Theses & Dissertations
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Item ANALYSIS OF TRENDS AND VOLATILITY OF CRYPTOCURRENCIES IN THE GLOBAL MARKET(Technical University of Kenya, 2023-06-01) KHAMILA, DOUGLASThe motivation of this study was to analyze trends, volatility and model identification for Bitcoin, Ethereum and Ripple cryptocurrencies in the global market. The study utilized weekly price and cryptocurrency trading datasets from https://coinmarketcap.com. The study period was from 1st February 2015 to 26th December 2021. Two models, Arima and Garch models have been used in the study to determine the trends and volatility in the global market, trends have shown that cryptocurrencies have continued to increase in the market creating a worrying trends of overrunning both the domestic and international currencies, cryptocurrencies have remained unregulated in domestic markets and even in global markets, this have made it difficult to establish the value of digital assets held by mostly the tech-savvy individuals amounting to billions that have affected the markets both locally and internationally. Model identification was also determined using akaike information criterion values, the models that reported the least akaike information criterion values were considered to be the best models. On volatility, the results revealed that cryptocurrencies prices varied with time positively, which means traders looking to capitalize on volatility for profits may use such indicators as a strength indexes, volumes and establish support and resistance levels. The results from this study are important for market stability, investment and risk management purposesItem APPLICATION OF STRUCTURAL BIOINFORMATICS IN AFRICAN SWINE FEVER VIRUS ANTIVIRAL DEVELOPMENT(Technical University of Kenya, 2022-07) KINYANYI, DICKSON BENNETAfrican swine fever (ASF) is a fatal hemorrhagic disease of domesticated pigs that is caused by the African swine fever virus (ASFV). This disease poses a threat to food security thus leading to economic losses. Presently, there are no reports of approved available vaccines for ASF. Despite the ASFV sequences having well-conserved promoter motifs, no protein with features able to bind onto the promoter TATA-like elements has been identified, nor an antiviral capable of targeting viral TATA-like elements involved in ASFV transcription. This study aimed at finding a TATA Binding Protein (TBP) and potential minor groove binders (MGBs) that can target conserved promoter motifs in ASFV. The study implemented sequence-based search methods followed by three-dimensional structure modeling. The posterior probability of fold family classification was calculated using TM-fold, and biological function was determined using TM-site, RaptorXBinding Site, Gene Ontology, and TM-align. Subsequently, congocidine congeners, Hoechst 33258, and tris-benzimidazole were selected as potential minor groove binders targeting synthetic DNA constructs containing TATA-like motifs mimicking conserved ASFV promoters. The binding scores and calculated binding energies of docked DNA-ligands complexes were evaluated. The ligand behaviour within the minor grooves was assessed using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The results of this study established that the three-dimensional structure of a previously uncharacterized protein pB263R had features similar to a TBP with a TM-score of 0.52, with 95% posterior probability. Additionally, the selected minor groove binders were able to significantly dock on the AT-rich regions of the synthetic DNA constructs containing TATA-like motifs. Further, calculated binding energies revealed that less cytotoxic congocidine congeners and tris-benzimidazole were an improvement of cytotoxic congocidine. The MD simulation and molecular trajectory visualization revealed that the ligands remained embedded in the minor grooves of synthetic DNA constructs during the MD simulation time course. The findings of this study suggest that these ligands may be used as potential antivirals for ASF infection in abrogating ASFV transcription. Critical for control of several ASFV genotypes.Item ASSESSMENT OF FACTORS INFLUENCING E PROCUREMENTADOPTION BY SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED ENTERPRISES IN NYERI COUNTY – KENYA(2023-11-01) GITONGA, PETERWorldwide, SMEs have been seen as catalysts of economic growth and empowerment more so in emerging economies such as Kenya where they constitute more than 80% of all business entities. Growth in technology and huge technological advancements led to innovations such as e-procurement which is the application of information systems and usage of electronic means such as internet in carrying out procurement activities and process leading to numerous benefits. However, previous studies have shown that SMEs in unindustrialized nations have not fully adopted e-procurement or there is no adoption at all. Similarly, there is little literature on implementation of e-procurement by SMEs in emerging economies. Objectives of the study were assessment of organizational, technological and environmental factors as factors that influence e-procurement adoption by SMEs in Nyeri county as well as establishing the moderating effect of government policies on the relationship between factors affecting e procurement adoption and the adoption of e-procurement by SMEs in Nyeri County. The study was premised on Diffusion of innovation thery and the Technological Organizational Environmental (TOE) adoption framework theory in assessing e-procurement implementation by SMEs. This study applied inferential statistics so as to inference the population and enable generalization of the research findings. Descriptive statistics were used to measure variability and provided data summaries and results presented in tables. The study sampled 195 respondents from a target populace of 377 firms by use of stratified sampling method. Data gathering was by use of questionnaires where 128 responses were gotten from the sample. SPSS system was used for data analysis. A pilot study was conducted to test the validity and reliability of the study which yielded a Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient of 0.72 (72%) with an internal consistency of 99.2% hence the tools of data collection was deemed reliable. The study through logistic regressions analysis found that organizational, technological and environmental factors had no significant relationship on adoption of