Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

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Performance of social assistance programmes in improving the well-being of streeth children in Nakuru Town, Nakuru County Kenya
(Egerton University, 2023-07) Okumu, Eliud Ongowo
Sensationalism in news reporting on husband battering in Nyeri County, Kenya.
(Egerton University, 2014-09) Kebenei, Dorcas Jepkemboi
History of gender inequality in sports management in Kenya, 1901–2019
(Egerton University, 2023-08) Kiragu, Patrick Kinyua
Sports management in Kenya is basically a male affair. Despite rivalling men‟s achievement in international competitions in some sports, women play a marginal role in top decisionmaking levels of sports in the country. Preceding studies have explained this inequality in terms of patriarchy. This approach, however, overlooks the role of state and non-state stakeholders in perpetuating gender inequality in sports management. This study delved into evolution of sports management in Kenya in order to understand how male dominance was reproduced and contested across three eras: the early colonial period before the establishment of sports organisations as well as the amateur and professional eras. The study covered the period between 1901 and 2019. The researcher reviewed global, continental and national literature to obtain information on gender and sports management and to identify knowledge gaps in studies on gender and sports management in Kenya. The researcher employed cultural and gender theories as the main analytical lenses. The researcher employed the ex-post facto design purposive and snowball techniques in sampling. The main study area was Nairobi County because this is where most sports federations‟ headquarters are located. The researcher examined primary source documents ranging from official reports to newspaper reports. Such documents were obtained from the Kenya National Archives (KNA) as well as institutional archives across the country. The researcher also conducted interviews on gender issues in sports management with people who have been involved in, or observed, management of sports in Kenya. All sources of information were subjected to external and internal criticism in order to establish their authenticity as well as validity of the information. The major finding was that gender inequality in contemporary sports management is an aggregate of historical interaction of stakeholders‟ interests with cultural factors and sports ideologies, especially muscular Christianity, amateurism and Olympism. Overall, the study foregrounded the historicity of reproduction and contestation of male dominance in sports management in Kenya. The research findings will be helpful in informing interventions because it identifies the drivers of gender inequality in sports management and how they operate.
Speech acts and cultural context: a pragmatic analysis of debates at the County Assembly of Bomet, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2023-08) Rotich, Hellen Cherono
The study examined the utterances of Members of County Assembly of Bomet in order to establish the influence of cultural context on the participants’ use of speech acts. The use of speech acts varies across different contexts and this variability has been noted to cause communication breakdown in some speech situations. Effective communication is possible when interlocutors share the same cultural background which enables them to interpret speech utterances appropriately.The objectives of the study were to examine the types of speech acts that participants use during debates, to determine the functions of the speech utterances, to examine how the participants use the cultural practices of the Kipsigis to creatively justify their claims during debates, and finally to establish the relationship between the use of speech acts and gender. No comprehensive study has focused on the County Assembly of Bomet specifically, on the significance of cultural context on speech acts that are used during debates by Members of County Assembly. Successful communication not only depends on adequate knowledge of the language but also on an understanding of what is appropriate to utter in particular situations. For debaters particularly, an understanding of what hastens consensus is critical. When debaters fully comprehend the functions of utterances, effective communication can be attained. The function of an utterance is determined not only by the structure or type of the sentence but by a complex interaction between form and context. The study used Austin’s (1962) Speech Act Theory and the Five Categories of Speech Acts identified by Searle (1969, 1976, 2005). The research further incorporated insights in the study of speech acts from Sotillo (2017) and Davis (1979). Three Motions, purposively sampled, were examined. The data from the Hansards of Bomet County Assembly was collected using observation guide and note-taking. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results showed that every utterance produced by the participants in the County Assembly could be categorized under one of the major categories of speech acts proposed by Searle (1969) and for each major speech act there was a wide range of sub acts with various pragmatic forces. The results further showed that the cultural context of utterances is significant for proper interpretation of meaning. The study provides real-life examples from the Kipsigis community, and data for researchers in Pragmatics. Participants engaged in argumentative discourse can benefit from a deeper understanding of the various types of speech acts at their disposal which they can use to minimize the confrontational nature of their interactions.
Lexico grammatical errors among Tugen learners of english
(2010-11) Kandagor, Daniel C.
