Nairobi Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences
Nairobi Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences is a peer reviewed interdisciplinary journal that publishes empirical and theoretical research papers in the fields of humanities and social sciences such as anthropology, business studies, communication studies, cultural studies, development studies, economics, education, film studies, geography, history, information science, linguistics, literature, library studies, media studies, philosophy, psychology, sociology, performing arts (music, theatre & dance), religious studies, visual arts, and women studies among others.
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The narrative techniques and confessional patterns in Joan Thatiah’s Confessions of Nairobi Women (2022) and Confessions of Nairobi Men (2023)
This study examines the confessional narrative techniques used to construct confessional patterns in Joan Thatiah’s Confessions of Nairobi Women (2022) and Confessions of Nairobi Men (2023). The article adopts a qualitative research design and applies Judith Butler’s gender performativity theory. The texts are purposively selected and subjected to close reading and textual analysis. The article reveals that Thatiah uses narrative journalism to enhance credibility. Further, the confessions begin in medias res, then, by use of flashbacks and flashforwards, it explains the conflict through a cyclical plot, therefore, foregrounding the confessional moment, making confession a quest for meaning. Thirdly, the chapters in the texts are distinct confessions with different confessants and events. The parallel confessional narratives therein aim at archiving Kenyan lived experiences. Finally, the article postulates a tripartite confessional “I” made up of historical “I”, narrating “I,”, and reflective “I”. This allows dialogue between the confessant’s past and present and an evaluation of one’s life. In conclusion, this article demonstrates that confessions are not merely personal stories, but they are dynamic and are narratively established through specific techniques and patterns. This study adds to the Kenyan confessional discourse by demonstrating that narrative techniques are important in literary confessions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kipngetich Kosgey Festus, Vincent Odhiambo Oduor, Wesonga Robert https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Blending music and drugs: The depiction of substances and substance use in Kamba Benga music since 2000
Studies have underscored the power of music to influence people’s attitudes, behaviors, and perceptions. Certain genres of music convey cultural norms regarding substance use and drinking behavior. Nevertheless, some types of music appear to glorify substance use. This paper interrogated the depiction of substances and substance use in selected Benga music videos released by Kamba musicians. We argue that most Kamba Benga music videos contain explicit references to substances of one kind or another. We contend that enhancement motivations, usually related to heightened levels of substance use, appear more in the selected Benga music videos. We maintain that the majority of the videos analyzed associate substance use with positive qualities such as increased sexual pleasure and high social status. We further ascertain that a significant number of videos do not attempt to connect substance use to any form of consequences. Since, according to Gerbner’s Cultivation Theory, messages from television or videos influence people who watch them frequently, we conclude that Benga music videos produced by leading Kamba musicians expose viewers considerably to substance use, and therefore shape their opinions about it.
Copyright (c) 2026 Titus Kioko, Lina Akaka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Hybridity and Identity in Chamtok (Cameroon): An Acoustic Analysis
This paper aims to not only establish the existence of Chamtok, a hybridized communicative system used in the southwest region of Cameroon, but also to structurally and acoustically analyse its relation with English and Cameroon Pidgin English. We observed that despite lacking widespread recognition, even in localities where it is spoken, it shares some structural and acoustic characteristics with English and Cameroon Pidgin English, which warrant further investigation. Data were collected through participant observation, interviews and expert elicitation. The study involved 10 female participants, with data collected via recorded telephone communications, segmented, annotated, and phonetically transcribed using the ELAN software. A structural and acoustic analysis in PRAAT, guided by the descriptive linguistic approach, revealed that Chamtok adheres to the preferred CV syllable structure of English, with hyper-syllable amplifications through consonant insertion and vowel reduplication. This similarity extends to Cameroon Pidgin English, with which Chamtok interacts to form its hybrid identity. Acoustically, the analysis showed that the series of insertions and vowel reduplications harmonize Chamtok’s stress and intonation patterns with those of the English language. Unlike English, where primary stress typically falls on a single syllable, Chamtok often assigns similar stress patterns to adjacent syllables. Whilst it is apparent that the language is inspired by the quest for mutual exclusivity in linguistic expression, the unique linguistic phenomenon it reveals is meritorious of linguistic attention.
