Coastal Region Of Kenya Research Articles

Evaluation of population genetics of Moringa oleifera Provenances from Coastal Kenya using Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs) markers

Population genetics analysis is a prerequisite to understanding how and why genotypes and allele frequencies and change over time between and within populations. Consequently, it offers insight into the process of evolutionary change and makes it possible to map variants linked to traits that differ among populations. In the present study, Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) markers were utilized to study the genetic characterization of 17 provenances from the Coast region of Kenya. 164 genotypes of Moringa oleifera were selected from 17 populations and genome sequencing undertaken utilizing genotyping by sequencing (GBS). Identification of polymorphisms (SNP Calling) in the selected genotypes and population genetic studies were carried out. SNP calling was done by Illumina’s SNP caller algorithm in the CASAVA software. 20,921 SNPs were called with an average call rate of 0.82. Average polymorphsm content (PIC) for the SNPs was 0.24 and reproducibility was 0.98. A phenetic tree was constructed using a neighbor-joining approach using DArT R. For the population genetics analysis, F statistic (Fst) utilising the functions StAMPP package in DArT R was performed whereby Gede and Samburu exhibited the least heterozygosity/correlation with a value of 0.0003 whereas Pwani University and Samburu had the highest correlation of genes at 0.37. Euclidean was used as a measure distance, and the average distance between the populations was 33.024. The molecular variance analysis (AMOVA) described a lower, 2.55%, variation within the population and 2.73% among the populations. The high similarity between the genotypes could be attributed to the Moringa plants in the various provenances having the same ancestry. This study may help identify links between gene allelic forms and phenotypes, allowing the alleles to be connected to desired characteristics such as rapid growth and high yield (functional analysis), because of the high frequency of SNPs and their role as a source of allele variations.

Moderating effect of contextual factors on the relationship between travel motivation and destination loyalty among domestic tourists in the Coast region of Kenya

Despite the marginal growth recorded in the tourism sector in Kenya, the domestic visits and estimates fall far below the expectations. The study was guided by the following specific objective; to assess the moderating effect of contextual factors on the relationship between travel motivation and destination loyalty among domestic tourists in the Coast Region of Kenya. The study area comprised frequented attractions in the Coast region of Kenya. The study adopted an embedded mixed approach comprising descriptive survey and explanatory research designs. Simple random sampling and purposive techniques were adopted for domestic tourists, destination managers and experts respectively. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview schedules. Four hundred (400) questionnaires were distributed while 10 destination managers and 5 experts were interviewed. Data analysis was done using multiple regression models, hierarchical multiple regression and descriptive analysis. The multiple regression model results without interaction terms indicated that R-square = 0.442, implying that destination attributes and socio-psychological factors explain 44.2% of destination loyalty. The hierarchical multiple regression demonstrated that contextual factors have a moderating effect on interaction between travel motivation and destination loyalty since the model was significant {R2 = 0.255, F (7, 371) = 12.12, p =0.0001}. The model accounted for 25.5% of variation on destination loyalty. This means that the composite elements of contextual factors namely; political, economic, technological and socio-cultural factors significantly moderates the interaction between travel motivation and loyalty behaviour of domestic tourists. The null hypotheses were tested and rejected. The study recommends need for destinations and service providers to engage more on digital marketing and deploy technology during marketing initiatives and product development to capture niche segments since majority of the respondents were youth travelers

Manifestation and Management of Cultural Heritage: An Analysis of the Old Towns of Kenyan Coastal Region