This research sought to determine and describe lexico-grammatical errors made by students in upper primary school. The objectives of the study were to describe the nature of lexico.-grammatical errors, investigate the extent to which L1 contributed to these errors and establish the effect of these errors on the learner language. The study was based on Error Analysis and Interlanguage theories. A simple random sample of seventy ﬁve standard six Tugen speakers ii-om Baringo district in Riﬁ Valley province was selected. The researcher then collected data ﬁom this sample and classiﬁed the various lexico-grammatical errors. The following tools were used for elicitation of data: written composition, passage rewriting, cloze test and a questionnaire. The errors that were identiﬁed were grouped into seven categories and later the frequency of occurrence analyzed. The study in the end established that there were indeed a number of lexico-grammatical errors. For instance, sound similarity errors posted a higher percentage compared to the other errors showing that the L; learners still needed attention to correct them. Language switch had fewer errors that were picked from this research. The research also established that a majority of these errors are caused by the process of learning the second language while others could be attributed to ﬁrst language interference. In short, the causes remain varied. The research observed that Tugen L1 speakers make a lot of lexico-grammatical errors, some hampering their communication while the other errors did not cause miscommunication. The ﬁndings ﬁ-om this study will be a source of knowledge to linguists and curriculum developers will gain insights towards the re-arrangement and re-alignment of the language syllabus.
Effect of Entrepreneurial Behaviour on Competitive Advantage and Performance of Small Scale Potato Enterprises in Molo Sub County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2021-05) Atsu, Agbolosoo John
Small scale potato enterprises play a central role in creation of jobs and wealth creation for 3.8 million potato farmers along the potato value chain in Kenya. Although, potato roduction and marketing emerges as a promising farm enterprise that can contribute to increased incomes fosmallholder potato farmers. There is little or lack of mpetitiveness among potato farmers.This study intended to fill this knowledge gap by determining the effect of entrepreneurial behaviour on the competitive advantage and performance of mall scale potato enterprises in Molo Sub-County, Kenya. To achieve this, levels of smallholder potato farmers’ entrepreneurial behaviour were determined and, challenges facing small scale potato enterprises characterized. Furthermore, the effect of entrepreneurial behaviour on competitive advantage and performance of small scale potato enterprises was determined. The study used multistage sampling techniques to sample 267 smallholder potato farmers using semistructured questionnaires and data analyzed using STATA version 15. Analytically, an entrepreneurial behaviour index was developed and used to generate the levels of entrepreneurial behaviour. Secondly, a multivariate probit model was used to determine the effect of entrepreneurial behaviour on competitive advantage. Finally, seemingly unrelated regression was used to analyze the effect of entrepreneurial behaviour on performance of small scale potato enterprises. The study results found that the majority of smallholder potato farmers had a medium level of entrepreneurial behaviour. In addition, the main challenges facing small scale potato farm enterprises included high pest and disease infestation, unfavorable weather conditions, high cost of agro-chemicals, poor price for potato and exploitation by brokers. The multivariate probit results showed that risk-taking ability, proactiveness, innovativeness, information-seeking, cosmopoliteness and decision- making ability more likely influenced small scale potato farmers to gain a competitive vantage in the small scale potato enterprises. The seemingly unrelated regression results showed that risk-taking ability affects performance of small scale potato enterprises in Molo Sub-County, Kenya. The study concludes that farmers possess medium entrepreneurial behaviour that constrains them in achieving sustainable competitive advantage and improving performance of potato enterprise activities. The study recommends that farmers should be provided with training on seasonal climate change, use of certified seeds, access to farm credits and participate more in farmer groups. This could build their farming capacity for increased competiveness and improved performance of potato enterprises. Overall, potato value chain actors need to come up with supportive programs that help nurture and harness entrepreneurial farming practices and behaviour skills among the smallholder potato farmers.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Productivity and extent of Smallholder Commercialization of Green Grams and Pigeon Peas in Machakos County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2021-04) Wambua, John Mulwa
Small farmer commercialization was an indispensable pathway towards sustainable food security based on production specialization of food crops. The common staple food crops in Mwala and Yatta sub-counties which are the main semi-arid areas in Machakos County were green grams and pigeon peas. However, the factors affecting productivity and the resultant output for commercialization are not fully understood. The main objectives were therefore to assess the extent and determinants of the levels of commercialization, estimate the factors affecting productivity of green gram and pigeon pea, determine the effects of productivity and output retention on size of marketed surplus of green gram and pigeon production and assess the factors affecting market performance. A survey method was used during data collection where 364 households and 110 grain traders were sampled. Results shown by the descriptive statistics indicated that, the percentages of subsistence and commercial oriented households, focusing on green gram were 79.1% and 20.9%, respectively. The percentages of subsistence and commercial oriented households, focusing on pigeon pea production were 87.9% and 12.1%, respectively. The mean productivity of green gram in the subsistence, semi-commercial and fully commercial farms were 11.581, 104.474 and 204.439 kilograms per hectare, respectively. Pigeon pea mean productivity was 43.334, 48.25 and 13.708 kilograms per hectare in subsistence, semi-commercial and fully commercial farms. Marketed surplus of green gram was determined by the size of landholding (4.422***), yield of green gram (0.056***), retention for seed and given away (1.027**) and production systems in agro-ecological zones (43.613***). Significant increase in pigeon pea marketed surplus was due to household’s retention for seed (2.064***) and market price of output (1.641***). In terms of market degree of competition, results showed that, few large traders of green gram, about 8.26 % accounted for 78.40% of the total volume purchased. Few large traders of pigeon pea, about 8.27 %, accounted for 72.13%. Therefore, this study concluded that, subsistence level dominated in green gram and pigeon pea production. This could have been influenced by low productivity of green gram and pigeon pea, low household marketed surplus and low market competition. Based on the results, various policy concerns were recommended for transforming subsistence-oriented production into market-oriented production focusing on green gram and pigeon pea food crops.