Copyright (c) 2026 Levi Mokake, Chie Ether Phubon https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Change and continuity in women's work in colonial Benin society, Nigeria
The paper examines the nature and changes women's work underwent during the colonial period,and also the place of women in the pre-colonial Benin Kingdom. The paper discusses the traditional role that pertain to women in society as presented in various institution, as well as traditions that exist in traditional Benin society. The incursion of the European and the emerging influences arising from that contact , such as new economic opportunities arising from Western economic policies, affected their industry, agriculture, trade and entrepreneurial activities.The evolution of the Benin woman from the traditional society to the modern society is recognizable. The skillful adaptation of Benin women in this period of change exhibited their capacity to engage in the process of transformation without completely losing their identity. It is within this context that the paper seeks the transformational history of the Benin woman as one of change and continuity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Oghogho Oriakhi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
This paper examines anaphora relations in Lutsotso, a variety of the Oluluhyia language spoken in Western Kenya. Anaphora involves words or phrases referring to entities in discourse, essential for coherence in communication. Based on data from Lutsotso conversations and texts, the study identifies and classifies anaphoric elements, focusing on reflexives and reciprocals. Reflexive constructions in Lutsotso use morphemes like -i- or -eene- to indicate that two arguments in an action refer to the same entity. The reflexive marker -i- is a prefix positioned before the verb root. Additionally, reciprocals, marked by the pronoun -an, function as anaphoric elements in the language. This study of Lutsotso anaphora enhances understanding of linguistic structures, pragmatic principles, cross-linguistic variation, and cognitive processes in language.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hellen ODERA, David Barasa, Benard Mudogo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effectiveness of total physical response integration in enhancing communication and collaboration competencies: A quasi-experimental study among Grade 3 learners in Kenya
Contemporary educational frameworks emphasize communication and collaboration as essential 21st-century competencies, yet traditional teaching methods often inadequately develop these complex skills among young learners. To evaluate the effectiveness of integrating Total Physical Response in enhancing communication and collaboration competency in English oral skills lessons among Grade 3 learners in Kakamega County, Kenya. A quasi-experimental design involved 116 Grade 3 learners (58 experimental, 58 control) from public primary schools. Experimental group received TPR-integrated instruction over four weeks. Competency assessment utilized a validated rubric measuring six dimensions: verbal expression, active listening, non-verbal communication, peer interaction, group participation, and conflict resolution. Experimental group demonstrated statistically significant improvements across all competency dimensions (p < 0.001) with large to very large effect sizes (Cohen’s d = 1.19-1.71). Verbal expression improved by 1.1 points (52% increase), non-verbal communication by 1.4 points (70% increase), and collaboration competencies by 1.1-1.3 points (65-72% increases). TPR integration significantly enhances both communication and collaboration competencies among Grade 3 learners, demonstrating effectiveness in developing integrated 21st-century skills essential for contemporary educational success.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vivian Afandi, Atichi Alati, Wangatia Ralph https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
An analysis of environment stewardship projects implemented by the Catholic Church in Makindu sub-county, Makueni County, Kenya
The evidence of environmental degradation is all around us especially in the marginalized arid and semi-arid lands. There is a growing concern over environmental destruction due to human activities in the arid and semi-arid lands which has attracted a number of stakeholders and has specifically challenged the church to respond. The role of the church in environmental conservation is not yet much recognized in scholarship and secular agencies. A case study was conducted to investigate the role of the Catholic Church in environmental in Makindu sub-county. A qualitative design was used in the study using questionnaires, interviews, observations and secondary data as research instruments. To analyse the collected data phenomenological approach based on Edmund Hursels principles of analysis was employed. The study revealed that the catholic churches’ participation in environmental conservation is tremendous. The church is involved in environmental campaigns, environmental teachings, tree planting, at the pastoral level. This paper therefore has provided an insight into the critical role of the Catholic Church in playing in environmental conservation in Makindu sub-county.
Copyright (c) 2024 Peter Maithya Mbuthi, Alex Kamwaria, Julius Mbithi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
IMPACT OF CHILD LABOUR ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF SCHOOL CHILDREN IN TAPA ABOTOASE, BIAKOYE DISTRICT
The aim of this study was to assess impact of child labour on academic performance of school children in Tapa Abotoase, Biakoye District of the Volta Region. Child labour in Tapa Abotoase, Biakoye District, significantly affects the academic performance of school children. Despite efforts to reduce child labour, many children engage in laborious activities during school hours, leading to high absenteeism, poor academic performance, and increased dropout rates. This study employed a case study research design to examine the effects of child labour on academic performance in the region. A mixed-methods approach, involving interviews, observations, and self-administered questionnaires, was used to collect comprehensive data. The sample included thirty pupils, ten parents, thirty teachers, and twenty personnel from the Biakoye District Education Directorate. Data analysis involved thematic and descriptive statistics, with frequency and percentage tables used to present the data. Excel and other software packages were utilized to organize the numerical data and compute item frequencies. The study revealed a high prevalence of child labour activities such as fishing, farming, and trading among children aged 7-14. Many children were found to engage in hazardous fishing practices during school hours, impacting their education and overall well-being. It was recommended that government and child protection agencies intensify efforts to educate families on family planning to reduce economic pressures that drive child labour. Additionally, collaboration with the Non-formal Education Division should be strengthened to provide literacy programs for illiterate parents, thereby enhancing awareness and reducing the incidence of child labour in the community.
