Master of Business Administration

Financial Literacy on Investment Decisions Among Public Secondary School Teachers Under Teacher Service Commission in Meru County Kenya

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Financial Literacy on Investment Decisions Among Public Secondary School Teachers Under Teacher Service Commission in Meru County Kenya KITAWA, MAY KITAWA In Kenya, the education sector receives the greatest share of the national budget, with a sizable amount going toward teacher wages because of their high employment rates. The purpose of this study was to assess how financial literacy affected the investment choices made by public secondary school teachers in Meru County, Kenya. As stated in the Solution SACCO annual report for 2022, it aimed to comprehend the difficulties teachers encounter when preparing for their financial future and the part financial literacy plays in this regard. The study specifically examined the influence of debt management knowledge, saving literacy, budgetary skills, and risk diversification on the investment choices of these teachers. The research was grounded in several theoretical frameworks, including Financial Literacy Theory, Prospect Theory, Dual Process Theory, and Goal Setting Theory, which provided a foundation for the review of related literature. The analysis was conducted in accordance with the conceptual framework and goals of the study. 1,825 teachers working in public secondary schools throughout Meru County were part of the target group. Both primary and secondary sources of data were used in the descriptive study approach. Purposive sampling was utilized in the study to choose schools from Meru County's nine sub-counties, and 328 respondents were chosen by simple random selection. Thirty teachers in Tharaka Nithi County, or 10% of the sample size, participated in a pilot study of a self-administered questionnaire to verify the validity of the research instruments. The questionnaire was improved by academic supervisors' feedback, which cleared up any misunderstandings and removed unnecessary items. The distribution and collecting of surveys were accomplished utilizing the drop-and-pick approach. Following collection, the data was examined for flaws, including typographical errors and unanswered questions. After being coded, the data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Regression analysis, ANOVA tests, and coefficients of determination were used to investigate correlations and develop the model equation before the results were displayed in tables. Pearson correlation analysis was used to evaluate hypotheses, and descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation were computed. Reports, frequency distribution tables, and infographics provided summaries of the results. With an R2 value of 0.691 from the multiple regression analysis, financial literacy variables accounted for 69.1% of the variation in investment choices made by Meru County's public secondary school teachers. Specifically, knowledge in debt management, saving, and risk diversification demonstrated significant positive effects on investment decisions, with coefficients of 0.045, 0.363, and 0.340, respectively, and p-values below 0.05. Conversely, budgetary literacy showed a positive but statistically insignificant relationship with investment decisions, as reflected in a p-value of 0.138 and a coefficient of 0.078. According to the data, teachers in public secondary schools often follow good financial habits, such as avoiding loan defaults, closely examining credit terms, making timely loan repayments, and using unsecured loans sensibly. The study suggested encouraging teachers who work for the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to adopt a saving and investing mindset. It also emphasized the need for more studies to examine non-financial aspects that can affect educators' investment choices.

Factors that influence girl child education in secondary schools of Ilchamus-Mukutani Sub-County, Baringo County, Kenya

