Daystar University Repository: Recent submissions
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Ekambi, J (International Journal of Recent Research in Commerce Economics and Management (IJRRCEM), September 14, 2022)[more][less]
Abstract: With an approximate population of over 600 million people (World Bank Group), Africa remains demographically, one of the most attractive users of social media. Essoungou, (2010) suggests that, using social media platforms, to send and read e-mails, read news, and post research queries have become less important activities for Africans, indicating that everyone is on social media. However, very little is known about how social media is used for management functions, by the managers and other organization leaders. This is partly because of the taken-forgranted assumptions that social media cover communications field and very little in other disciplines, a long side the fact that age bracket for mangers is skewed to older ages. This is made worse by the vastness of the continent and the poverty aspect of the sub-Saharan Africa. The various social media studies from the marketing field, argues that the pattern of economic-political changes taking place in sub-Saharan Africa indicates that the region is not only opening but also quickly becoming the next economic power. Social media creates value in management functions and is leverage for competitive advantage in management functions and cost-benefit analysis for investing in social media management services creates efficiency and effectiveness for greater performance. The study will use mixed method research design through mining secondary data from World Bank dataset on social media activities, taking four countries to represent the sub-Saharan Africa: Kenya, DRC Congo, South Africa, and Nigeria. Content analysis is used to structure the review and analysis of the existing dataset. The paper looks up to challenging management to buy in social media to a level where social media will have an anchor in management to move business to a greater level. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3972 Files in this item: 1
Simplicity and Profundity-14092022.pdf (581.1Kb) -
Munyao, Martin (Religions, December , 2021)[more][less]
Abstract: In the last decade, since the Third Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization (2010) in Cape Town, South Africa, the world has significantly changed. The majority of the world’s Christians are located in the Global South. Globalization, conflict, and migration have catalyzed the emergence of multifaith communities. All these developments have in one way or another impacted missions in twenty-first-century sub-Saharan Africa. As both Christianity and Islam are spreading and expanding, new approaches to a peaceful and harmonious coexistence have been developed that seem to be hampering the mission of the Church as delineated in the Cape Town Commitment (2010). Hence a missiological assessment of the Cape Town Commitment is imperative for the new decade’s crosscutting developments and challenges. In this article, the author contends that the mission theology of the 2010 Lausanne Congress no longer addresses the contemporary complex reality of a multifaith context occasioned by refugee crises in Kenya. The article will also describe the Somali refugee situation in Nairobi, Kenya, occasioned by political instability and violence in Somalia. Finally, the article will propose a methodology for performing missions for interfaith engagement in Nairobi’s Eastleigh refugee centers in the post Cape Town Commitment era. The overall goal is to provide mainstream evangelical mission models that are biblically sound, culturally appropriate, and tolerant to the multifaith diversity in conflict areas. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3971 Files in this item: 1
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Ndirangu, Grace; Tuikong, Sylvia; Okuto, Emily (Africa Amani Journal, December , 2020)[more][less]
Abstract: A global commitment to better the lives of the most vulnerable in the world population is the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, whose commitment to leave no one behind in the development process. Forced displacement remains a major global problem with an increase in the number of displaced persons rising every day. Forced displacement is one of the major challenges of human security hence becoming a barrier to the attainment of the sustainable development goals (SDGs). The research was guided by objectives which were study factors leading to forced displacement and their effects on human security, effects of forced displacement on the human security of Congolese refugee women and the refugee protection policy gaps and its effects on human security. Two theories, Kunz’s Kinetic refugee theory and Rogge’s typology theory formed the basis of the research. The literature review examined secondary literature by other authors on forced displacement while the empirical review of the theories delved deeper into the theoretical perspective of forced displacement. The research design was based on ex post facto design. The target population was Congolese refugee women seeking services at an outreach center for one of the refugee agencies. The research sampled 60 Congolese refugee women who were randomly picked at the outreach center using simple random sampling. 