Nakuru County Research Articles

Spatiotemporal relationship between air pollution and upper respiratory tract infection cases among children under five: a case study of Nakuru County, Kenya (2020–2022)

Air pollution poses a significant threat to respiratory health, particularly for children under five in low- and middle-income countries, including Kenya. Nakuru County, experiencing rapid urbanization and poor waste management, has seen a rise in respiratory illnesses such as Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTI). This study analyzed pollutant levels (CO, NO2, SO2, and AOD) using remote sensing data from 2020 to 2022 to investigate the correlation between air pollution and respiratory health. Data from health facilities were mapped in ArcGIS, and pollutant data was processed using Google Earth Engine. Statistical analyses, including Pearson and Spearman tests, assessed the relationship between pollutants and URTI cases. Spatial analysis revealed moderate CO concentrations and consistent AOD levels, with a peak in URTI cases between May 2021 and February 2022. However, no clear seasonal correlation was observed with NO2, and SO2 levels remained low. The correlation analysis showed weak positive relationships between pollutants and URTIs, with Pearson coefficients of 0.042 and 0.002, respectively. Linear regression indicated that mean NO2 had the most substantial impact on URTI cases, while SO2 also showed a significant positive effect. In contrast, CO and AOD had minimal influence. The study highlights the importance of focusing on NO2, SO2 and waste management in public health interventions to address air pollution-related respiratory illnesses. Additionally, it underscores the need for further research into indoor air pollution, especially in overcrowded informal settlements, where socioeconomic factors and poor ventilation exacerbate health risks. Promoting clean cooking fuels like ethanol and public health campaigns on ventilation are recommended to reduce indoor air pollution and improve respiratory health in these vulnerable communities.

Circular agricultural practices among smallholder farmers in Nakuru County, Kenya: Defining the determinants

Circular agricultural practices among smallholder farmers in Nakuru County, Kenya: Defining the determinants

Patterns of Hormonal Contraceptive Utilization Among Women with Retroviral Disease Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy at a Referral Hospital in Kenya

Understanding the intricate interplay between hormonal contraceptive utilization and the unique healthcare needs of women with retroviral disease on antiretroviral therapy is of paramount importance in ensuring effective family planning strategies and optimal health outcomes. This research examined the patterns of hormonal contraceptive usage among this specific demographic within the setting of a referral hospital in Kenya, shedding light on the factors influencing choice, preferences, and the broader implications for reproductive health. A cross-sectional retrospective study design was employed for this study, conducted at the Comprehensive Care Centre of Nakuru County Referral and Teaching Hospital in Kenya. The Taro Yamane formula determined the sample size, yielding 226 participants. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire validated through a pilot study, employing random sampling. Data was protected, monitored, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-squared test, with ethical considerations in place. The sociodemographic characteristics of participants were analyzed. Most were aged 35-39, married, self-employed, and had at least secondary education. Public hospitals were the primary source of contraceptives. Pregnancy prevention was the main reason for hormonal contraceptive use. Injectable contraceptives were preferred (37%), followed by implants (31.9%) and IUDs (15.7%). Notable association between employment status and use of specific contraceptives (P-value=0.007175) was found to be statistically significant. Further, there was a statistically significant association between ease of availability of implants (P-value=0.02), ease of use of injectables (P-value=0.05), and fewer side effects of IUDs (P-value=0.00) and their preference. We recommend emphasizing postpartum contraception services, ensuring contraceptive availability in public hospitals, promoting long-acting reversible contraceptives, and providing tailored counseling and education to empower women's informed choices.