Academic performance, child labour, children, impact, school
Copyright (c) 2024 Simon Afetorgbor, Redeemer Apeamenyo, Rabiatu Kassim, Frank Asiamah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Visual subtexts and sexuality narratives in the Kenyan Disconnect 2 and Nafsi Films
This paper explores the relationship between visual subtexts and sexuality narratives in Kenyan films. Visual texts play a crucial role in the hierarchy of film messaging, and understanding how these subtexts frame sensitive topics such as sexuality is essential. Through key informant interviews and examination of specific scenes and subtext elements like décor, space, and costumes, the study concludes that the three subtexts were significantly utilized to complement the explicit sexual narratives, particularly in socially and ethically sensitive portrayals of sexuality acts and moments. The study recommends a more strategic approach to the utilization of the cinematic and mise-en-scene visual subtexts in communicating sexuality in films.
Copyright (c) 2024 Fredrick Ogutu Oiye, Michael Kamau Mwangi, Elias Mokua, Leah Wangui Muchemi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Influence of strategic management practices on organizational performance of humanitarian non-governmental organizations in Kenya: Case of refugee consortium of Kenya
The study sought to analyze the influence of strategy formulation, performance evaluation, strategy implementation, and stakeholder engagement on the organizational performance of Refugee Consortium of Kenya. The study was grounded on resource based view theory, behavioral theory of the firm and stakeholder theory. The study adopted descriptive design to demystify the effect of strategic management practices on sustainable performance. The study target population comprised 48 management employees from Refugee Consortium. Census approach used to select the sample population. Structured questionnaires were used to gather primary data from the respondents upon which final data analysis was performed. Findings revealed that strategy formulation, performance evaluation, strategy implementation and stakeholder engagement all had positive significant influence on the organizational performance of Refugee Consortium. Recommendation for robust measures to be undertaken to provide leeway of incorporating organization concerns during strategy formulation in the organization not only in RCK. On performance evaluation, the study recommended for incorporation of strategic control measures, performance monitoring tools and key KPIs to enable them address issues that may hinder them from aligning themselves to their strategic purpose.
strategic plan, stakeholder engagement, strategic formulation, organizational performance, performance evaluation
Copyright (c) 2024 Leila Waithira Muriithia, Jenniffer Muriuki https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Fear of crime: A critical analysis of the situation in Southeast Nigeria
While several studies that examine fear of crime are largely of foreign origin, the problem is under-researched in Nigeria, despite its prevalence. This research contributes to the relatively few existing scholarships on fear of crime in Nigeria. Answers provided to the three critical questions raised reinforced the predictions of existential theory to further guide the analysis. The paper is basically theoretical, relying primarily on library research and review of related literature to obtain required data. From the review, it was found that fear of crime is on the increase in Nigeria, occasioned by heightened insecurity, moral and social panic linked to palpable fear of the unknown gun-menand ‘sit-at-home’ orders by the Indigenous People of Biafra(IPOB). People fear criminal victimization when and where law enforcement agents are selective and reactive instead of unselective and proactive. These have encumbered economic development, social life and human security, as people seldom go for their routine activities to avoid being attacked. These have serious implications for the criminal justice system, particularly, law enforcement administration, which calls for inter-security agency collaborations to effectively address the problem. All levels of government should constantly partner critical social control actors in crime and security management for better outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2024 Mercy Arua, Babatunde Michel Idowu, Christopher Arua https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Reclaiming Ananse: Discussing the trickster's relevance in contemporary Ghanaian Society
In stories told across some African cultures, there is often, the mention of a trickster character. In Ghana, among the Akan speaking tribes, the trickster character is the spider, referred to in Akan as Kwaku Ananse. There is also the use of the hare, rabbit, and chameleon in some cultures in Africa and the Caribbean. For many of these cultures, the use of these animals as trickster characters in folktales represents a cultural affiliation that creates identity, instills values and preserves history. However, over the years, the relevance of trickster characters like Ananse, featured in contemporary storytelling, has been questioned and overlooked. The aim of this paper is to project the relevance of Ananse by presenting the diverse ways in which the trickster character reinforces the cultural identity, economic value, and historical affiliation that it affords the Akan societies that feature him in their folktales. This discussion would be archived by shedding light on the socio-cultural, political, and economic relevance of Ananse. The paper argues for Ananse's importance by taking a look at society's perception of him as a trickster. Ananse's relevance is highlighted through a critical discussion on how playwrights such as Sutherland. Mawugbe, and Asare present Ananse in their plays as a reflection of the Ghanaian society. The paper concludes by asserting that an extermination of Ananse means an extermination of the Akan society.
Ananse, anansesem, folktales, storytelling, trickster
Copyright (c) 2024 Faith Ben-Daniels https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Exploring the intersection of African Religion and the scientific method: A geographical perspective
In this paper, the authors delves into the intricate relationship between African religion and the scientific method, within the broader context of the African worldview. Religion, characterized by beliefs and practices concerning the supernatural, and the scientific method, a systematic approach to empirical inquiry, are often perceived as distinct paradigms. However, through examples from African cultures and traditions, the paper demonstrates how these seemingly disparate domains intersect and inform one another. By examining the geographical dimensions of African religious practices and scientific inquiry, the paper elucidates the inseparability of religion and science within the African context.