10 key informants comprising of Agency staff from who did outreach programs in Mwiki ward in Kasarani were interviewed. Other key informants included refugee community leaders from. 2 focus group discussions sampled through purposive sampling were also interviewed. Qualitative data was collected through questionnaires, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Data analysis for quantitative data was analyzed through SPSS version 20.0 while qualitative data was coded intothemes and later interpreted based on the questions and objectives. The findings indicated that there was a statistically significant relationship between forced displacement and human security of the women refugees. The findings also indicated that forced displacement affected the physical security of the women by exposing them to continuous police harassment, extortion and arrests, lack of access to essential services such as healthcare subjection to physical abuse, torture and sexual violence through rape and sexual harassment. The findings showed that forced displacement affected the mental health of the refugees leading to worsening of the mental health conditions where many of the women refugees still had mental disorders such PSTD, stress, depression, Schizophrenia, suicidal tendencies, Insomnia, and helplessness. Recommendations from the study include the need for government and international actors to work together to eliminate armed groups and introduce programs for reintegration of ex-combatants. Other recommendations include the needs to revise asylum policies for a conducive environment for asylum seekers. The study recommends that law enforcement officers be trained on asylum processes to create a conducive environment for refugees. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3970 Files in this item: 1
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Munyao, Martin (Sacra Testamentum, 2019)[more][less]
Abstract: In recent studies, honor and shame has gained quite amount of attention from scholars: anthropologists and psychologists. However, theologians have on the other hand overlooked this pervasive yet critical human phenomenon. There seems to be a paucity of theological resources whereby to engage honor and shame related issues in community and collective based societies. While this is a trendy subject in other disciplines, it deserves a great deal of attention in black reflections on Christian studies. Moreover, it is critical that whenever Biblical studies are in engagement with social-political that honor and shame is surfaced. This is because, honor and shame, being pivotal cultural values of the Ancient Mediterranean world where the Bible was written are also present in most African societies today. Unfortunately, current theological discourse doesn’t engage honor-shame as a cultural and theological component to Biblical studies. Therefore, this paper will firstly demonstrate how the theme of honor and shame is pervasive throughout the Bible. Secondly, the paper will argue that while honor and shame are replete in the Scripture, seem to be missing in Biblical studies as well as in African Christianity. Thirdly, the paper will argue how cultural values of honor and shame have played a significant role in shaping morality and behavior in collective and shame-based societies. Lastly, while different shades of honor/shame can be negative, the paper will suggest ways in which a biblical 2 view of the same can be leveraged upon to redeem biblical morality and ethics in community based societies. The goal is to open a conversation in black reflections on Biblical studies whereby honor-shame theology and missiology is mainstreamed in the academia as well in church pews. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3969 Files in this item: 1
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Kuria, Jane; Tuikong, Sylvia; Mwangi, Moses (International Journal of Current Research, May 25, 2018)[more][less]
Abstract: Introduction: The objective of this study was to determine the levels of PTSD among adolescents living in Neema and Tumaini Children Homes in Nyandarua County, Kenya. Adolescents who are registered into Children homes are vulnerable and highly prone to PTSD. Traumatic events that are experienced by adolescents may lead to the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Objective: To assess the levels of PTSD among Adolescents Residing at Neema and Tumaini Children Homes. Methodology: Quasi experimental research design was utilized for this study. The Population for the study consisted of 400 adolescents aged 11-17 years in the two homes. The Lemeshow et al., (1998) formula was used to calculate the sample size. A sample size of 180 from the two homes was obtained by use of purposive sampling. Out of the 180, 90 were for the experimental group (Neema), while 90 were for the control group (Tumaini). Adolescents were administered social demographic questionnaire, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) for PTSD. Analysis: The collected data was analyzed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20 to compute univariate, bivariate and multivariate analysis. The results indicated that overall mean PTSD score was 38.5 (I 7.9SD) ranging between 25 and 59 and the score was not significantly different between participants enrolled in the two homes. Results: The analysis of the study revealed that the adolescents who had mild PTSD were 51.3% and those who had moderate PTSD were 48.8%. Overall mean PTSD score was 38.5 (+ 7.9 SD). Conclusion: Adolescents in the homes have been found to suffer PTSD. The home managers should adapt therapeutic programs that help them recover and be able to live productive lives as they relate well with self, their caregivers and peers. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3968 Files in this item: 1
