Journal Articles

Influence of Competitive Strategy On Service Delivery of Petroleum Firms in Nairobi County, Kenya

2025-07-01T00:00:00Z

Influence of Competitive Strategy On Service Delivery of Petroleum Firms in Nairobi County, Kenya Hassan, Nasro Abduhakim; Kihara, Peter; Muema, Wilson Petroleum firms in Kenya operate within a competitive, volatile environment shaped by price fluctuations, infrastructural gaps, and regulatory changes. This study investigated the effect of competitive strategy on service delivery among petroleum firms in Nairobi County. Using a descriptive cross-sectional survey design, the study integrated both qualitative and quantitative methods. From a target population of 324 service stations, 125 managers were selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed with SPSS version 28, employing descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Results revealed a positive and statistically significant relationship between competitive strategy and service delivery (β = 0.717, p = 0.000). Key strategic drivers included service innovation, technology adoption, and employee satisfaction. The study concluded that firms prioritizing competitive strategies experience improved service quality and responsiveness. It recommends continuous investment in technological advancement, customer-focused initiatives, and strategic partnerships to enhance service performance in the petroleum sector.

Influence of Kenya's Military engagement in Somalia on the achievement of Kenya’s National interests.

2025-05-01T00:00:00Z

Influence of Kenya's Military engagement in Somalia on the achievement of Kenya’s National interests. Muhati, Kerry; Agolla, Fredrick Ochieng; Miluwi, Joshua O. Kenya's military engagement in Somalia since 2011 represents a significant shift from traditional non- interference to active regional security participation. This study examined the influence of Kenya's military engagement in Somalia on achieving national interests, focusing on three key dimensions: border security enforcement operations, maritime security operations, and peace support and stabilization missions. The research employed a descriptive design using quantitative approaches to analyze data from 165 stakeholders, including military officers, government officials, counterterrorism experts, and community members, achieving a 96.5% response rate. The study utilized structured questionnaires and employed SPSS version 27.0 for statistical analysis, including descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The theoretical framework was grounded in realist international relations theory, particularly defensive realism, which explains Kenya's intervention as rational threat-balancing behavior to protect vital national interests. Key findings revealed that all three military engagement components significantly influenced national interests’ achievement. Regression analysis demonstrated strong explanatory power (R2 = 0.718, F = 78.03, p < 0.001), with border security enforcement showing the strongest individual impact (β = 0.351), followed by maritime operations (β = 0.312) and peace missions (β = 0.308). International cooperation and regional influence achieved highest success levels, while economic protection and addressing conflict root causes showed lower effectiveness. The study concludes that Kenya's military engagement effectively advances national interests through complementary mechanisms, validating defensive realist theory while highlighting the importance of comprehensive approaches. Recommendations include maintaining comprehensive engagement while prioritizing border security investments, enhancing bilateral capacity building, developing integrated civil- military strategies, and pursuing diplomatic initiatives to address underlying political tensions for sustainable long-term stability.

Organizational Structure and Performance of Tier One Commercial Banks in Nairobi County, Kenya

2025-07-01T00:00:00Z

Organizational Structure and Performance of Tier One Commercial Banks in Nairobi County, Kenya Rita, Chaga Mwamsindo; Kihara, Peter; Cherono, Vivian The performance of Tier One commercial banks in Nairobi County is increasingly shaped by internal structural dynamics amid rising operational costs, stricter regulatory demands, and heightened market competition. This study investigated the effect of organizational structure— focusing on hierarchy levels, formalization, and span of control—on bank performance. Grounded in Organizational Structure Theory, the research adopted a descriptive design targeting senior and middle-level managers from all 11 Tier One banks. A purposive sample of 88 managers drawn from 8 banks participated in the study. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS Version 26.0, employing descriptive statistics and simple linear regression. The findings revealed strong, negative, and statistically significant bivariate relationships between each organizational structure variable and bank performance. However, the simple linear regression results indicated that the overall influence of organizational structure on performance was not statistically significant (β = –2.14, p = 0.113). This suggests that although structural elements such as hierarchy, formalization, and span of control may individually impact performance, their combined effect does not sufficiently explain performance variations when analyzed within a single model. The study concludes that organizational structure may influence performance outcomes at the individual factor level, but its predictive power is limited when assessed holistically through simple regression. It is recommended that Tier One banks consider streamlining their internal structures by eliminating unnecessary hierarchical layers, simplifying formal procedures, and widening managerial span of control where feasible. Pilot-testing these structural changes in selected units may offer practical insights for enhancing strategic performance in a competitive banking environment.

