Nairobi County Research Articles

Monetary resource factors influencing strikes among healthcare workers in public hospitals in Nairobi County, Kenya

Monetary resource factors influencing strikes among healthcare workers in public hospitals in Nairobi County, Kenya

Determining the human resource factors influencing strikes among healthcare workers in public hospitals in Nairobi County, Kenya

Determining the human resource factors influencing strikes among healthcare workers in public hospitals in Nairobi County, Kenya

Screening of mycoflora and ochratoxin A on common culinary herbs and spices in Kenya

The study aimed to screen fungal diversity and ochratoxin A levels on culinary spice and herb samples sold in open-air markets and supermarkets in Nairobi County, Kenya. All herbs were grown in Kenya, while locally-produced and imported spices were purchased from both types of retail outlet. The results showed a high frequency of Aspergillus and Penicillium species contaminating the samples. The isolated species included Aspergillus ochraceous, Aspergillus nomiae, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus ustus, Aspergillus terrus, Aspergillus nidulans, Aspergillus clavutus, Penicillium crustosum, Penicillium expansum, Penicillium brevicompactum, Penicillium glabrum, Penicillium thomii, Penicillium citrinum, Penicillium polonicum, and Cladosporium cladosporioides. Total fungal count on spice and herb samples collected from various sources varied between 6 and 7 CFU/mL. Of imported spices, garlic had the highest fungal diversity, while cardamom had the least. For spices from both open market and supermarket outlets, cloves had the highest fungal diversity, while white pepper had the least. For the herbs sampled from the open markets, basil was the most contaminated, while sage was the least. In supermarket samples, parsley, sage, and mint had the highest fungal diversity, and bay had the least. The results indicate the contamination of spices and herbs with OTA at high concentrations. The calibration curve was saturated at 40 µg/kg; with samples of garlic, cinnamon, red chili, basil, thyme, mint, sage, and parsley having levels above this. Of the spices, imported ginger had the highest OTA levels (28.7 µg/kg), while turmeric from the open market had the least, 2.14 µg/kg. For herb samples, parsley from the open market had the highest OTA levels at 29.4 µg/kg, while marjoram from the open market had the lowest at 6.35 µg/kg. The results demonstrate the presence of mycotoxigenic fungi and OTA contamination of marketed culinary herbs and spices beyond acceptable limits. Hence, there is a need for informed and sustainable mitigation strategies aimed at reducing human exposure in Kenya to OTA mycotoxicosis through dietary intake of spices and herbs.

Assessment of Nutritional Status Among Undergraduate Students at a Nairobi Tertiary Institution Using BMI and Waist Circumference Metrics

This study investigated the impact of dietary and lifestyle changes on the nutritional status of undergraduate students during their transition to university life and the associated risk for non- ommunicable diseases. A review of global studies indicated varying prevalence rates of overweight and obesity among university students, influenced by diet, physical activity, and sleep patterns. This research specifically assessed the nutritional status of Kenyatta University students in Nairobi, Kenya, with an emphasis on the limited studies utilizing both BMI and waist circumference for assessment. Employing a cross-sectional, analytical design, the study was conducted at Kenyatta University Main Campus in Nairobi County. This public research university, founded in 1970, was selected for its urban setting and its representation of young adults. The target population comprised undergraduate students pursuing bachelor’s degrees, with inclusion criteria of voluntary participation and at least six months on campus. Multi-stage stratified sampling was used to select 260 participants. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, pretested on 10% of the sample, with reliability assessed via a test-retest method. Anthropometric measurements were taken by trained research assistants. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 24, evaluating nutritional status with BMI and waist circumference. Ethical considerations and COVID-19 protocols were rigorously observed. Findings revealed that, based on BMI, 67.5% of respondents had normal weight, while 8.4%, 16.5%, and 7.6% were underweight, overweight, and obese, respectively. The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity (BMI ≥ 25) was 24.1%. Female respondents showed a higher prevalence of obesity (63.2%) and overweight (73.2%) compared to males. In the underweight category, more males were underweight (57.1%) than females. Waist circumference assessment indicated that 21.7% had abdominal obesity, with a higher prevalence among females (87%) compared to males (13%), highlighting a gender-based risk factor for abdominal obesity. The study’s BMI analysis revealed a substantial proportion of respondents within the normal weight range, with significant gender disparities in obesity and overweight prevalence. The waist circumference assessment underscored a notable occurrence of abdominal obesity, particularly among females, indicating gender-specific susceptibility to this health concern.