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Kithandi, Charles Katua (The International Journal of Business & Management, June , 2022)[more][less]
Abstract: This study has been done to address the research gaps in the effect of monetary policy of commercial bank’s financial performance. The key objectives of the study were to establish the following; the effect of changes in central bank rate on financial performance of commercial banks in Kenya, the effect of reserve ratio requirement on financial performance of commercial banks in Kenya and, the effect of repo rate on financial performance of commercial banks in Kenya. The study was carried out covering a five-year time frame period from 2016 to 2020. The independent variables of the study involved: cash reserve ratio, Central bank rate, and the repo rate. Return on equity was used as the dependent variable. The study used descriptive longitudinal research design. The total population consisted of all the commercial banks, which is forty-two in number, licensed to operate in Kenya by the Central Bank of Kenya. The study employed various research tests; Durbin-Watson, quantile-quantile plot and normality test were applied in research finding analysis. The study found out that a negative relationship exists between both Central Bank rate and cash reserve ratio requirement and return on equity (financial performance) of commercial banks in Kenya. The research findings also showed that a positive relationship exists between repo rate and the return on equity (financial performance) of commercial banks in Kenya. In Conclusion, the study concluded that monetary policy affects profitability and financial performance of commercial banks in Kenya. The study recommends that, for central bank to stimulate economic growth, central Bank rate needed to be monitored and maintained low. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3963 Files in this item: 1
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Mwangi, Susan Wanja (Daystar University, School of Communication, November , 2021)[more][less]
Abstract: This study focused on community radio in Kenya with an emphasis on the changing nature of community access and participation due to the integration of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in community radio broadcasting. The objectives of the study were to determine how the internet and mobile phones are incorporated into community radio stations, examine the role of ICTs in promoting community participation through the decision making and content production in community radio, and investigate the extent to which ICTs enhance community access to community radio stations. This study was premised upon the domestication theory, the participatory culture model, and Fraser’s (1990) notion of alternative public sphere. It adopted a multiple case study design with the use of in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, document review, and observation for data collection. The findings showed that the radio stations under study, that is, Amani FM, Bus Radio FM, and Kangema RANET FM, demonstrated that they had adapted digital technologies, although the community members did not fully participate in the decision-making process of the stations. The ICTs helped them improve the quality of the radio stations’ programmes, gather news and information, interact with their audiences, and communicate with their sponsors and donors at a greater scale. However, most of the participants still preferred to listen to radio programmes through traditional radio instead of using the internet, social media, or mobile phones. This study recommends that when integrating community radio with ICTs, the needs, perceptions, and expectations of the community radio station and potential challenges that this integration may bring to the community around it should be considered. The access of the community to the ICTs and their level of digital literacy should also be considered. Description: Doctor of Philosophy in Communication URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3962 Files in this item: 1
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Opiyo, Monica Naomi; Kenyon, Christopher; Manwani, Kajal; Seckl, Jonathan; Andrew, Ruth; Chapman, Karen (Endocrine Abstracts, 34, 2014)[more][less]
