Institute of Women Gender and Development Studies

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i INFLUENCE OF SOCIO-CULTURAL FACTORS ON CAREER PROGRESSION AMONG POST-GRADUATE FEMALE STUDENTS IN EGERTON UNIVERSITY, NAKURU COUNTY, KENYA
(Egerton University, 2024-10) NDUNG’U,WACHEKE JOYCE
The career progression of mature female students has long been challenged by socio-cultural barriers, particularly in balancing professional growth with societal expectations. This study aimed to explore key socio-cultural factors that limit career advancement among mature female students at Egerton University, Kenya. The objectives included examining the influence of household size, gender division of labor, cultural stereotypes, and mentorship on career progression. A sample of 96 mature female students and 8 department heads was selected, with data gathered through interviews and analyzed using both inferential and descriptive statistics in SPSS version 27. The results indicated that household size, gender division of labor, and cultural stereotypes negatively and significantly impacted career progression, while mentorship had a strong positive influence. Notably, household size showed a strong negative correlation (r = -.914, p = .001), as did gender division of labor (r = -.960, p = .000) and cultural stereotypes (r = -.967, p = .000). Mentorship was found to significantly promote career progression (r = .991, p = .000). The regression analysis explained 99.9% of the variance in career progression. These findings highlight the importance of addressing socio-cultural challenges to support female students' career growth. Policymakers and stakeholders in education and employment should use these insights to develop programs and policies that foster equitable opportunities for mature female students. Gender mainstreaming initiatives could also benefit from these results, leading to more effective planning and development strategies.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIAL CULTURAL FACTORS, SEXUAL AND GENDER VIOLENCE AMONG CONGOLESE MALE REFUGEES IN KAKUMA CAMP, TURKANA WEST COUNTY, KENYA
(Egerton University, 2025-09) MANYANYA, MARGARET
Sexual violence is a significant public health and human rights issue worldwide. Refugees and asylum seekers affected by armed conflict are particularly vulnerable. In Kenya, the extent of sexual violence in humanitarian settings remains underexplored. Although many organizations address gender-based violence, little is known about male refugees who are victims of sexual violence. The study established the relationship between social cultural factors, sexual and gender- based violence among Congolese’s male refugees. It also established, the different types of SGBV, cultural norms and values, dominant notions of masculinity, gender identities and their relationship to SGBV among Congolese male refugees. The study adopted trauma theory and employed the mixed cross-sectional survey research design, employing both quantitative and qualitative. The target population 17,848 registered Congolese male refugees, in Turkana West-sub- County. A sample size of 382 male refugees and 6 key informants were selected. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and key informant interviews. A total of 382 male refugees and 6 key informants were interviewed. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and standard deviations, with the assistance of SPSS version 28. Qualitative data were transcribed, translated, and coded thematically. Thematic analysis identified patterns and themes related to the research questions, and verbatim quotes were used to amplify the voices of the informants. Findings revealed that Congolese male refugees in Kakuma experience various forms of SGBV, including physical abuse (46%), sexual abuse (33%), and psychological abuse (21%). Younger males (18-29 years) reported higher incidences of SGBV compared to older age groups. Cultural norms significantly impacted the reporting and perception of SGBV, with societal stigma and the pressure to conform to traditional masculine roles discouraging many victims from seeking help. The dominant notions of masculinity, which emphasize strength, control, and heterosexuality, further compounded the issue, as male survivors often faced additional psychological trauma and societal emasculation. The study concluded that addressing SGBV among male refugees requires a multisectoral approach that includes cultural sensitivity, awareness programs, and support systems tailored to the unique needs of male survivors. Recommendations include enhancing the capacity of service providers to recognize and address SGBV against men, promoting community sensitization to reduce stigma, and implementing policies that protect and support male survivors of SGBV.
PARTICIPATION OF MEN AND WOMEN NON-PRODUCER ACTORS IN THE DAIRY VALUE CHAIN: A CASE STUDY OF SIRIKWA DAIRY HUB IN UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA
(Egerton University, 2024-11) ODHIAMBO MARTIN SAM
Dairy farming has the potential to increase household income and improve food and nutrition security globally. Estimates from the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) reveal that about 40% of smallholder farmers’ income in Kenya can be attributed to dairy farming. Studies focusing on dairy farming and its entire value chain indicate that women and men participate across the nodes, although in varying capacities. While the presence of women at the production node of the dairy value chain is well-documented, it is generally on terms deemed different from and unequal to men’s. There is an immense knowledge gap on the gender dynamics that influence men’s and women’s participation in dairy post-production activities. The main objective of the study was to assess participation of smallholder women and men non-producer actors in Kenya’s dairy value chain with a focus on Sirikwa Dairy hub in Uasin Gishu County. A gender-based analysis of the non-producer actor categories within the dairy value chain is vital to gaining a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by both women and men, their perceptions and relationships, their participation in different actor categories, and the critical constraints that hinder full participation and, consequently, the competitiveness of smallholder male and female actors in the non-producer categories. The specific objectives were to identify the socio-economic factors influencing women’s and men’s participation as non-producer actors in the dairy value chain, to identify the sociocultural factors influencing women’s and men’s participation in the non-producer actor categories in the dairy value chain, and to identify the perceived benefits for women and men in the non-producer actor categories in the dairy value chain with a focus on Sirikwa dairy hub in Uasin Gishu County. The Gender, Agriculture and Assets framework was employed to identify the socio-economic and socio-cultural factors at play. The study and its pretest were conducted in Sirikwa dairy hub. It was purposively selected and 39 respondents were identified through snowballing. Of the 39 respondents, 30 were male respondents and 9 were female smallholder farmer respondents. Key informant interviews were used for data collection. In analyzing dominant themes on perception of women and men participation, NVIVO software was used. Women’s limited agency and their triple role in the family were results that featured as negative shocks that adversely affected women’s participation across the value chains. Male managers indicated that farmer organizations are predominantly male and there is a skewed preference for male candidates for managerial positions. The study provided policy recommendations that include incentivizing women to participate in non-traditional economic activities across the post-production nodes of the dairy value chain through more targeted approaches by various stakeholders in the post-production nodes of the dairy value chain.