Integrating support persons into maternity care and associations with quality of care: a postpartum survey of mothers and support persons in Kenya

BackgroundDespite research that has shown that the presence of support persons during maternity care is associated with more respectful care, support persons are frequently excluded due to facility practices or negative attitudes of providers. Little quantitative research has examined how integrating support persons in maternity care has implications for the quality of care received by women, a potential pathway for improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes. This study aimed to investigate how integrating support persons in maternity care is associated with multiple dimensions of the quality of maternity care.MethodsWe used facility-based cross-sectional survey data from women (n = 1,138) who gave birth at six high-volume facilities in Nairobi and Kiambu counties in Kenya and their support persons (n = 606) present during the immediate postpartum period. Integration was measured by the Person-Centered Integration of Support Persons (PC-ISP) items. We investigated quality of care outcomes including person-centered care outcomes (i.e., Person-Centered Maternity Care (PCMC) and Satisfaction with care) and clinical outcomes (i.e., Implementation of WHO-recommended clinical practices). We used fractional regression with robust standard errors to estimate associations between PC-ISP and care outcomes.ResultsCompared to low integration, high integration (≥four woman-reported PC-ISP experiences vs. <4) was associated with multiple dimensions of quality care: 3.71%-point (95% CI: 2.95%, 4.46%) higher PCMC scores, 2.76%-point higher (95% CI: 1.86%, 3.65%) satisfaction with care scores, and 4.43%-point (95% CI: 3.52%, 5.34%) higher key clinical practices, controlling for covariates. PC-ISP indicators related to communication with providers showed stronger associations with quality of care compared to other PC-ISP sub-constructs. Some support person-reported PC-ISP experiences were positively associated with women’s satisfaction and key practices.ConclusionsIntegrating support persons, as key advocates for women, is important for respectful maternity care. Practices to better integrate support persons, especially improving communication between support persons with providers, can potentially improve the person-centered and clinical quality of maternity care in Kenya and other low-resource settings.

Recreational Practices and Employee Performance in Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Kenya

Employee welfare practices in organizations, which involve offering various recreational programs in the workplace, are crucial for enhancing motivation and increasing performance among staff members. Therefore, the primary aim of this research was to determine the relationship between recreational activities and employee performance in Kenya while also considering the moderating influence of top management commitment on employee performance. The study utilized a cross-sectional survey approach that incorporated both qualitative and quantitative methods. The research population consisted of 14,323 NGO employees in Nairobi County, Kenya, with 403 participants, including top managers, middle-level managers, and lower-level managers. The selection of respondents was done through stratified, simple random, and purposive sampling techniques. Primary data were collected through questionnaires, while secondary data were obtained from peer-reviewed books, articles, and journals. The study was grounded in relevant theories such as Maslow's hierarchy of needs, Herzberg's two-factor theory, and Human Relations Theory. A pilot study was conducted to ensure the reliability and validity of the research tools. Data analysis was carried out using the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences, version 25, with inferential and descriptive statistics, including frequencies, means, correlations, and multiple linear regression. The findings of the study were presented through pie charts, graphs, and tables. The results indicated a positive and significant relationship between recreational practices like staff parties, team building, and sports events and employee performance. Moreover, it was found that top management's communication, policy development, and budget allocation significantly moderated the relationship between recreational practices and employee performance. Additionally, a linear relationship was observed between the independent and dependent variables. In conclusion, the study emphasized the importance of recreational practices in enhancing employee performance, especially when supported by top management commitment.

Information Systems and Performance of Insurance Firms in Nairobi County, Kenya

Purpose: The goal of the study was to ascertain how information systems influenced the insurance industry's performance in Nairobi County, Kenya. Methodology: This study employed a descriptive research design. The respondents were drawn from all 58 insurance firms in Kenya as listed by Insurance Regulatory Authority (2023). The study sample comprised of five senior management officer from each of the target population of 58 insurance companies in Kenya. Stratified sampling procedure was applied to select the subjects of study based on geographical location in Nairobi County. Data collection was done using structured questionnaires. The questionnaire had both open-ended and closed-ended questions. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed in the study to analyze the data. The coding and analysis were performed using SPSS version 21, and the results were shown as tables. Findings: The study concludes that technical factors have a positive and significant impact on Nairobi County insurance businesses' performance. The study discovered that the performance of insurance companies in Nairobi County is influenced by information system compatibility, confidentiality, ease of use, and reliability. the study comes to the conclusion that Nairobi County's environmental features significantly and favorably affect the performance of insurance companies. The study found that the performance of insurance companies in Nairobi County is influenced by competition, industry size, and pressure from suppliers and customers. Additionally, the study concludes that organizational factors have a positive and significant impact on Nairobi County insurance companies' performance. The study discovered that supplier and consumer pressure, industry size, and competition all had an impact on Nairobi County's insurance companies' performance. Resources factors encompassing availability of financial, human, and technological resources were established as the most influential component of the information systems with regard to performance of the insurance firms. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study was ancored on Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The study also recommends that management should allocate financial resources strategically, focusing on areas that directly contribute to business growth, such as marketing, technology upgrades, and talent acquisition. In addition, management should ensure efficient use of financial, human and technology resources by closely monitoring expenses, avoiding unnecessary costs, and seeking opportunities for cost-saving measures.