Articulation and Phonological Impairments in the Speech of Second Language Learners in Primary School With Cerebral Palsy: A Case of St Martins Deporre’s Primaryschool, Kisumu County
(Egerton University, 2018-11) Molenje, Victor Makuto
The study sought to identify and describe the articulation and phonological impairments in the speech of 6-14 year old learners of English as a second language in primary school with cerebral palsy. Further the study also established the linguistic interventions employed by the teachers to assist the learners affected by articulation and phonological impairments as a result of cerebral palsy. Optimality theory was used to account for the impairments through mapping of competence and performance vis- a-vis input and outputs as shown in the speech samples of the respondents. Further, error analysis provided the procedural methodology for analysis of the speech samples obtained from the subjects. Data was collected from 27 subjects who were purposively sampled from the school population. For purposes of understanding the levels of severity, the subjects were put into three cohorts. A qualitative design with a triangulation strategy was adopted whereby data obtained from the subjects using picture naming tasks and focus group discussion from the teachers, was put in tables and later followed with explanations. Analysis of the speech samples collected from the subjects show the presence of the articulation impairments that include omissions, substitutions, distortions and insertions. The phonological impairments were consonant deletion, cluster reduction, syllable reduction, fronting deafrication, and stopping. Further, findings in this study show that core vocabulary and articulation therapy were the linguistic interventions employed by teachers to help remedy the impairments in the subjects. The findings of this study would be of importance and significance to three groups namely: parents, teachers and researchers. This study also offers both clinical and theoretical benefits. Clinically, data is urgently needed to inform the assessment, treatment and therapy for articulation and phonological impairments in second language learners with Cerebral Palsy. Theoretically, investigation of different varieties of English allows testing of hypothesis based on English speakers
The Contributions of Councils of Elders to the Resilience of African Traditional Religion: A Case of Njuri Ncheke in Meru County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2018-08) Kagwiria, Orina Hellen
Among the peoples of Kenya, there has been a cultural and religious revival and all means are being sought to propagate it. In certain circles, there is even a revival of ethnic rites, religious rituals and customs, and there are national efforts to preserve and take pride in ethnic cultures. Councils of elders are being treated with respect and honour as custodians of these cultures and religious beliefs. Generally, there has been a resilience of African Traditional Religion (ATR) and traditional religious institutions and practices in Kenya in the embodiment of councils of elders as seen in the case of Njuri Ncheke of the Ameru. Njuri Ncheke has been resilient in the face of modernization, even in the context of a dynamic society with a modern judicial system, new constitutional laws and new religious structures. Inspite of this apparent resilience of Njuri Ncheke in Meru County, there has not been any systematic investigation to unearth the phenomenon. The broad objective of this study, therefore, was to investigate the contributions of councils of elders to the resilience of African Traditional Religion in Kenya and in particular, the Njuri Ncheke of Meru County. The specific objectives were to identify the resilient practices and activities of Njuri Ncheke in relation to (ATR) in Meru County, to examine the sources of the influence and authority of the council in contemporary Meru community, to analyse the nature of the relationship between Njuri Ncheke and Christianity in the County and to assess the relevance of Njuri Ncheke in the context of a modern dynamic society. The study was informed by functionalism theory of religion as understood by Emile Durkheim, Talcott Parsons and Robert Merton. This was a qualitative study that sought to describe and analyse the resilience of traditional religious institutions in Kenya with Njuri Ncheke as a case study. The study involved a sample size of 200 respondents who were purposively selected. These were mainly Njuri Ncheke elders, clergy and religious leaders, and ordinary people. Data was collected using semi structured questions and structured interviews. The collected data was analysed using both qualitative and quantitative methods of data analysis in line with social sciences. The findings of the study are significant in making an important contribution to better understanding of councils of elders in Kenya and their role in ATR, understanding the role of religious and indigenous institutions in devolved system of governance, the basis of their influence and authority and their rightful place in a modern dynamic society.