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Factors that influence girl child education in secondary schools of Ilchamus-Mukutani Sub-County, Baringo County, Kenya Lempassy Lemelwai, Rebecca Girls’ education should be allowed so as to grasp key concepts that enables them communicate better, perform basic arithmetic and improve their reasoning abilities. However, there have been rampant cases of high number of drop-out rates among girls in secondary schools in Kenya. The general objective was to investigate the factors that influence girl child education in secondary schools of Ilchamus-Mukutani Sub-County, Baringo County, Kenya. The specific objectives were to examine the influence of socioeconomic factors, cultural factors, learning facilities, and goal settings on girl-child education in secondary schools of Ilchamus-Mukutani Sub-County, Baringo County, Kenya. The study was informed by three theories which are Maslow's hierarchy of needs, gender relations theory and cognitive theory. The study used the descriptive research design to gain comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence girl child education. The unit of analysis comprised of 6 girls and mixed secondary schools located in Ilchamus-Mukutani Sub-County, Baringo County, Kenya. The respondents of the study were 1,652 female students, 6 principals and 46 teachers. The principals were sampled through purposive method to have 6 principals representing each secondary school. Furthermore, the teachers and female students were sampled through simple random method as a way of ensuring that all get an equal chance of being involved in the study. This was especially after the sample size had been determined through the Nassiuma (2000) formular to have 38 teachers and 198 female students. The female students were issued with a questionnaire that was different from the questionnaire issued to their teachers. Additionally, the principals were interviewed through an interview guide. A pilot test was conducted in Pemwai Girls High School in Baringo Central Sub-County. Reliability was examined through Cronbach alpha coefficient. Furthermore, the study conducted three types of validities which are content, criterion and construct validity. Descriptive data was analyzed through the SPSS software where various descriptive statistics like frequencies, percentages and mean were provided. Additionally, correlational, model summary and ANOVA were part of inferential analyses that were also provided. The presentation of the results was done through tables, figures, pie charts and graphs. The interview responses were analyzed through thematic method. The findings were that, secondary schools were still struggling with finances, had low number of teachers and increased insecurity in the area. In addition, few milestones were made by the schools in creating cultural awareness to impact knowledge among girls on their responsibility to the community. Further, inadequate counseling facilities, science laboratories, and conducive classes, were a major problem facing the secondary schools. Notably, lack of focus despite the set goals, indiscipline cases and negative peer pressure, were the major impediments affecting the girls’ education. The recommendations are that the political and community leaders should consider channeling their frustrations and predicaments to security agencies instead of engaging in clashes. There should be surveillance mechanism by the school administration on the girls that have stopped coming to school and report the matter to the relevant authority for action. The teachers should develop training programs that seek to equip girls with clear concentration methods.

Effects of work-life balance practices on employee performance in public and private universities in Mount Kenya region, Kenya

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Effects of work-life balance practices on employee performance in public and private universities in Mount Kenya region, Kenya MUTHONI NJIRU, CATHERINE Employee performance is a critical determinant of institutional success in higher education, influencing teaching quality, research output, and administrative efficiency. However, in Kenyan universities both public and private staff often face work-life imbalance due to rigid work schedules, limited leave, weak wellness structures, and inadequate support systems. This study examined the effect of work-life balance practices on employee performance in universities within the Mount Kenya Region. Specifically, it focused on four variables: flexible work arrangements, wellness programs, leave programs, and employee assistance programs. The study was underpinned by Job Demands-Resources Theory, Work-Family Border Theory, Conservation of Resources Theory, and Social Exchange Theory. A descriptive survey design was adopted, targeting 3,074 academic and non-academic staff across eight universities. A sample of 353 respondents was selected using simple random sampling, and data were collected through structured questionnaires. Reliability was confirmed via Cronbach’s alpha (α ≥ 0.7), and SPSS v25 was used for analysis, including descriptive, correlational, and regression techniques. Descriptive results revealed high mean scores across all dimensions of work-life balance, indicating respondents’ agreement with the availability and effectiveness of these practices: flexible work arrangements (M = 4.04, SD = 0.62), wellness programs (M = 4.06, SD = 0.61), leave programs (M = 4.00, SD = 0.66), and employee assistance programs (M = 4.03, SD = 0.63). Pearson correlation analysis showed statistically significant and strong positive relationships between each independent variable and employee performance, with flexible work arrangements (r = 0.688), wellness programs (r = 0.670), leave programs (r = 0.624), and employee assistance programs (r = 0.663), all at p < 0.01. Multiple regression analysis revealed that these work-life balance dimensions collectively explained 74.7% of the variance in employee performance (adjusted R² = 0.743), with the model being statistically significant (F = 171.985, p < 0.001). Each variable had a significant positive influence: flexible work arrangements (β = 0.486), employee assistance programs (β = 0.442), wellness programs (β = 0.411), and leave programs (β = 0.393), all with p < 0.001. Flexible work arrangements emerged as the strongest predictor. The study concludes that strengthening work-life balance practices can substantially enhance staff performance in the university sector. It recommends embedding flexible scheduling, holistic wellness strategies, equitable leave entitlements, and accessible employee support systems in human resource policies. These insights offer a strategic framework for improving employee well-being and institutional productivity in higher education

