Browsing by Author "Kwanya, Tom"

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An Analysis of Indigenous Knowledge Legislation and Policies in Kenya
(2019-07-24) Chepchirchir, Sally; Kwanya, Tom
Since the dawn of history, humanity has always sought more knowledge to feed families, stay healthy, argue with neighbours, and understand the immediate environment, among other issues. Before scientific approaches of knowledge discovery emerged, local ways of solving problems were already strongly established. These ways have persisted to date and comprise what is known as indigenous knowledge (IK). As society scientifically developed, IK became a neglected area whose potential as a resource in development was forgotten. This neglect has led to myriad socioeconomic challenges affecting food security, environmental conservation, health and social cohesion, among others. Therefore, the need to rediscover and mainstream IK in development is great. This need is anchored on the understanding that IK is the basis for local-level decision making in agriculture, healthcare, food preparation, education, natural-resource management, and a host of other activities. One of the perspectives of enhancing the creation, use and perpetuation of IK is enactment of facilitative policies and legislation. This chapter analyses the IK legislation and policies in Kenya and the extent to which they have been implemented and thereafter recommends strategies which can be used to enhance the impact of IK in socioeconomic development in Kenya. Data that informed the study leading to this chapter were collected through content analysis of the existing IK policies and legislation. Additional data were collected through key informant interviews with information science professionals and policy makers. The study revealed that several legislative and policy provisions on the regulation, preservation, management, use and development of indigenous knowledge exist in Kenya. However, there are many gaps in the content and implementation of these provisions which should be addressed to enhance their impact on the promotion, growth and perpetuation of indigenous knowledge in Kenya. The findings here may be used by information practitioners, policy makers and communities to enhance the creation, use and impact of IK.
Big Data in Land Records Management in Kenya: A Fit and Viability Analysis
(Springer International Publishing, 2014) Kwanya, Tom
Abstract. Big data is data whose size is beyond the ability of commonly used software tools to capture, manage, and process within tolerable time. The concept of big data has been necessitated by the growing capacity of the available information systems to facilitate the capture, processing, storage and use of large volumes of variable but credible data fast enough to generate optimum value for the users. Land records in Kenya have been over the years managed through paper based systems which are vulnerable to loss, wear and tear, compromise and poor usability. Consequently, land administration processes became inefficient, time consuming, unreliable, costly and ineffective. To address these challenges, the Government of Kenya in 2007 resolved to automate all land records and transactions by developing and deploying a land information management system founded on big data technology which is capable of holding vast and diverse data sets on land ownership and transactions. The decision to automate land records and transactions was in compliance with the provisions of the country’s National Land Policy launched in 2009. This study assessed how well the technology used by the new electronic system fits the needs and contexts of the users of land records in Kenya. The study was conducted as an exploratory research based on the fit-viability theory. Data for the study was collected using interviews with 48 users of the new land information management system. The findings revealed that big data has a high fit and viability for the performance of land records and transactions management in Kenya. In spite of the high fit and viability, it was noted that the viability of the system is hampered by inadequate infrastructure,skills, organisational culture and organisational structure. Addressing these challenges through essential infrastructure development, institutional strengthening and capacity building will enhance the viability of the land records management system. The findings of this study may be used by policy makers in other developing countries to model big data projects. The findings may also be used by the managers of big data projects to enhance their fit and viability so as to yield optimum impact for their stakeholders.
Case Study: Kenyan University Libraries Status of Access to Library Spaces and Facilities for Persons with Disabilities
(Journal of Arts & Humanities, 2023-07-12) Kwanya, Tom; Gikunju, Milcah; Odero, Damaris
ABSTRACT The purpose of this paper was to find out the position of library spaces and facilities at the university libraries in Kenya particularly in serving users with disabilities. The study was conducted using a pragmatic research philosophy, a convergent mixed methods design and a multiple-case studies strategy. The study population was university library users and librarians drawn from six public and private universities in Kenya. The six universities were selected purposefully based on their age (time they have been in existence) with an assumption that old universities have more developed infrastructure. Data was collected from students and academic staff who participated in an online survey; librarians participated in online focus groups and follow up online surveys while university librarians and students with disabilities had telephone call interviews. There were follow up telephone calls with the university librarians. The online survey was conducted using online questionnaires that were distributed via emails and Whatsapp. Online focus group discussions were conducted in Google Meet platform and interviews were conducted via personal telephone calls. The qualitative data collected was analysed thematically while the quantitative data adopted a statistical approach that encompasses descriptive and inferential statistics. After exploring inclusivity of university library spaces and facilities in Kenya for users with disabilities, this paper noted though the university libraries offered some space and facilities for PWDs, these were far from sufficient. The findings revealed that library staff required training on how to handle and assist PWDs and sign language was largely emphasised. However, the study concluded that accommodating diverse needs of persons with disabilities is a long-term process that requires involvement of all the relevant stakeholders. In addition, the study noted that access to services and facilities for PWDs is another significant aspect of modernised university library.