EXAMINATION OF THE GENDERED ASPECTS OF NATURAL RESOURCE CONFLICT MANAGEMENT IN RIVER RONGAI AREA, NAKURU COUNTY, KENYA
(Egerton University, 2025-11) AKAI, AKOYA SUSAN
One of the major challenges in the world is the natural resource-based conflicts. In other parts, conflicts over land, water and other natural resources are induced by an aspect of competition. This paper has examined gendered issues of natural resources conflict management (NRCM) in the River Rongai region of Nakuru County, Kenya where there have been intermittent conflicts over resource sharing of water. It particularly examines the way men and women perceive and react to conflict, involve themselves in conflict management, the success of the current community-based strategies and the role of gender role in conflict management outcomes. Environmental feminist views that were summarized by Argawal led the study and used the Thomas and Kilmann conflict model to question the different types of conflict resolution styles in gendered experiences of resource conflict. The research design used was explanatory sequential mixed methods research design in order to gather data on 154 respondents. The multistage sampling technique was used to get the sample size and this was suitable since the population had a geographical dispersion, and different stakeholder groups were involved. Moreover, purposive sampling was used to pick key informants and focus group members were purposively picked among the established community groups. The participant observation, focus group discussions and surveys were used as data collection methods. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse quantitative data, and thematic coding and analysis were done on qualitative data to determine patterns. The result showed that there was a difference in the way men and women interacted in conflicts whereby the women tended towards the collaborative and avoidance styles and men tended to the competing and confrontational styles. These socioeconomic disparities and other issues, particularly between upstream users and downstream users, led to a feeling of injustice and an increased conflict. Despite these challenges, the study identified informal community efforts including dialogue, rotational water-sharing agreements, and alternative water sources as effective grassroots strategies for conflict management. Findings from this research are expected to strengthen local communities’ conflict management mechanisms and to promote gender-inclusive peace- building strategies. Additionally, the study will inform policy by indicating how gender- responsive approaches can contribute to sustainable conflict management. The study offers practical, lessons in gendered approaches to natural resource conflict management and policy recommendations for other regions in Kenya and beyond, that face similar natural resource conflicts.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIAL CULTURAL FACTORS, SEXUAL AND GENDER VIOLENCE AMONG CONGOLESE MALE REFUGEES IN KAKUMA CAMP, TURKANA WEST COUNTY, KENYA
(EGERTON UNIVERSITY, 2025-09) MANYANYA, MARGARET
Sexual violence is a significant public health and human rights issue worldwide. Refugees and asylum seekers affected by armed conflict are particularly vulnerable. In Kenya, the extent of sexual violence in humanitarian settings remains underexplored. Although many organizations address gender-based violence, little is known about male refugees who are victims of sexual violence. The study established the relationship between social cultural factors, sexual and genderbased violence among Congolese’s male refugees. It also established, the different types of SGBV, cultural norms and values, dominant notions of masculinity, gender identities and their relationship to SGBV among Congolese male refugees. The study adopted trauma theory and employed the mixed cross-sectional survey research design, employing both quantitative and qualitative. The target population 17,848 registered Congolese male refugees, in Turkana West-sub- County. A sample size of 382 male refugees and 6 key informants were selected. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and key informant interviews. A total of 382 male refugees and 6 key informants were interviewed. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and standard deviations, with the assistance of SPSS version 28. Qualitative data were transcribed, translated, and coded thematically. Thematic analysis identified patterns and themes related to the research questions, and verbatim quotes were used to amplify the voices of the informants. Findings revealed that Congolese male refugees in Kakuma experience various forms of SGBV, including physical abuse (46%), sexual abuse (33%), and psychological abuse (21%). Younger males (18-29 years) reported higher incidences of SGBV compared to older age groups. Cultural norms significantly impacted the reporting and perception of SGBV, with societal stigma and the pressure to conform to traditional masculine roles discouraging many victims from seeking help. The dominant notions of masculinity, which emphasize strength, control, and heterosexuality, further compounded the issue, as male survivors often faced additional psychological trauma and societal emasculation. The study concluded that addressing SGBV among male refugees requires a multisectoral approach that includes cultural sensitivity, awareness programs, and support systems tailored to the unique needs of male survivors. Recommendations include enhancing the capacity of service providers to recognize and address SGBV against men, promoting community sensitization to reduce stigma, and implementing policies that protect and support male survivors of SGBV
GENDER ANALYSIS ON ADOPTION OF CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURE PRACTICES AND TECHNOLOGIES ON IRISH POTATO VALUE CHAIN IN KURESOI NORTH SUB-COUNTY, NAKURU COUNTY, KENYA.