Effects of adopting green procurement practices on organization environmental performance in tea industries in Meru County

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Effects of adopting green procurement practices on organization environmental performance in tea industries in Meru County Webster, Salvsen The world-wide trend favors environmentally sustainable practices and numerous organizations have embraced this concept through initiatives known as green practices. This compelling study investigated the transformative impact of adopting green procurement practices on the environmental performance of tea processing industries in Meru County, Kenya—a critical agricultural hub contributing significantly to the nation's economy. The research specifically focused on four critical areas: green supplier selection, green manufacturing, green logistics, and the incorporation of renewable energy sources. Data were collected from a sample of 321 respondents, including factory unit managers, departmental heads and staff from eight tea processing factories in Meru County. The study achieved an exceptional response rate of 94% ensuring the reliability of the findings. Primary data was gathered through structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews with the respondents, while secondary data were obtained from existing literature to provide context and depth to the analysis. The study also included a pilot study conducted in Kericho County with 34 respondents representing 10% of the sample size, to ensure the reliability and validity of the research instruments.The findings revealed several groundbreaking insights that challenge conventional assumptions about environmental sustainability in manufacturing. First, the selection of green suppliers was found to significantly reduce environmental degradation, with tea factories that prioritized environmentally responsible suppliers reporting improved resource management and waste reduction. Second, the adoption of green manufacturing practices led to enhanced resource efficiency and minimized waste production, contributing to better environmental performance and substantial cost savings. Third, the implementation of green logistics practices, such as optimizing transportation routes and adopting eco-friendly packaging, resulted in a substantial reduction in the carbon footprint of the tea processing factories and improved operational efficiency. Most remarkably, the incorporation of renewable energy sources, including solar and wind power, was found to significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduce energy costs, further strengthening the environmental sustainability of these factories.

EFFECT OF STRATEGIC FORESIGHT ON ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE IN FOOD PROCESSING COMPANIES IN MERU COUNTY

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

EFFECT OF STRATEGIC FORESIGHT ON ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE IN FOOD PROCESSING COMPANIES IN MERU COUNTY MWENDWA KOBIA, WINFRED Despite the existence of processing companies in Kenya, there have been increased imports of processed food products, while exports of food and beverages, have declined. The study examined the influence of strategic foresight on organizational performance of food processing companies in Meru County. The specific objectives determined the influence of trend analysis practices, scenario planning practices, horizon scanning practices, and back casting practices on the organizational performance of food processing companies in Meru County. The three theories of the study were, contingency, resource-based view, and strategic choice theories. The research design was descriptive while the target population comprised of 78 food processing companies in Meru County. The respondents were 97 directors, 121 operations managers, 99 quality assurance managers, 116 compliance managers, 132 marketing managers, and 121 risk managers. The respondents were sampled through a simple random method, and the sample size was determined through Slovin's formula. This led to 78 directors, 93 operations managers, 79 quality assurance managers, 90 compliance managers, 99 marketing managers, and 93 risk managers. Directors answered open- and closed-ended structured questionnaires, while the managers answered closed-ended questionnaires. A pilot test was conducted in 8 processing companies in Tharaka Nithi County. The information from the questionnaires was analyzed using SPSS software version 27. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, mean, and standard deviation were conducted. Thereafter, Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis were done. The study found that strategic decision-making was slow due to weak market intelligence systems, poor training in resource allocation, and underused technology. Managers relied on intuition rather than structured protocols, lacking training in effective strategy implementation. The study recommends enhancing training in market analysis, better use of existing technology for planning, exposure to external corporate interactions, and bringing in experts to provide refresher courses on strategic management and back casting.