Collaboration Patterns in Knowledge Management Research in Eastern and Southern Africa Region, 1991 - 2016
(2019-07-17) Nyamasege, Geoffrey Gichaba; Onyancha, Omwoyo Bosire; Kwanya, Tom
Using a bibliometrics analysis, this chapter examines the collaboration patterns in knowledge management research in Eastern and Southern Africa (E&SA) region as indexed in Scopus database for the period 1991-2016. The study leading to this chapter used a quantitative approach as the study required numerical data to achieve its objectives. Data was collected from the SCOPUS database using a variety of keywords. The VosViewer software and Microsoft Excel were used to analyse, visualise and present the data. There were a total of 3,681 papers published on KM in Eastern and Southern Africa between 1991 and 2016. The number of publications is not consistent and varies from year to year. Seven (7) was the minimum number of publications per year while 518 was the highest. The number of publications stagnated between 1991 and 1992, with a slow growth rate being observed from 1993 to 2000. There was a significant steady increase of the number of publications from the 2001 to 2016. Two-author publications were dominant (33.93%), followed by three-author publications (23.03%) and then single-author publications (9.04%). Most of the publications emanated from academic institutions. The study has revealed collaborative efforts among authors and countries, both at the local and international level. The authors recommend that researchers should increase collaborations in the field of KM in a bid to advance KM research productivity and impact in Eastern and Southern Africa region. Both internal and external collaborations should be encouraged in a bid to increase visibility and research impact. In order to improve the impact of these publications, for instance through citations, it is highly recommended that authors should publish their findings in high quality open access journals.
A Competency Index for Librarians in Kenya
(African Journal of Library, 2015-02-24) Kwanya, Tom; Stilwel, Christine; Underwood, Peter G.
Curbing Cyberbullying on Facebook: An Analysis of Mitigation Strategies in Universities in Kenya
(2023) Kwanya, Tom; Ogolla, Erick; Kibe, Lucy; Kogos, Angella; Onsare, Claudior
Abstract Cyberbullying is the wilful and repeated use of electronic devices and platforms to harm others. It is becoming increasingly practised amongst university students in digital spaces. This paper examines the mitigation strategies Kenyan university students and administrators adopt to help curb cyberbullying. The study underpinning this paper applied mixed methods research approach employing both qualitative and quantitative studies. The total population of undergraduate students was 610,563, while that of the dean of students was 49. The study used stratified and information oriented sampling techniques. The study sample comprised 4,770 undergraduate students and 24 deans of students from 16 public and eight private chartered universities in Kenya. Quantitative data was collected from the students using questionnaires. Qualitative data was also collected from the students using focus group discussions and deans of students using key informant interviews. The study's findings indicate that students responded to cyberbullying by enhancing their online security, blocking perpetrators of cyberbullying, flagging and reporting offenders, seeking counselling, and taking legal action against them. The effectiveness of these strategies varied depending on the type of cyberbullying suffered. The authors conclude that cyberbullying is a prevalent socio-technological ill affecting undergraduate students in universities in Kenya. A myriad of strategies to cope with the vice has been adopted. However, this paper recommends concerted efforts of the students, deans of students, universities, government, and society in devising and implementing comprehensive strategies for curbing cyberbullying in universities in Kenya.