(EGERTON UNIVERSITY, 2025-09) OGUTU,OGOLLA ELISHA
Agriculture contributes over 25% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Kenya and Irish Potatoes is one of the important crops in terms of food security and income generation. Climate change is a factor that increasingly affects agricultural productivity and leads to even greater socioeconomic inequalities between men and women, yet the adoption of Conservation Agriculture (CSA) is currently low. Employing the Diffusion of Innovation Theory and the Liberal Feminist Theory, this research examined the role of gender roles in adopting CSA by Irish potato farmers in Nakuru County, Kuresoi North Sub-County. The research was focused on Irish potato farmers and 197 people were sampled using simple random sampling with five key informant interviews with leading farmers, government extension officers and private sector specialists. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests and qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis, and the integration of both was used to facilitate the triangulation of findings. There was no significant relationship between gender and the overall CSA adoption ( mixer: 2 = 1.73, p = 0.630). However, gender specific differences were seen in the adoption of specific practices. Male farmers were found to be more likely to adopt capital intensive innovation such as improved potato varieties (i.e. more male farmers were likely to grow improved potato varieties; (5) Chi-squared test, df = 0, P = 0.001). However, female farmers were more active into practices requiring more labor, especially water management (χ² = 5.51, p = 0.019). Although the unequal distribution of labour was confirmed (chi-square = 8.08, p = 0.018), it did not have an important influence on CSA adoption patterns (chi-square = 8.16, p = 0.226).Qualitative results highlighted the importance of the peer group: women's low involvement in decision making and lack of access to financial resources as opposed to time management were considered the key reasons why compromising with CSA is not envisaged. Property ownership surfaced as a major such constraint in terms of ownership of property, with unequal titling of land restricting women access to institutional credit evident from key informants noting that collateral-based lending is strongly dependent on land ownership. Nonetheless, Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), women's farmer groups, and the holistic household extension services were identified as effective mechanisms to improve female's participation. The study concludes that to lower gender disparities in CSA adoption, it is important to implement structural reforms in decision-making and asset ownership, and not simply redistribute workloads. Recommendations include joint land - each title programmes so as to increase women's access to credit, and gender-neutral extension services focusing on the whole household, and the establishment of mixed gender farmer groups. These evidence based interventions are on the verge of promoting a more equitable and sustainable adoption of CSA by smallholder farmers in Kenya.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS AFFECTING PARENTING AMONG SINGLE PARENTS’ HOUSEHOLDS IN KAPTEMBWA WARD, NAKURU WEST SUB - COUNTY, NAKURU COUNTY, KENYA
(EGERTON UNIVERSITY, 2025-11) ODERO, AWUOR EUPHEMIA
Single parents face great challenges in raising children like struggling to meet their physical, emotional and cognitive development. In Kenya single parents’ households are at greater risk of poverty which can lead to health and mental problems. These challenges are usually combined by parents’ inability to meet children’s basic needs due to being the sole breadwinner and balancing gender roles. Study aim was to determine socioeconomic factors affecting parenting among single parents. The study main the objective of the study was to focus on variables such as parental sex, income level, occupation, and age which are key in shaping overall family wellbeing. The study grounded itself on the Structural Functional Theory and Social Learning Theory. The study used a mixed-methods research design to integrate both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The survey tool was reviewed and validated by the supervisors and educational specialists. Data was collected from 530 target population consisting of single parents’ household heads, comprising men, women, and youths above 18 years in low-income areas of Kaptembwa Ward. The total sample size of 121 respondents was derived using strattified sampling methoug by grouping respondents into strata. Closed-ended questionnaire was was employed in collecting quantitative data while an interview guide was used in the key informant interviews and Focused group discussions. The quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS software to generate descriptive and inferential statistics while qualitative data was analyzed through thematic analysis. The results showed that 77% of the respondents earn a daily income of not more than Ksh 300. The 66.1% of the respondents howed that low income directly hinders parenting. Single mothers were 41.3% of the respondents were found to face greater challenges such as social stigma and limited access to employment opportunities compared to single fathers (49.6%) while the occupation of the respondents show that it plays an important role in parenting. The 74% of respondents were in agreement that their job responsibilities affected their ability to care and quality time for their children. The qualitative data employed in the study further revealed that single mothers, as a result of their double roles as caregivers and breadwinners. This heightened stress and burnout among the women. The Study helps in contributing to the Institute of gender and Development in informing research; knowledge building and advocacy aimed at enhancing gender equity and sustainable development. The study recommends that the Kenyan government develop policies such as accessible public daycare, child support, psychosocial support and flexible work program to enhance economic empowerment and wellbeing of single parents’ households
EXAMINATION OF THE GENDERED ASPECTS OF NATURAL RESOURCE CONFLICT MANAGEMENT IN RIVER RONGAI AREA, NAKURU COUNTY, KENYA
(EGERTON UNIVERSITY, 2025-11)