The study examined the current manifestation of intangible and tangible cultural heritage of old towns of Lamu and Mombasa in the coastal region of Kenya, with a view of evaluating management efforts by heritage managers in the region. An exploratory research design with a mixed method approach was used to generate new ideas and assumptions regarding how cultural heritage is manifested. A sample size of 110 participants from both towns was selected through multistage cluster sampling, out of which 15 heritage managers, 40 community household leaders and 55 community elders were selected using purposive and snowball techniques. The study utilized semi structured interview guides, photography and observation as data collection methods. Descriptive analysis, content analysis-specifically attribution and designation analysis were used to analyze data. The study established that cultural heritage in the old towns is manifested through symbols, values and artefacts and architecture. Among the most evident manifestations in both old towns are in the form of wedding ceremonies, burial rituals, and limited cultural festivals especially during key religious practices Manifested architectural heritage undergoing shocks is restored for tourism purposes. However, intangible heritage is preserved, not for tourism purposes but as part of local’s way of life and as dictated by cultural values such as religion. Most organizations concerned with management of cultural heritage recognize its importance and have adapted reconstruction and restoration methods of tangible heritage especially old architecture. Among preferred recommendations were that tourism as the main economic activity in the region should be developed to benefit cultural heritage. The article advocates promoting resilience of heritage through gainful economic activities such as tourism to promote its posterity.

Assessing production, processing and utilization of sorghum in West Pokot County, Kenya

Sorghum is one of the most important and under-utilized cereal crops in the Arid and Semi-Arid land (ASAL) regions of Kenya. The crop is grown in drought-prone marginal agricultural areas of Western Central and Eastern and coastal regions of Kenya. The diverse biotic and abiotic constraints including climate changes reduce sorghum productivity. Sorghum technology generators continue promoting suitable management practices and innovations to cushion and improve the resilience of smallholder farmers against the adverse effects of climate change. These interventions contribute to the attainment of not only household and national food security but also enhance incomes. Despite the increasing sorghum production and utilization in West Pokot County, there is limited knowledge of the status of production, processing, and utilization technologies. The aim of this study was to assess the current sorghum production, processing, utilization technology, innovations, and management practices among smallholder farmers. A household survey was undertaken using a jointly developed structured questionnaire by a multi- and inter-disciplinary team of researchers. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, 599 households were randomly selected and interviewed. Data collected were on household and farm characteristics including technologies. The study revealed that compared to maize and pasture, land allocated to sorghum enterprise was relatively low ranging from 0.32 acres to 0.80 acres with an average of 0.73 acres. The adoption of various sorghum technological components was also low. Adoption of improved sorghum varieties was less than 7% while fertilizer use was less than 20%. These contribute to low crop yields of about 140kg per acre. In addition, value addition was also low. Sorghum use was limited to ugali (56%) and porridge (39%) against the diverse value-added products including bread baking. and industrial processing of pure and blended products. More farmer and stakeholders training need to be done. In order to fully upgrade the sorghum value chain; there is the need to have targeted sorghum policies focusing on a range of activities along the value chain. These interventions could be integrated into the West Pokot County Integrated Development Plan. Key words: Sorghum, Production, Marketing, Utilization, Challenges, Opportunities, West Pokot

Influence of Contract Management on Purchasing Consortia at County Referral Hospitals in the Coast Region, Kenya

The Purchasing consortium has been used to describe a form of cooperation in a diversified view to pool resources and manage supply risk. Depending on the anticipated advantages, the function of a purchasing group might be expanded more or less. The objective of the study was to determine the influence of contract management on purchasing consortium. The study was done in the County Referral Hospital in the Coast Region, Kenya. Theoretically, the study was anchored on competency theory, MacNeil Relational Theory. The study used the descriptive research design in undertaking this study. The study population comprised of 212 officials drawn from across the county referral hospitals in the coastal region of Kenya. The stratified random sampling technique resulted into having a total sample size of 139 units of analysis. Data was collected by use of questionnaires, analyzed, and presented scientifically in tables and graphs. The study findings revealed that Contract Management has a significant positive on the purchasing consortium. The study recommends that government and regulatory authorities implement policies and incentives to encourage healthcare organizations to adopt a portfolio approach to procurement. Given the significant financial and operational implications of purchasing consortiums, robust regulatory mechanisms are essential to safeguard against corruption, fraud, and collusion. Regulators should establish clear guidelines, standards, and monitoring mechanisms to govern consortium formation, operation, and performance evaluation. The study also recommends that government and regulatory bodies leverage technology and data analytics to enhance procurement efficiency and effectiveness in the healthcare sector. Furthermore, the study recommends that hospital management adopt a strategic approach to contract management that aligns with their organizational objectives and resource constraints. While the correlation analysis revealed a weak relationship between contract management and consortium participation, it is imperative for hospitals to prioritize effective contract management practices to mitigate risks and maximize value from procurement activities.