Copyright (c) 2024 Richard Ochieng’, Martin K. Tanui https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Analysis into the influence of violent extremism financing in Kenya’s defence policy with Somali from 2002- 2022
<a href="https://royalliteglobal.com/njhs/Following the increasing violent extremism attacks by the Al-Shabab, Kenya citing Article 52 of the UN charter started a military operation in Somalia dubbed “Linda Nchi. Before October, 12, 2011 the Kenya Defence Forces had never gone on an offensive missions except for the usual UN Peace keeping mandates. This was a major foreign policy shift by the government to protect her citizens. This was however followed by, building of Kenya-Somalia border wall, and closing down of Daadab refugee camp all aimed at targeting violent extremist’s sources of finance, thus the justification of the study, analysis into the influence of violent extremism financing in Kenya’s defence policy with Somalia from 2002 to 2022. The research objective was: How violent extremism financing has influenced Kenya’s defence policy with Somalia. Study site was Nairobi with the target population of: Kenya Defence Forces, National Counter Terrorism Centre, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Department of Immigration officials. Sampling was through purposive and simple random sampling methods, instrument was questionnaire forms. The study established that, Kenya’s defence policy with Somalia was influenced by: violent extremism financing in the period under review. The research recommended that: The Kenya and Somalia governments should work together in targeting and freezing of assets of Al-Shabaab: The public-private partnerships in countering financing of terrorism should be encouraged in both countries: Kenya- Somalia border, needs around the clock monitoring to safeguard and discourage the proliferation of illegal goods such as sugar, milk etc. whose proceeds can’t be traced or accounted for hence end up being laundered and financing violent extremism. Financial Intelligence Gathering and Analysis should be done by Kenya and Somalia to monitor transactions and discourage violent extremism financing: There is need for constant patrols in the national parks and wildlife conservancies to preserve wild animals from sophisticated poachers looking for game treasures like elephant tusks, pangolin, and game meat.">Following the increasing violent extremism attacks by the Al-Shabab, Kenya citing Article 52 of the UN charter started a military operation in Somalia dubbed “Linda Nchi. Before October, 12, 2011 the Kenya Defence Forces had never gone on an offensive missions except for the usual UN Peace keeping mandates. This was a major foreign policy shift by the government to protect her citizens. This was however followed by, building of Kenya-Somalia border wall, and closing down of Daadab refugee camp all aimed at targeting violent extremist’s sources of finance, thus the justification of the study, analysis into the influence of violent extremism financing in Kenya’s defence policy with Somalia from 2002 to 2022. The research objective was: How violent extremism financing has influenced Kenya’s defence policy with Somalia. Study site was Nairobi with the target population of: Kenya Defence Forces, National Counter Terrorism Centre, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Department of Immigration officials. Sampling was through purposive and simple random sampling methods, instrument was questionnaire forms. The study established that, Kenya’s defence policy with Somalia was influenced by: violent extremism financing in the period under review. The research recommended that: The Kenya and Somalia governments should work together in targeting and freezing of assets of Al-Shabaab: The public-private partnerships in countering financing of terrorism should be encouraged in both countries: Kenya- Somalia border, needs around the clock monitoring to safeguard and discourage the proliferation of illegal goods such as sugar, milk etc. whose proceeds can’t be traced or accounted for hence end up being laundered and financing violent extremism. Financial Intelligence Gathering and Analysis should be done by Kenya and Somalia to monitor transactions and discourage violent extremism financing: There is need for constant patrols in the national parks and wildlife conservancies to preserve wild animals from sophisticated poachers looking for game treasures like elephant tusks, pangolin, and game meat.
defence policy, violent extremism financing, Kenya Defence Forces, Hawala, Violent Extremist Group
Copyright (c) 2024 Wellingtone Mayo Agumba, Dr. Raphael Ziro Mwatela https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Ubainishaji wa Vigezo vya Utoaji wa Toponemia Katika Jamii ya Wakamba: Mfano Kutoka Jimbo dogo la Makueni, Kenya
Makala hii inachanguza vigezo vya utoaji wa toponemia katika jamii ya Wakamba kwa kurejelea mfano kutoka Jimbo dogo la Makueni nchini Kenya. Data iliyotumika ilikusanywa kutoka kata zote kumi na moja (11) za jimbo dogo la Makueni. Data hiyo ilipatikana kutoka kwa wasailiwa ishirini na wawili (22) waliokuwa na umri wa miaka sitini (60) na zaidi. Wazee hao walichaguliwa kwa usampuli nasibu. Sampuli hii ya wazee ilipatikana kwa urahisi kwa kuwa majina ya wazee hao yamehifadhiwa katika ofisi za machifu kwa sababu ya rekodi za marupurupu ya uzeeni wanayopokea kutoka kwa serikali kuu. Uchunguzi huu ulibaini kuwa toponemia katika eneo teule zilitolewa kwa kuzingatia vigezo kama vile sifa za kimaumbile, shughuli za kijamii, matukio ya kihistoria na vingine. Kazi hii itatoa marejeleo muhimu kwa watafiti wa baadaye watakaoshughulikia vipengele tofauti vya Onomastiki katika jamii ya Wakamba na jamii nyingine.