Enhancing Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion through Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration in Central Rift, Kenya

This paper examines how World Vision’s project “Central Rift Farmer-Managed Natural Regeneration Scale-up project (CRIFSUP)” carried out between 2017 and 2021 used Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) approach and transformation power relations among farmers. The Study areas were Ndabibi in Nakuru County, Marigat in Baringo County, and Ng’oswet in Elgeyo Marakwet. Methodology adopted was mixed method approach and data collected using collective brainstorming sessions with communities, key informant interviews, Household questionnaire, focused group discussions for adults and children, and observation. Purposive sampling was employed to identify farmers to participate in focus group discussions and key informants. Apart from examining the field reports on this project, this study reviewed secondary related literature. The theory of change and agency and employed to how the implementation of FMNR created a conducive environment for the transformation of gender, disability and social inclusion. Enhancement of gender, disability and social inclusion is traced by examining the changes that transpired between the time the baseline report was conducted, CRIFSUP GESI Report and the end of term report. The focus is on decision making, time use, roles, responsibilities and economic empowerment. The findings showed that the time spent on collecting firewood was reduced to 30 minutes. Energy saving measures such as jikos and biogas were introduced by CRIFSUP. Savings for transformation groups enabled women and people with disabilities to access resources that enabled them to diversify their roles and engage in income generating activities such as bee keeping. However, mainstreaming gender, disability and social inclusion considerations has been partially successful, for instance land ownership and access is still heavily weighted towards men and this affects women access and use of trees. This influences the time women spend to look for firewood.

Enhancement of Vegetation Cover through Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration in the Central Rift, Kenya

Purpose: This paper discusses the contribution of Kenya Central Rift Farmer-Managed Natural Regeneration Scale-up project (CRIFSUP) to enhanced vegetation cover through promotion of Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration concept among farmers in central rift region, Kenya. The project ran between July 2017 and June 2021, when it transitioned to a further five-year phase. The goal of this paper is to assess and compare changes in vegetation cover and species composition through FMNR and other evergreen agricultural practices in CRIPSUP and outside project areas in Central Rift Kenya. Methodology: The study was undertaken in three counties that included; Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nakuru and Baringo. The Study sites were Ndabibi sub-County in Nakuru County, Marigat sub-County in Baringo County, and sub-County Ng’oswet in Elgeyo Marakwet. This study employed cross-sectional study design where there was evaluation of changes in tree density and tree species composition before and after the Intervention of CRIFSUP project in Central Rift, Kenya. Both qualitative and quantitative data were used to investigate and analyse the critical study findings. The data collection methods included surveys, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and observations. Multi-stage sampling was applied in this study. In total, 402 households out of a sample size 426 participated in the household survey in the study. Findings: The total acreage of land under FMNR managed in the project area increased from 500 acres at inception in 2017 to 4,588 acres in 2019 then to 6,938 acres in project year 2021. This was attributed to farmers recognising benefits of FMNR such as increased pasture, firewood, honey, milk production and training to replicating farmers. The average number of trees per hectare in areas practising FMNR was 115.9; significantly higher compared to areas where there was no FMNR practice such as community land allocated to individual households where average number of trees per hectare was 69.89. Farm boundaries recorded the lowest number of tree populations at 12.47 trees/ha and 14.5 trees/ha before and after project intervention, respectively. There was however, no significant difference in tree densities along the boundaries and among the control farmers before and after project intervention (p = 0.08). To the contrary, tree densities for farmlands, communal land and overall, in the area of project operation were significantly higher after intervention of CRIFSUP project (p = 0.02). This was attributed to increased knowledge on FMNR practices as where 45.0 % (n =181) of farmers indicated knowledge on natural regeneration of trees, while 27.9% (n = 112) displayed knowledge on protection of naturally regenerated trees and seedlings. In conclusion, FMNR and other evergreen methods were found to enhance vegetation cover and through enhanced tree densities and tree diversity in the three regions. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends expanding FMNR training to raise awareness and adoption among farmers. Efforts should be made to overcome challenges affecting tree densities on farm boundaries. Additionally, scaling up FMNR practices to other regions and monitoring long-term impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services are suggested.