Hydrological Response of Bamboo Plantations on Soil–Water Dynamics in Humid and Semi-Arid Coastal Region of Kenya

Soils and water are major resources that drive a country’s economy, and therefore should be conserved and utilized sustainably. However, in Kenya, these two resources are facing huge depletion and degradation due to anthropogenic factors and climate change. Bamboo species, especially on large plantations, can significantly alter ecological, hydrological, and biogeochemical processes in the long term. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different species of bamboo and tree plantations on important soil–water processes like infiltration, bulk density, runoff, and soil loss in Kenya. The research was conducted at two sites (Gede in Arabuko Sokoke forest and at Baolala, in Kilifi County) managed by the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI). The Arabuko Sokoke forest has a hot–humid coastal climate, while Baolala is a hot semi-arid area with little precipitation. The study involved measurement of soil–water infiltration rates using infiltrometers, installing runoff plots to quantify surface runoff and sediment loss, and analyzing soil properties like bulk density for growing periods for different bamboo and tree species. At the Gede forest site, the 30-year-old Thyrsostachys siamensis and Bambusa bambos plantations recorded the highest infiltration rates. Mature bamboo plantations of T. siamensis and B. bambos recorded higher infiltration rates compared to mature plantations of E. camaldulensis and G. arborea. It was observed that the bamboo plantations manifested lower soil bulk density compared to bare land, which recorded the highest bulk density. At Boalala, infiltration rates were significantly higher in the bamboo species compared to grassland and bare land. The painted bamboo (B. vulgaris vittata) had a slightly higher water infiltration rate compared to B. vulgaris. Runoff and erosion patterns reinforced the benefits of more mature bamboo plantations as well. There was a significant correlation between amount of runoff and collected soil loss through erosion. The data showed reductions in surface runoff volumes and sediment loss as the bamboo plantations aged compared to younger species. Therefore, by enhancing infiltration and reducing runoff and erosion, well-managed bamboo plantations can protect valuable soil resources, improve water recharge, and support sustainable land use over the long term. In conclusion, this study showed the strong potential of bamboo as a soil and water conservation tool in Kenya.

Influence of Supplier Interest on Purchasing Consortia at the County Referral Hospitals in the Coast Region, Kenya

Purpose: The objective of the study was to determine the influence of supplier interest on purchasing consortia at the county referral hospitals in the coast region, Kenya. The researcher further investigated the moderating influence of Management Information System on the relationship between supplier interest and purchasing consortia at the county referral hospitals in the coast region, Kenya. Methodology: The study embraced the descriptive research design. The study population comprised of 212 officials drawn from the county referral hospitals in the coast region of Kenya. The stratified random sampling technique used resulted into having 139 units of analysis. The study used primary quantitative data which was collected via questionnaires, whereas data analysis was through the statistical package for social sciences. Findings: The hypothesis testing led to the rejection of H01 since the p-value of .000 was less than .05, thus depicting that supplier interest has a significant positive influence on purchasing consortia at the county referral hospitals in the coast region, Kenya. The hypothesis testing for the moderated relationship model led to the rejection of H02 since the p-value of .000 was less than .05, thus confirming that management information system has a significant positive moderating effect on the relationship between supplier interest and purchasing consortia at the county referral hospitals in the coast region of Kenya. The researcher recommends that county referral hospitals should embrace and consider supplier interest because it influences the purchasing consortia. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The researcher also recommends that the county referral hospitals should invest in management information system because it has a significant positive moderating effect on the relationship between supplier interest and purchasing consortia at the county referral hospitals in the coastal region of Kenya.