Kenya defense forces and militarization of internal disputes, 1963 – 2013
(Egerton University, 2019-11) Ichani, Xavier Francisi
Military intervention has attracted a lot of scholarly attention in the recent past, with many scholars interested in interrogating the motives and justifications for the practice. Many of these studies have mainly focused on military intervention externally rather than the involvement of the military in internal security operations. By examining the rationale and dynamics of Kenya Defence Forces’ (KDF) interventions, this study sought to put forward a prism for internal military intervention based on normative principles of military intervention short of war and justified under existing legal frameworks. The study analysed, the Shifta campaigns (1964-1967), Operation Okoa Maisha (2008) and the ongoing Operation Linda Nchi, in which the KDF interceded to explain how and why it was necessary for it to intervene in these internal disputes which should have been within civil police jurisdiction. The study was guided by the military centrality theory, the theory of securitization and the just war tradition. The military centrality and securitization theories explained circumstances warranting military intervention while the just war theory addressed issues relating to the right to intervene, the right conduct in operation and concerns of justice after the intervention. The conduct of the interventions were assessed against international norms and rules of military engagement. The study utilized both exploratory research and historical research design. The target population was subject to stratified and purposive sampling. Primary data was collected through oral interviews and Focused Group Discussions from a sample size of 210 informants. Collected data was grouped, and corroborated with archival and secondary data and presented using the qualitative research techniques in themes corresponding with the objectives of the study. From the analysis, this study found that there are many normative principles guiding internal military operations. However, operational challenges faced by the military may result in violation of human rights and other constitutional contravention which are often condemned by civil society organizations. Amidst these criticisms, the KDF was legally justified to intervene under the provisions of the UN Charter and the Constitution of Kenya. The major proposition of the study was that, although military interventions may not enlist local support, they are more decisive in ending disputes. As such, the state should not hesitate to deploy her military when such crises occur. However, caution must be taken to ensure that military interventions are conducted strictly in line with the existing normative principles of conduct of hostilities to mitigate excessive use of force.
Analysis of county government expenditure and county economic growth in kenya
(Egerton, 2020-03) Gisore, Mose, Naftaly; Gisore, Mose, Naftaly
e modern devolution development across the globe has been in part driven by assertions of a supposed ‘economic dividend’ linked with the devolved expenditure. There is however, little empirical evidence to validate these assertions in Kenya. Most empirical studies across different countries have used different methods of analysis, different time periods and diverse techniques of measuring variable which have generated mixed conclusions and others are inconclusive. More so, in Kenya these studies do not differentiate between long-run and short-run channels through which county expenditure influences economic activities. The implication in differentiating these two effects arises for the two motives. First, there is interval between a fiscal policy action and its impact in the county economy. Second, they can have opposite effects on growth. Failure to differentiate can give erroneous results and recommendations. It is against this background that this study was carried out to analyse the long-run and short-run effect of components of county expenditure on county economic growth in Kenya using panel data set over the period 2013 to 2017. This study used the published annual data from Economic Surveys, Gross County Product (GCP) report, Statistical Abstracts and county Budget Implementation Review reports. Further, this study was informed by neoclassical augmented Ram growth accounting model as the theoretical framework. The analysis techniques that were used in this study were descriptive and inferential statistics. Employing Harris–Tzavalis (HT) test, this study tested for the panel unit root and found that all variables were non-stationary at their level except GCP per capita, human capital and non-devolved expenditure. To check if the variables have long-run relationship, this study used Kao panel test. The result for this test revealed that there exists a long-run relationship among the real GCP per capita and regressors in the model. Once cointegration was confirmed using Kao test, the long-run and error correction estimates of the panel ARDL model were obtained. The ARDL results revealed that spending on recurrent and rise in absorption rate of expenditure exerts a positive and significant effect on economic growth both in short-run and long-run hence confirming Keynesian theory in Kenya. However, capital expenditure was insignificant during the study period. Arising from the study findings, this study submits that the county authorities need to put in place policies that will improve budget allocation and execution so as to improve expenditure to capital infrastructure in counties. This is because counties typically lack infrastructures such as roads, power, water and communications that boost private productivity and consequently GCP growth.
Gender and political transformation in Kenya: a case study of women in Luoland, 1895-2002
(Egerton University, 2013-10) Nyakwaka, Dorothy A.