Cyber-bullying research in Kenya: a meta-analysis
(Emerald Publishing Limited, 2021-03-01) Kwanya, Tom; Kogos, Angella C.; Kibe, Lucy Wachera; Ogolla, Erick Odhiambo; Onsare, Claudia
Purpose – Cyber-bullying is a form of harassment that is perpetrated using electronic media. The practice has become increasingly common especially with the growing ubiquity of social media platforms. Most cyberbullying cases inevitably occur on Facebook because it is the most preferred social media platform. However, little is known about cyber-bullying research in Kenya. This paper aims to analyse the quantity, quality, visibility and authorship trends of scholarly publications on cyber-bullying from and/or about Kenya. Design/methodology/approach – This study was conducted as a systematic literature review. A meta-analysis approach was used. Bibliometrics approaches were used to conduct the analysis. Data on the publications was collected from Google Scholar using Harzing’s “Publish or Perish” software and then analysed and presented using Microsoft Excel, Notepad and VOSviewer. Findings – The study yielded 359 research publications on cyber-bullying in Kenya. There was a gradual increment in the number of publications, peaking in 2018. Nearly half of the publications have not been cited indicating low uptake of research on cyber-bullying in Kenya. It also emerged that most of the research has been published on subscription channels thereby restricting their visibility, access and use. Minimal collaboration in research on cyberbullying in Kenya was also observed since 67.4% of the publications were written by a single (one) author. The authors conclude that the quantity, quality and visibility of research on cyber-bullying in Kenya is low. Originality/value – This is an empirical study. The findings can be used to promote and mainstream research on cyber-bullying in Kenya.
Digital Technologies for Information and Knowledge Management
(2020-12-04) Kwanya, Tom; Kiplang'at, Joseph; Wamukoya, Justus; Njiraine, Dorothy
Technologies play a pivotal role in the management of information and knowledge. They leverage the creation, collection, processing, storage, sharing and perpetuation of individual, community or organisational knowledge. Technologies provide a set of transformative functionalities which enhance the knowledge management processes. These functionalities support communication, coordination, analysis, presentation and diffusion of knowledge cost-effectively, conveniently, interactively and promptly. This book is part of the discourse on how best to apply the increasingly ubiquitous digital technologies and media to manage information and knowledge in a way which enhances the effective identification, documentation, popularisation and application of strategic knowledge in the society. The chapters have been contributed by scholars from diverse contexts thereby creating a rich mash-up of perspectives. The book presents pertinent discussions on digital technologies and media which are applied to manage information and knowledge in this era. The chapters are structured into eight (8) broad categories. The categories include Digital Libraries and Information Repositories; Citizen Media and Technologies; Big Data Systems; Learning Media and Technologies; Internet of Things and Emerging Technologies; Technology and Information Ethics; Management of Electronic Records; as well as Information and Knowledge Organisation. All the chapters in this book have been subjected to an elaborate quality assurance process to leverage their contribution to the existing literature on information and knowledge management. As such, both the abstracts and full papers were subjected to double-blind peer review and professional copy editing. I am convinced that information and knowledge management scholars, students and practitioners will find valuable nuggets in the chapters and will use the same for theory development; policy formulation and implementation; and in their professional practice. This book is a direct product of the 2nd International Conference on Information and Knowledge Management which was held on 21-14 August 2018 in Nairobi, Kenya. It would not have been possible to publish it without the support of the conference organisers, participants, and sponsors. We particularly acknowledge the support of Prof. Dr.-Ing. Francis W.O. Aduol, the Vice-Chancellor of the Technical University of Kenya, who opened the event and also shared tips on the future of information and knowledge management as a scholarly discipline. On behalf of the organising committee and the three hosting institutions, I wish you an insightful reading of the chapters.
Effects of Tacit Knowledge on the Performance of Selected Universities in Kenya
(sciendo, 2020) Kwanya, Tom; MURUMBA, Joan Wakasa; MAINA, Jane Cherono
Abstract: Tacit knowledge (TK) is non-codified and personal (sticky) knowledge that is difficult to transfer. TK cannot be said to be significant if there is a lack of tangible contributions. Universities can only realize such returns when there is growth in terms of (financial base, products, processes, customer base, employees’ loyalty) financial and non-financial indicators. The main objective of the research was to evaluate the effect of TK on organizational performance in selected universities in Kenya. The study adopted a mixed research approach as informed by pragmatism research paradigm. Data was collected from a study population of 65 respondents from four study sites which were Kibabii University, University of Nairobi, KCA University, and the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered to academic deans; directors of research, innovation, and ICT; and heads of library services as well as planning and administration. Qualitative data was analyzed through conversation analysis, content analysis, and R which is a computer-assisted data analysis software. Chi-square tests, as well as multinomial logistic regression, were used for the quantitative data analysis. The findings of this study indicate that universities value TK as a key asset for organizational performance. The study identified TK as an asset that has helped institutions to grow in terms of work processes, decision making, and the creation of new products and/or services.