Utility of MALDI-TOF MS for determination of species identity and blood meal sources of primary malaria vectors on the Kenyan coast.

Protein analysis using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass-spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) represents a promising tool for entomological surveillance. In this study we tested the discriminative power of this tool for measuring species and blood meal source of main Afrotropical malaria vectors on the Kenyan coast. Mosquito collections were conducted along the coastal region of Kenya. MALDI-TOF MS spectra were obtained from each individual mosquito's cephalothorax as well as the abdomens of blood-engorged mosquitoes. The same mosquitoes were also processed using gold standard tests: polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for species identification and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for blood meal source identification. Of the 2,332 mosquitoes subjected to MALDI-TOF MS, 85% (1,971/2,332) were considered for database creation and validation. There was an overall accuracy of 97.5% in the identification of members of the An. gambiae ( An. gambiae, 100%; An. arabiensis, 91.9%; An. merus, 97.5%; and An. quadriannulatus, 90.2%) and An. funestus ( An. funestus, 94.2%; An. rivulorum, 99.4%; and An. leesoni, 94.1%) complexes. Furthermore, MALDI-TOF MS also provided accurate (94.5% accuracy) identification of blood host sources across all mosquito species. This study provides further evidence of the discriminative power of MALDI-TOF MS to identify sibling species and blood meal source of Afrotropical malaria vectors, further supporting its utility in entomological surveillance. The low cost per sample (<0.2USD) and high throughput nature of the method represents a cost-effective alternative to molecular methods and could enable programs to increase the number of samples analysed and therefore improve the data generated from surveillance activities.

General ward nurses detection and response to clinical deterioration in three hospitals at the Kenyan coast: a convergent parallel mixed methods study

BackgroundIn low and middle-income countries like Kenya, critical care facilities are limited, meaning acutely ill patients are managed in the general wards. Nurses in these wards are expected to detect and respond to patient deterioration to prevent cardiac arrest or death. This study examined nurses' vital signs documentation practices during clinical deterioration and explored factors influencing their ability to detect and respond to deterioration.MethodsThis convergent parallel mixed methods study was conducted in the general medical and surgical wards of three hospitals in Kenya's coastal region. Quantitative data on the extent to which the nurses monitored and documented the vital signs 24 h before a cardiac arrest (death) occurred was retrieved from patients' medical records. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty-four purposefully drawn registered nurses working in the three hospitals' adult medical and surgical wards.ResultsThis study reviewed 405 patient records and found most of the documentation of the vital signs was done in the nursing notes and not the vital signs observation chart. During the 24 h prior to death, respiratory rate was documented the least in only 1.2% of the records. Only a very small percentage of patients had any vital event documented for all six-time points, i.e. four hourly. Thematic analysis of the interview data identified five broad themes related to detecting and responding promptly to deterioration. These were insufficient monitoring of vital signs linked to limited availability of equipment and supplies, staffing conditions and workload, lack of training and guidelines, and communication and teamwork constraints among healthcare workers.ConclusionThe study showed that nurses did not consistently monitor and record vital signs in the general wards. They also worked in suboptimal ward environments that do not support their ability to promptly detect and respond to clinical deterioration. The findings illustrate the importance of implementation of standardised systems for patient assessment and alert mechanisms for deterioration response. Furthermore, creating a supportive work environment is imperative in empowering nurses to identify and respond to patient deterioration. Addressing these issues is not only beneficial for the nurses but, more importantly, for the well-being of the patients they serve.

Aspergillus population diversity and its role in aflatoxin contamination of cashew nuts from coastal Kenya.