The Effect of Leadership Succession Planning on the Stability of Evangelical Churches in Nairobi County, Kenya

Contemporary church leaders shoulder the responsibility of being visionary and fostering a culture that promotes the stability of Churches. However, the instability witnessed in many churches has brought forth numerous challenges, notably stemming from leadership tumult, which adversely impacts the affected congregations. The negligence of leadership succession and transition processes within churches is a significant contributor to this instability. This paper delves into establishing the effect of leadership succession planning on the stability of Evangelical churches in Nairobi County, Kenya. Drawing from 60 churches, 360 church leaders were sampled from whom data was collected using a questionnaire. The strategic leadership theory was used to explain how succession planning facilitates the establishment of strong connections between leaders and their followers, ensuring a smooth transfer of leadership responsibilities and ultimately enhance stability of evangelical churches. The study reveals that among the succession models examined, including mentoring, (M=3.96, SD=0.716), talent management (M=3.83, SD=0.770), employee retention (M=3.78, SD=0.931), and career development, (M=3.72, SD=0.764) mentoring emerges as a predominantly adopted approach by leaders in Evangelical Churches in Nairobi County. Moreover, the findings indicate that succession planning contributes significantly to church stability, accounting for over 18% of the overall stability. Consequently, the study recommends the integration of leadership and management practices through a holistic approach encompassing mentoring, talent management, career development, and employee retention strategies, complemented by tailored training programs to enhance church stability.

Sociodemographic predictors of parenting stress among mothers in socio-economically deprived settings in rural and urban Kenya and Zambia

Parental stress occurs when parenting demands exceed the resources available to cope with parenting. Previous research has identified household wealth, educational level, marital status, age, and number of dependent children as predictors of parental stress. However, limited evidence exists from sub-Saharan Africa. This study investigated the sociodemographic predictors of parenting stress among mothers in Kenya and Zambia. This cross-sectional study utilised baseline secondary data from parenting intervention programs implemented in Kisumu County (rural Kenya), Nairobi County (Urban Kenya), and Chisamba District (rural Zambia). Out of 913 caregivers recruited for the parenting program, 844 with complete data were included in the analysis. The mean age was 1.0 (SD = 0.7) years. Parental stress was measured using the Parental Stress Score (PSS) tool and demographic questionnaires were used to collect demographic information. Mean PSS were compared across study sites, and a multiple linear regression model was used to examine associations between sociodemographic predictors (household income, educational level, marital status, maternal age, child age, and number of children aged < 5 years) and PSS, adjusting for clustering and other predictors. From the results, the mean PSS in rural Kenya was 37.6 [SD = 11.8], in urban Kenya was 48.4 [SD = 4.2], and in rural Zambia was 43.0 [SD = 9.1]. In addition, the significant association between PSS and mothers’ income and educational level was only observed in Kenyan study sites (income: Kenya rural β = -0.40, p < 0.001**; Kenya urban, β = − 0.33, p = .02*; Zambia rural, β = − 0.01, p = 0.7) education: Kenya rural, β = − 0.25, p = .005**; Kenya urban, β = − 0.14, p = 0.07; Zambia rural, β = 0.04, p = 0.3). However, marital status, mother’s age, child’s age, and the number of children below five years were not associated with PSS. The results revealed that mothers’ income and education level were negatively associated with PSS, indicating that higher socioeconomic status can buffer the effects of parental stress.Trial registration Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/) database (ID Number: PACTR20180774832663 Date: 26/July/2018; (ID number: PACTR201905787868050 Date: 06/May/2019.