The impact of colonialism on African women and the transformation of their roles in the social, economic and political spheres has been the focus of many Africanist scholars. However, most of the works focus on African women generally. The current study specifically, focuses on Luo women in Kenya. It is an inquiry into the gendered political transformation the Luo have undergone from 1895 – 2002. It specifically analyses the role of women in pre-colonial Luo society. It also examines how the integration of the Luo community into the colonial system impacted on women. It further discusses how colonialism marginalised the women and how the independent Kenyan state has continued with the same legacy. The study has included the voices of the the few female political leaders such as; Grace Onyango, Phoebe Asiyo, Grace Ogot, Mama Uhuru: Magdalene Aboge Alila, Caroline Oguta and Roseline Aricho in the struggle against political marginalisation. Finally, it analyses the democratic transition in Kenya and how it impacted on Luo women.The study used two theoretical frameworks to interrogate the objectives. The liberal feminism and gender theory were used as tools of historical analysis. The two perspectives captured the roles of women in the period under study. The perspectives show how the gender roles were transformed, historically and culturally over time. The theories were used to show how the few women who challenged marginalisation worked within the societal structures to bring about changes for the women. The women politicians worked to change policies and to introduce new strategies such as Affirmative Action so as to have women integrated into national politics.The study is based on data from both primary and secondary sources. The data was analysed using the theoretical tools to explain the gendered political transformatoin that has taken place in Luoland.The study established that in the pre-colonal Luo society, women were actively involved in every aspect of the societal life, that is, social, economic and political. The political was closely fused with the economic and social spheres. Medicine women and prophetess for example made decisions that impacted the whole community. This fused version of politics would end with the integration of the Luo society and the colonial state, whereby the public sphere and domestic sphere were divided, thus locking women out of politics. The marginalisation of women in politics is as a result of a combination of factors; namely, colonial legacy, lack of education, lack of funds, political violence and abuse, and party-politics to mention but just a few. The study findings show a paucity of women in political positions, reflecting the existence of an unfavourable climate for women’s political initiative. In addition, it reveals that the democratisation process, beginning with the introduction of multiparty politics in 1991 has not, empowered Luo women in terms of political gains.
Challenges facing implementation of witness protection program in Kenya
(Egerton University, 2016-05) Kiprono, Wilson
Witnesses in highly sensitive cases are often intimated and physically harmed by people they are witnessing against or their associated. Kenyan government has enacted witness protection laws as results of pressure from International Criminal Court as part of conditions in prosecution of Post-Election Violence (PEV). This study sought to identify and document challenges facing implementation of witness protection program in Kenya. Specifically, this current study sought to achieve following objectives: to evaluate capacity gaps in Witness Protection Program and underlying causes; to explore adequate legal threshold and practice in Kenya‘s criminal justice system that expressly protects witnesses in court; to assess infrastructure-related challenges prevailing in protection of witnesses and to investigate socio-cultural barriers influencing protection of witnesses. This study is premised on structural functionalism theory. Case study research design was utilized in this study as it aided in gaining of in-depth information on issue of witness protection program. This study‘s target population were witness protection program officers working in diverse organizations including Attorney General‘s office, Law Society of Kenya, Directorate of Public Prosecution, Kenya Police, Ministry of Gender (Children‘s Department), Directorate of Witness Protection Agency, Children‘s Court, and representatives from National Assembly. Purposive sampling method was utilized to identify key informants from each of the organization totalling 40 respondents at five respondents per organization. Findings reveal a number of challenges which impede successful implementation of witness protection program in Kenya. They include: inadequate training due to limited resources and trainers; financial constraints due to inadequate funding by treasury; unclear witness protection procedures and poor infrastructural procedures of reaching witnesses. Infrastructure related challenges included: lack security, lack of physical facilities such as safe houses, escort services and audio gargets to protect witnesses. Also, major courts being located in major cities limits access to legal systems by rural folk and reluctance of some witnesses to leave their homes for the witness protection program. In establishing socio-cultural barriers influencing protection of witnesses, the study found that some cultures do not allow witnesses to testify in an open court especially offences related to intimacy. Recommendation is made for further research that will investigate ways of instituting effective programs which will focus on specific crimes
An examination of the implementation and prioritization of the three-pronged anti-corruption strategy in Nairobi County, Kenya (2003-2011)
(Egerton University, 2015-10) Nyaga, Isaiah Gitonga
This study examined the factors which influenced the implementation and prioritization of the three-pronged strategy which the Government of Kenya adopted in 2003 to fight corruption. Despite its adoption, the prevalence of corruption in the country remained high as reported in the anti-corruption commission reports, corruption perception surveys, parliamentary reports and in the media. The widespread corruption was an indication that the strategy faced challenges in reducing it and this situation propelled this study to be conducted to make suggestions on how to address the problem. The objectives of this study were to; examine the factors which influenced the institutional efforts of implementing the strategy, to assess its prioritization and to draw modifications in its implementation. Bureaucratic Theory and Rational Choice Theory were used to demonstrate how public officials abused power and authority bestowed on them to make selfish decisions which adversely influenced the implementation of the strategy and reduction of corruption. This study was conducted in Nairobi County due to the high prevalence of reported mega corruption cases and the fact that the site provided the requisite population being the centre of most of the public and private entities where major public decisions were made. The study relied on a Survey method, primary data was collected using structured and unstructured questionnaires administered among the three categories of the respondents. A discussion guide containing keys issues related to the objectives of the study was also provided to steer the focus group discussions. Additionally, secondary data was obtained from published and unpublished academic materials, public documents and internet sources. Majority of the respondents (75%) indicated that Government had not succeeded in implementing the strategy while 89% were of the opinion that political and socio-economic factors significantly influenced the strategy’s implementation. Judiciary was blamed by 97.9% of the total respondents for failing to facilitate the implementation of the strategy. Civic Education was given the highest priority by 51% of the total respondents as very effective strategy for reducing corruption, followed by Prevention (26%), and Investigation strategy (21%). This study concluded that corruption was still rampant and Government should enhance reforms required to address the political and socio-economic shortcomings affecting the strategy. It should also introduce anti-corruption studies in academic institutions and develop a criterion of prioritizing the three prongs. Corrupt offenders should be seriously punished and the unexplained assets recovered to deter potential offenders.