Examining How Land Eviction Affects Social Cohesion in an Integrated Community: A Case of Maela Integrated Community, Naivasha, Nakuru County

The issue of land eviction has been profound, particularly in areas where political violence has been prevalent in Kenya. The aftermath of the 2007-2008 election violence resulted in loss of lives and property, internally displaced persons (IDPs) among others. The impact was greatly experienced in Nakuru County which reported an influx of IDPs with the Maela integrated community hosting IDPs who were kicked out of their land in mountains of Enosubukia. This has a greater impact on social cohesion of a given community. The study sought to investigate the effect of land eviction and social cohesion in an integrated community: a case of Maela integrated community, Nakuru county, Kenya. Specific objectives included; to examine the implications of land eviction in the Maela Integrated Community of Nakuru County, to analyze the level of community integration in the Maela Integrated Community, to evaluate how cultural integration influence social cohesion in Maela Integrated Community, and to assess the effectiveness of government policy in relation to solving the issue of land eviction in Maela Integrated Community Nakuru County. The study was anchored by Social Capital theory, conflict theory and identity theory. The study adopted a mixed methods approach with a focus on descriptive research design. It targeted 500 people sampling out 50 participants using a margin error of plus/minus 10. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires while qualitative data was collected using interview guides. Quantitative data was analyzed with the help of SPSS version 26 while thematic content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. It was guided by the overall principle of “DO NO HARM” to participants. The study findings revealed that while integration fosters security and a sense of belonging, it also causes tension when eviction disrupts established networks. Compensation inadequacies lead to economic hardship and affect social structures. However, disparities in resource distribution and cultural differences remain challenges. Government policies have had mixed effects, with community development initiatives receiving positive feedback, while housing issues persist, hindering full cohesion. The study recommends the promotion of inclusivity, equitable resource distribution, mental health support, and infrastructure development to foster resilience and community social cohesion.

Establishment of the Common Types of Disciplinary Actions Meted on Wayward Students in Public Secondary Schools in Naivasha Sub-County, Nakuru County, Kenya

Disciplinary actions have been applied by teachers as an integral tool in the enforcement and maintenance of order in schools. In spite of this there is little information on the common types of disciplinary actions meted on wayward students in public secondary schools. This study therefore sought to establish the common types of disciplinary actions meted on wayward students in public secondary schools in Naivasha sub-county, Nakuru County, Kenya. In order to realize this objective the study adopted a descriptive survey research design and simple random sampling in the selection of the study sample. A study sample made up of 226 participants was purposively selected from a target population of 550 participants. The study utilized both qualitative and quantitative methods in data collection. These included structured questionnaire, interview schedule and document analysis. Data was analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively in the light of the research questions. Data obtained was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 22.0). Qualitative data was analyzed thematically according to the study themes. The study revealed that; summoning of parents was the most commonly used method (50.7%) while the least was corporal punishment (40.7%); The study recommends that schools should encourage wide participation of stakeholders (including the students themselves) in determining the best disciplinary measures on wayward students; they should consider gender issues and student’s health condition while handling discipline in schools, there is need to have an updated discipline records for future referencing. The findings of this study may be of help to education policy makers, organizations that support education and government for policy direction and curriculum implementation.

Job Evaluation Factors and Employees’ Performance in 4 And 5 Star-Rated Hospitality Facilities in Nakuru County, Kenya

Hospitality related jobs are prone to biasness and inequities especially in reward and compensation structures vis-à-vis job grades and responsibilities. One of the major contributory factors of such biasness and inequities is lack of a systematic basis of evaluating jobs. Such biasness and inequities if not checked, may generate dissatisfaction and grievances among employees which may eventually lead to low employee morale and poor performance. The purpose of the research was to ascertain how front-line employees' performance is impacted by job evaluation factors in 4 and 5 star rated lodges, resorts, hotels and camps located in Nakuru County. Specifically, the study tested the influence of interpersonal skills, job responsibility, decision making and job expertise on employee performance. Besides, the moderating role of gender was tested. The study was underpinned by the Equity Theory of Motivation. It utilized both descriptive and co-relational research designs. This study's population consisted of all 4 to 5 star rated hospitality establishments located in Nakuru County. The sample size comprised 403 front-line employees and 8 supervisors. Besides, 8 HRMs were included in the study, therefore, a total of 419 respondents were sampled. Questionnaires were administered to the frontline employees and interviews were conducted with the HRMs and supervisors. The study revealed that interpersonal skills (B=.227, p=.000); job responsibility (B=.234, p=.000); decision making (B= .290, P=.000); and job expertise (B= .238, P=.000) significantly influence the performance of employees. However, employees’ gender (ΔR2= .001, P=.382) does not influence the relationship between job evaluation factors and employee performance. The content analysis results supported these findings. This study concluded that job evaluation factors enhance employee’s performance, gender does not. The study recommends that the HR departments should observe fairness and equity in all HR processes especially recruitment and selection, training, promotion and compensation. All these functions should be driven by skills, job responsibility, and expertise of the employee and not subjective elements such as gender. Keywords: Job Evaluation, Employee Performance, Hospitality Industry, 4 and 5-Star Hotels, Nakuru County, Kenya