Agency Banking Strategy and Performance of Commercial Banks of Tier Three Banks in Kenya

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Agency Banking Strategy and Performance of Commercial Banks of Tier Three Banks in Kenya Kinyua, Robert Muchiri; Kihara, Peter; Milui, Joshua The performance of commercial banks in Kenya has increasingly been influenced by the adoption and utilization of agency banking, which plays a pivotal role in enhancing operational efficiency, customer engagement, and overall bank performance. This study investigates the influence of agency banking on the performance of tier-three commercial banks in Kenya, focusing specifically on the number of agents, agent network coverage, transaction volume through agents, and agent performance metrics. Grounded in Resource- Based Theory, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Diffusion of Innovations Theory, Bank-Led Theory, and Agency Theory, the research examines how the adoption and integration of agency banking affect key performance indicators. A descriptive research design was used, targeting all 21 tier-three commercial banks in Nairobi City County, with a sample population of 2,123 employees across senior, middle, and operational management. Primary data was collected through structured questionnaires distributed to a purposive sample of 273 employees. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive, diagnostic, and inferential statistical methods with SPSS Version 26.0. The findings revealed that agency banking significantly and positively influenced the organizational performance of tier-three banks in Kenya. The study concludes that enhancing agency banking strategies can improve the operational efficiency of these banks. Recommendations include expanding agent networks, optimizing transaction volumes, and improving agent performance metrics to maximize the potential of agency banking and ensure long-term success.

Influence of Strategic Direction on Organizational Performance of Public Corporations in Kenya. A Case Study of Agricultural Finance Corporation

2024-08-01T00:00:00Z

Influence of Strategic Direction on Organizational Performance of Public Corporations in Kenya. A Case Study of Agricultural Finance Corporation Muchiri, Veronicah Mwihaki; Gichunge, Evangeline; Mutegi, Doreen This study examined the influence of strategic direction on the organizational performance of public corporations in Kenya, focusing specifically on the Agricultural Finance Corporation. The study was grounded in Contingency Theory. A descriptive research design was employed, with data collected from a sample of 204 employees across various management levels at AFC. The study also adopted simple random method. Primary data were gathered through standardized questionnaires, while secondary data on organizational performance were sourced from AFC’s financial reports and other relevant publications. Data analysis involved the use of descriptive and inferential statistics, including mean, standard deviation, Pearson correlation, and regression analysis, facilitated by SPSS version 29. It was found that a well-defined strategic direction, when effectively communicated and aligned with the organization’s operations, led to improved financial performance, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Based on these findings, the study recommended several strategies for improving the performance of public corporations like AFC. It was recommended that AFC’s leadership enhance strategic communication to ensure that all employees are aligned with the organization’s vision, mission, and goals.