e-procurement. It also found that government policies had no moderating effect on independent variables that influence acceptance of e-procurement by SMEs. The research concluded that e-procurement implementation by SMEs was still very low and recommended that SMEs should be sensitized and encouraged to use e-procurement. It also recommended further studies to establish barriers that could still be hindering adoption and also the best forms of e-procurement technologies that SMEs can comfortably adoptItem CHARACTERISATION OF CORNISH-SOUTH ULTRA-COMPACT HII-REGIONS SAMPLE USING THE MeerKAT(2023-11-01) JUMA, CALVINCEUltra-compact HII (UC HII) regions are small and dense ionized regions surrounding massive protostars. They are formed when ultra-violet (UV) radiation from massive protostars ionizes the surrounding neutral hydrogen gas. UC HII regions represent the earliest stages of massive star formation; hence it is important to characterise them for a better understanding of the process of massive star formation. However, the mystery of the birth and early life of massive stars is yet to be solved due to some challenges such as their short lifetimes, rarity, and large distances, in constructing a complete evolutionary sequence. In addition, the massive protostars are born in a dusty environment which results in high extinction caused by dust grains making it challenging to observe the embedded protostars and their immediate environment in optical and infrared wavelengths. This limitation can be partially overcome by using radio observations that is less affected by dust extinction. Thus, the advantage of UC HII regions in studying massive star formation is that they emit strong radio continuum radiation due to the presence of free electrons within the ionized gas, enabling their detection even at large distances by radio telescopes. In this study, the radio data from the MeerKAT (1.3GHz) and CORNISH-South (5.5 GHz) surveys were used to conduct a comprehensive characterization of UC HII regions. The MeerKAT survey provided the opportunity to study these embedded objects at lower frequencies, where dust extinction has a minimal effect. With this data, I was able to estimate the radio spectral indices (𝛼) of 79 samples of ultra-compact HII regions. It was found that 91% of these sources had 𝛼 ranging from −0.1 to 2 between 1.3 GHz and 5.5 GHz thus indicating that they are thermal. The remaining 9% of the UC HII regions had 𝛼 less than −0.1 at radio frequency, which may be interpreted as the presence of non-thermal emission. However, this effect is caused by the fact that the MeerKAT observation is more sensitive to extended emission than the CORNISH-South observation. Further characterisation of these sources involved the determination of brightness temperature at 5.5 GHz (ranges from ~100.5K to ~104K), optical depth (range: 0.0 to 0.1), Lyman continuum fluxes ( peaks between 46.5 < (logNi) < 48.6 photons 𝑠 −1 ), emission measure (range from 106 to 108 pc cm-6 ), electron densities (peaks between 103 and 104 electrons cm−3 ), physical size (ranging from 0.01 pc to 0.05 pc) which were all consistent with UC HII regions. Finally, investigation for the presence of protostars in the UC HII regions sample was investigated by computing their radio luminosities and comparing them with those of protostars. It was found that the UC HII regions sample was not contaminated with any massive protostellar objects (MYSO jets and low-mass stars)Item A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PENCIL BEAM AND COLLAPSED CONE CONVOLUTION DOSE CALCULATION ALGORITHMS IN PELVIC AND THORACIC TREATMENT PLANS(2023-11-01) Dina, MoraaDifferent algorithms used to calculate doses in radiotherapy planning adopt different techniques in simulating doses received by the target (tumor) volume. Such differences can come about in terms of dose distribution in the target volume and doses received by surrounding organs. Due to such differences, it is necessary to take into consideration the best algorithm suitable for a range of mediums i.e homogeneous and heterogeneous mediums. The differences in the way different algorithms simulate doses in different media may bring about dosimetric variations which can relatively affect treatment outcomes in 3D-conformal radiotherapy. The primary focus of this research was to compare dose variations for two dose calculations algorithms namely, Pencil Beam (PB) algorithm and the Collapsed Cone Convolution (CCC) in highly and less heterogeneous mediums. The study was an analytical retrospective study consisting of 8 pelvic and 7 thoracic treatment plans approved and scheduled to undergo 3D- CRT. The treatment plans were generated using PB and the same treatment plans recalculated using the CCC calculation algorithm. Dosimetric variations between the two dose calculation algorithms were observed and evaluated based on variations in plan parameters such as dose received by the tumor volume and the dose received by critical organs (OAR’s). Minimum and Maximum mean dose values were obtained from PTV and OAR’s from the two dose calculation algorithms. Differences in dose values between the two algorithms were analyzed using standard errors (SE) to determine if in fact the differences were significant. At a CI of 95% (P=0.05), it was found out that the two calculation algorithms demonstrated insignificant dose differences to a treatment plan. PB algorithm demonstrated high dose received to the tumor volume compared to the CCC algorithm. A visual analysis of the results using box plots demonstrated that the two algorithms showed no major differences in doses received by the PTV and OAR’s. It made no significant difference to a treatment plan if the planner (Medical Physicist) would adopt either of the algorithms in calculating doses for cervix or esophagus treatment plans using ONCENTRA Treatment Planning SystemItem A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PENCIL BEAM AND COLLAPSED CONE CONVOLUTION DOSE CALCULATION ALGORITHMS IN PELVIC AND THORACIC TREATMENT PLANS(2024-02-22) Dina, MoraaDifferent algorithms used to calculate doses in radiotherapy planning adopt different techniques in simulating doses received by the target (tumor) volume. Such differences can come about in terms of dose distribution in the target volume and doses received by surrounding organs. Due to such differences, it is necessary to take into consideration the best algorithm suitable for a range of mediums i.e homogeneous and