Effects of gender-labour relations in tobacco production on socio-economic welfare in Kuria east and west sub-counties, Migori County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2019-03) Muniko, Zephaniah Marwa
This study examined gender-labour relations in tobacco production and their implications on household‟s socio-economic welfare in Kuria Sub-Counties. The major issue that led to this study was and still remains that tobacco is being regarded as a crop belonging to men since its inception in the 1960‟s. Consequently, men have institutionalized restriction and constraints on women regarding the access to land resources and the benefits accrued from tobacco sales on one hand, while appropriating the intra-household tobacco labour on the other. The most affected social segments are women and children in this scenario. This study intended to establish facts of this assertion through three objectives, which included: to examine the effects of intra-household gender-labour relations in tobacco production on socio-economic welfare of the household in Kuria Sub-Counties, to assess the effects of access to resources in tobacco production on socio-economic welfare of the household in Kuria Sub-Counties and to evaluate the effects of differentials between female and male headed households in tobacco production on socio-economic welfare of the household in Kuria Sub-Counties. This study was informed by both the Structuration and the Marxist theory of dialectic materialism. Both cross-sectional survey and ex-post facto designs were adopted in this study. The target population consisted of tobacco farmers. Data was obtained through interview schedules and focus group discussions. Sample size was 212 households and the unit of analysis was the household head. Multi-stage sampling procedures were applied. SPSS version 21 was employed for data analysis. The descriptive statistics were utilized in this study. Findings of the study established that 98 percent of the respondents were significantly affected in their intra-household labour relations, while 92 percent indicated that gendered distribution of work had the socio-cultural differentials. Further, 77 percent of the respondents asserted that decision making on household tobacco income spending was made by the husband, whereas 75 percent pointed out that female headed households had good welfare considerations. This study concludes that tobacco production significantly affected gender-labour relations and socio-economic welfare of the households. This study recommends that the Government of Kenya should formulate strong policies to alleviate gender-labour challenges and household‟s socio-economic welfare. Further research should be conducted in other adjunct areas in relation to tobacco production involving child labour and health problems in Kuria East and West Sub-Counties.
Body adornment among the Samburu: a historical perspective
(Egerton University, 2015-09) Njoroge, Ruth Nyambura
Self-adornment plays a significant role in ensuring the continuity of the political and cultural life of pastoralists. This study outlines changes in Samburu body adornment from the pre-colonial period to the present. In the study it is argued that Samburu body adornment in the pre-colonial period was influenced by interaction with neighbouring communities like the Rendille. Colonial policies and mingling of cultures in the post-independent period also shaped Samburu body adornment either positively or negatively. The study employed cultural theory of history. Cultural history combines the approaches of anthropology and history to look into popular cultural traditions and cultural interpretations of historical experience. The ideas were borrowed from Edward Tylor and Simon Gunn. Tylor’s main concern was on the evolution of human culture. He stated that culture developed from primitive stages. He argued that communities within each stage of development had distinct traits which show slow replacement as new generations set in. As societies advanced some traits survived to present day culture. On the other hand Gunn had interest in periodization of body history and stated that modernity was specifically focusing back to the changes in the ancient symbols with the belief inspired by modern science towards social and moral development. Thus there is need to write a history of historically specific bodies, which provides an understanding of the body that is neither static nor coherent. Data was collected from literature search in the libraries and Kenya National Archives, photography and oral interviews on individuals and groups. Data from both primary and secondary sources was analyzed chapter by chapter within the parameters set by the research problem and the theoretical framework. Findings indicate that forms of body adornment among the Samburu are pre-historic. Many forms of traditional body adornment have evolved overtime and still exist within the community, however, examples of recent forms of body adornment, show that although still very much in practice, in many cases the meaning has been lost. The impact of Christianity, colonial policies, trading of new materials, have all played a major part in the evolving patterns of Samburu body adornment. Tourists brought new fashions, materials, creations and designs that changed Samburu views of everyday body adornment. Body adornment among the Samburu is today is based on what looks good as apposed to a ritual or rite of passage that marked one's body. The study will contribute to the preservation of the Samburu cultural values in Kenya’s historiography. Further, the research findings will used as reference for researchers who may want to understand similar or different aspects of the Samburu cultural practices and of other communities in Kenya.