Cashew nuts are among the main cash crops in coastal Kenya, due in large part to their high nutritional value. Unfortunately, they also make them highly susceptible to mold contamination, resulting in biodeterioration of the nutritional value and potential contamination with toxic secondary metabolites, such as aflatoxins, that cause them to be rejected for sale at the market. We determined the population diversity of the Aspergillus species and their role in aflatoxin contamination in cashew nuts in selected coastal regions of Kenya. Fifty raw cashew nut samples were collected from post-harvest storage facilities across three counties in Kenya's coastal region and examined for moisture content and the presence of Aspergillus fungi. About 63 presumptive isolates were recovered from the cashew nuts. ITS and 28S rDNA regions were sequenced. The aflD, aflM and aflR genes were amplified to identify the potentially aflatoxigenic from the Aspergillus isolates. The Aflatoxins' presence on the isolates was screened using UV and the ammonia vapour test on coconut milk agar and validated using ELISA assay. A comparison of cashew moisture content between the three counties sampled revealed a significant difference. Sixty-three isolates were recovered and identified to section based on morphological characters and their respective ITS regions were used to obtain species identifications. Three sections from the genus were represented, Flavi and Nigri, and Terrei with isolates from the section Nigri having slightly greater abundance (n = 35). The aflD, aflM and aflR genes were amplified for all isolates to assess the presence of the aflatoxin biosynthesis pathway, indicating the potential for aflatoxin production. Less than half of the Aspergillus isolates (39.68%) contained the aflatoxin pathway genes, while 22.22% isolates were aflatoxigenic, which included only the section Flavi isolates. Section Flavi isolates identification was confirmed by calmodulin gene. The presence of species from Aspergillus section Flavi and section Nigri indicate the potential for aflatoxin or ochratoxin in the cashew nuts. The study established a foundation for future investigations of the fungi and mycotoxins contaminating cashew nuts in Kenya, which necessitates developing strategies to prevent infection by mycotoxigenic fungi, especially during the storage and processing phases.

Quantifying the Impact of Technology Utilization on Schedule and Cost Performance in Development Projects Funded by County Governments in the Coast Region of Kenya&amp;nbsp; &lt;br&gt;

Quantifying the Impact of Technology Utilization on Schedule and Cost Performance in Development Projects Funded by County Governments in the Coast Region of Kenya&amp;nbsp; &lt;br&gt;

Moderating Effect of Government Policies and Regulations on the Relationship Between Diversification Strategies and Organizational Performance Among Star Rated Hotels in the Kenyan Coast

Nowadays, organizations must exploit opportunities and avoid risks by applying relevant strategies and developing various strategic approaches that will improve their competitive edge and overall performance. One of the possible ways to improve business efficiency and performance is through diversification in light of available government policies and regulations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the moderating effect of government policies and regulations on diversification strategies and organizational performance amidst organizational and environmental forces within star rated hotels in the coast region of Kenya. The specific objectives were; to determine the moderating effects of government policies and regulations on the relationship between diversification strategies and organizational performance among star rated hotels in the Kenyan Coast. Notably, 36 star rated hotels were selected while 419 respondents were involved which comprised; strategic managers, tactical and operational managers. This represented a response rate of 92.4% and 80.6% for the questionnaires and interviews respectively. Stratified sampling was used to select the hotels while purposive sampling was used to select the managers. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used during data collection. Data analyze was both analyzed using both descriptive and inferential analysis. The model summary results indicate that R-Square value improves (from 0.598 to 0.617) when the moderating variable (Government policies and regulations) was added to the regression model. This means that government policies and regulations improve the relationship between related diversification strategies and performance of star rated hotels in the Kenyan Coast. The model summary results in Table 5 show that the value of R-Square improves from 0.558 without the moderating variable to 0.670 with the moderating variable. The moderating variable therefore improves the relationship between unrelated diversification strategies and performance of star rated hotels in the Kenyan Coast. The null hypothesis “Government policies and regulations do not have a significant moderating effect on the relationship diversification strategies with performance of star rated hotels in the Kenyan Coast” was rejected. In conclusion, government policies and regulations have a significant moderating effect on the effect of diversification strategies on performance of star rated hotels, annihilating the simple linear relations between predictor and outcome variables. The government should encourage diversification among hotel industry by providing favourable environment to conduct business through reduced tax and subsidies especially during economic turbulence.