Influence Of Principals’ Students Financial Support Practices On Students’ Retention In Public Day Secondary Schools In Nakuru County

Influence Of Principals’ Students Financial Support Practices On Students’ Retention In Public Day Secondary Schools In Nakuru County

Evaluation of effect of person role fitness on mastery of soft skills among interns in Nakuru County Government, Kenya

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of person role fitness on mastery of soft skills among interns in Nakuru County Government, Kenya. The curriculum that most college graduates are exposed to largely offer hard skills, but important soft skills that would make them well-prepared for the work environment are lacking. The study used a descriptive research design. The study's population consisted of 1300 interns stationed at the Nakuru County Government during the month of August. A stratified random selection technique was employed to choose a sample of 102 interns, and data was collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used to examine the data and obtain both descriptive and inferential statistics. Pearson's product-moment correlation was used as an inferential statistic to determine the direction and strength of linear associations. Simple and multiple regression analyses were employed to assess the relationship between the variables. The study indicated that person role fitness substantially affected soft skills proficiency in Nakuru County Government (? = 1.139, Sig. < 0.05). Thus, it was concluded that person role fitness is a significant factor of internship, which affects soft skills mastery among interns in the county. The study recommends that colleges operate in conjunction with the organisations or industries where the students are sent for their internship programs to ensure that the interns are well placed as per their professions in order to enhance soft skills mastery among the interns, as was evidenced by Nakuru County Government, Kenya.

Relationships between utilisation of human resources and academic performance in engineering at Technical and Vocational Institutions in Nakuru County, Kenya

The purpose of this article was to analyse the relationships between the utilisation of human resources and academic performance in engineering at technical and vocational institutions in Nakuru County, Kenya. The problem that the study addressed was the high failure rate of students in engineering. The study used a descriptive survey design utilising closed-ended questionnaires and interview schedules. The sample consisted of 331 students, 11 technicians, and 22 Administrators (11 Heads of Departments, 7 Deputy Principals, and 4 Principals). A proportionate sampling technique was used to obtain student samples per institution. Participants were selected through simple random sampling. The hypothesis was tested and established that there was a positive and statistically significant relationship between utilisation of human resources and academic performance in engineering (p=0.000<p=0.05), concluding that ineffective utilisation of human resources in the TVET institutions contributes to the observed low performance in engineering programs. The study recommended that institutions improve the coordination of practical sessions, enhance student-centred learning approaches, and invest in upgrading physical resources.

Associated Factors for the Prevalence of Bedbug Infestation (Cimex hemipterus) among Households in Nakuru Town, Kenya

Background: Infestations and the resurgence of bedbugs have recently been documented as serious health issues worldwide. Kenya reported 4000 bedbug-infested homes in 2018, so the increase in infestations is comparable to that of other African countries and the global average. Objective: the objective of the study was to determine bedbug prevalence and factors associated with bedbug infestation among heads of households in Nakuru County, Kenya. Method: The study used a cross-sectional descriptive study design. Cluster sampling and proportionate sampling were used to recruit the study respondents in this study. The Cochran formula was used to recruit 422 study respondents. The threshold for statistical significance was set at 0.05. Results: The prevalence of bedbug infestation was 53.1%. The presence of households with bedbugs was associated with the prevalence of bedbugs in the study households (p value<0.001). The purchase of second-hand furniture and clothes was associated with bedbug prevalence (p value=0.002 and 0.007 respectively). The number of rooms in households was associated with the prevalence of bedbugs (p value=0.008). The number of people living in households (p value=0.021) and the type of house were associated with the prevalence of bedbugs (p value<0.001). Conclusion: The prevalence of bedbug infestation was 53.1%. The type of house, number of people in a household, number of rooms in the household, and social factors including the existence of neighbors, relatives, friends, and job mates with bedbugs in their homes, heightened the chances of spreading the bedbugs to others. The purchase of second-hand furniture and clothes increased the prevalence of bedbugs.