One of the major challenges in the world is the natural resource-based conflicts. In other parts, conflicts over land, water and other natural resources are induced by an aspect of competition. This paper has examined gendered issues of natural resources conflict management (NRCM) in the River Rongai region of Nakuru County, Kenya where there have been intermittent conflicts over resource sharing of water. It particularly examines the way men and women perceive and react to conflict, involve themselves in conflict management, the success of the current community-based strategies and the role of gender role in conflict management outcomes. Environmental feminist views that were summarized by Argawal led the study and used the Thomas and Kilmann conflict model to question the different types of conflict resolution styles in gendered experiences of resource conflict. The research design used was explanatory sequential mixed methods research design in order to gather data on 154 respondents. The multistage sampling technique was used to get the sample size and this was suitable since the population had a geographical dispersion, and different stakeholder groups were involved. Moreover, purposive sampling was used to pick key informants and focus group members were purposively picked among the established community groups. The participant observation, focus group discussions and surveys were used as data collection methods. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse quantitative data, and thematic coding and analysis were done on qualitative data to determine patterns. The result showed that there was a difference in the way men and women interacted in conflicts whereby the women tended towards the collaborative and avoidance styles and men tended to the competing and confrontational styles. These socioeconomic disparities and other issues, particularly between upstream users and downstream users, led to a feeling of injustice and an increased conflict. Despite these challenges, the study identified informal community efforts including dialogue, rotational water-sharing agreements, and alternative water sources as effective grassroots strategies for conflict management. Findings from this research are expected to strengthen local communities’ conflict management mechanisms and to promote gender-inclusive peacebuilding strategies. Additionally, the study will inform policy by indicating how genderresponsive approaches can contribute to sustainable conflict management. The study offers practical, lessons in gendered approaches to natural resource conflict management and policy recommendations for other regions in Kenya and beyond, that face similar natural resource conflicts.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS AFFECTING PARENTING AMONG SINGLE PARENTS’ HOUSEHOLDS IN KAPTEMBWA WARD
(Egerton University, 2025) Euphemia Awuor Odero
Single parents face great challenges in raising children like struggling to meet their physical, emotional and cognitive development. In Kenya single parents’ households are at greater risk of poverty which can lead to health and mental problems. These challenges are usually combined by parents’ inability to meet children’s basic needs due to being the sole breadwinner and balancing gender roles. Study aim was to determine socioeconomic factors affecting parenting among single parents. The study main the objective of the study was to focus on variables such as parental sex, income level, occupation, and age which are key in shaping overall family wellbeing. The study grounded itself on the Structural Functional Theory and Social Learning Theory. The study used a mixed-methods research design to integrate both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The survey tool was reviewed and validated by the supervisors and educational specialists. Data was collected from 530 target population consisting of single parents’ household heads, comprising men, women, and youths above 18 years in low-income areas of Kaptembwa Ward. The total sample size of 121 respondents was derived using strattified sampling method by grouping respondents into strata. Closed-ended questionnaire was was employed in collecting quantitative data while an interview guide was used in the key informant interviews and Focused group discussions. The quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS software to generate descriptive and inferential statistics while qualitative data was analyzed through thematic analysis. The results showed that 77% of the respondents earn a daily income of not more than Ksh 300. The 66.1% of the respondents howed that low income directly hinders parenting. Single mothers were 41.3% of the respondents were found to face greater challenges such as social stigma and limited access to employment opportunities compared to single fathers (49.6%) while the occupation of the respondents show that it plays an important role in parenting. The 74% of respondents were in agreement that their job responsibilities affected their ability to care and quality time for their children. The qualitative data employed in the study further revealed that single mothers, as a result of their double roles as caregivers and breadwinners. This heightened stress and burnout among the women. The Study helps in contributing to the Institute of gender and Development in informing research; knowledge building and advocacy aimed at enhancing gender equity and sustainable development. The study recommends that the Kenyan government develop policies such as accessible public daycare, child support, psychosocial support and flexible work program to enhance economic empowerment and wellbeing of single parents’ households.
Socio-economic factors and gender based violence (gbv) among youth in Ruiru Sub-County, Kiambu County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Wairimu, Mirriam Kuria
The relationship between socio -economic factors and gender -based violence (GBV) among youth of Ruiru Sub - County, Kiambu County, Kenya was studied. Speciﬁcally, it discussed the impact of the income level, power dynamics in intimate relationships and the prevailing cultural norms in society on the occurrence of GBV. Guided through Social Learning Theory and Social Exchange Theory, a descriptive cross sectional design approach was followed. A total of 256 respondents were selected from an accessible population of 664 youths by use of stratiﬁed random sampling to achieve gender balance. Data collection was done from 244 completed questionnaires and 12 interview schedules. Quantitative data analysis was performed using the statistical analysis software (SPSS) and qualitative response was the analytically analyzed using (NVivo) software. The results showed that GBV among youth in Ruiru Sub -County is inﬂuenced by a complex interaction of economic, relationship and cultural factors. Financial instability, unemployment and economic dependency became identiﬁed as key factors contributing to the youth vulnerability to GBV. A signiﬁcant positive correlation was developed between income levels and GBV vulnerability (I: 0.71, p< 0.01; b= 0.376, p= 0.013). Similarly, power imbalances (7.01, 1:.79; p<.0l, b= .418, p=.014; Christy et al., 2009) and cultural norms (?.0l, r=.69; p<.0l, b=.30l, p=.0l3) were found to be signiﬁcant predictors (Andiman and Andiman, 2001) in intimate relationships. Qualitative evidence further supported the extent of gender expectations, and economic dependency on how patriarchal dominance supports. The conclusion of the study was that GBV among youth is systemic and multidimensional and deeply rooted in socio - economic inequalities and traditional power hierarchies. It calls for integrated, gender responsive strategies, with all relevant stakeholders on government levels, civil society and community, for youth empowerment and challenging harmful socio-cultural nonns.