Influence of Demographic Factors on Uptake of Diagnostic Imaging by Oncology Patients in South Rift Counties, Kenya

2024-08-01T00:00:00Z

Influence of Demographic Factors on Uptake of Diagnostic Imaging by Oncology Patients in South Rift Counties, Kenya Muikamba, Lilian; Tenambergen, Wanja; Muiruri, Lilian Purpose: To determine the influence of demographic factors on uptake of diagnostic imaging by oncology patients in South Rift Counties, Kenya. Methodology: A cross-sectional research design was adopted when collecting data from 5 public hospitals in South Rift Counties. The study issued questionnaires to oncology patients and interviewed the rest of the respondents. A pre-test study was done at Texas Cancer Center in Nairobi County. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression analysis. Qualitative results data was analyzed through thematic method. Results: 74(25%) patients had 41-50 years and 65(22%) were 61-70 years. The least number of oncology patients who were 3(1%) and they were 18-20 years of age. Further, 264(89%) were married while 33(11%) were not married. Additionally, 182(61%) were male patients while 115(39%) were female patients. Additionally, 166(56%) had a tertiary level of education while 39(13%) had primary school qualifications. In addition, 203(68%) were Christians and 80(27%) were Muslims and only 5(2%) were not religious. Notably, 110(37%) of the patients had breast cancer while 77(26%) had colon cancer. The least group of patients who were 12(4%) had lung cancer. Additionally, most of healthcare workers who were 12(39%) had more than 50 years while 10(32%) had 41-50 years. However, 4(13%) had 18-30 years. Further, 18(58%) had a master’s degree while 5(16%) had a PhD. In addition, 17(55%) had more than 10 years of service while only 5(16%) had 5-7 years. The Chi-square result revealed that χ2 (1, N = 297) = 461.599, p < 0.05. That is the Pearson Chi-Square was 461.599 at a p-value of 0.027. Conclusion and Recommendations: Most patients that sought cancer diagnostic imaging were middle and old aged male people who were married. This meant that unmarried young female adults hardly sought imaging services. The most common cancer illnesses scanned were breast, colon, and cervical cancers. The study recommends that that the hospital management should provide more funding for sensitization programs to inform unmarried young people especially females to seek early diagnostic imaging services. This will enable them to ensure that no cancerous cells are growing to be discovered at a late stage for effective management.

Factors Influencing the Uptake of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services Among Adolescent Girls in Humanitarian Crises: A Case Study of Bor County, South Sudan

2025-12-01T00:00:00Z

Factors Influencing the Uptake of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services Among Adolescent Girls in Humanitarian Crises: A Case Study of Bor County, South Sudan Areet, Areet Ayuen; Masinde, Lily J. A.; Kyulu, Teresia M. Humanitarian crises in South Sudan, characterized by conflict, displacement, and disrupted health systems, severely limit adolescent girls' access to SRH services. The study employed a mixed-methods design. This study aimed to examine factors influencing the uptake of SRH services among adolescent girls aged 15-19 in Bor County, South Sudan. The target population included adolescent girls aged 15-19, with a sample size of 225 participants selected through purposive sampling. Data was collected via semi-structured questionnaires for quantitative insights and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) for qualitative perspectives. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (means, standard deviations, and regression analysis) with SPSS Version 25.0, and results were presented in tables, pie charts, and graphs. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically using NVivo software to identify key patterns and themes. The study found that accessibility was the most significant barrier (Beta = 0.311, p = 0.021), with long distances to clinics, poor transportation, and lack of youth-friendly services limiting uptake. Awareness and knowledge (Beta = 0.219, p = 0.032) were constrained by inadequate school-based SRH education. Psychosocial factors (Beta = 0.201, p = 0.001), including stigma and trauma, significantly deterred service utilization. Socio-cultural and economic factors (Beta = 0.156, p = 0.002), such as cultural taboos and poverty, had a notable but lesser impact. This study enriches the literature by providing context-specific insights into SRH service uptake in humanitarian settings, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by adolescent girls in Bor County. It recommends youth-friendly mobile clinics, comprehensive sexuality education, and community-based stigma reduction programs to align with South Sudan’s adolescent health policies and global humanitarian SRH standards