heterogeneous mediums. The differences in the way different algorithms simulate doses in different media may bring about dosimetric variations which can relatively affect treatment outcomes in 3D-conformal radiotherapy. The primary focus of this research was to compare dose variations for two dose calculations algorithms namely, Pencil Beam (PB) algorithm and the Collapsed Cone Convolution (CCC) in highly and less heterogeneous mediums. The study was an analytical retrospective study consisting of 8 pelvic and 7 thoracic treatment plans approved and scheduled to undergo 3D- CRT. The treatment plans were generated using PB and the same treatment plans recalculated using the CCC calculation algorithm. Dosimetric variations between the two dose calculation algorithms were observed and evaluated based on variations in plan parameters such as dose received by the tumor volume and the dose received by critical organs (OAR’s). Minimum and Maximum mean dose values were obtained from PTV and OAR’s from the two dose calculation algorithms. Differences in dose values between the two algorithms were analyzed using standard errors (SE) to determine if in fact the differences were significant. At a CI of 95% (P=0.05), it was found out that the two calculation algorithms demonstrated insignificant dose differences to a treatment plan. PB algorithm demonstrated high dose received to the tumor volume compared to the CCC algorithm. A visual analysis of the results using box plots demonstrated that the two algorithms showed no major differences in doses received by the PTV and OAR’s. It made no significant difference to a treatment plan if the planner (Medical Physicist) would adopt either of the algorithms in calculating doses for cervix or esophagus treatment plans using ONCENTRA Treatment Planning System.Item DECISION QUALITY: THE IMPACT OF PROCESS REDESiGN AS AN INTANGIBLE, BENEFIT ON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INVESTMENT DECI SIONS(2015-07-31) Ndede-Amandi, Atieno A.IT investment decisions often focus on tangible costs and benefits such as technical, strategic, and financial issues. Less tangible benefits such as process redesign integration, bave been largely ignored. Decisions makers who rely solely on these tangible costs and benefits for their assessment of IT investment value without integrating intangible benefit consideration may be making sub-optimal decisions and investments. This study looked at rhe important, yet often overlooked, intangible benefits consideration in the IT investment decision process with particular focus on process redesign as an intangible benefit. Survey questionnaires were sent out to a sample of 949 firms in three industries: healthcare, chemical, and insurance to solicit information from the chief information officer (CIo) on the level at which they integrate process redesign consideration in the IT inr-eshnent decision. Several important findings resulted from this research effort. First, the study irm"nr;fied seven component factors of process redesign and used these factors to measure the M of process redesign integration into the IT investment decision. Second, the study mfirmed, empirically, that there was an association between the consideration of tangible and intangible benefits. Those firms that expend large effort or resources towards tangible benef,rts consideration also spend more effort or resources toward intangible benefits consideration than otherwise. Third, it was empiricaliy determined that certain process redesign benefit factors received greater consideration than others. Fourth, it was determined #mr decision makers considered tangible benefits to be more important than intangible hmefits consideration and expended a greater portion of effort or resources towards the mideration of the former. Finally, this study found that the strategic relevance of IT in an organization was associated with the level of effort or resource deployment towards intangible benefits. Additional areas for further research were also identified.Item Decision quality: the impact of process redesign as an intangible, benefit on information technology investment decisions(2001) Atieno, Anne NdedeIT investment decisions often focus on tangible costs and benefits such as technical, strategic, and financial issues. Less tangible benefits such as process redesign integration, bave been largely ignored. Decisions makers who rely solely on these tangible costs and benefits for their assessment of IT investment value without integrating intangible benefit consideration may be making sub-optimal decisions and investments. This study looked at rhe important, yet often overlooked, intangible benefits consideration in the IT investment decision process with particular focus on process redesign as an intangible benefit. Survey questionnaires were sent out to a sample of 949 firms in three industries: healthcare, chemical, and insurance to solicit information from the chief information officer (CIo) on the level at which they integrate process redesign consideration in the IT inr-eshnent decision. Several important findings resulted from this research effort. First, the study irm"nr;fied seven component factors of process redesign and used these factors to measure the M of process redesign integration into the IT investment decision. Second, the study mfirmed, empirically, that there was an association between the consideration of tangible and intangible benefits. Those firms that expend large effort or resources towards tangible benef,rts consideration also spend more effort or resources toward intangible benefits consideration than otherwise. Third, it was empiricaliy determined that certain process redesign benefit factors received greater consideration than others. Fourth, it was determined #mr decision makers considered tangible benefits to be more important than intangible hmefits consideration and expended a greater portion of effort or resources towards the mideration of the former. Finally, this study found that the strategic relevance of IT in an orgAnization was associated with the level of effort or resoulce deployment towards inrangible benefits. Additional areas for further research were also identified.Item The Design and Use of AIDS- Posters in Kenya(2013) Pido, John Peter OdochThe hypothesis of this study is that differences in aesthetic and communication systems confound the efficacy of posters used in efforts to control IDV-AIDS in Kenya. The study is based on