Strategy Implementation Practices and Performance of Commercial Banks in Nakuru County

Organizational performance entails recurring duties like establishing organizational goals, monitoring progress towards those objectives, and making modifications to enhance their accomplishment in a more efficient manner. Strategy implementation represents a significant phase within an organization; however, existing literature consistently underscores a notable failure rate in the implementation process across numerous organizations. The prevalence of poor performance in banks is attributed to issues such as inadequate coordination, suboptimal structural frameworks, and insufficient personnel proficiency in executing rebranding strategies. As a result, the goal of this study was to look into how Nakuru's commercial banks implemented their strategies and how well they did so. General Systems Theory, Contingency Theory, and Resource-Based Theory served as the study's guiding theories. The study targeted 108 workers from 24 commercial banks in Nakuru County using a descriptive survey research approach. A sample of 54 respondents was chosen using a stratified random selection procedure to assure representation. Structured questionnaires were used to obtain data, and they were chosen for their propensity to do so with little bias and mistake. Pilot research was done in Narok County commercial banks prior to the main investigation. The data was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Percentages, frequencies, measurements of central tendency (mean), and measures of dispersion (standard deviation) were examples of descriptive statistics. Correlations were used for inferential analysis of qualitative data. To analyse quantitative data, Version 25 of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was utilized. The study found that resources, organizational change, structure, and leadership significantly influence the performance of commercial banks in Nakuru CBD. Effective resource allocation, strategic change management, well-defined organizational structures, and strong leadership positively impact operational efficiency and overall performance. The study recommends investing in employee training, optimizing IT services, and aligning organizational structures with strategic goals. Further research should examine how organizational capabilities and market dynamics shape performance outcomes.

Exposure of Women in Politics to Media Coverage and Their Ability to Raise Self-Esteem of Children in Nakuru County

As the number of women in politics continues to increase worldwide, balancing their political and parenting roles may pose a challenge. The study was carried out to investigate the effects of exposure of women to media coverage on their ability to raise the self-esteem of their children in Nakuru County. The study adopted an ex post facto research design. The study had an accessible population of 129 respondents that comprised 105 women members of county assembly aspirants, 12 women parliamentary aspirants, 10 women representative aspirants and two women senatorial aspirants in Nakuru County during the 2017 general elections. The census sampling technique was used to select all the 129 respondents. Data was collected using a questionnaire. The content and face validity of the questionnaire were ascertained of the study objectives and advice by experts from the Department of Applied Community Development Studies of Egerton University. To estimate the reliability of the instrument, a pilot study was conducted on fourteen women political aspirants who participated in the 2017 general elections from neighbouring Nyandarua County. The questionnaire was considered reliable when it attained an estimated Cronbach Alpha coefficient of 0.78. The questionnaire was self-administered with the guidance from the researcher. Quantitative data was summarized in frequency distribution tables and the responses were analysed using simple regression analysis methods with the help of SPSS computer package 25.0 version. Qualitative data was summarized in emerging themes based on the objectives of the study. The study revealed that exposure of women to media coverage affected their ability to raise the self-esteem of their children in Nakuru County (β- 0.790) at 0.05 level of significance. The study findings may offer insights to women politicians, education researchers and other stakeholders on the importance of parenthood and the challenges faced by women politicians

Effect of Supplier Relationship Management Practices on Organizational Performance of Supermarkets in Kenya: A Case of Naivas Supermarkets in Nakuru County