Effects of border conflicts on selected women roles among the kuria east community in Migori County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Nyakeri Jerida Gati
Border conﬂicts signiﬁcantly reshape women‘s roles, altering traditional responsibilities and creating new social dynamics. This study examined the effect of border conﬂicts on selected women's roles among the Kuria East Community in Migori County, Kenya. The main objective was to assess how border conﬂicts affect women‘s socio-cultural and economic roles. Speciﬁc objectives included establishing women‘s socio-cultural and economic roles, assessing border conﬂicts‘ effect on socio-cultural roles, examining their effect on economic roles, and establishing post-conﬂict coping mechanisms. The study employed Feminist Conﬂict Theory with a descriptive mixed methods approach. The target population comprised 42,000 Kuria women aged 18 and above in conﬂict-affected areas, with a sample size of 224 respondents. Data collection involved structured questionnaires administered to Women participants, semi- structured interviews with key informants including community leaders and local administrators, and documentary review of relevant reports and records. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics while qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis to identify patterns related to role transformations. Results revealed that women‘s traditional roles were concentrated in cultural transmission (mean=3.55) and household management (mean=3.52) but limited in community decision making (mean=l.99). Border conﬂicts severely disrupted women‘s socio-cultural lives, with 67.8% experiencing affected family relationships and 59.9% reporting reduced ceremonial participation. Economic effects were devastating, with 69.8% losing market access and 64.4% forced to change farming practices, while only 22.2% developed new economic skills. Coping mechanisms relied primarily on community-based initiatives (mean=3.l9 for peace dialogues) rather than ineffective institutional support (mean=2.33 for government programs). The study concluded that border conﬂicts fundamentally disrupted women's traditional roles while failing to create meaningful empowerment opportunities, resulting in increased burdens without corresponding gains in formal authority. Women demonstrated remarkable agency through grassroots coping strategies but operated within severely constrained circumstances where institutional support proved inadequate. The study recommends establishing targeted support programs, reforming peacebuilding policies to include women‘s voices, implementing NGO interventions in conﬂict epicenters, developing economic recovery programs, and creating transparent aid distribution mechanisms working directly with women‘s groups.
Analysis of prevalence and hiv risk factors among Adolescents and young people in Kisumu and Homa bay Counties, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Ouma, Joyce
This study explored the extent to which adolescents and young people aged 15-24 have been affected by the HIV epidemic in Homa Bay and Kisumu counties, Kenya. Both Homa Bay and Kisumu are among the top ﬁve counties with the highest HIV prevalence in Kenya, together with Siaya, Migori, and Busia. In 2018, HIV prevalence was 20.7% in Homa Bay and 16.3% in Kisumu. Young people, especially adolescent girls and young women, remain highly vulnerable due to various intersecting social, economic, cultural and behavioural inﬂuences. The study aimed to establish the HIV prevalence among this age group, identify the major risk factors driving infection between both genders, and assess how effective the current existing HIV prevention programs are, to guide more focused and sustainable interventions in the two regions. A total of 118 participants were selected for this study based on Cochrane’s formula, using Kenya’s HIV prevalence rate of 4%. A mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative data from county health records and a structured survey involving 118 respondents (64 AGYW and 54 ABYM) was used. The qualitative bits were also obtained from four focus group discussions held and three key informant interviews. The results from the questionnaires were entered into data analysis software and were processed to produce table frequencies and percentages, whereas the verbal responses were transcribed, coded and analysed thematically to highlight behavioural and structural factors shaping risk patterns. The ﬁndings of the study indicated a gender imbalance in HIV burden, with AGYW, particularly those aged 20-24, recording higher infection rates than the boys. From this study, the identiﬁed risk factors for AGYW included economic hardship, limited access to higher education, intergenerational and transactional relationships, gender- based violence, and reduced power in sexual negotiation. For ABYM, the most outstanding risk factors were the social pressures tied to masculinity, substance use, and their poor health- seeking behaviour. The results also proved that HIV among adolescents in the two counties remains exceedingly high and different between the two genders despite the interventions put in place. To solve this, the HIV response requires integrated approaches that use both biomedical interventions with economic empowerment, gender violence response, youth- friendly services and active community participation. Sustainable solutions should aim to reduce economic vulnerability, empower young women, involve young men and enhance accessibility and cultural suitability of prevention services to curb new infections in HIV endemic areas.