empirical observation of the apparent failure of AIDS education campaigns to influence risk-taking behavior. Applying the theories and principles of design education as a filter and an analytical tool, the study takes into account the models and practice of several disciplines including communication, health education and health care delivery. The lack of substantial success of the health education approach, in general, and posters, in particular in curbing AIDS in Kenya invites questions on the efficacy of posters as a medium of communication. The study focuses on the poster, and in so , doing takes into account various parameters including perception of disease, sexuality, and design for health education as well as aesthetics and communication systems. Using archival data, relevant literature in several disciplines, participant observation as well as qualitative and quantitative analysis of data gathered in the field, the study established that conflicts among various models impact negatively on the efficacy of posters rendering them more or less ineffective in the campaign against AIDS. The field sample consisted of seventy eight users of posters and eleven health Workers in Kisumu who were interviewed to find out their opinions on the effectiveness of posters in the fight against AIDS. In general, the concerned users think that posters are not effective in controlling HIV infection and the spread of AIDS in Kenya. A few selected posters were analyzed with views to advancing recommendations for improving on the design of AIDS-posters and heal the education in general. The conclusion of the archival, experiential and observational components of this study coupled with the data gathered by report from a surveys ampleist hat posters are an inappropriate and ineffective medium for communication about HIV/AIDS if the objective of that communication is to slow down,or halt the spread of the virusItem DETERMINING TRANSIT DOSE FOR THE BEBIG SAGINOVA® HDR Ir-192 STEPPING SOURCE BRACHYTHERAPY UNIT(Technical University of Kenya, 2023-11-01) MURIITHI, MILLICENTThe Bebig SagiNova® HDR brachytherapy treatment unit implements the TG-43 formalism in calculating radiation dose, which does not account for transit doses during treatment. It is unclear how significant the transit dose is and depending on its magnitude, it may impact the clinical outcome. The goal of this study is to determine the transit dose component for the Bebig SagiNova® HDR brachytherapy unit with an Ir-192 stepping source. The well-type chamber measurement technique was used to measure charge collected as the Ir 192 source moved from the afterloader. The charge measurements were collected for different source configurations and analyzed using two techniques; the multiple exposure method and the graphical method to determine effective transit time. The overall effective transit time was quantified as the source moved to its first dwell position (entry time), between activated dwell points (interdwell time) and during retraction out of the applicator back into the afterloader (exit time). The effective transit time of 2.02s was obtained with the multiple exposure method as well as the graphical solution method. The effective transit time was not influenced by the analysis technique. The overall effective transit time for the unit was determined to be about 13.80s and 13.99s using the multiple exposure method and the graphical solution respectively. The significance of the amount of dose during transit is not clear, as it depends on the activity and configuration of the source, prescribed dose and the quantity of treatment fractions used. It is necessary to determine and document transit time and doses for assessing their significance on the delivered dose to help improve the overall efficiency of brachytherapy and patient careItem A Digital Design Training Model for Jua Kali Artisans in Kenya(2021-06-09) Kidenda, Mary Claire AkinyiInteraction with Kenyan informal sector artisans – also known as the Jua Kali (JK) has suggested that their skill acquisition through the informal traditional apprenticeship (TA) system, which is devoid of theory, constrains their product quality and incomes. The JK sector accounts for 84.8% of the national labour force, and produces affordable goods and services for a majority of Kenyans. Thus, appropriate design practice and planning skills among artisans are imperative for uplifting many Kenyans’ livelihoods quality and incomes, contributing to Kenya Vision 2030’s development objective of transforming the country to middle income status. The objective of the research reported here was to establish the status of design practice and planning skills among the JK artisans, with the aim of developing and testing a competency based Digital Design Training Intervention (DDTI) model encountered in the literature, with which to remedy skills shortfalls through m-learning. The model aims at bridging the skills development gap by delivering a tailor-made, learner-centred, competency-based design training model that is accessible online or through mobile technology. Available anytime anywhere with no tuition fees involved, the DDTI would uplift the supply of properly trained JK artisans, in keeping with Vision 2030’s aspirations. The study involved a mixed methods research approach alongside an action research design. The first phase employed situational analysis involving qualitative and quantitative data collection, to establish the existing design and planning skills acquired through TA and the workplace, and the gaps needing attention. The second phase engaged the artisans in the development of a competency-based design-training model for delivery through m-learning, accessed through the web or mobile technology. The final phase tested the model’s efficacy among the JK artisans, and among government officials for relevance to Vision 2030’s policies and strategies. The testing established that the DDTI’s web-based and mobile phone-based Unstructured Supplementary Service Data models could enhance the JK artisans’ design practice and planning, thereby promoting Vision 2030 objectives. These ground-breaking findings introduce ICT into a new realm, the JK manufacturing sub-sector. The study also makes the important finding that Kenya lacks a nationally integrated database on the primary livelihoods sector, whose establishment would allow more nuanced analysis of the role of the JK sector.Item THE E-GOVERNMENT ARTIFACT IN THE CONTEXT OF