The emerging roles of academic librarians in Kenya: apomediaries or infomediaries?
(Emerald Publishing Limited, 2020-06-01) Kwanya, Tom; Nakitare, Joel; Sawe, Emily; Nyambala, Joyce
Purpose – The main purpose of this study was to investigate the emerging roles of academic librarians in Kenya, with a view to determining whether they perform better as apomediaries or infomediaries. The specific objectives were to: examine the characteristics of the changing information universe in which academic librarians in Kenya currently operate; analyse the information-seeking behaviour of academic library users in the new information universe and examine the emerging roles of academic librarians in Kenya. Design/methodology/approach – This study adopted a descriptive research design and used an online survey research technique to collect data from practising academic librarians. This study targeted senior librarians from all the 67 private and public universities in Kenya. One senior librarian per university was purposefully selected to fill the questionnaire owing to their experience and expertise. 33 out of the 67 senior librarians responded to the survey. The collected data were descriptively analysed using SPSS, and as per the study objectives. Findings – This study established that most library users are digital independent and access library resources remotely. Nonetheless, many users still borrow and utilize print books despite the ubiquity of digital platforms. The findings revealed that academic librarians to a great extent now play the role of apomediaries, going beyond information giving to empowering their users. Practical implications – There is need for academic librarians in Kenya to not only be aware of the characteristics of their current users but also to continuously develop professionally so as to be able to adequately cater for the needs of their clients. Originality/value – This paper contributes to the scholarship on librarians’ roles in Kenya by demonstrating that most of them are transitioning to the apomediary roles.
Emerging Trends in Information and Knowledge Management
(Technical University of Kenya, 2017) Kwanya, Tom; Kiplang'at, Joseph; Wamukoya, Justus
Information and knowledge have become the key pillars of national, organisational and individual performance, excellence, competitiveness, growth, innovation and impact. While information management is concerned with the lifecycle of information, knowledge management encompasses the processes, people, techniques and tools used to enhance the intellectual capital owned by individuals, groups and organisations in terms of their know-how, ideas, expertise, competencies and experiences. Essentially, knowledge management enables entities to make the best use of their knowledge assets. The value of knowledge to sustainable development is anchored on the fact that it is limitless; grows with use; and is not easily replicable. In spite of the fact that information and knowledge are core components of the socioeconomic structures of the modern society, many challenges still hamper their effective management, diffusion, utilisation and perpetuation. Various discourses are ongoing on how best to manage these critical resources in ways which enhance their application in the human efforts to increase economic productivity, social justice, safety and general wellbeing of people worldwide. Consequently, theories have been developed; best practices established; and lessons learnt. However, challenges still abound on how best to share, apply and validate these nuggets. This book is an integral part of this discourse through its 40 chapters authored by academics, professionals and practitioners in information and knowledge management. The chapters are structured around ten themes: Emerging Trends in Libraries and Information Centres; Knowledge Sharing and Diffusion; Indigenous Knowledge; Records Management; E-Governance; Information and Knowledge Management Education; Role and Impact of Information and Knowledge Centres Legal and Ethical Issues in Information and Knowledge Management; Social Media in Information and Knowledge Management; Digital Trends in Information and Knowledge Management The uniqueness of this book lies in the fact that the authors of the chapters are drawn from diverse backgrounds, experiences and geographical contexts. This has enriched the content by creating diverse voices on the current and emerging issues in information and knowledge management. This approach ensures that the readers do not end up in restrictive echo chambers where they only access content which they are already familiar with. Similarly, it gives the readers an opportunity to readily find content on all the specialisation areas of information and knowledge management in one volume. The chapters were subjected to a rigorous scholarly publishing process to ensure that they contribute fresh and unique perspectives to the themes. In this regard, they were subjected to a plagiarism test using Turnitin software; double blind peer review by eminent scholars in the discipline; and a comprehensive copy editing. Therefore, we are convinced that they will make significant contributions to theory, practice and policy in information and knowledge management. We wish you an insightful reading.