Jamii, Toponemia, Ubainifu, Utoaji, Vigezo
Copyright (c) 2024 Peninah Mwende Musyoki, Vifu Makoti, John Mutua https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Uhusiano wa Lugha na Tabaka: Uchanganuzi wa Riwaya za Kuli na Pendo la Karaha
Makala hii inachunguza uhusiano uliopo kati ya lugha na tabaka kwa mujibu wa riwaya za Kuli (Shafi, 1979) na Pendo la Karaha (Habwe, 2014). Lugha ina jukumu muhimu katika jamii ambalo ni kufanikisha mawasiliano; hutumika kuwasilisha habari na hisia za watu. Kando na kuwa chombo cha mawasiliano, lugha hutambulisha: eneo atokalo mtu, cheo chake, na kadhalika. Vilevile, lugha huonyesha mahusiano ni ya aina gani baina ya wazungumzaji, jinsia na tabaka la mzungumzaji. Jamii tuliyomo ina mfumo wa kiuchumi ambao umegawa watu katika matabaka tofauti kulingana na uwezo wao wa kumiliki na kudhibiti njia za uzalishaji mali. Matabaka haya hayakosi kutangamana katika mchakato wa kutafuta riziki. Yanapotangamana, sharti lugha itumike. Kwa hivyo, katika makala hii, tutadadisi aina ya mazungumzo ya mtu ambayo humweka ama katika tabaka la juu au la chini.
Copyright (c) 2024 Virginia Wambui Mwathi, Vifu Makoti, John Mutua https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
ECONOMY IN KENYAN COLONIAL HISTORY (1895 - 1963): A HISTORIOGRAPHY WRITING
A major phenomenon of Africa's twentieth century was colonialism. Kenya was a country representing a typical position in organized the scope and nature of East Africa's colonial economic history scholarship, in which the country becomes the centerpiece of an existing colonial economic knowledge and shaped the perspectives for interpreting other countries. However, there are always tensions with the colonial economic historiography dominance of Kenya, ranging from the silences and biases to the lack of theories and frameworks. What are needed, therefore, are both a rectification of the historiography imbalance and the development of new frameworks of new colonial economic historical analysis.
Copyright (c) 2024 Mengistu Mitiku https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effects of lockdowns and quarantines on gender based violence in Kakamega Central Sub-County, Kenya
In the first quarter of 2020, as the world went into lockdown, cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) rose exponentially. In Kenya, there was a reported increase of 36% in GBV cases in 2020, indicating a correlation between the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns and the surge in GBV incidents (Ministry of Gender and Social Services, 2020). Despite several accounts of this phenomenon, the perspectives of the victims have not received adequate attention. This study aimed to investigate the effects of COVID-19 lockdowns and quarantines on GBV in Kakamega Central Sub-County. The specific objectives were to examine how COVID-19 lockdowns and quarantines contributed to the rise in GBV from the victim’s perspective. The study was guided by Routine Activity theory and adopted a mixed-method research design. Kakamega Central Sub-County in Kakamega County served as the research site. The sample size for this study was 270 GBV victims selected based on Taro Yamane’s sample determination formula. The target sample size of key informants were 27. Quantitative data were analyzed using cross-tabulation and summary statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically using content analysis. The findings revealed that containment measures contributed to the increase in GBV, attributed to factors such as loss of employment, income, and difficulty in receiving social support. The study’s recommendations emphasize the importance of enhancing resilience among vulnerable groups, allocating additional resources to GBV response teams. The study’s conclusions will inform policy evaluation and refocusing efforts to counter gender-based violence in Kenya within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Copyright (c) 2024 Jacob Kipkoech Meli https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Causes of marriage breakdowns among Catholic Couples in Bungoma Deanery, Bungoma Diocese, Kenya
Many Christians have solemnized their marital unions through celebrating sacramental marriage in Church. However, living according to the Church doctrine of marriage has become a great challenge to others. The sanctity of marriage with its properties of unity and indissolubility, is being undermined today. Although marriage is a lifetime commitment, some couples have chosen to abandon the union sanctioned by God. This study was carried out to find out the causes of marriage breakdown within Bungoma Deanery, Bungoma Diocese, Kenya. Convergent parallel design of the mixed methods approach was used during the research. The target population was 540 people who included married couples (among them catechists), and priests from the eight parishes in the deanery. Purposive and simple random sampling were used to obtain a sample size of 170 people: married (160) and key informants (10). Primary data was collected using questionnaires (for married people) and interviews with key informants (priests and catechists). Secondary data was obtained from matrimonial registers (within the parishes), available church documents, the New Jerusalem Bible, internet articles and library books. The collected data was coded, themes created and then subjected to content analysis for both qualitative and quantitative data. The study findings revealed that, for most married couples, turbulences come with age, careers, and children, among other emerging social issues, which can cause incompatibility and make life difficult. If not understood and tackled with care, these challenges can result in marriage breakdown. It is thus recommended that married couples have to be cautious of the adverse effects of technology, especially social media, on the stability of marriage. They should bear in mind the three Cs of compatibility, complementarity and communication as the glue which holds the marital bond. This research was geared towards sensitizing people, especially Christians on the importance of having a deeper understanding of the duties and obligations of marriage whose origin is divine. The study would serve as a reference on how marital unions in the contemporary world can be defended and promoted.