Supplier relationship management is managing suppliers and vendors and enhancing strategic partnerships. The study’s goal was to establish the effect of supplier relationship management on organizational performance of Naivas supermarkets, Nakuru County. For companies to be established, they must focus on creating closer connections with other organizations to attain competitive advantage. This has made organizations develop the urgency to have lasting relationships with suppliers with intentions of increasing SC performance. This research sought to understand whether information sharing, buyer-supplier trust, supplier collaboration and supplier commitment positively contribute to organizational success and performance. SRM practices make organizational performance better however, there’s limited empirical evidence on their impact within supermarkets in Kenya, which presents a research deficiency that the research desired to fill. The investigation’s objectives included; to examine the effect of information sharing on the organizational performance of Naivas supermarket, to determine the effect of buyer-supplier trust on the performance of Naivas Supermarket, to determine the effect of supplier collaboration on the organizational performance of Naivas Supermarket. The theories were; social exchange theory, commitment trust theory of relationship marketing and resource-based theory. Descriptive research design was employed. The target population was 82 respondents working at the seven Naivas supermarket branches in Nakuru County. A census was employed in this study. The study used questionnaires and interviews. Questionnaires were issued to 82 respondents but only 70 were filled and returned. Interviews were conducted with top employees. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were employed for results interpretation. Data analysis was done through Microsoft excel Data analysis tool and SPSS. Results were displayed through tables. The first objective results showed that there’s a positive relationship between information sharing and organizational performance (r= .373, p value=0.001). The second objective results, imply a positive correlation between buyer-supplier trust and organizational performance (r=.369, p value= 0.001). Third objective indicated a significant positive relationship between supplier collaboration and organizational performance (r=.455, p value=0.000). The fourth objective’s results showed strong positive correlation between supplier commitment and organizational performance (r= .489, p value= 0.000). The study concluded that Naivas supermarkets in Nakuru consider practicing the objectives as this will lead to increased performance. The study recommends that it is important to have training programs for all involved and the service users have to be informed about the decisions that are related to supplier management. This study recommends that the supermarkets should work collaboratively with logistics providers.

Relationship between Student-Teachers’ Academic Interaction and Academic Self-Esteem in Public Secondary Schools in Nakuru County, Kenya

The learners’ academic self-esteem and academic interaction shape the learning environment of students. The purpose of this study was to examine students’ academic interaction and academic self-esteem relationships in public secondary schools in Nakuru County, Kenya. Correlational research design and both quantitative and qualitative research approaches were used in the study. The population of the study comprised 23,309 that is 11,938 boys and 11,371 girls form three students from 294 public secondary schools in Nakuru County. A total of 29 public secondary schools and 378 form three students were selected using stratified random sampling. The study used purposive sampling to sample 29 class teachers from the selected public secondary schools in Nakuru County. The total sample size for this study was therefore 407 respondents. The study used closed-ended questionnaires to collect data from students and interview schedule to collect data from class teachers. To ensure content validity of the research instruments, the researcher developed questionnaires and an interview schedule in line with the objectives of the study in consultation with experts on counseling and educational foundations. To test the reliability of the questionnaire, a pilot study was done on one secondary school that was not part of the actual study. Cronbach’s Alpha test of internal consistency was established whereby the items had reliability coefficients of 0.871 (for the student-teacher academic interactions tool) and 0.873 (for student academic self-esteem tool) which were considered acceptable. Quantitative data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 while qualitative data was analyzed using NVivo version 12. The study established that there was a statistically significant relationship between student-teachers’ academic interaction and academic self-esteem in public secondary schools in Nakuru County, Kenya. The study recommends Kenyan teachers training institutions to advance teaching methods that seeks to improve student-teachers’ academic interaction and academic self-esteem for better academic achievement.