A DEVELOPING COUNTRY: TOWARDS A NOMADIC FRAMEWORK(2009) Muganda, Nixon OThis thesis is concerned with exploring alternative conceptualizations of the e-government artifact relevant to developing countries in Africa. The premise is that e-government, as an artifact of human conception, remains relatively poorly developed at the levels of theory, methodologies and practice. The investigation is focused on two problematic areas of e-government: its conceptualization and its operationalization as an artifact. There is evidence to suggest that conceptualization of e-government takes place at various levels : international, national, local. The thesis therefore explores how e- government is taking form by focusing on the following research question: "How is the e-government artifact conceptualized in the context of a developing country"? The analysis draws on various perspectives; some of which are grounded on empirical results of the study, while others are based on an analysis of literature. Under the alienating conditions of social exclusion, the emergent e-government artifact emerges as an evolving and technical artifact, with strong managerialist orientations of augmenting and reinforcing central governments control over its polity . To achieve this defining logic, the focus or ideology for addressing the social problem of governance is that of information Taylorism with an emphasis on economic rationality and some form of political rationality. Two consequences are highlighted: • an evolution of public administration towards a technocracy, and • increasing the efficiency of the bureaucracy through managerialization. To address the shortcomings of this artifact concept, the study further presents literature and insights from prior analyses to underpin a nomadic e-government model for building information infrastructures (NECE Framework). The emphasis of the framework is on the need to adopt long term organizing visions in building these infrastructures by focusing on using the existing installed base as a foundation. The nomadic framework, anchored on strong modular design borrowed from an information infrastructure perspective, is clustered around three major layers of building confident local communities ; building nomadic networks of governance and building flexible infrastructures . The 'glue', cementing these layers elevates a critical need for building social, human, digital and physical resources targeting the individuals, various organizing forms and formal institutions, services and physical infrastructure respectively. Such an approach to building an e-government information infrastructure is postulated to minimize the unintended negative social implications of its adoption.Item EFFECT OF DEFECTS AND TEMPERATURE ON THE MECHANICAL AND ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES OF NbC AND NbN: A FIRST-PRINCIPLES STUDY(2023-11-01) MUCHIRI, PERPETUATransition metal carbides and nitrides (TMCNs) are materials that have attracted a lot of attention for both theoretical and experimental studies. This is largely attributed to their excellent physical and electronic properties that makes them ideal candidates for technological and industrial applications. This study focuses on the structural, mechanical and electronic properties of Niobium carbide (NbC) and Niobium Nitride (NbN). Also, owing to their fascinating properties, this study investigated the effects of defects and temperature on the mechanical properties of NbC and NbN from first principles. The study also investigated the effects of defects on the properties of the two materials with concentration ranging between (1.56% − 12.5%) and temperature ranging between 300 K – 1500 K. This is crucial since there exist no perfect materials in nature and the materials are used under extreme conditions such as high temperatures and high pressure. The calculations are performed on the rocksalt (RS), zinc blende (ZB) and wurzite (WZ) structures of the two compounds through the density functional theory formalism using generalized gradient functional approximation for the exchange correlation potential. The obtained results show that the pristine NbC and NbN have high values of elastic constants and mechanical properties in the range of 71 GPa – 815 GPa. The values of the mechanical properties among them bulk moduli, shear moduli, Vicker’s hardness as well as Young’s modulus decrease with increasing defect concentration (1.56 % - 12.5 %) and temperature (300 K - 1500 K). The results obtained show that defect concentration of up to 12.5 % does not compromise the structural properties of the materials and hence, they can still be used in various industrial applications. Further, the temperature range of 300 K – 1500 K considered show that the materials are still mechanically stable and can be suitable candidates in harsh environments of high temperature. Consequently, control of defects and temperature especially during synthesis of these materials is important in evaluating their mechanical response that can drive them to be ideal for super-hard and other related applicationsItem EFFECT OF FIRM SIZE ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STRATEGIC PLANNING DIMENSIONS AND PERFORMANCE OF MANUFACTURING FIRMS IN KENYA(2017-07-20) ALI, MAHAMUDStrategic planning has been regarded as a prerequisite to successful organizational outcomes and while the contexts of strategic planning differs by sector and geographical orientation, there is renewed interest in strategic planning- performance linkage in developing economies, this, due in part to the realization of the role of firm based factors such as strategic planning dimensions. This study aimed to determine the relationship between strategic planning dimensions and firm performance in the manufacturing sector in Kenya and to establish, the moderating effect of firm size on the relationship between strategic planning and firm performance in the manufacturing firms in Kenya. The study was informed by not only the low performance of the manufacturing sector over the past two decades, but also, by the mixed results and contentious debate on the effect of strategic planning dimensions of management participation, functional integration, strategic orientation and strategic control on performance. The study has adopted the use of multidimensional constructs to study strategic planning dimensions and performance linkage. The study utilized a cross sectional survey design, while stratified simple random sampling were used to obtain the sample comprising 191 firms in twelve subsectors among manufacturing firms in Nairobi and its surroundings. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire for key managers involved in the strategy formulation and implementation. Out of the 191 questionnaires administered, 111 were returned and found usable questionnaires, representing 58% which is adequate for this stream of research. SPSS Software was utilized to analyze data. Inferential data analysis was carried out by use of correlation analysis. Regression models were fitted using multiple regression analysis and hypothesis testing were done using standard F and T-tests. The study revealed that strategic planning analyzed through the dimensions of management participation, functional integration, strategic orientation and strategic control were significant and positively related to firm performance. However, firm size, was not found to moderate the relationship between strategic planning dimensions and firm performance in the manufacturing firms in Kenya. Thus, emphasis on specific strategic planning dimensions contribute positively to both large firms and small firms despite their difference in resources and development levels. The study contributes to the strategic planning performance discourse in the context of developing countries and furthers the discussion on the factors moderating in the relationship between strategic planning dimensions and firm performance. The study confirms that, firm size is neither a prerequisite nor a factor for successful application of strategic planning dimensions in both small and medium and large firms in the manufacturing sector in Kenya. The study recommended high participation and involvement of top management in the whole process of strategic planning, anchoring of deliberate functional integration processes in the firm, heightened strategic oriented paradigms for market orientation, customer focus and competitiveness and the development, design and customization of management control systems to enhance implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the strategic planning process outcomes.Item EFFECT OF FOOD SAFETY AND FOOD QUALITY ON CUSTOMER CHOICE OF DINING DESTINATIONS IN KENYA.(Technical University of Kenya, 2022-10) ONDARA, ROBERT ORENGEThe effect of Food safety (FS) and Food Quality (FQ) on customer’s destination choice (DC) remains controversial. A number of empirical studies conducted in Kenya failed to seek the manner in which consumers themselves perceived FS and FQ in order to choose their destination of choice. Owing to this contradiction, this study was to determine the effects of FS and FQ on customer choice of dining destinations in Kenya. The objectives of the study were; to assess the relationship between food quality and customer choice on the dining destinations in Kenya, to determine the relationship between food safety assurance and customer choice on dining destinations in Kenya, to determine the relationship between food monitoring and surveillance systems and customer choice of dining destinations in Kenya, to assess the moderating effect of top management commitment on the relationship between food safety and quality and customer choice of dining destinations in Kenya and to assess the moderating effect of customer-based factors on the relationship between food safety and quality and customer choice of dining destinations in Kenya. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted in this study where1058 guests were sampled based on 49% average bed occupancy statistics. Additionally, 54 hotel staff (managers and Sous chefs) were purposively selected from 4-star and 5-star hotels in Kenya. Self-administered questionnaires and structured interview schedules were employed to collect data from respondents. Qualitative data collected through interview schedules was analyzed thematically while quantitative data was analyzed using multiple regression analysis. The study found out that there was positive significant relationship between FQ, FS and FSM in determining customer’s choice of dining destinations (p-values 0.015, 0.005 and 0.044). The study also found out that there was a moderating effect of top management commitment on the relationship between FQ, FS and choice of customer’s dining destination (p-value = 0.004). While there was a general agreement that top management are committed in affirming food safety and quality, it was also revealed that for every positive improvement in top management commitment, there would be a corresponding positive rate of influence on dining destination choice. The output of the models with and without interaction confirmed that the moderation effect of customer-based factors was found not to be significant but presented itself as an explanatory variable (P=0.25). Although the study presented unique insights into food safety, quality, monitoring as well as surveillance; there were a number of limitations based on the empirical as well as conceptual settings. The study failed to investigate the physical, chemical as well as microbial contaminations that can cause unsafe food. This therefore could be a prime area for future research.Item EFFECTIVENESS OF BAOBAB-PEARL MILLET BLEND ON BONE MINERAL DENSITY OF WOMEN AGED 40-65 YEARS IN KITUI COUNTY, KENYA(Technical University of Kenya, 2024-03-01) Immaculate, KietiOsteoporosis is a condition marked by low bone mass and bone tissue loss, which makes a person weak and frail. Osteoporosis, one of the most incapacitating diseases of older people, increases the risk of bone fractures, notably in the hip, spine, and wrist. Women over the age of 45 occupy a third of the hospital beds, on average. 