Influence of Change Management Strategies on Performance of Commercial Banks in Kenya

2025-09-01T00:00:00Z

Influence of Change Management Strategies on Performance of Commercial Banks in Kenya Sitonik, Janet Chepngetich Commercial banks in Kenya have faced low growth over the years, leading to closures, mergers, and exits from the market, resulting in job losses and stalling industrial development. This study investigated the influence of change management strategies on the performance of commercial banks in Kenya. Specifically, the study assessed the impact of communication, employee involvement, resource allocation, and monitoring on bank performance, anchored on Kotter’s 8-Step Model for Change, Kurt Lewin’s Change Management Model, and Enterprise Risk Management Theory. The study utilized a descriptive research design. Targeting 39 commercial banks and 190 middle-level managers, stratified random sampling selected 129 respondents. Data was collected through online and physical questionnaires for primary data, and financial statements and magazines for secondary data. Quantitative analysis utilized descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data was analyzed thematically. Findings revealed significant positive relationships between performance and communication (β=0.200, p=0.0307), employee involvement (β=0.407, p=0.001), resource allocation (β=0.536, p=0.001), and monitoring (β=0.156, p=0.009). The study concluded that robust communication, effective resource allocation, proactive monitoring, and employee involvement significantly enhance performance. The study recommended robust feedback mechanisms, effective financial planning, and proactive auditing to strengthen performance during change initiatives.

Stakeholders’ Engagement Strategies and Performance of Community-Based Peace Building Projects Initiatives by Non-Profit Making Organizations in Northern Kenya.

2025-10-01T00:00:00Z

Stakeholders’ Engagement Strategies and Performance of Community-Based Peace Building Projects Initiatives by Non-Profit Making Organizations in Northern Kenya. Okeyo, Beatrice Atieno Despite the contributions of non-profit organizations to peacebuilding initiatives, their efforts have often been hindered by limited cooperation from government agencies due to structural constraints. This study therefore examined the influence of stakeholder engagement strategies on the performance of community-based peacebuilding projects in Northern Kenya. The specific objectives were to establish the effect of building trust strategies, decision making inclusivity, capacity building, and conflict management strategies on the performance of community-based peacebuilding initiatives implemented by non-profit organizations in Northern Kenya. Anchored on the Stakeholder Theory, the study adopted a descriptive research design targeting 44 NGOs engaged in peacebuilding across the in Northern Kenya region. Using purposive sampling, one Reconciliation Program Officer and one Community Outreach Officer were selected from each organization, yielding a total of 88 respondents. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including correlation and regression analyses. Findings were presented using frequency distribution tables. From the findings, it was established that stakeholders’ engagement strategies had a significant influence on the performance of community-based peace building projects by non-profit-making organizations in Northern Kenya. Building trust strategies were shown to be a major determinant of project success, although NGOs face persistent challenges such as historical grievances, ethnic tensions, and community skepticism, which often limit their effectiveness. Decision-making inclusivity also emerged as a critical factor, with top-down approaches and the exclusion of women, youth, minority clans, and persons with disabilities weakening project legitimacy and deepening divisions. Capacity building was found to significantly affect performance, as many communities lack the necessary skills and institutional structures to sustain peace efforts, and existing training programs often fail to match local realities. Conflict management strategies, including mediation, dialogue forums, and early warning systems, contributed to improved community relations, though their long-term impact was undermined by insecurity, political interference, and resource constraints. The study recommends that NGOs adopt participatory approaches that prioritize inclusive dialogue, cultural sensitivity, and community ownership to strengthen trust and project sustainability. Decision-making structures should be inclusive, ensuring active participation of marginalized groups and integrating local conflict resolution mechanisms to build legitimacy. Capacity-building efforts need to be context-specific, practical, and community-driven, with a focus on mentorship, institutional strengthening, and long-term partnerships to enhance local skills and structures. For conflict management, NGOs should collaborate closely with local governance systems, integrate indigenous practices, establish effective early warning mechanisms, and secure consistent funding and policy support to sustain peace building efforts in Northern Kenya.