Copyright (c) 2024 Roseline Oriewo Mudinyu, Vincent Mrio, Rose Njoroge https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Policy and financing interventions supporting community managed drought resilience strategies: A case of Marsabit County, Kenya
Drought risk management is the function of the national government complemented by the developed systems of governance in Kenya. However, this function is clearly delineated only for institutions and misses the mark in identifying the roles of communities and strategies they apply in building resilience to drought. This paper is part of a two-part series of outcomes of a study in Marsabit county, that looked at community managed strategies that promote drought resilience. Using an evaluative research design, it highlighted the policy environment in Marsabit county, mapped the institutional structures, and identified warning strategies aligned to the policy instrument. Additionally, it sets clear financial instruments within the county that support community strategies. Finally, it maps policy gaps that hinder community resilience strategies hinging them on the existing policy and financial interventions at community level.
Copyright (c) 2023 Shalom Magoma Mogaito, Edward M. Migalavai, Fransis N Muyekho https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Influence of socio-economic factors on the mental health of vulnerable populations at risk in Kakuma refugee camp
The refugee experience is characterized by exposure in one's country of origin to numerous traumatic incidents during migration and daily stressors after settlement in the camps as a result of natural disasters, wars and persecution on the basis of their race, religion, political beliefs and social identity, who cannot rely on their country of origin to protect them. Although numerous studies on deaths, illnesses and physical traumas resulting from wars and disasters have been conducted, there are scanty longitudinal studies on how psychosocial issues influence mental health of vulnerable populations at risk and the problem-specific interventions used to address mental ill health. The prevalence of mental illnesses among refugees keeps increasing in spite existing psychiatric treatment options used to resolve the particular concerns associated with mental health. The objective of the study was to determine the influence of socio-economic factors on the mental health of vulnerable populations at risk in Kakuma refugee camp, Turkana County, Kenya.
Copyright (c) 2023 Aisha Zainab Harun; Angela Maiyo; Sum Tecla Jerotich https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Contextual meaning loss and gain in the translation of George Orwell’s Animal Farm from English to Kiswahili
This paper establishes the extent of contextual meaning loss or gain in the translation of George Orwell’s Animal Farm from English to Kiswahili. In particular, it analyzes critical concepts in contextualizing the English-Kiswahili translation of the novel. Does meaning loss or gain in the translation of Animal Farm facilitate or impede the appropriate contextualizing of the target language version? What strategies have been used by the translator to deal with contextual meaning loss or gain in the translated text? To do so, content analysis which falls under the qualitative research paradigm is used to examine non-equivalent words and phrases in the source text using the systematic sampling technique. The relevance theory (Sperber & Wilson, 1986), is utilized to interpret data. The study highlights how non-equivalence may be viewed as an impediment in literary translation and offers insights on how loss and gain have been employed to contextualize the target text in Kiswahili. Specific word and phrase meanings are deduced from sentences as well as words and phrases. The findings reveal that the following translation strategies resulted in loss: translation by omission, translation using a more general word, translation using a more neutral or less expressive word, translation by cultural substitution, and translation by paraphrasing using unrelated words. However, only one strategy that resulted in gain was translation by paraphrasing using a related word.
avertable, cognitive, context, equivalence, gain, inevitable, loss
Copyright (c) 2023 Jill Laventor Itieba, David Barasa, Benard Mudogo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effectiveness of using multimodal approaches in teaching and learning listening and speaking skills
This study examined effectiveness of using multimodal approaches in the teaching of listening and speaking skills to Grade I learners in primary scholls in Western Kenya. The study was based on Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligence and Michael Halliday’s Social Semiotic Theory. This study was carried out in the Western region where four counties namely Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia and Vihiga were sampled for investigation. 75 schools were used to elicit primary data for analysis. Further, the 75 schools were stratified into public rural (30), public urban (15), private rural (15) and private urban (15). Questionnaires, interviews and observation were the main instruments of data collection. The study adopted a descriptive research with quantitative and qualitative paradigms. Stratified sampling was utilized in sourcing for appropriate sample of respondents who included teachers of English and their pupils in Grade 1 as well as 7 Curriculum Support Officers (CSO’S). The spearman’s rank- order correlation was administered to determine the correlation amongst the variables. To determine the performance analysis which compared the two tests that had been administered to the learners on different occasions, the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test was administered to compute the difference between each test of the matched pairs. Validity of research instruments was determined through two expert judgments whereas their reliability was determined through Cronbach’s alpha formula. The findings revealed that the learners’ scores improved with constant application of multimodal approaches effectively catered for learners with different learning styles.