24.3% of Kenyans are estimated to have osteoporosis. The main objective of the study will be to establish the nutrient content of baobab fortified pearl millet flour and assess its impact on bone health among women aged 40-65 years and with osteoporosis at Kitui East sub county, Kitui County. The study will adopt an experimental interventional trial study design. The sample size will be 93 female osteoporotic patients. Bone Mineral Density (BMD) data will be obtained by performing DEXA scan Absorptiometry tests on the women to get their Standard Deviation (SD) levels whereby a SD of 2.5 and above will be considered normal. Baobab dry fruit pulp, pearl millet and baobab fortified pearl millet flour will be analyzed for the nutrient content of selected nutrients of importance to bone health. Calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, copper, vitamin C and zinc will be analyzed. The interventional trials on women with osteoporosis will make use of two formulations of pearl millet flour supplemented with baobab. Data on the study sample's nutritional status, physical activity level, and health-related characteristics will be gathered using a standardized questionnaire. With the exception of the nutritional status data, which will be entered and analyzed using the Nutri-survey computer package, data from the structured questionnaire will be entered and analyzed using SPSS version 19 software. Bone mineral density, the nutritional value of baobab-fortified pearl millet flour, and respondents' nutritional status will all be interpreted using World Health Organization (WHO) cutoff values. Chi-square (x 2 ) will be used to establish the associations between categorical data on BMD and Body mass Index (BMI). Persons Correlation (r) will be done to establish the association between continuous data. Data will be generated into means, frequencies and percentages and grouped into tables, charts and graphs. A p value of (p< 0.05) will be considered significant. Since many scientific researches has shown that majority of women don’t consume adequate bone health nutrients such as calcium in their diets, there is need of developing a nutrition intervention product which can provide the required bone health nutrients to prevent and manage osteoporosisItem EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON NATURAL RESOURCES AND TOURISM SUSTAINABILITY IN MAASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE, KENYA(Technical University of Kenya, 2022-09) ROTICH, LABAN KIPKEMOIThe tourism industry contributes significantly to global economic development, particularly in terms of job creation and wealth creation in developing nations and regions where tourism is frequently the primary source of revenue. However, there is worldwide concern on climate change as one of the biggest obstacles for attaining development. The tourism sector in Kenya that is nature based is not immune to climate change. This study used systems theory to investigate the effects of climate change on natural resources and tourism sustainability in Maasai Mara National Reserve (MMNR). The extent to which climate change affects natural resources that tourism depends on is explored. The specific objectives of the study were: To establish the effects of climate change on natural resources in MMNR; to identify the effects of natural resources on tourism sustainability in MMNR; to determine the relationship between climate change and tourism sustainability in MMNR; and to explore the mediating effects of climate change and natural resources on tourism sustainability in MMNR. Explanatory and descriptive research designs were used in this study. In Narok County, the target population was 169,220 households, 300 tourists, and 18 experts. Simple random sampling, convenience sampling, and snowball sampling were used to sample 507 respondents that included 399 households, 90 tourists, and 18 experts. Key informant interviews were used to collect data from climate change experts and tourists while structured questionnaires were administered to the heads of households in the local community. The Cronbach Alpha Coefficient was used to evaluate instrument reliability, while expert opinion was used to determine validity. Data from the interviews was analyzed qualitatively using thematic analysis. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) technique was used to evaluate changes in vegetation cover using satellite images. Rainfall and temperature data were analyzed using the Man Kendall trend test. With the help of SPSS V.23, quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The relationship between the variables was determined using linear regression while the mediation effects were tested using the Process Macro. The study findings indicated that there was a positive significant relationship between climate change and natural resources (β=0.286 and p=0.000), a positive significant relationship between natural resources and tourism sustainability (β=0.393 and p=0.000); and controlling for the mediator (natural resources), climate change remained a significant predictor of tourism sustainability (c‟ = 0.730). Therefore, rainfall and temperature variations trigger a mediating effect on vegetation that supports wildlife populations which forms the foundation of Kenya‟s tourism. These wildlife populations have the potential to influence sustainability of the tourism industry. The study findings raise the need for urgent interventions by the tourism industry stakeholders to consider developing alternative wildlife based tourism products in the advent of declines in wildlife populations as a result of erratic rainfall and temperature patterns. In addition, tourism destination managers need to have contingency plans in the advent of extreme climate events. It is crucial that relevant policy frameworks aimed at addressing climate change effects and its associated risks on wildlife that the tourism industry thrives on are enacted and fully implemented.Item EFFECTS OF CULTURAL ECOSYSTEM SERVICES ON ACCOMMODATION ROOM RATES IN THE TSAVO-AMBOSELI WILDLIFE TOURISM DESTINATION AREA, KENYA(Technical University of Kenya, 2023-07) OKUNYA, MARK NELSON YOBESIAThe ecosystem services concept advocates for incorporation of Cultural Ecosystem Services (CES) in park management plans. However, park managers face difficulties articulating the CES in policy ready metrics and park tourists facilities operators lack information on visitor preferences for elements of the accommodation experience like facility’s environmental attributes. The study adopted a mixed methods design to collect qualitative data from purposively sampled park staff and quantitative data from a census of operational accommodation facilities in the Tsavo Amboseli Wildlife Tourism Destination Area in Kenya. The study relied on a deliberative geographical information system (GIS) protocol where park staff mapped the distribution of CES in three contiguous most visited parks in Kenya, Tsavo East, Tsavo West and Amboseli National Parks. By combining geospatial CES data with quantitative data on accommodation facility attributes, the study build a hedonic pricing model (HPM) to explore the impact of park CES benefits on room rates. The model was then used to