Health System Factors that Influence Hpv Vaccine Uptake in Kiambu County

2025-07-01T00:00:00Z

Health System Factors that Influence Hpv Vaccine Uptake in Kiambu County Mwangi, Solomon Maina; M’mayi, Consolata; .Masinde, Lily J.A. Human papillomavirus HPV is a major cause of cervical cancer infection, however, HPV vaccine uptake among the targeted groups (ages 9-14) remains suboptimal in many regions, including Kiambu County, Kenya. Across sectional design sought to assess the relationships between health system factors and vaccine uptake. The study targeted parents with daughters aged 9–14 years. A sample of 400 respondents was included to provide a robust representation of the target population, ensuring comprehensive and reliable insights. Key findings indicate that health system factors such as absence of health provider’s, access to vaccination services and communication by healthcare providers to parents emerged as critical determinants of vaccine uptake. From the findings the study concluded that there is a significant impact of health system factors on vaccination decisions. Based on the findings the study recommended that the County Government of Kiambu through the department of Health should improve Communication among Health Care Providers and when training healthcare providers they should use recommended communication strategies to engage parents in discussing HPV vaccination.

Effect of Employees’ Training Content Relevance on Service Quality in Public Catering Institutions in Nairobi County

2025-08-01T00:00:00Z

Effect of Employees’ Training Content Relevance on Service Quality in Public Catering Institutions in Nairobi County Yegon, Erustus Kibet; Muchai, Peter; Cherono, Vivian This study sought to assess the effect of employees’ training content relevance on service quality in Public Catering Institutions in Nairobi County. Grounded in Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory, the study employed a descriptive research design. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 327 respondents from a target population of 2,211 staff members, including Heads of Catering Units, catering managers, and operational staff. Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential methods such as correlation and regression analysis, while qualitative data were evaluated thematically. The findings revealed that training content relevance had a statistically significant positive impact on service quality. The study concluded that effective and strategically designed employee training is a key lever for improving service quality in public catering institutions. Merely conducting training is not sufficient; the training must be responsive to job realities, tailored to institutional goals, and structured to ensure practical application and skill adaptability. These insights affirm that service excellence in the public sector depends not just on resource allocation, but on the relevance and execution of employee development initiatives. Going forward, institutions must integrate modern training techniques such as blended and experiential learning, and foster a culture of ongoing skills enhancement. These measures will not only elevate service standards but also strengthen public confidence in government-run food service programs.

Influence of Strategy Implementation on Performance of Water Service Providers in the Lower-Eastern Counties of Kenya

2025-09-01T00:00:00Z

Influence of Strategy Implementation on Performance of Water Service Providers in the Lower-Eastern Counties of Kenya Miriti, Erastus Mwongera; Kihara, Peter; Miluwi, Joshua Water scarcity continues to constrain socioeconomic development in Lower-Eastern Kenya, with water service providers struggling to address high Non-Revenue Water (NRW) levels, weak coverage expansion, and financial sustainability concerns. This study examined the influence of strategy implementation on the performance of licensed water service providers in the region. Grounded in the Resource-Based View (RBV), which emphasizes effective deployment of valuable, rare, inimitable, and non-substitutable resources for competitive advantage, the study assessed how strategic processes translate into organizational outcomes. A positivist philosophy and descriptive survey design guided the research. A stratified purposive sample of 183 respondents was drawn from a population of 758 staff across ten providers. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, pre-tested for reliability, and analyzed using SPSS Version 21. Descriptive statistics established existing practices, while regression analysis tested the hypothesized relationship. Findings revealed strong leadership engagement and organizational capacity but highlighted gaps in employee support, particularly inadequate training, motivation, and resource provision. Inferential results demonstrated a significant positive relationship between strategy implementation and performance (R = 0.526, R2 = 0.277, β = 0.491, p < 0.001). This indicates that strategy implementation explains 27.7% of performance variation, confirming that providers with robust implementation processes achieve superior efficiency, customer satisfaction, and financial outcomes. The study concludes that strategy implementation is a critical driver of performance but must be complemented by broader reforms and capacity-building initiatives. It recommends strengthening employee support systems, enhancing monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, building implementation capabilities across organizational levels, prioritizing financial sustainability, and investing in research and innovation to foster adaptive strategies for long-term water service improvement.