Approaches, Competence, L istening, Literacy, Multimodal and Speaking
Copyright (c) 2023 David Barasa, Rose Masinde, Lucy Mandillah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The victim's perspective of the interventions to address the spike in gender-based violence during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kakamega Central Sub-County, Kenya
The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a significant rise in gender-based violence (GBV) cases globally, necessitating targeted intervention measures. Despite efforts by governments and stakeholders, this study focuses on Kakamega Central Sub-County, Kenya, to examine whether the interventions put in place to address the GBV surge during the pandemic considered the perspectives and needs of victims. Employing the Intersectionality Theory, which explores how various forms of oppression intersect, leading to unique experiences of disadvantage, this research investigates why victims' voices may have been marginalized in intervention strategies. Using a mixed-method research design, the study involves 255 participants and 27 key informants, utilizing questionnaires, interviews, and secondary data sources. Quantitative data were analyzed using cross-tabulation and summary statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically using content analysis. The reliability of the research instruments was assessed using the test-retest method, which revealed a Cronbach's alpha index of reliability exceeding 0.70 for all variables. Validity was ensured through a review of questionnaires and interview schedules to align them with the study's objectives and research variables. Findings reveal that victims perceived the interventions as inadequate and not tailored to their individual needs. Consequently, this study recommends the development of GBV intervention measures that are more responsive to the diverse and unique needs of victims, aiming to reduce GBV incidents and address root causes effectively.
GBV, COVID-19, Interventions for GBV, Enhance financial support, Education and awareness, Collaboration
Copyright (c) 2023 Jacob Kipkoech Meli, Mark Letting, Thomas Gisemba Onsarigo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Validating the psychometric properties of the anxiety subscale of the DASS-21
Anxiety is a recognized negative activated emotion characterized by constant worry and uncertainty of a situation or outcome. Although worrying may be an everyday activity, excessive and frequent traits can impair academic functioning. The study thus aimed to validate the psychometric properties of the anxiety subscale of the DASS-21 among a non-clinical sample of visual art students and ascertain their existent level of anxiety. Using a cross-sectional survey design, a hundred and fifty visual arts students from KNUST senior high school, Ghana, completed a questionnaire containing the anxiety subscale of the DASS-21 and some demographic details. Analysis was done using JAMOVI. It was revealed that more than two-thirds of the sample fell within the ratings of moderate anxiety level to extremely severe anxiety. Besides, female visual arts students reportedly had a slightly higher anxiety level (m= 16.4, SD=9.07) than their male counterparts m=12.7, SD= 8.86) using the mean figures of the total anxiety score. The anxiety subscale had commendable psychometric properties and its reliability and ease of administering will enhance the diagnoses and research on anxiety among senior high school students in Ghana.
anxiety, DASS-21 gender academic level psychometric properties
Copyright (c) 2023 Ama Amponsah Dwamena, Mavis Osei https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Forms of multimodal approaches in the teaching of listening and speaking skills
This study sought to explore the factors that determine the teachers of English’s choice of multimodal approaches when teaching listening and speaking skills to Kenya’s Grade 1 learners. The study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive research design with quantitative and qualitative paradigms. Primary data was sourced from 75 public and private primary schools in Western Kenya. Stratified sampling was employed to identify teachers of English and 7 Curriculum Support Officers (CSO’S in the area). This was to ensure that the population was grouped into homogenous subsets that bore similar characteristics. Questionnaires, observation schedule and Key Informant Interview (KII) were used to elicit data. Validity of research instruments was determined through two expert judgements whereas their reliability was determined through Cronbach’s alpha formula. Descriptive statistics was applied to analyse quantitative data. Content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. The findings of this study revealed that factors considered while selecting multimodal approaches are significant in the success of teaching of listening and speaking skills. The study recommends that teachers of English should be trained on the most desirable factors that they should consider when selecting multimodal approaches to use in the teaching of listening and speaking skills. Further, the study has attempted to design a teaching and learning model that will guide the teachers of English in the selection of appropriate approaches to blend when teaching listening and speaking skills. This model will guide teachers of English in the inclusion multimodal approaches from all categories.