An Exploration of Agile Project Management and Performance of Donor-Funded Projects in the Coast Region of Kenya&amp;nbsp;

An Exploration of Agile Project Management and Performance of Donor-Funded Projects in the Coast Region of Kenya&amp;nbsp;

An Exploration of Agile Project Management and Performance of Donor-Funded Projects in the Coast Region of Kenya

An Exploration of Agile Project Management and Performance of Donor-Funded Projects in the Coast Region of Kenya

Case Studies of Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage Initiatives in Kenya's Coastal Region; Opportunities and Challenges

Case Studies of Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage Initiatives in Kenya's Coastal Region; Opportunities and Challenges

Feasibility and Impact Assessment of Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage Technologies in Kenya's Coastal Region

Feasibility and Impact Assessment of Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage Technologies in Kenya's Coastal Region

Feasibility and Impact Assessment of Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage Technologies in Kenya's Coastal Region

Feasibility and Impact Assessment of Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage Technologies in Kenya's Coastal Region

Evaluating the Environmental and Economic Implications of Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage in Kenya's Coastal Region

Evaluating the Environmental and Economic Implications of Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage in Kenya's Coastal Region

Leveraging Public-Private Partnerships for Sustainable Development: Examining the Role of Project Management and Educational Stakeholder Engagement in Donor-Funded Projects in Kenya's Coastal Region&amp;nbsp;

Leveraging Public-Private Partnerships for Sustainable Development: Examining the Role of Project Management and Educational Stakeholder Engagement in Donor-Funded Projects in Kenya's Coastal Region&amp;nbsp;

Impact of Related Diversification Strategies on Organizational Performance among Star Rated Hotels in the Kenyan Coast

Purpose: For any organization to succeed in the present competitive and ever-changing business environment, understanding the risks, opportunities, and strength posed by the external environment is inevitable. Organizations must exploit opportunities and avoid risks by applying relevant strategies and developing various strategic approaches that will improve their competitive edge and overall performance. One of the possible ways to improve business efficiency and performance is through diversification. The purpose of this study was to assess the applicability of a diversification strategy as a game plan to motivate and develop resilience against organizational and environmental forces in business operations to improve organizational performance in star rated hotels in the Coastal Kenya. The specific objectives was; to determine the impact of related diversification strategies on organizational performance among star rated hotels in coastal Kenya Coastal.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: Notably, 36 star rated hotels were selected while 419 respondents were involved which comprised; strategic managers, tactical and operational managers. This represented a response rate of 92.4% and 80.6% for the questionnaires and interviews respectively. Stratified sampling was used to select the hotels while purposive sampling was used to select the managers. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used during data collection. Data analyze was both analyzed using both descriptive and inferential analysis. The mean for overall adoption of horizontal diversification strategies was 3.94 (std. dev=0.92) while vertical diversification strategies was 3.28 (std. dev=1.13) which was significant. The mean on overall adoption of related diversification strategies was 3.60 (std. dev=0.95), demonstrating that related diversification strategies have on overall been adopted to a large extent.&#x0D; Findings: The model summary results indicates that R-Square=0.598; this implies that 59.8% of performance is explained by vertical and horizontal diversification strategies. This implies that, both horizontal and vertical diversification strategies were significantly adopted in the operation and management of hotel business in the coast region of Kenya. The null hypothesis stating, “There is no significant relationship between vertical diversification strategies and performance of star rated hotels along the Kenyan Coast” was rejected. This means that horizontal and vertical diversification strategies are significant predictors of performance of star rated hotels in the Kenyan Coast. From the regression model, horizontal and vertical diversification were found to have a positive effect that was statistically significant on performance of star rated hotels in the Kenyan Coast.&#x0D; Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Policy makers should initiate policies that motivate organizations such as hotels to practice diversification to minimize negative impact on both financial and non-financial performance aspects.