Participation of Men and Women Non-Producer Actors in the Dairy Value Chain: A Case Study of Sirikwa Dairy Hub in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya
(2024-09) Odhiambo Martin Sam
Dairy farming has the potential to increase household income and improve food and nutrition security globally. Estimates from the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) reveal that about 40% of smallholder farmers‘ income in Kenya can be attributed to dairy farming. Studies focusing on dairy farming and its entire value chain indicate that women and men participate across the nodes, although in varying capacities. While the presence of women at the production node of the dairy value chain is well-documented, it is generally on terms deemed different from and unequal to men‘s. There is an immense knowledge gap on the gender dynamics that influence men‘s and women‘s participation in dairy post-production activities. The main objective of the study was to assess participation of smallholder women and men non-producer actors in Kenya‘s dairy value chain with a focus on Sirikwa Dairy hub in Uasin Gishu County. A gender-based analysis of the non-producer actor categories within the dairy value chain is vital to gaining a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by both women and men, their perceptions and relationships, their participation in different actor categories, and the critical constraints that hinder full participation and, consequently, the competitiveness of smallholder male and female actors in the non-producer categories. The specific objectives were to identify the socio-economic factors influencing women‘s and men‘s participation as non-producer actors in the dairy value chain, to identify the sociocultural factors influencing women‘s and men‘s participation in the non-producer actor categories in the dairy value chain, and to identify the perceived benefits for women and men in the non-producer actor categories in the dairy value chain with a focus on Sirikwa dairy hub in Uasin Gishu County. The Gender, Agriculture and Assets framework was employed to identify the socio-economic and socio-cultural factors at play. The study and its pretest were conducted in Sirikwa dairy hub. It was purposively selected and 39 respondents were identified through snowballing. Of the 39 respondents, 30 were male respondents and 9 were female smallholder farmer respondents. Key informant interviews were used for data collection. In analyzing dominant themes on perception of women and men participation, NVIVO software was used. Women‘s limited agency and their triple role in the family were results that featured as negative shocks that adversely affected women‘s participation across the value chains. Male managers indicated that farmer organizations are predominantly male and there is a skewed preference for male candidates for managerial positions. The study provided policy recommendations that include incentivizing women to participate in non-traditional economic activities across the post-production nodes of the dairy value chain through more targeted approaches by various stakeholders in the post-production nodes of the dairy value chain
Socio- economic factors influencing welfare of hiv-positive women in Manyatta slums, Kisumu County
(Egerton University, 2024-09) Lugalia, Fillet
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) have been in existence for more than forty years and women account for nearly half of the 40 million People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs). HIV/AIDS has devastating challenges on the infected women, and it is worse if they are staying in the slums. HIV/AIDS has economic implications on the infected and her family. Earlier studies done in Kenya have largely concentrated on transmission and prevention of HIV. However, there are limited studies that have been conducted on socio-economic challenges faced by women living with HIV in slums especially those living in Manyatta slums, more detailed information is required on low income earning women living with HIV and how socio-cultural and economic challenges affect them. The study aimed to determine the socio-cultural and economic factors affecting welfare of HIV-positive women in Manyatta slums, Kisumu County. The specific objectives included; determining the socio-cultural challenges of women living with HIV, assessing the economic situation of women living with HIV as well as examining access to services by women living with HIV in Manyatta Slums, Kisumu County. The study used descriptive research design and out of the target a population of 1100 women living with HIV in Manyatta slums, 110 were sampled using purposive sampling technique. The respondents who included key informants were served with questionnaires for quantitative data, while Focus Group Discussion were used for qualitative data. The Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics being facilitated by the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 for windows. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic content analysis. The findings of the study are; statistical significance in understanding socio- cultural and economic factors that affect WLWHA, most of the women living with HIV-Positive reached only primary school (80.9%), age of 26-30years (43.6%), too high cost of transport to health facilities (mean of 3.48) and nutrition cost was too high as well. The findings of this study illuminate the socio-cultural and economic factors that hinder adherence to ART among WLWHA. The findings of this study would be useful to the guidance and counselling professionals for the improvement of their helping relationship with women living with HIV-Positive.
Gender roles in tea farming and its effect on gender equity in Singorwet Ward, Bomet County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2024-09) Chepkirui, Agnes
Studies in various parts of the world inclusive of Vietnam, India, and China indicate that men and women have certain roles in agriculture. In many developing countries assignment of these responsibilities in agriculture are based on social and cultural norms. In Africa and Kenya women take most of the roles that involve spending long hours and using a lot of energy. Their work receives less recognition and value. The main objective of the study was to examine gender roles in tea farming and its effect on gender equity. The specific objectives were to examine the effect of access and control over land, assess the effect of access to financial services, analyse the effect of traditional division of labour and evaluate the effect of access to agricultural extension services in tea farming on gender equity in Singorwet Ward, Bomet County. The study was based on the theories of social change. A cross-sectional study design was used since it enables the understanding of the prevalence of gender inequity issues through a study of a large group of people at the same period. A sample size of 532 tea farmers’ respondents (comprising of 431 male tea farmers and 101 female tea farmers), 2 directors and 10 farm labourers were involved in this study. Purposive, stratified and simple random sampling was employed to get five zones based on sub-locations within two director zones in Singorwet ward and then tea buying centres were randomly selected within the two zones- Singorwet Zone and Mugango Zone. The two Zones were used because of their existence within Singorwet Ward, the area covered by the study. A pilot study was done in one tea buying centre in every sub location, and the centres were picked purposively- those that have the largest number of registered tea farmers. This was to get variety of respondents in terms of educational level, age, marital status among other factors. A combination of these sampling techniques was employed due to the segregated respondents to allow for an understanding of each case per gender and age among other demographics. Questionnaire, interviews and observation schedule were used for data collection. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS V.25) for quantitative data and QDA Miner lite for qualitative data. All major decisions on tea farming rest with the men, as well as all gender equity indices and access to and control of financial services in tea farming. The overall gender parity ratio stood at 0.2 which was in favor of men. The study recommends to all tea farming stakeholders to invest in programs to reduce time pressures for women and support joint decision making and ownership of income and resources at the community and household level to attain gender equity.