Copyright (c) 2023 Rose Masinde, David Barasa, Lucy Mandillah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Meaning loss in English-Lubukusu medical interpretation
Language is a vital component in doctor-patient communication. The linguistic differences between languages make medical interpretation difficult. Thus, in situations where a doctor and a patient have no common language, interpretation is essential for successful exchange of meaning. Lubukusu, the language spoken by monolingual Bukusu patients and English, the language spoken by the non-native doctors, have huge linguistic differences that make it difficult for interpreters to achieve the required level of equivalence. English has unique scientific terms that have no equivalents in Lubukusu. These difficulties in interpretation may lead to loss of source language meaning and inadequate or inaccurate diagnosis that may endanger the patient’s life and the doctor’s integrity. The study was guided by the Pragmatic Model of Simultaneous interpretation. This study established that meaning loss is inevitable whenever the interpreters in medical consultations fail to find English equivalents in Lubukusu and the attempt to interpret by explicitation does not suffice. This paper informs health practitioners on ways of ensuring the best outcome of consultation sessions between non-native doctors and monolingual natives. This paper suggests ways of improving communication between doctors who do not share a language with both their patients and fellow doctors.
Copyright (c) 2023 Mary Nasambu Masika, David Barasa, Benard Mudogo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effect of talent management practices and employee engagement on perceived sustainable competitive advantage of commercial banks in Nairobi County, Kenya
In the modern world, organizations strive to achieve success in form of sustainable competitive advantage. The demand for key position talented and committed employees is high because they help steer the organization to outdo the competition in the marketplace. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of talent management practices and employee engagement on perceived sustainable competitive advantage of commercial banks in Nairobi County in Kenya. Guided by resource based view theory, positivism research paradigm and explanatory research design was adopted. The target population was 3,098 employees from 42 commercial banks whereby a sample size of 354 was used. After collecting data using structured self-administered questionnaire, analysis done comprised of descriptive, correlation, factor analysis and hierarchical multiple regression analysis. The results showed a positive and significant effect of talent management practices (β=.727, p =.030<.05) and employee engagement (β=.302, p=.029<.05) on perceived sustainable competitive advantage of commercial banks in Nairobi County. The study concluded that quality level of employees' engagement, and talent management practices enhances the perceived sustainable competitive advantages in various similar working environments and society's confidence in the organization. Managers should make efforts to increase employees' perceived organizational fairness to improve their competitiveness. As a result, managers are encouraged to take a deliberate effort to promote talent management practices and employee engagement . Future researchers are expected to focus on firms in other sectors besides assessing the effect of generation Y and generation Z on talent management practices and sustainable competitive advantage.
Talent Management Practices; Employee Engagement; Perceived Sustainable Competitive Advantage
Copyright (c) 2023 Stephen Makewit Mosong, Joyce Komen, Josephat Cheboi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Gender inclusion in research among academic members of staff: Lessons from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kenya
All over the world, research has shown that women are underrepresented and generally face discrimination and marginalization on the basis of their gender. It is against this background that this study sought to establish the status of gender inclusion in research among academic members of staff with a focus on Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), Kenya. The study employed a mixed methods research design. Purposive sampling technique was used in administering questionnaires to 104 academic staff from the 11 schools and interviews subjected to 14 members of the university management. Quantitative data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics while qualitative data was analyzed thematically and was used to triangulate quantitative data. The findings of the study revealed that research outputs for women were lower than their male counterparts. For example, males were more dominant in publications at 55% while females were at 45%. The study further revealed that workload, gender stereotypes, lack of mentorship and inadequate resources had an impact on the women’s research output. These findings will be instrumental in supporting universities to strengthen structures and develop programmes that support research, particularly among women at all levels of their career.
academic staff, gender inclusion, research output, Sub-Saharan Africa
Copyright (c) 2023 Lucy Mandillah, Annette Okoth, Pamela Buhere, Lydia Anyonje, Christine Wanjala, James Bill Ouda, Judith Achoka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Linguistic strategies in the construction of power relations in call-in conversations in Vuuka FM vernacular radio station
This paper examines how language is used to enact power and identity as manifested n caller’s texts in Vuuka FM radio station, a vernacular radio station broadcasts in Luloogoli. This paper seeks to respond to the following objective, to determine the power relations manifested in the call in conversations of Vuuka FM radio station. This study was carried out in Vihiga County in Western Kenya among the Lulogooli speakers. Fairclough’s (2001) Critical Discourse Analysis approach , whose main tenet is a critical analysis of caller texts in terms of the manifestations of power relations, was used for the analysis of caller conversations. A qualitative approach to data collection was adopted where a total of thirty call-in programmes were purposively sampled for transcription and analysis according to the thematic areas that were selected. The paper established that there was manifestation of power relations in the conversations of callers that creates two divergent groupings, ‘them ’the subjugated group, versus ‘us’ the dominant group. Furthermore, callers through their discourses manifested distinct ideologies depending on the roles assigned to the different groupings in society. The findings of this paper would be of help to linguists and other language scholars in that it would contribute to the development of research on the use of indigenous languages.
power relations, linguistic strategies, Lulogooli, call-in conversations
Copyright (c) 2023 Catherine Musimbi Musimbi, Alati R Atichi, Lucy Mandilla https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0