Abstract: Background and aims: Bile acids are conserved through enterohepatic circulation, a glucocorticoid-modulated process. 11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type-1 (11β-HSD1) converts cortisone/11-dehydrocortisone to cortisol/corticosterone, thus increasing intracellular glucocorticoid levels. 11β-HSD1 also metabolises 7-oxo-lithocholic acid, a bile acid. 11β-HSD1 is highly expressed in the liver and may alter bile acid transport through regeneration of active glucocorticoids or may directly metabolise bile acids, thus altering profile. We compared bile acid synthesis, release, their enterohepatic circulation and profile in Hsd11b1−/− and isogenic C57Bl/6 control mice. Methods: Adult male, chow-fed mice (eight per group) were fasted for 4 h or fasted for 4 h then re-fed 4 h. Serum, and liver and gall-bladder bile acid concentrations and profiles were measured by spectrophotometry/gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Results: Fasted Hsd11b1−/− and C57Bl/6 mice had similar volumes of bile (3.2 vs 5.0 l). 7β-Hydroxylated acids (ω-muricholic>β-muricholic>ursodeoxycholic acid>others) predominated in bile of C57Bl/6 mice while 7α-hydroxylated acids (cholic>α-muricholic>chenodeoxycholic acid>others) predominated in Hsd11b1−/− mice; the ratio of 7α:7β acids was >100 greater in Hsd11b1−/−mice. In fasted Hsd11b1− mice, bile acid concentrations were higher in serum (Hsd11b1−/−: 30±9 vs C57Bl/6: 3.8±1.3 nM, P<0.0001) and liver (Hsd11b1−/−: 243±18 vs C57Bl/6: 139±19 nmol/g, P<0.001). Re-feeding caused gall bladder emptying in C57Bl/6 mice (49.6±8% of fasted weight, P<0.0001) and increased serum (62.5±7.6 nM) and liver (497±20 nmol/g) bile acid concentrations, while in Hsd11b1− mice, the gall bladder did not empty (92±7.8% fasted weight) and serum (24±12 nM) and liver (122±21 nmol/g) bile acid concentrations were similar to the fasted state. Conclusion: Bile acid release and the pattern of synthesis is controlled by 11β-HSD1 activity in mice. This may affect digestion and, depending on functional differences of 7α- and 7β- hydroxylated bile acids, may have significant effects on lipid and sterol metabolism and bile acid-mediated transcription. Description: Abstract URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3960 Files in this item: 1
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Electrophoretic Deposition of TiO2/Nb2O5 Composite Electrode Thin Films for Photovoltaic ApplicationNguu, John Njagi; Aduda, Bernard Odhiambo; Nyongesa, Francis Wanjala; Musembi, Robinson Juma (Electrophoretic Deposition of TiO2/Nb2O5 Composite Electrode Thin Films for Photovoltaic Application. Journal of Energy and Power Engineering 8 (2014) 757-764, April , 2014)[more][less]
Abstract: Nano sized powders of TiO2 (titanium dioxide) and Nb2O5 (Niobium (V) oxide) were used to fabricate TiO2/Nb2O5 composites thin films by EPD (electrophoretic deposition) technique. The metal oxide powders, together with magnesium nitrate hexahydrate pellets, were suspended in propan-2-ol inside an EPD cell. The electrodes, placed 1.2 cm apart, were partially immersed in the suspension and a DC potential applied across them. Key EPD process parameters, which include applied DC electric field, deposition time and solid concentration in suspension, were optimized through visual inspection and from UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometer spectra. The highest (55%) transmittance was obtained for films with deposition time of 90 s, powder concentration of 0.01 g/40 mL, and 35 V DC (direct current) voltage. XRD micrographs confirmed that TiO2 and Nb2O5 particles were presented in the composite film. SEM (scanning electron microscope) micrographs of the composite electrode thin films showed that porous films of high quality with well controlled morphology were deposited by using the EPD technique. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3958 Files in this item: 1
Electrophoretic deposition.pdf (623.7Kb) -
Mwangi, Perminus Mburu (International Journal of Social Science and Technology, January , 2022)[more][less]
Abstract: This study was prompted by a positional shift on blood rituals amongst central Kenya Christians from the stance of the East African Revival (EAR) members. The study compared the position of contemporary believers, with that of the EARand highlighted the effect theobserved shift might have on the Church. A qualitative strategy with a phenomenological research design and purposive samplingwere applied. In-depth semi-structured interviews, Focus Group Discussions and document review were the research tools. Data was analysed using Thematic Coding Analysis. The EDNA model was used as the theological framework.Findings indicate a significant shift fromscripture as the default, final authority concerningsin and righteousness, to peers and mentors. The oral nature of the EAR’stheological legacy has largely facilitated this shift. Acceptance by the wider society, which values the blood rituals as culture, is valued by the contemporary believer but not by the members of the EAR. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3957 Files in this item: 1
Shifts in Blood Covenant Theology.pdf (245.3Kb) -
Ntwiga, Davis Bundi; Weke, Patrick; Kirumbu, Michael Kiura (Interdisciplinary Description of Complex Systems, March 18, 2016)[more][less]
Abstract: For effective interactions to take place in a social network, trust is important. We model trust of agents using the peer to peer reputation ratings in the network that forms a real valued matrix. Singular value decomposition discounts the reputation ratings to estimate the trust levels as trust is the subjective probability of future expectations based on current reputation ratings. Reputation and trust are closely related and singular value decomposition can estimate trust using the real valued matrix of the reputation ratings of the agents in the network. Singular value decomposition is an ideal technique in error elimination when estimating trust from reputation ratings. Reputation estimation of trust is optimal at the discounting of 20 %. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3956 Files in this item: 1