Enhancing Organisational Performance in Kenyan Universities Through Effective Tacit Knowledge Management
(2019-07-24) Murumba, Joan Wakasa; Kwanya, Tom
Knowledge is an important asset and tacit knowledge is located in the minds of people. To succeed, organisations have to make the best use of their knowledge assets. This can be achieved through diverse initiatives such as mentorship programmes, team learning and development, communities of practice, development of knowledge sharing platforms, storytelling and enhanced channels of communication. Universities, just like all the other organisations must strategically respond to the current developments in the knowledge society and specifically in the management of tacit knowledge assets. This chapter reviews literature on tacit knowledge management to unravel how universities in Kenya manage and utilise their tacit knowledge to improve organisational performance, as well as the challenges they face in this process. The authors propose a tacit knowledge management framework for consideration by universities in Kenya and beyond. The authors reviewed literature on tacit knowledge management in relation to universities in Kenya. They specifically analysed documents on the strategies for managing tacit knowledge as well as the challenges hampering their effectiveness. Well defined organisational strategies, good leadership, knowledge sharing culture, mentorship, communities of practice and customised technology are seen to be catalysts of tacit knowledge management. While, the lack of incentives and rewards, insufficient mentorship programmes and lack of recognition of human capital inhibit tacit knowledge exploitation which negatively influences organisational performance. The authors established critical contributions of tacit knowledge management on organisational performance. These findings may be used to support relevant policy development in academic institutions. Universities may also benefit by implementing or adapting the proposed tacit knowledge management framework.
Every “reader” his or her “book”: Information services to persons with disabilities in Tangaza University College
(KLISC Journal of Information Science and Knowledge Management, 2023) Kwanya, Tom; Awuor, Afline
ABSTRACT Shiyali Ramamrita Ranganathan, an Indian librarian, and mathematician developed the Five Laws of Librarianship in 1931. Principles drawn from these laws undergird the design and delivery of library services to date. The second law states that “every reader his or her book”. This implies that libraries should deliver services and resources which are customised for the specific needs of unique categories of their users. The degree to which academic libraries in Kenya offer appropriate services to persons with disabilities (PWDs), particularly in the post-COVID-19 era, is unknown. This paper evaluates the services offered to PWDs by academic libraries in Kenya using Tangaza University College Library as a case study. Specifically, the paper assesses the preparedness of academic libraries in Kenya to meet the information needs of PWDs, identifies the services and resources offered to PWDs by academic libraries in Kenya, evaluates the usability of the services, and proposes a framework for providing information services to PWDs in academic libraries in Kenya in the post-COVID 19 era. This paper was developed using concurrent triangulated mixed methods research through which quantitative and qualitative data was collected from 11 librarians and 9 PWDs using questionnaires and interviews respectively. Due to the small number of the target population, a census was used. The findings of the study reveal that academic libraries are least prepared to offer information services and materials to PWDs. Although commendable efforts are being made, there are gaps in the conceptualization, design, and delivery of the services. There is a need for a framework to mainstream the needs of the PWDs in the bouquet of services offered by academic libraries in Kenya. The findings contribute to the discourses on the emerging role of libraries in safeguarding the information and communication rights of PWDs in Kenya and abroad in the post-COVID era. A framework to enhance information services to PWDs by academic libraries in Kenya is proposed.
From Collections to Connections: Transforming Libraries to Knowledge Centres
(2020) Kwanya, Tom
Abstract: The environment in which libraries operate has changed radically. Many empirical studies have confirmed that libraries all over the world are losing their crown as premier information service providers. Libraries have responded to threats by espousing diverse information services and products. Many responses have concentrated on how to improve the content of, and access to, collections. This chapter argues that libraries will thrive by transforming themselves into knowledge centres anchored on conversations facilitated by multifaceted connections. The topics discussed include the nature and trends of changes faced by libraries; the role and place of library collections in the emerging information universe; and how can libraries be transformed into knowledge centres through multidimensional connections and conversations. New models that libraries may consider using to become centres of knowledge-laden conversations are presented. Arguments for a new order are developed using evidence and facts from the literature to make the case for libraries to shift their focus from static collections to dynamic and conversation-enabling connections.