Body adornment among the Samburu: A historical perspective
(Egerton University, 2015-09) Njoroge, Ruth Nyambura
Self-adornment plays a significant role in ensuring the continuity of the political and cultural life of pastoralists. This study outlines changes in Samburu body adornment from the pre-colonial period to the present. In the study it is argued that Samburu body adornment in the pre-colonial period was influenced by interaction with neighbouring communities like the Rendille. Colonial policies and mingling of cultures in the post-independent period also shaped Samburu body adornment either positively or negatively. The study employed cultural theory of history. Cultural history combines the approaches of anthropology and history to look into popular cultural traditions and cultural interpretations of historical experience. The ideas were borrowed from Edward Tylor and Simon Gunn. Tylor’s main concern was on the evolution of human culture. He stated that culture developed from primitive stages. He argued that communities within each stage of development had distinct traits which show slow replacement as new generations set in. As societies advanced some traits survived to present day culture. On the other hand Gunn had interest in periodization of body history and stated that modernity was specifically focusing back to the changes in the ancient symbols with the belief inspired by modern science towards social and moral development. Thus there is need to write a history of historically specific bodies, which provides an understanding of the body that is neither static nor coherent. Data was collected from literature search in the libraries and Kenya National Archives, photography and oral interviews on individuals and groups. Data from both primary and secondary sources was analyzed chapter by chapter within the parameters set by the research problem and the theoretical framework. Findings indicate that forms of body adornment among the Samburu are pre-historic. Many forms of traditional body adornment have evolved overtime and still exist within the community, however, examples of recent forms of body adornment, show that although still very much in practice, in many cases the meaning has been lost. The impact of Christianity, colonial policies, trading of new materials, have all played a major part in the evolving patterns of Samburu body adornment. Tourists brought new fashions, materials, creations and designs that changed Samburu views of everyday body adornment. Body adornment among the Samburu is today is based on what looks good as apposed to a ritual or rite of passage that marked one's body. The study will contribute to the preservation of the Samburu cultural values in Kenya’s historiography. Further, the research findings will used as reference for researchers who may want to understand similar or different aspects of the Samburu cultural practices and of other communities in Kenya.
The contributions of councils of elders to the resilience of African traditional religion. A case of Njuri ncheke in Meru County, Kenya.
(Egerton University, 2018-08) Orina, Hellen Kagwiria
Among the peoples of Kenya, there has been a cultural and religious revival and all means are being sought to propagate it. In certain circles, there is even a revival of ethnic rites, religious rituals and customs, and there are national efforts to preserve and take pride in ethnic cultures. Councils of elders are being treated with respect and honour as custodians of these cultures and religious beliefs. Generally, there has been a resilience of African Traditional Religion (ATR) and traditional religious institutions and practices in Kenya in the embodiment of councils of elders as seen in the case of Njuri Ncheke of the Ameru. Njuri Ncheke has been resilient in the face of modernization, even in the context of a dynamic society with a modern judicial system, new constitutional laws and new religious structures. Inspite of this apparent resilience of Njuri Ncheke in Meru County, there has not been any systematic investigation to unearth the phenomenon. The broad objective of this study, therefore, was to investigate the contributions of councils of elders to the resilience of African Traditional Religion in Kenya and in particular, the Njuri Ncheke of Meru County. The specific objectives were to identify the resilient practices and activities of Njuri Ncheke in relation to (ATR) in Meru County, to examine the sources of the influence and authority of the council in contemporary Meru community, to analyse the nature of the relationship between Njuri Ncheke and Christianity in the County and to assess the relevance of Njuri Ncheke in the context of a modern dynamic society. The study was informed by functionalism theory of religion as understood by Emile Durkheim, Talcott Parsons and Robert Merton. This was a qualitative study that sought to describe and analyse the resilience of traditional religious institutions in Kenya with Njuri Ncheke as a case study. The study involved a sample size of 200 respondents who were purposively selected. These were mainly Njuri Ncheke elders, clergy and religious leaders, and ordinary people. Data was collected using semi structured questions and structured interviews. The collected data was analysed using both qualitative and quantitative methods of data analysis in line with social sciences. The findings of the study are significant in making an important contribution to better understanding of councils of elders in Kenya and their role in ATR, understanding the role of religious and indigenous institutions in devolved system of governance, the basis of their influence and authority and their rightful place in a modern dynamic society.