Influence of Strategy Implementation on Organizational Performance of The County Government of Tharaka Nithi, Kenya

2025-03-01T00:00:00Z

Influence of Strategy Implementation on Organizational Performance of The County Government of Tharaka Nithi, Kenya Njagi, Sheilla Kawira Strategy implementation involves translating strategic plans into actionable steps to achieve organizational objectives. The enactment of the Kenyan Constitution in 2010 introduced a decentralized governance system, requiring counties to engage in structured pre-budget planning. The County Government Act of 2012 mandates the formulation of key plans, including the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP), County Sectoral Plans, County Spatial Plans, and County Performance Management Plans. This study investigates the influence of leadership styles, organizational structure, organizational culture, and financial resource availability on strategy implementation and organizational performance in Tharaka Nithi County Government, Kenya. The study was anchored on the McKinsey 7S framework, Higgins 8S framework, and the Resource-Based View theory. A descriptive research design was adopted, targeting a population of 160 employees, from which 114 respondents were selected using stratified random sampling. Data collection was conducted through questionnaires, and a mixed-methods approach was used in data analysis. Qualitative data underwent content analysis, while quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics, including regression analysis via SPSS. Findings were presented in tables and narratives. Regression analysis revealed that β of 0.593 and p of 0.001between resource availability and perforamnce, a β of 0.686 and p of 0.001between leadership styles and perforamnce, a β of 0.454 and p of 0.001between organizational structure and perforamnce, and β of 0.807 and p of 0.001between organizational culture and performance. The study concludes that leadership , resource allocation, organiztaional structured and culture significantly and positively influenced performance of the county government of Tharaka Nithi. The study recommends sustained investment in personnel, financial support, procurement optimization, and machinery maintenance to enhance project execution. Leaders should emphasize ethical practices, invest in conflict-resolution training, delegate responsibilities effectively, and implement fair reward systems. Additionally, streamlining the organizational structure can improve communication, collaboration, authority clarity, and participative decision-making. Strengthening shared values, fostering innovation, enhancing employee engagement, and promoting open communication will further improve organizational culture, ultimately driving better performance within the county government.

Effect Of Index-Based Livestock Insurance and Financial Resilience Among Pastoralists in Borana Community, Southern Ethiopia

2025-08-01T00:00:00Z

Effect Of Index-Based Livestock Insurance and Financial Resilience Among Pastoralists in Borana Community, Southern Ethiopia Kusha, Biqa Boru Pastoralists living in areas prone to climate shocks and market fluctuations, such as those in the Borana community of Southern Ethiopia, depend primarily on livestock for their livelihoods. This heavy reliance makes them particularly vulnerable to economic and environmental disruptions. Index-Based Livestock Insurance (IBLI) has been developed as a financial innovation to address these vulnerabilities. Unlike traditional indemnity-based insurance, IBLI provides payouts based on objective indices, such as satellite-derived vegetation cover and rainfall levels, eliminating the need for individual livestock loss assessments. This approach ensures timely compensation, enabling pastoralists to preserve their herds, recover from climate shocks, and maintain economic stability through income diversification and reinvestment strategies. This study assessed the effect of IBLI on the financial resilience of pastoralists in Borana. Four key constructs were examined: risk management, income diversification, asset preservation, and economic empowerment. The research was anchored in Prospect Theory, Modern Portfolio Theory, Social Capital Theory, and the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach, offering a multi-dimensional understanding of how financial tools can enhance resilience through improved decision-making, asset management, and social cooperation. A descriptive research design was employed, targeting a population of 24,560 pastoralists. Using Yamane’s formula, a sample size of 394 was determined and allocated proportionally across various districts using simple random sampling. Structured questionnaires with both closed and open-ended items were used to collect data. A pilot test was conducted to assess the instrument’s validity, and Cronbach’s alpha was employed to measure internal consistency, with a threshold of 0.7 considered acceptable. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0, with both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including frequencies, means, standard deviations, percentages, and regression analysis. Out of the 394 targeted participants, 372 successfully responded, yielding a 95.4% response rate, which confirmed data reliability. The findings showed that 79% of respondents believed IBLI significantly reduced financial losses during droughts, thereby preventing distress livestock sales. 74% reported that the insurance contributed to income diversification, with payouts helping them invest in alternative livelihoods. In terms of asset preservation, 81% indicated that IBLI protected their livestock assets during adverse weather events, allowing them to rebuild herds and continue income-generating activities. Additionally, 67% acknowledged the role of IBLI in enhancing economic empowerment, particularly through support for cooperative management, financial inclusion, and market engagement. Regression analysis revealed a strong positive correlation (R = 0.816) between IBLI and financial resilience, indicating that the insurance scheme has a significant and measurable effect on improving the financial security of pastoral households. The study concludes that IBLI plays a critical role in enhancing financial resilience among pastoralists in Borana. It recommends expanding IBLI access, launching awareness campaigns, subsidizing insurance premiums, and integrating IBLI with local savings and credit groups to increase participation and effect. These recommendations aim to support broader efforts in climate adaptation, financial inclusion, and the sustainable development of livestock-reliant communities. Future research should explore the long-term effects of IBLI on poverty reduction, as well as the potential of digital financial technologies to improve outreach and transparency. Comparative studies assessing IBLI alongside other resilience strategies would provide further insights for policy and programming in vulnerable pastoral regions.