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Odero, Collince; Kiarie, Martha W. (December 13, 2019)[more][less]
Abstract: Background :Globally, 2.5 billion cases of diarrhoea occur among under-fives every year. Diarrhoea, a major cause of morbidity accounts for over 70% of childhood diseases in Africa. In Kenya, diarrhoea is a major public health problem, listed amongst the leading causes of mortality and morbidity amongst under-fives. Objective: To determine the environmental factors associated with diarrhoea among children under 5 years in Migori County. Methodology: Quantitative approach was used where data collection involved a questionnaire. A total of 216 under- five children were sampled using multistage sampling technique. Analysis of data included generating descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-square tests). Results: Findings revealed that the environmental factors including method of refuse disposal (p<0.001); latrine availability (p = 0.001); latrine type (p = 0.037);latrine sharing (p<0.001); source of drinking water (p = 0.009); water storage (p = 0.002); method of drawing water (p = 0.005); scooper cleaning (p<0.001); cleaning water container before refilling (p = 0.034); and drinking water treatment (p = 0.010)had an effect on the occurrence of diarrhea in under-five year old children. Discussions :A number of other environmental characteristics of mothers (or caregivers) of under-fives were found to be associated with diarrhoea in this study. Under five diarrhoea morbidity can be minimized if concerted efforts are made to improve waste disposal, increase latrine availability, reduce latrine sharing, improve drinking water source, treat drinking water, improve water storage and hygiene. Conclusion: The environmental determinants of diarrhoea morbidity identified should be addressed to prevent occurrence of diarrhoea disease among under-fives. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3953 Files in this item: 1
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Ngure, Geoffrey K.K; Kamau, N.V; Di, Bet; Ra, Lugali; Wangila, A; Ngari, W; Mburu, W (African Journal of Health Sciences,, March , 2017)[more][less]
Abstract: Background:A cross sectional study to establish the levels of heavy metals and other potentially harmful elements (PHEs)present in samples obtained from selected open waste water channels in Nairobi industrial area (Kenya) was carried out. The waste water channels selected were those near the factories or those directly discharging from factories. The samples collected included mosquitoes (larvae and adults), waste water, green algae, and soil. Unmaintained open waste water channels are among the man made features that enhance the breeding of urban mosquitoes because they tend to have overgrown vegetation and trapped solid wastes which slow or inhibit the waste water flow. Different mosquito species have previously transmitted arboviruses including those responsible for dangerous fevers such as West Nile, Rift Valley, Zika, Dengue, Yellow, and Chikungunya among others in different parts of the world. The study area (Nairobi industrial area) neighbors several densely populated informal human settlements. This paper specifically reports on composition and distribution of mosquito species obtained from the study area. Methods:The fourth instars mosquito larvae were collected from waste water channels using the standard dipping method. Adult mosquitoes were trapped using the center for disease control and prevention (CDC) light traps. Purposive random sampling for mosquito adults and larvae was carried out in industrial premises and waste water channels respectively at seven locations. This involved selecting sampling sites from which mosquito samples were likely to be obtained. The mosquitoes were then microscopically identified using taxonomic keys for the Ethiopian and East African region. Results:Out of 2,926 adult mosquitoes trapped, 12 species were identified including Cx. pipiens (95%); Cx. Vansomereni (2.6%); Cx. zombaensis (1.4%); Cx. univittatus (0.34%); Cx. theileri (0.21%); Ae. aegpti (0.14%); An. maculipalpis (0.03%); An. squamosus (0.03%) and other culicid species (0.20%). Of these adult mosquitoes, Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3952 Files in this item: 1
Survey of urban mosquitoes species.pdf (869.9Kb) -
Mbutu, Paul Mutinda (Texas A&M University, August , 2012)[more][less]