Handbook of Research on Managing Intellectual Property in Digital Libraries
(IGI Global, 2018) Kwanya, Tom; Tella, Adeyinka
ABSTRACT This chapter elucidates the concept of social bookmarking, its benefits in digital libraries as well as the implications of its use on the intellectual property rights of the creators of the bookmarked works. The author concludes that digital libraries can use social bookmarking as a means of increasing access to and sharing of information resources; improve web searching; as well as to enhance collaboration in the creation and use of information. Since social bookmarks are, by and large, public descriptions of and pointers to the original resources, digital libraries do not infringe the intellectual property rights of their creators. Nonetheless, the libraries should watch against copying large volumes of content from the original resource as this may be construed as an intellectual competition with the bookmarked resource. Digital libraries are advised to develop and apply social bookmarking policies to streamline their use of social bookmarks.
Harnessing fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technologies for sustainable development in Africa: a meta-analysis
(Emerald Publishing Limited, 2023-02-19) Kwanya, Tom; Kibe, Lucy; Nyagowa, Hesbon
Abstract Purpose – The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) has changed the way people operate. All sectors of the economy have been affected by this technological advancement. However, little is known of how 4IR technologies are used in Africa. This paper aimed to investigate how 4IR technologies can be harnessed to support sustainable development in Africa. The objectives of the study were to: examine the infometric patterns of research production on 4IR technologies for sustainable development in Africa; explore the perception of 4IR technologies and their potential for sustainable development in Africa; investigate the extent to which 4IR technologies have been harnessed to support sustainable development in Africa; determine the factors influencing the use of 4IR technologies for sustainable development in Africa; and identify the strategies which can be used to harness 4IR technologies for sustainable development in Africa. Design/methodology/approach – The study applied a mixed methods research approach. Quantitative data was collected through bibliometrics analysis while qualitative data was collected by use of systematic literature review. Data was collected from Google Scholar using Harzing’s “Publish or Perish” software and analysed using Microsoft Excel, Notepad, VOSviewer and Atlas.ti and presented using tables, graphs and figures. Findings – The study retrieved 914 research publications on 4IR and sustainable development in Africa. It emerged that production of research on the subject has increased gradually over the years. The findings reveal that Africa is aware of the potential of 4IR for sustainable development. In fact, it emerged that 4IR technologies are being used to support education, health services, tourism, e-commerce, records integrity and project management. Some of the factors that inhibit the use of 4IR for sustainable development Africa include lack of relevant policies, low skill levels in 4IR technologies, inadequate infrastructure and lack of stakeholder involvement. This study recommends the development of policies in 4IR, capacity building and upgrading of infrastructures. The findings can be used by governments in Africa to harness 4IR technologies for sustainable development. Originality/value – The research is original in scope and coverage.
Harnessing fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technologies for sustainable development in Africa: a meta-analysis
(Emerald Insight, 2023-02-19) Kwanya, Tom; Nyagowa, Hesbon; Kibe, Lucy
Abstract Purpose – The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) has changed the way people operate. All sectors of the economy have been affected by this technological advancement. However, little is known of how 4IR technologies are used in Africa. This paper aimed to investigate how 4IR technologies can be harnessed to support sustainable development in Africa. The objectives of the study were to: examine the infometric patterns of research production on 4IR technologies for sustainable development in Africa; explore the perception of 4IR technologies and their potential for sustainable development in Africa; investigate the extent to which 4IR technologies have been harnessed to support sustainable development in Africa; determine the factors influencing the use of 4IR technologies for sustainable development in Africa; and identify the strategies which can be used to harness 4IR technologies for sustainable development in Africa. Design/methodology/approach – The study applied a mixed methods research approach. Quantitative data was collected through bibliometrics analysis while qualitative data was collected by use of systematic literature review. Data was collected from Google Scholar using Harzing’s “Publish or Perish” software and analysed using Microsoft Excel, Notepad, VOSviewer and Atlas.ti and presented using tables, graphs and figures. Findings – The study retrieved 914 research publications on 4IR and sustainable development in Africa. It emerged that production of research on the subject has increased gradually over the years. The findings reveal that Africa is aware of the potential of 4IR for sustainable development. In fact, it emerged that 4IR technologies are being used to support education, health services, tourism, e-commerce, records integrity and project management. Some of the factors that inhibit the use of 4IR for sustainable development Africa include lack of relevant policies, low skill levels in 4IR technologies, inadequate infrastructure and lack of stakeholder involvement. This study recommends the development of policies in 4IR, capacity building and upgrading of infrastructures. The findings can be used by governments in Africa to harness 4IR technologies for sustainable development. Originality/value – The research is original in scope and coverage.