Effect Of Foreign Exchange Risk Management on Financial Performance of Flower Firms in Meru County, Kenya.

2025-07-01T00:00:00Z

Effect Of Foreign Exchange Risk Management on Financial Performance of Flower Firms in Meru County, Kenya. Kalthum, Abdullahi Nuna Kenya's flower industry is a vital sector that contributes significantly to the nation's income generation through exports, but it has faced a gradual decline over the past five years, affecting its performance.Earlier research on the relationship between foreign exchange risk management and company performance has highlighted various gaps that require further exploration. As a result, the main objective of this research is to assess how foreign exchange risk management affects the financial performance of flower businesses in Meru County, Kenya.The study is anchored in the Theory of Rational Expectations, the International Fisher Effect Theory, and frameworks from New Institutional Economics. The investigation sought to achieve its aims by utilizing an explanatory research approach, focusing on the leading flower enterprises in Timau, Meru County for a duration of three years (2020 – 2022). Surveys with both open-ended and closed-ended questions were used to collect primary data, while structured tables were used to collect secondary data.The study targeted 158 managers from five well-known firms: P.J Dave Rising Sun Timau Farm, Batian Flowers, Upendo Flowers, Tambuzi, and Uhuru Flowers. This management group consisted of accountants, export managers, and operational managers, all of whom play a crucial role in the creation, selling, and exporting of their flower products. Given the relatively compact size of the study group, a complete census of all 158 participants was conducted. Upon data collection, SPSS software version 27 facilitated the extraction of descriptive statistics and the execution of multiple linear regression analyses to assess the research hypotheses. The hypotheses were tested using multiple linear regression analysis, and mean values and standard deviations were computed using descriptive statistics. The results were then organized into summaries, detailed reports, and frequency distribution tables. The analysis of multiple regression indicated that the R^2 value stood at 0.727, suggesting that the variables related to managing risks from foreign exchange accounted for 72.7% of the changes in the financial outcomes of the floriculture businesses in Timau Meru county. The research further indicated that effective handling of transaction risk, economic risk, and Net Exposure Management associated with foreign currency significantly impacted the financial results of these businesses in Timau Meru county, evidenced by significant values less than 0.05 and coefficients of 0.44, 0.201, and 0.330, respectively. On the other hand, the management of translation risk from foreign exchange showcased a positive, yet not significant, association with financial performance, demonstrated by a p-value of 0.314 and a coefficient of 0.085. The results indicate that the financial performance of floriculture businesses in Timau Meru county is positively impacted by the management of foreign currency risk. Consequently, it is recommended for these businesses to employ a diversified approach towards hedging against foreign currency risks, rather than relying on a singular technique.