assess how facility attributes, including CES, globally and locally influenced room rates in the study area. Results of the geospatial analysis revealed CES concentration with benefits intensities (I = 0.44 -2.93/km2) and diversity (𝐻∗=.48−.62) at geological, hydrological, and cultural park features while topographic and ecological features diffused the benefits. The study confirmed the joint-provision of CES at hotspots for landscape aesthetics (𝑍=5.38;𝑝<.01), spiritual/religious reverence (𝑍=5.67;𝑝<.01), ecotourism & recreation (𝑍=4.30;𝑝<.01), knowledge and scientific research (𝑍=4.10;𝑝<.01) in Tsavo West and historical and heritage appreciation (𝑍=5.71;𝑝<.01) in Tsavo East. The research highlighted differences in room rates (F (2, 44) =5.46; p = .01) for facilities in the three parks. Results of the global HPM (G-HPM) suggested that a plunge pool, private balcony, bathrobe, concierge service, chain affiliation, ecolodge, and proximity to a landscape aesthetics hotspot jointly influenced room rate (F (8, 38) = 9.66; p <.001). These attributes explained 60% of global variability in rates. Ecolodge status had the largest positive influence on rates (β =.41, t = 4.26, p < .001) followed by distance to a landscape aesthetic hotspot that had an inverse effect (β = -.22, t = -2.11, p = .04). The study estimated a geographically weighted regression HPM (GWR-HPM). The GWR-HPM predicted 69% to 90% of the variability in the room rates suggesting better explanatory power in parts of the study area compared to the G-HPM. The GWR-HPM confirmed spatial variations in the facilities’ attributes-room rate relationships and affirmed the influence of ecolodge on room rates in 98% of the observations. The GWR-HPM revealed that proximity to landscape aesthetics hotspots positively influenced rates in only 2% of locations, contradicting the distance decay principle. This suggests that facilities could not capitalize on CES benefits in their pricing decisions at the destination scale due to the public nature of the CES benefits in the Parks. The study demonstrates applicability of the deliberative method in assessing protected area CES values. Park managers can rely on results of such a process to provide legitimate inputs into conservation decisions. The study results demonstrate the influence of visitor preferences for accommodation objective and environmental attributes on room rates and suggests that park accommodation facilities can rely on the spatial hedonic pricing model to derive indices to be used in their product pricing, development, and positioning decisions. The study concludes that the ecosystem services concept expands the understanding of values in terrestrial protected areas by highlighting the socially constructed benefits of ecosystems. Additionally, the influence of facility amenities, visitor services, and environmental characteristics on room rates reveals park visitors' preferences and expectations regarding the park accommodation experience.Item EFFECTS OF KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER AND RETENTION STRATEGIES ON SERVICE DELIVERY IN NAIROBI CITY COUNTY GOVERNMENT, KENYA(2020-09-01) Obwaka, EddieKnowledge transfer is the sharing of experiences within an organisation. The sharing is rooted in the field the expert is knowledgeable in. Knowledge retention is the capturing of an expert’s knowledge so that an organisation does not lose the knowledge during transition caused by events such as death, retirement or resignation of their employees. In such instances, intellectual capital is lost when employees are unwilling to share the knowledge they possess and leave with it. The challenge facing organisations in the 21st Century is how to transfer and retain knowledge. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of knowledge transfer and retention strategies on service delivery in Nairobi City County Government. The specific objectives of the study were to: investigate the knowledge transfer and retention methods used by the Nairobi City County Government, Kenya; establish knowledge transfer and retention challenges and their effects on service delivery in Nairobi City County Government, Kenya; determine the relationship between knowledge transfer and retention methods and service delivery in Nairobi City County Government, Kenya; and propose strategies of enhancing positive influence of knowledge transfer and retention on service delivery at the Nairobi City County Government. The study adopted a convergent parallel mixed methods research design. The target population of the study was 12,363 respondents from the Nairobi City County Government, Kenya. The study applied a multi-stage sampling technique. The first stage involved stratified sampling through which the respondents were divided into top level management, middle level management and lower level employees. This was then followed by an information-oriented purposive sampling to select information-rich subjects from top level management. Simple random sampling was used to select participants from the middle and lower level clusters. Thus, a total of 40 out of 84 directors of departments were selected from the top level management and 706 respondents from middle management and lower level management. The total sample size for the three clusters was 746 respondents. The study used interview schedules and structured questionnaires to collect data. Quantitative data was analysed using inferential statistics by help of Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) while the qualitative data was analysed thematically using ATLAS.ti. This study established that the most preferred method of knowledge transfer and retention in Nairobi City County Government was departmental meetings. The challenges hindering knowledge transfer and retention were lack of support from top management, technophobia, lack of funding, performance contracting and fear of job losses. The study confirmed that the knowledge transfer and retention challenges affect service delivery by the Nairobi City County Government in terms of accessibility, timeliness, quality, accountability, efficiency and costs. These findings demonstrate that knowledge transfer and retention methods positively influence service delivery. The study proposes a knowledge transfer and retention framework that can positively influence service delivery. The findings can be used by the county government to leverage on knowledge transfer and retention as a way to improve services.