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi City, Kenya

Maternal nutrition knowledge and mothers ability to utilize mobile phone application for health information sharing at Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi City, Kenya

Causal Factors Responsible for Changes in the Attributes of Urban Green Spaces in Nairobi City County, Kenya

Causal Factors Responsible for Changes in the Attributes of Urban Green Spaces in Nairobi City County, Kenya

A Nexus between Project Management Lifecycle and Performance of Slums Upgrading Projects in Nairobi City County, Kenya

The alarming rate of urban sprawl poses a social menace for city planners and governments worldwide and Nairobi city of Kenya is not an exception. Challenges of access to appropriate and affordable housing has forced majority of city residents to occupy shanties with deplorable living conditions thus, the need to improve the infrastructure in the slums. In Kenya, the government has initiated various projects in a bid to carry out a facelift of slums countrywide. Although, involvement of key stakeholders in each of the phases of project management lifecycle (PMLC) that is, project initiation, planning, implementation, Monitoring & evaluation and closure remains a critical factor to the realization of slum upgrading infrastructure development, the affected communities are not fully engaged thus thwarting effective implementation of the planned activities. In this regard, the aim of the study was to examine the influence of PMLC on performance of slums upgrading projects (PSUP). A descriptive survey research design and a correlational research design were utilized whereby data was analysed and interpreted using means, standard deviations, correlation of coefficient and correlation of determination. A sample of 266 was drawn from a target population of 794, of which 208 responded to a 5-point Likert Scale questionnaire. Qualitative data collected was presented in narrative form. Results obtained indicated a linearly positive and a very strong significant relationship between PMLC and PSUP. When all phases were combined PMLC explained 62.9% of the overall variation in PSUP. The findings indicate that a unit increase in initiation and planning stages result to an increase in PSUP by 7.77% and 1.97% respectively whereas for a unit decrease in project implementation and project M&E, PSUP decreases by 2.07% and 1.72% respectively. It was thus concluded that PMLC significantly influences Performance of Slum Upgrading Projects. The recommendation of the study was that activities pertaining to project planning, M&E and project closure phases be efficiently executed for optimum performance of the projects.