Utilization of Anthropometric Data to Generate Size Charts for Kenyan Pregnant Women

This study addresses the research gap in utilizing anthropometric data to develop size charts for Kenyan maternity wear, considering the diverse cultural, regional, and ethnic factors influencing pregnant women’s body changes. Despite the global emphasis on inclusive fashion, the literature lacks comprehensive research on anthropometric data for Kenyan pregnant women. The study aims to bridge this gap by collecting data and creating trimester-specific size charts, addressing the unique needs of the diverse Kenyan population. Utilizing a longitudinal research design in Nairobi County, the study sampled 600 pregnant women from public health facilities across eight constituencies. Anthropometric measurements were collected, revealing significant weight and girth variations across the population. The study developed trimester-specific size charts, emphasizing the importance of key dimensions like bust, waist, hip, and the girth of the biggest protrusion. Fitting trials confirmed the charts’ effectiveness, yielding satisfactory fit ratings across different body sizes. These findings contribute to the global discourse on anthropometric data’s importance in shaping sizing standards, offering a model for addressing similar gaps in diverse populations. The study practically applies by creating reliable size charts for Kenyan pregnant women, ensuring well-fitting maternity wear aligned with evolving fashion trends and the unique anthropometric characteristics of the population.

Relationship between Demographic Variables and Generalized Anxiety Disorder among Single Mothers in Pentecostal Churches in Kibera Informal Settlement, Nairobi County, Kenya

Relationship between Demographic Variables and Generalized Anxiety Disorder among Single Mothers in Pentecostal Churches in Kibera Informal Settlement, Nairobi County, Kenya

Factors Associated with Sickle Cell Crisis Among Sickle Cell Disease Patients Aged ≤15 Years in Three Kenyan Health Facilities

In view of the dearth of definitive therapeutic measures for sickle cell disease (SCD) and its associated crises, the resulting financial burden on parents and caregivers, coupled with psychological distress, social stigma, and other far-reaching consequences, remains incalculable. This research assessed the determinants of sickle cell crises among individuals with SCD aged 15 years and below, focusing on three healthcare facilities in Nairobi County. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, the study aimed to establish the correlation between SCD crises and various variables in this specific age group within the selected health facilities. Structured interviewer-administered questionnaires, featuring both open-ended and dichotomous questions, were meticulously validated, optimized, and employed to gather pertinent data from the participants. The findings revealed that a majority of SCD patients below 15 years in sampled hospitals were female (52.85%), and the highest incidence of SCD occurred in the age range of 0-5 years (46.63%). Educational attainment among patients predominantly peaked at the primary school level (65.80%), with a minimal 7.77% reaching a secondary school level. Moreover, female caregivers (92.23%) were prevalent among those responsible for SCD patients aged 15 years and below. Primary caregivers, aged between 26- 30 years (37.82%) and 31-35 years (26.42%) were predominately married (75.13%) and engaged in agricultural activities (63.73%). This study revealed that out of the sampled SCD patients under 15 years old, a staggering 83.94% experienced crises related to their sickle cell disease, manifesting as abdominal pains for nearly 70 %, joint discomfort for over 72.22%, acute chest pain occurring approximately 25 %, with bone ache accounting about 32 %. Multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that female gender, the age group of 6-10 years, and frequent hospital visits (more than twice a month) significantly increased the log odds for severe SCD crises. Therefore, this study underscores the impact of patient and caregiver factors on the severity of SCD and its crises. Modifying these factors appropriately holds the potential to enhance the prognosis and wellbeing of both patients and caregivers, and strategic interventions must be devised to improve adherence to treatment protocols for SCD patients aged 15 years and below, thereby enhancing prognosis and overall quality of life.

Influence Of Public Trust in the Police on Crime Reporting Behavior in Kamukunji Subcounty, Nairobi County, Kenya

Influence Of Public Trust in the Police on Crime Reporting Behavior in Kamukunji Subcounty, Nairobi County, Kenya

Influence of Intellectual Stimulation on Organizational Performance of Private Universities in Nairobi County, Kenya

Influence of Intellectual Stimulation on Organizational Performance of Private Universities in Nairobi County, Kenya

Quality characteristics and acrylamide content of commonly sold coffee brands in Kenyan markets