Abstract: While many non-governmental organizations provide leadership training in interethnic conflict management to Kenyan youth, relatively little is known about what goes into such training. This dissertation is a case study illustrating how the training structure operates. The purpose of this dissertation is to address the challenges associated with youth leadership training in inter-ethnic conflict management, how these challenges are managed, what differences the training makes, and how it is transferred back into the real-life of the youth. To better understand these issues, a two-month qualitative study was conducted divided in two phases involving trainers, youth participants, program designers, and community leaders. Twenty two interviews and 2 focus groups were completed. Results demonstrated four communicative challenges involved in the design of youth leadership training were: (1) audience analysis, (2) material resources, (3) participant challenges, and (4) diversity. Results showed that trainers addressed the communicative challenges by using the following management strategies: needs assessment, financial management, iv stakeholder education, and dialogue facilitation. The analysis suggested that the conditions that facilitate transfer of training were: participatory models, training organization, and trainee motivation. Similarly, conditions that inhibit training transfer included: resource constraints, youth motivation, environmental conditions, and diversity. Finally, results also suggested that the differences that leadership training made in the lives of the youth were: behavioral transformation, participant input, improved peaceful relationships, and skill development. Successfully managing the communicative challenges in the design and implementation of the training were the main goals of trainers, and the more they took ownership of these goals the more likely the training would be successful. This dissertation suggests that managing the communicative challenges associated with the design and conduct of youth leadership training is the first step to ensuring the training transfer for youth participants and achieving a workable leadership training in inter-ethnic conflict management. Description: Doctor of Philosophy URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3946 Files in this item: 1
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Radoli, Lydia Ouma (BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg, January , 2019)[more][less]
Abstract: This dissertation examines how migration and development narratives are (re)produced in transnational digital migrant media using an example of Kenyan migration to Europe, as its main sociological question. It also raises questions about existing gaps in the literature on the role of the media specifically, transnational digital migrant media in constructing influential discourses. It achieves this quest by submitting to an objective to examine the contribution of migrant media discourses to development in migration-sending countries (De Haas, 2007). Using postcolonial-discourse theoretic approach, the thesis analyses the criteria for selection of texts on migration and development, and how the texts inform the discourse. It establishes that postcolonialism is prevalent in European social research, but limited to justifying historical occurrences and re-writing wrongs done to Africans and others formerly colonized. The theoretical concepts of development in this thesis follow Arturo Escobar’s (1995) deconstruction of conventional development theory. It includes an appreciation of multi-faceted theoretic dynamics, especially historical effects on development and creation of hegemonic disparities causing migration of Kenyans to Europe. The dissertation explores the relation of liberal development narratives to Postcolonial perspectives of Edward Said (1977), Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak (1986) and Homi Bhabha (1983), whose writings expose stereotypes like those found in development constructs. This dissertation highlights similar aspects of representations of migration and development in the media. It does not only expose migrant’s contribution to development but accentuates the discourse forming function of migrant media in the production of heterogeneous narratives on migration and development. This reflection is an attempt to look at possibilities of alternative development trajectories in migrant media and Postcolonial texts, that resist neo-colonial economic narratives forced on people of African descent. The findings for this thesis show that migrant media provides hegemonic ideas on development, as well as alternative counterhegemonic views. Hence, development in modern Africa since self-determination in the 1950s and 1960s continues to furnish the media’s socio-economic and political discourse. Even though poverty and political instability of Africa characterize narratives in the mainstream media, migrant media utilizes new media platforms for “subalterns” to be heard. Migrants’ inputs on development (re)produced in migrant media, inform a discourse that champions initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods in migration-sending countries. To answer the main sociological question on (re)production of narratives this dissertation learns from Norman Fairclough’s (1995, 2012) guidelines to discourse analysis, as informed from Michel Foucault’s (1980) theoretic approach. As a qualitative research strategy, the dissertation explores Texts from transnational digital migrant media for Kenyans in Europe (Germany and UK) and expert interviews with Kenyan media producers in Germany and in Britain. On this basis, the thesis argues that not only are media expert’s contributors to development but are also important creators of a discourse that qualifies migration as a reality in Kenya’s development. Description: Doctoral dissertation URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3943 Files in this item: 1
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Komen, Leah Jerop (Ada: A Journal of Gender, New Media, and Technology, February , 2021)[more][less]