Factors influencing participation of elite women in political leadership in the Maasai community of Narok South Sub County, Narok County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2018-10) Kauria, Zeddy
This study sought to examine the participation and ascendancy of elite women in political leadership as it is of a national concern in Kenya. However, the case of Maasai community; especially within Narok South Sub-County has been focused in this study. The objectives of the study were to explore the influence of historical trends, socio-cultural, economic and demographic factors on women’s political participation. On the strength of these objectives, a conceptual framework was developed illustrating the relationship between independent, dependent and intervening variables. A theoretical framework based on the Radical Feminist perspectives, the theory of Empowerment and the structural theory informed the study. This study adopted descriptive survey research design. The study targeted elite women in Narok south sub county. A sample of 372 respondents was targeted but 294 participated during the actual study. The study used a mixed method in data collection where Questionnaires, focused group discussions guides and in- depth interview schedules were used as the main tools for data collection. Quantitative data was analyzed using statistical package for social science version 21 (SPSS) and presented in the form of percentage, frequency distribution, chi-square and tables. In addition, analysis of variance was used to establish whether the mean differences between the variables were statistically significant or not. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis and presented in form of excerpts, through identification, examination, and interpretation of patterns and themes in textual data. Findings of this study were expected to contribute to the theoretical and empirical knowledge on how to empower elite women to participate in political leadership and inform policy formulators. The study established that historical trends in the Maasai have an effect on the participation of elite women in politics. It was also noted that elite women participation in politics is influenced by the socio- cultural factors, demographic factors and economic factors. The results indicated that the four selected variables were all significant in influencing the participation of women in politics in the Maasai community. The study therefore concluded that the participation of elite women in politics is influenced by historical trends, socio- cultural factors, demographic factors and economic factors. The study recommended that women need to be sensitized about their important role in politics and leadership in the community in order to overcome the historical trends that make them lag behind; the community should lessen the cultural issues that are disadvantageous to women and ensure that women are free to participate in leadership activities: the government should enhance policy recommendations on women economic resource ownership and wealth accumulation among women without having to get permission from the men; Parliament should initiate effective strategies to implement the two thirds rule as provided in the constitution in support of women and provide a level playing ground for both men and women in political participation. Finally, government should implement strategies that lead to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Genealogical reconstruction of the proto -luluhyia language
(Egerton University, 2018-11) Lwangale, David Wafula
A genealogical reconstruction of any language is geared towards the formulation of a protolanguage. The reconstruction of a target language is largely dependent on the current use of its presumed varieties or dialects. In this case, the genealogical reconstruction of the ProtoLuluhyia language was possible through consideration of its dialects. The existing literature shows that genealogical reconstruction of a proto-language for all Luluhyia dialects had not been done. It was, therefore, necessary for a study to be undertaken to genealogically reconstruct Proto-Luluhyia language for all dialects under it. The study was guided by three objectives: establish the genealogical relatedness of the Luluhyia dialects, genealogically reconstruct Proto-Luluhyia language and determine phonological, semantic and morphological variations of Luluhyia dialects. The study was guided by the genetic hypothesis theory. The study employed qualitative method in which ethnography design was applicable. The researcher collected open-ended, emerging data with the primary intent of developing themes from the data. Sample in this study was selected from the native speakers of the Luluhyia dialects who formed the target population. The sample size of 170 respondents was used with each of the 17 Luluhyia dialects represented by 10 subjects. All the 17 Luluhyia dialects were purposively involved in the study for the purpose of reconstructing an all-inclusive Proto-Luluhyia language. Purposive sampling technique was also used in the selection of subjects from each dialect. The main instrument of data collection in this study was interview. The comparative method was involved in data analysis, especially in the reconstruction of the Proto-Luluhyia language after transcription being done. The study contributes new knowledge in the fields of Sociolinguistics and Historical Linguistics. The study established that the Luluhyia dialects are genealogically related. It was shown through resemblance of cognate forms cutting across the dialects in the vocabulary areas involving naming systems, days of the week, human body parts, domestic animals and historical origin that the Luluhyia dialects are genealogically related. Generally, orthographically, the Luluhyia dialects appear the same to the ears of non-native speakers. However, to a linguist certain variations are noticeable. These variations are though limited and do not entirely cut across the Luluhyia dialects. Reconstruction of the Proto-Luluhyia language was genealogically done based on the current use of the Luluhyia dialects in the vocabulary areas mention above. Phonological similarities of the cognate forms played a key role in the identification of the sounds to be reconstructed and subsequent reconstruction of the lexical items of the Proto-Luluhyia language.

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