Coffee, a globally cherished beverage, has diverse nutritional and health benefits. However, the composition of the beverage varies with each cup, influenced by factors such as bean type and the addition of ingredients. Acrylamides, known to be carcinogenic and genotoxic, are found in processed coffee beans, causing concern over its consumption. This study determined the levels of acrylamides found in the commonly sold coffee brands in Kenyan markets, alongside other quality characteristics. The study was conducted in Nairobi and Kiambu Counties, where different samples of local and imported coffee brands were purposefully obtained from each sub-county. The physicochemical characterization of coffee samples including moisture content, total ash, acid insoluble ash, water-soluble ash, alkalinity of soluble ash, water-soluble matter, petroleum ether extract, and the concentration of acrylamide, Fe, Zn, P, Ca, Mg, K, Na, and caffeine were analysed at the Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Nairobi. Obtained data was analysed using statistical software R. The results showed significant differences in acrylamide concentration (F (11, 156) = 4.86, p &lt; 0.001), calcium content (F (11, 156) = 2.74, p = 0.003), magnesium content (F (11, 156) = 2.52, p = 0.006), and caffeine concentration (F (11, 156) = 4.47, p &lt; 0.001) among the different coffee brands. However, no significant differences were observed for the other characteristics (p &gt; 0.05). The means of moisture content was 5.8%, total ash 5.8%, acid insoluble ash 0.4%, water soluble ash 79.5%, alkalinity of soluble ash 3.4mg/L, water soluble matter 47.9%, petroleum ether extract 13.8%, and acrylamide concentration 0.071 µg/100g. The mean of Fe was 7.822, Zn 6.954, P 40.669, Ca 65.596, Mg 117.588, K 222.956, Na 4.663, and Caffeine content was 0.0832, all in mg/100g. Differences especially in the level of acrylamide across the brands is a major concern. The study highlights the need for quality control measures in the coffee industry to ensure consistent quality and safety for consumers. This can go a long way in empowering individuals with insights into their coffee's nutritional worth and potential effects on their wellbeing, safeguarding its quality and health benefits. Key words: Coffee, Quality characteristics, Acrylamides, Coffee brands, Nutritional worth, well-being

Inaccessible and Unaffordable? The State of Water and Sanitation Services in Nairobi, Kenya

As the limited water resources become increasingly stressed by factors such as rapid urbanization, population growth, and climate change, the need for sustainable urban water management is more important than in the past decades. A large part of the world’s population still lacks access to clean water and sanitation, making achieving Sustainable Development Goals a challenge. Water is an indispensable resource and plays an important role in ensuring the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals. Therefore, there is a need to prioritize research on the availability, affordability, and access of water resources to promote sustainable water resource management. In this study, we reviewed academic articles and published reports from various institutions and organizations to assess water sources, infrastructure, coverage, accessibility, and affordability of water and sanitation services in Nairobi County. The study identified Nairobi’s main water sources as municipal water, primarily from surface water and groundwater. However, the capacities of the water sources, treatment plants, and wastewater treatment plants were found to be insufficient, resulting in water shortages in most parts of the city.Most of the infrastructures were also found to be insufficient and old, contributing to water distribution inefficiencies, frequent leakages, and pipe bursts which hampers water reliability. The study suggests prioritizing the water and sanitation sector in government budgets to increase infrastructure development investments and funding. Appropriate wastewater treatment methods should also be adopted and implemented to enable wastewater to meet water consumption standards and be potentially integrated into supply systems.

Technological Factors and Performance of Roads Construction Projects in Nairobi County, Kenya

The successful construction of roads plays a pivotal role in driving Kenya’s economic development, aligning with the objectives outlined in Kenya’s Vision 2030. However, the suboptimal performance of road construction projects in Nairobi County can be attributed to the continually evolving environmental factors. Consequently, this study aimed to explore the relationship between technological factors and performance of roads construction projects in Nairobi County. The theoretical foundations guiding this study encompassed open system theory. Utilizing a positive research philosophy, the study adopted a descriptive and explanatory research design. This research focused on a target population comprising 176 concluded roads construction projects within the Nairobi Metropolitan Area, executed by the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KERRA). The unit of analysis focused on the completed roads construction projects in Nairobi County. The unit of observation included road engineers, project planners, and directors associated with KERRA, along with road supervisors, inspectors, surveyors, contractors, and members of project implementation teams. Proportional stratified sampling was employed to determine a sample size of 253 respondents. Data collection involved the use of a structured questionnaire. The study embraced descriptive and inferential statistics. The results were presented through tables, and inferential statistics were carried out using linear regression. The study unveiled a positive and significant relationship between technological factors (t=2.270, p&lt;0.05) with project performance. In conclusion, the study establishes a discernible relationship between technological and project performance. The research recommends that managers are urged to embrace digitization and automation, leveraging on technology to address complex technicalities before and during construction