Abstract: The increased adoption of mobile telephony for development is based on the assumption that mobile telephonyhas the potential to foster social change. To some, such technology can aid most developing countries to leapfrogstages of development. Yet to others, the technology is at most counterproductive: development has beenunderstood differently by the developed in comparison to the underdeveloped. Missing in this narrative is thepeople’s own conceptualization of the term development as well as their gender roles, often a component ofdevelopment programs. This study presents findings on an alternative conceptualization of development, dubbed maendeleo, a Swahili term that denotes process, participation, progress, growth, change, and improved standardof living—as defined by the people or women themselves as they interact with mobile telephony in rural Kenya.Using Manuel DeLanda’s assemblage theory to analyze interviews, this study proposes an alternativeconceptualization of development. This different perspective on development denotes both process andemergence, through the processes and roles that mobile telephony plays in the techno-social interactions ofusers, context, and other factors as they form social assemblages that are fluid in nature, hence challenging theWestern proposition that new technologies produce development understood as social transformation. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3940 Files in this item: 1
My Mobile Phone, My Life.pdf (275.9Kb) -
Komen, Leah Jerop; Ling, Richard (Information, Communication & Society, June , 2021)[more][less]
Abstract: This paper examines how mobile communication and mobile banking is used by women in rural western Kenya (Elgeyo Marakwet), a resource-constrained area where women must carefully monitor the flow of money through their households. Also, women face structural inequality. Among other things, polygyny (one husband and several wives) is legal. Based on the inductive analysis of 25 interviews with women, and using the lens of intersectionality, we examine their use of mobile banking. We examine how mobile technology plays into the management of the household economy, and how it is used in extramarital relationships. We discuss how women use mobile communication in their collective savings groups (chama). We see how the mobile phone can be the locus of tensions within the household and how mBanking both supports the lives of the women but also how this can eventually undercut social support. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3939 Files in this item: 1
NO We dont have a joint account.pdf (1.617Mb) -
Komen, Leah Jerop (Journal of Development & Communication Studies, July , 2016)[more][less]
Abstract: The integration of mobile phones into social life has attracted divergent views on its technosocial capacities for social transformations especially its disruption on the integrity of space and time. While celebrated as a technology that liberates users from the constraints of time and place, it is equally reviled for the defilement of place or space and face to face social encounters (copresence). This paper discusses the influence of mobile telephony on social interactions with specific focus on conversations around copresence in Marakwet. Through ethnographic interviews and observational notes, the paper argues for the need to study mobile telephony as a social assemblage. Drawing from Delanda’s (2006) version of assemblage theory, the researcher finds that copresent encounters has changed the way time and place is conceptualised, with distinctions between private and public places blurred and transformation of social interaction evidenced. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3938 Files in this item: 1
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Komen, Leah Jerop (University of East London, 2014)[more][less]
Abstract: Research on Information Communication Technology (ICT) and Development involves assumptions about the potential of such technologies to engender social transformations and development. Corporate organisations have financed studies that seek to understand the impact of such technologies in a bid to push for their business agenda (Castells et al., 2007; Vodafone, 2005; ITU, 2004) and also act as a means of helping developing nations eradicate poverty levels in the wake of the millennium development goals (MDGs). This kind of development is seen as synchronic, without considering the target populations’ involvement in decision making, and also tends to dictate what development should look like in the eyes of most development economies where such ICTs like mobile telephones have come from. Such development is also considered as being linear in nature (Melkote and Steeves, 2003; Donovan, 2011). This thesis is an attempt to advance the second kind of development that is diachronic in nature, which pays attention to the interrelationships of human technology rather than the former that privileges technology as engendering social transformations and development. This kind of development has been conceptualised as maendeleo, a Swahili term that denotes process, participation, progress and growth. Unlike the first perspective of development that views technology as causing changes, maendeleo sees social transformations and development as an interaction between mobile telephony users and their specific contexts. It