The Impact of Information Management Practices on the performance of County Governments in Central Kenya: A Case of Nyeri County
(2019-07-24) Ngirigacha, Esther Wairimu; Kwanya, Tom
Information management is critical in influencing an organisation’s ability to sustain a long-term competitive advantage. This chapter, resulting from a research study, examines the impact of information management practices on the performance of county governments in Central Kenya using the Nyeri County government as a case study. The study specifically sought to determine the information management practices used by the Nyeri County government; and establish the effectiveness of these information management practices in supporting government activities. The study was designed as a survey and targeted 82 management and administrative county staff in the six sub-county offices of Nyeri County (in Tetu, Kieni, Mathira, Othaya, Mukurweini, and Nyeri Town) and the Nyeri County governor. The study adopted census sampling design due to the small number of the potential respondents and also because this method was bound to enhance the reliability of the findings. The choice of a census design maximised the confidence level while at the same time greatly reduced the margin of error. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used as the main data collection instruments. The study found out that effective use of information management practices has enabled the Nyeri County government to be more responsive and consistent in service delivery as well and projected an image of good faith in a bid to audit and improve governance. These practices were effective mainly because they improved service delivery in the county office, and maintained convenient, secure and efficient storage and retrieval of county government information in the county government offices. The findings of this study may be used by the governors as the base upon which to review the county accountability and transparency principles and practices.
The Impact of Knowledge Management on The Competitiveness of Insurance Firms in Kenya
(2019-07-24) Kamau, Rodney Chege; Kwanya, Tom; Kamau, Rodney Chege; Kwanya, Tom
The purpose of this chapter is to investigate and present the impact of knowledge management strategies on insurance firms in Kenya. The objectives of the study, that informs this chapter, were to examine the current knowledge management strategies used in insurance firms; analyse how the knowledge management strategies used have contributed to the competitiveness of the firms; determine the challenges insurance firms face while using knowledge management as a strategic tool for achieving competitive advantage; and to suggest possible solutions to the identified challenges. The study is a case study of UAP Insurance Company. Data were collected using interviews from 105 respondents selected through information-oriented purposive sampling. The data were analysed through descriptive statistics. The findings indicate that knowledge management strategies are being used as tools for gaining competitive advantage in the insurance industry in Kenya. The authors also reveal weaknesses in the management of knowledge in the insurance sector, and suggest that the industry should embrace structured knowledge management techniques. This will enhance their competitiveness and potential to remain relevant in the business world. The authors recommend that the insurance firms in Kenya should benchmark with other industries which already have established knowledge management systems to enhance their competitiveness.
The Impact of Libraries and Information Services in Shaping Vision 2030 in Kenya
(SCECSAL XXI PROCEEDINGS, 2014) Kwanya, Tom
Abstract Information is increasingly becoming accepted as an important factor of socio-economic production besides land, labour and capital. Credible information and its effective use is a potentially powerful socio-economic development tool. Due to their position as the trusted source of information for many people, libraries play a pivotal role in facilitating socio-economic development by promoting good governance, literacy, social reconstruction, innovation and better decision-making. This paper analyses the impact of libraries and information services on the realisation of Kenya’s Vision 2030. The study was conducted using a survey research method. Data was collected from librarians, the general public and national development planners, using key informant interviews. The findings indicate that libraries have so far had a low impact on the realisation of Vision 2030 in Kenya. One of the major challenges hampering the effective support of the Vision 2030 by libraries is the perceived laid-back nature of librarians. Therefore, it is suggested that librarians should be more assertive in their involvement in national issues.