Risky sexual behaviours and utilization of HIV testing services among the adolescent girls and young women aged between 15-24 years in Kibra Sub County, Nairobi County, Kenya

Background HIV remains a significant global health challenge, disproportionately affecting adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). HIV testing is crucial in controlling transmission and reducing its prevalence. Understanding risky sexual behaviours among AGYW is pivotal in aligning prevention interventions. Despite global prevention efforts, testing gaps persist among AGYW, linked to risky sexual behaviour (RSB). This study explores the association between these behaviours and HIV testing utilization among AGYW (aged 15–24) in Kibra Sub County, Nairobi. Methods A cross-sectional study sampled 379 AGYW from three wards in Kibra Sub County in Nairobi County. To be an eligible participant, one must have been a resident for at least one year before the time of the study and aged between 15–24 years, employing standardized structured interviewer-administered questionnaires and statistical analyses. Results were analysed using Chi-square tests and logistic regression. Data was collected between June to July 2023. Results Overall, HIV testing prevalence was 60.7% (n=230). Those aged 20–24 were 71.3% (n=164), with secondary education were 63.5% (n=146) and married 28.7% (66) were more likely to undergo testing. Participants engaging in risky behaviours such as lack of condom use (3.96 times more likely), experiencing gender-based violence (4.65 times more likely), or contracting STIs (2.85 times more likely) had higher odds of seeking HIV testing services. Conclusions This study establishes a clear link between risky sexual behaviours and HIV testing among AGYW, with a 60.7% testing prevalence; however, gaps still exist. Efforts to enhance testing rates are vital. Interventions should align with acceptable methods, focusing on this affected community to ensure effective HIV care and prevention.

Evaluation of Growth Strategies on the Organizational Performance of Retail Stores – A Case Study of Quick Mart Supermarket Stores In Nairobi, Kenya

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the impact of growth strategies on the organizational performance of retail stores in Nairobi with Quick Mart supermarket stores in Nairobi as the case study. The question guiding this research was: How does technology adoption strategy impact the organizational performance of Quick Mart supermarket stores in Nairobi County? The blue ocean strategy theory provided support for this investigation. A descriptive research strategy was used. The target population for this study was 125 managers who work at Quick Mart. A purposive sampling procedure was used to obtain a sample size of 95. This study used both descriptive and correlational analysis as its research design. Data was gathered using structured questionnaires. The data gathered was analyzed through descriptive analysis and presented in tables. The findings indicated a Pearson correlation of 0.841 for technology adoption and the regression analysis indicated a beta coefficient of 0.620 for technology adoption. The study concluded that technology adoption had a highly positive significant impact on organizational performance. The study suggested that to improve organizational performance, growth tactics should be adopted more widely.

Entrepreneurial Motivation Competence and Growth of Micro and Small Enterprise in Nairobi County

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to establish how entrepreneurial motivation competence influences the growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) are important drivers of economic growth and development in Kenya. These enterprises create employment, facilitate wealth creation and form the backbone for private sector growth and expansion. The numerous challenges facing MSEs in Kenya are both internal and external to their operations. Many businesses are characterized by entrepreneurs’ lack of proper entrepreneurial training, lack of marketing capacity and broad operational capacity, lack of business innovation, inadequate business training, lack of motivation for business and pro-activeness. Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive survey design. There were 1,236,907 operating businesses categorized as MSEs in Nairobi County by the year 2020. To select the MSE in all the regions in Nairobi County, cluster sampling techniques was employed, first to identify the various MSEs and clusters relevant to this study. Seventeen clusters were identified according to where they are located. 384 respondents formed the study sample. The selection of the sample from each cluster of the study was through simple random sampling. The study used a questionnaire to collect primary data, which was then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23). Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient and regression analysis. Findings: The findings showed that an increase in Innovation competence would result to increase in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The findings showed that a unit increase in Entrepreneurial Motivation competence would result to an increase of 0.639 units in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The univariate analysis fitted to test the relationship between motivation competence and growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County show that entrepreneurial motivation competence explained 29.9% of the variation in growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County other factors held constant. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Theory that underpinned the study was entrepreneurial competency theory. This study recommended that micro and small enterprises should have a strong mission and vision that is shared with all employees. This will help to create a shared sense of purpose and ensure that everyone is working towards the same goal. Investing in training and development will help to increase employee motivation.