is a localised understanding of development from the participants’ encounters with mobile telephony in their everyday life. This thesis thus examines the role of mobile telephony in the social transformation and development of the Marakwet people of rural Kenya, using ethnographic methods of data collection and assemblage theory as theoretical framework. Historically the Marakwet community of Kenya suffered from decades of insecurity due to cattle-rustling with their neighbours. Since its advent in Marakwet a decade ago, mobile telephony still remains complex. On one hand, it is seen as answering the insecurity question by allowing users to alert each other in case of an invasion, but at the same time is seen as the source of more insecurity, especially since mobile phones can also aid the enemies to cattle-rustle. Physical meetings that are the domain of most Marakwets are also affected by the technology, with it being seen as reducing the need 9 for social gatherings, yet enhancing it at the same time. Mobile money transfers, discussed as M-PESA, have not been spared either regarding services deemed to boost development and bring about social cohesion, on one hand, while still believed to cause disharmony within households and also be a ‘risky’ endeavour with lack of sufficient money deposit security, on the other. Twenty-five ethnographic interviews were conducted with 12 households, taking into account age, gender, literacy levels and the length of time the device had been accessed by users. The interviews were complemented with data obtained from 5 focus group discussions among homogeneous groups (women, men, clan elders, girls and boys). The findings show that mobile phone is implicated in everyday life of the people of Marakwet, challenging concepts such as co-presence, power and gender relationships, interpersonal networks and also the idea that the use of mobile telephony in the region incorporates older modes of communication models such as the community horn. Mobile telephony influences and is influenced by all areas of community life: health, education, and agriculture, religion forming assemblages of people (users), financial institutions, government and mobile phone service providers. This thesis challenges the dichotomisation of society into micro (individual or household) and macro (national or societal) that ignores the intermediate or meso levels. The boundaries suggested by such categorisation are blurred by communication technologies that re-define terms, such as time and space, public or private places, here and there. In a way, macro and micro distinctions also assign power to macro forces to determine the micro, which in the advent of technologies, the micro can only be changed if they so wish and not necessarily because change has been decided, packaged and delivered to them via mobile telephony or any other communication technologies. Instead, it is how they negotiate power, gender relations, cultural inclinations and socio-economic dispositions in their domesticated use of mobile telephony that facilitates social change and development. Description: Doctor of Philosophy URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3937 Files in this item: 1
MOBILE ASSEMBLAGES AND MAENDELEO IN.pdf (3.052Mb) -
Mutai, Bertha Kirigo (Andrews University, 1991)[more][less]
Abstract: In Kenya, the majority of women in education occupy classroom teaching positions. Educational officers, in their hiring practices, appear to overlook women as resources, thereby depriving the schools of the skills and talents of potentially capable leaders. Students are also denied the role models of female leaders. This study investigates how difficult it is for women to secure professional careers in educational administration in Kenya.The population consisted of all the female teachers employed by the Ministry of Education in Kenya, and female Kenyan students in North American universities. A questionnaire was used to collect data from the women teachers selected from five educational levels, namely, university, commercial and technical colleges, secondary and primary schools, and Kenyan students in North American universities. The data collected were analyzed and tested for significant differences related to the women's marital status, age, education, and experience. All 52 items were tested by Chi-square and the alpha level was .05 for all tests. The conclusions are given in the order presented in the Purpose of the Study. 1. A majority of women teachers strongly agreed that advanced degrees were the key to administrative positions. 2. It appears that self-confidence to become school administrators was lacking as portrayed in the women's responses. 3. Women teachers believed they would gain selfsatisfaction in school administration positions. 4. Culture was recognized as the major barrier as compared to all other factors. 5. Family pressures were also a deterrent to women teachers aspiring to become educational administrators. Reproduced with6. Kenyan women teachers showed little interest in and commitment to educational administration as a career. 7. Lack of role-models was yet another factor preventing women from pursuing careers in educational administration. Description: Dissertation URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3926 Files in this item: 1
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