Economic resources distribution and women welfare in polygynous muslim families in Likoni Sub-county, Mombasa County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2024-09) Mwallau, Asha Omar
The Muslim community embraces polygyny as a form of marriage because it is allowed by the Islamic religion. As a result, polygyny is rampant among the Muslim community in Kenya. While the Islamic religion allows men to marry up to four wives, the impact of this on the welfare of the women has not been studied. This study sought to assess the influence of polygyny on distribution of economic resources to wives in the families. The specific objectives of the study were to examine the distribution of economic resources; analyse the living standard of women, and investigate the psychological welfare of women in polygynous Muslim families in Likoni Sub-County. This is important in understanding gender equality in polygynous marriages. The study utilized data that was collected through a survey with wives in polygynous Muslim families and interviews with Muslim religious leaders in the study area. Clustered and snowball sampling techniques were used to select the sample of polygynous families. The population was subdivided into four clusters in line with the four wards in Likoni and 10 polygynous families selected from each ward using the snowball sampling technique to form a total sample of 40 families. Data was collected from wives in these families using semi-structured questionnaires. One Muslim religious leader was selected purposively from each of the four clusters for interviewing purposes. Analysis of the data using the Cronbach alpha method showed that the questionnaire was reliable with an alpha value of 0.729. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse the survey data and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used to perform the analysis. The thematic content analysis technique was used to analyse the interview data. Results showed that more than 50% of women in polygynous Muslim families are subjected to unfair distribution of economic resources. Results also showed that women in polygynous union suffer from psychological challenges such as loss of self-esteem and anxiety due to financial difficulties, conflicts with other wives, and reduced intimacy with husbands. Based on these findings, the study recommends that policymakers strengthen policy that gives women equal rights to own property. Programmes that encourage women participation in economic activities and interventions for addressing the psychological challenges of the women are necessary.
Gender disparities in adoption of climate smart agriculture among potato producers in Ol-Kalau Sub County, Nyandarua County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2022-07) Thuo, Wamaitha Betty
This is a cross-sectional study on gender disparities in adoption of climate smart agriculture practices among potato producers in Nyandarua County, Kenya. The study speciﬁcally sought to investigate how gender disparities has led to non-adoption of Women to climate smart technologies like the men. The study objectives were: to examine how men and Women participate in decision making on choice of CSA technologies, to detennine how men and women adopt CSA technologies, to analyze how men and women access to extension information and to detennine how men and Women participate in supply of labour in implementation of CSA technologies on seed potato production in Ol-kalau sub-county, Nyandarua county. A case study research design was used, data Was collected using closed ended questionnaire and Kll. Stratiﬁed random sampling was used to select sample size of 130 men and women respondents. The instrument was piloted in Njoro sub-county. A coefﬁcient of 0.82 was obtained indicating the instrument was reliable as it was above the required threshold of 0.7. Data Was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study ﬁndings indicated that male farmers dominated in decision making more than female fanners. This was because in Africa men are the head of households and thus, they make decisions more than Women with mean difference of 0.918. There was a signiﬁcant gender difference in the farmers adoption of CSA technologies with male faimers dominating in almost all activities. Male farmers sought extension information through the media more than their female farmers counterparts. Financial services are major reasons Why most Women farmers have not adopted CSA practices. Women farmers were signiﬁcantly more involved in the supply of labor during planting, harvesting, sorting and grading. While male farmers dominated in the supply of labor dLu"ing land preparation, pest and disease control, soil and water conservation, packaging and transportation. The study recommends that Women farmers should be empowered to participate in decision making by supporting them access capital, knowledge and take part in CSA capacity building activities. Government, NGOS, should support both gender in adoption of CSA practices. Information on CSA should be made more accessible to both genders Without bias through the mass media with consideration of women’s triple gender roles. Women should be encouraged to contribute more in the provision of labor supply in CSA seed potato practices (i.e. use of mechanization).