Influence of Organizational Roles on Administrative Performance of Public Secondary Schools in Nakuru County, Kenya

The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of organizational roles on administrative performance in public secondary schools in Nakuru County, Kenya. The study adopted a mixed-method research design. The study targeted 352 principals in public secondary schools and 11 Sub-County Quality Assurance and Standards Officers in Nakuru County. Using stratified random sampling, a sample size of 106 principals and 4 Sub-County Quality Assurance and Standards Officers (30 % of the population) was selected. Data collection methods included questionnaires administered to principals and interviews conducted with Sub-County Quality Assurance and Standards Officers (SCQASO). Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson’s correlation and regression analysis, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. A pre-test involving 11 schools in Nyandarua County confirmed the reliability of the research instruments, yielding a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.805. The study found that the correlation coefficients between organizational roles and administrative performance in public secondary schools in Nakuru County, Kenya (r = 0.567, p = 0.002) was strong and significant. Organizational role significantly influenced the administrative performance of principals, ultimately enhancing school effectiveness. To improve public secondary school administration, it is recommended that clearly defined administrative roles be established.

Influence of Organizational Technology on Administrative Performance of Public Secondary Schools in Nakuru County, Kenya

The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of organizational technology on administrative performance in public secondary schools in Nakuru County, Kenya. The study adopted a mixed-method research design. The study targeted 352 principals in public secondary schools and 11 Sub-County Quality Assurance and Standards Officers in Nakuru County. Using stratified random sampling, a sample size of 106 principals and 4 Sub-County Quality Assurance and Standards Officers (30 % of the population) was selected. Data collection methods included questionnaires administered to principals and interviews conducted with Sub-County Quality Assurance and Standards Officers (SCQASO). Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson’s correlation and regression analysis, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. A pre-test involving 11 schools in Nyandarua County confirmed the reliability of the research instruments, yielding a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.805. The findings reveals a strong and significant correlation between organizational technology and administrative performance (r = 0.876, p = 0.004). It was concluded that organizational technology, significantly influenced the administrative performance of principals, ultimately enhancing school effectiveness. To improve public secondary school administration, it is recommended that operational efficiency be enhanced, and technology be integrated.

Exploring Individual Factors Associated with the Prevalence of Cybercrime Victimization Among Students at Egerton University, Kenya

In the modern digital epoch, identifying the factors linked to cybercrime victimization is crucial, particularly among the youth, who are often more exposed to such risks. This study examined the role of individual attributes, namely gender, age, and academic level, in influencing university students’ vulnerability to seven distinct cybercrimes. Originating from Egerton University’s primary campus in Njoro sub-county, Nakuru County, Kenya, the research harnessed structured questionnaires to collect quantitative data. Participants’ ages varied from 18 to over 26 years. The gender distribution comprised 57.2% males and 42.8% females. Regarding academic engagement, 4.5% were diploma students, a majority of 92.6% were undergraduate students, and a smaller 2.9% were master’s students. Notably, our analyses indicated that while gender did not significantly influence cybercrime victimization, age, and academic level emerged as influential factors. This paper further explores these findings, highlighting their implications in the broader cybersecurity awareness and education framework.

Relationship between Crime Victimization and Property Crimes Reporting to the Kenyan Police in Gilgil Ward, Nakuru County

Crime victimization and the subsequent choice to notify the police are complex behaviors influenced by various psychological, socio-economic, and contextual factors. Studies on crime victimization suggest that individuals’ experiences and perceptions of crime significantly shape their willingness to report incidents to law enforcement. This study examines the relationship between crime victimization and the reporting of property crimes to the Kenyan police in Gilgil Ward, Nakuru County. Employing a mixed-approach study design, the study combines quantitative and qualitative approaches to analyze the impact of various factors, such as the nature of the crime, incident location, socio-economic conditions, and trust levels towards the police, on victims’ decisions to report property crimes. Data were collected from 96 respondents through questionnaires and interviews. The study found that burglary had the highest reporting rate (78.0%), while theft had the lowest (40.8%). The study identified factors such as the lack of surveillance during curfews, limited police patrols, and the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic as contributors to crime patterns and reporting behaviors. The study recommends that strengthening the relationship between the police and the community is essential to encourage crime reporting., establishing more police posts, enhancing community engagement, and using digital platforms to encourage crime reporting. These strategies could improve the reporting rate of property crimes, leading to better crime management and community safety in Gilgil Ward, Nakuru County.