Socio-Economic Factors Affecting Widows’ Participation in Small Scale Farming, Nyaribari Masaba Sub- County, Kisii County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2021-05) Mangoa, Lydia
The agriculture sector supports the majority of livelihoods in Kisii County. However, the community is largely patriarchal which thus brings about conflicts on land use, ownership, and labor provisions. Women and widows are thus largely affected by these patterns of ownership which eventually affect their farming practices. Despite its vital importance, the sector is highly susceptible and sensitive to climate change and variability were small scale farmers more so the widows are disproportionately affected since their access to land, labor and credit are highly inhibited. Studies on widows in the agricultural sector have been inadequate and hence the need for this study. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of land, labour, and credit facilities on widows participating in small scale farming. The study was carried out in Nyaribari Masaba Sub- County, Kisii County. The area was selected because of data from the government agencies showed that there was a high number of widows practicing small scale farming. The study was grounded on Structural Functionalism and the Symbolic Interactionism theories. The study employed a mixed methods research design. The study population was 1749 widows who were practicing small scale farming. A sample size of 144 respondents was obtained using a proportionate stratified sampling procedure. Data was collected using key- informant interview schedules and semi-structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The findings of the study were represented using narratives, text boxes, bar graphs, and frequency tables. From the study findings, majority of the participants agreed that their access to land was under threat. Further, the study found out that labour was available as it was provided mainly by household members and if they had to hire labour services, they were cheap and adequate. From the study findings, most of the participants agreed that there are significant numbers of micro-finance institutions that offered soft loans and credit for farming. The study therefore concluded that land access, labour access, and access to credit among widows was influenced by other factors such as access to collateral, education levels, culture, and government land policies. This study recommends that it is important to have land title policies that include the marginalized groups in society such as the widows to ensure their security in land ownership. Thus, this will, in turn, affect their access to labour and credit
Factors Influencing Academic Performance of Girls in Mixed Day Secondary Schools in Njoro Sub-County Nakuru County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2015-11) Muandu, Josephine Nthenya
Trends in academic performance show that girls’ performance is low compared to that of boys. This has been reflected in the low number of girls who qualify to join tertiary institutions and later reflected in the job market. The purpose of the study was to investigate factors influencing academic performance of girls in mixed day secondary schools in Njoro Sub-County Nakuru County, Kenya. The poor performance of girls at KCSE level in the Sub-County prompted the study. The study was both quantitative and qualitative and it adopted descriptive survey research design. The study targeted form four girls (900), class teachers (30) and form four parents’ representatives (45) in mixed day secondary schools in Njoro Sub County. Purposive sampling was used to select 10 mixed day secondary schools, 10 class teachers and 20 parents. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 200 form four girls making a sample size of 230 respondents. Three questionnaires were used to collect data and were pilot tested in 2 schools in the Sub-County outside the study area. Reliability coefficient was 0.700 for form four girls’ questionnaire (GQ), 0.907 for class teachers’ questionnaire (TQ) and 0.722 for parents’ questionnaire (PQ). Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) aided the data analysis. The results showed that school related factors and parents economic status were the most influencing factors whereas, socio-cultural factors and personal factors were the least factors influencing performance of girls in mixed day secondary school in Njoro Sub-County; Nakuru County, Kenya. The study recommended establishment of boarding facilities for girls in mixed day secondary schools, empowering the parents with income generating activities to support girl-child education, involving the community in curbing negative socio-cultural practices and equipping teachers and parents with skills in guidance and counseling. The findings may be of great help to the Education Policy makers and stakeholders in improving the academic performance of girls in mixed day secondary schools.
Participation of male spouses in mothers’ utilization of antenatal care in Njoro town, Nakuru County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2019-08) Rotich, Barnabas Frank
This study investigated the low participation of male spouses in mothers’ utilisation of antenatal care, as a gender role, which is rare in many African communities. The study was guided by the following specific objectives: to determine the level of male spouse participation in mothers’ utilisation of antenatal care; to assess the influence of male spouse participation in mothers’ utilisation of antenatal care, Kenya; to identify the challenges associated with male spouse participation in mothers’ utilisation of antenatal care. The study was carried out in the two health centres in Njoro town, Kenya. A total of 279 respondents participated in the study. Convenience sampling was used in carrying out the study. Structured interviews, focus group discussions and key informant interviews were used in data collection. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse quantitative data with the aid of Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, at a significant level of p< 0.05. The findings of the study indicated that in overall seventy nine percent of the male spouses gave financial support and twenty eight percent making decision on the health facility to visit for delivery. Male spouse support in maternal nutrition during pre and post-partum was forty three percent, in breastfeeding twenty eight percent among other maternal support. The study findings show the age bracket of the male spouse affected their participation differently, for instance males spouse in the age bracket of 25-34 years were mostly affected by lack of finance and time at while those of ages, 35-54 and 55-60 years were least affected. The findings of this study would be useful in addressing some of the financial challenges, time from work and socio-cultural support, which were among the factors affecting male spouse participation in the mothers’ utilization of antenatal care. The findings can also be useful in encouraging more male spouse participation on the mothers’ utilization of antenatal care. Moreover, GoK, policy makers, NGOs and other stakeholders can use the information to increase the number of health care workers, and the expansion of existing health facilities. Health workers need to put more effort to encourage the willingness of male spouse participation in utilisation of antenatal care; and encourage spouse participation at their health facility especially at the County level. At the family level this would call for all the family members to participate in supporting the mother to utilise the

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