Masters Theses and Dissertations
Permanent URI for this communityhttp://41.89.31.6:4000/handle/123456789/6
Welcome to Masters Theses and Dissertation community
Browse
1077 results
Search Results
Item Influence of Digital Financial Services On Financial Inclusion Among Women-Owned Enterprises in Kajiado Central Sub-County(KeMU, 2026-09) SARAFINO LEPARMARAIFinancial inclusion aims to close gaps in the access enterprises have to financial products and services, though uptake remains weak among businesses owned by women. Figures reveal that merely 15.6% of SMEs obtain bank credit, whereas only 10% have fully woven digital financial services into their transactions. Numerous SMEs still encounter difficulties when trying to reach financial services, which raises their exposure to financial exclusion. In response, a range of digital financial services has been rolled out and taken up by small enterprises. This study explored how digital financial services influence financial inclusion among women-owned enterprises in Kajiado Central Sub-County. In particular, it evaluated the impact of digital payment, withdrawal, savings, and credit services. The research drew on financial intermediation theory and technology acceptance model (TAM) together with rational choice theory and employed a quantitative explanatory survey research design. Altogether, 138 questionnaires were issued to respondents in chosen women-owned enterprises in Kajiado Central Sub-County, of which 116 were filled out and returned, producing a response rate of 84.1%, deemed sufficient for analysis. Results reveal that digital payment systems enjoy broad acceptance and are viewed as advantageous. A positive link between digital payments and financial inclusion underscores their part in boosting transaction efficiency, broadening access to financial services, and bringing women-owned enterprises into the formal financial system. The research likewise established that having withdrawal point’s close by sustains business operations by allowing easy conversion of digital funds into cash. The favourable influence of digital withdrawal services implies that better access strengthens entrepreneurs' capacity to make effective use of financial services. Moreover, digital savings services were found to encourage consistent saving habits through incentives like interest earnings, bonuses, and rewards. A robust positive link between digital savings and financial inclusion shows that these services carry a considerable impact relative to other variables. In addition, digital credit services were demonstrated to deliver quicker loan approvals and wider accessibility than conventional lending systems. Regression outcomes verified that digital credit exerts a statistically significant effect on financial inclusion. The study concludes that digital financial services payments, withdrawals, savings, and credit perform a meaningful and mutually reinforcing role in strengthening financial inclusion among women entrepreneurs. Their accessibility, efficiency, and user-focused features render them potent instruments for economic empowerment. The study recommends that policymakers and financial service providers broaden digital infrastructure, especially agent networks and ATM coverage, to enhance accessibility. Financial institutions ought to improve digital savings products via incentives and user- friendly features, while digital credit systems should emphasize affordability, transparency, and responsible lending. Lastly, targeted financial literacy programs are vital to furnish women entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills required to fully harness digital financial services.Item Effect of Organizational Culture On Performance of Manufacturing Industries in Nairobi County, Kenya(The Strategic Journal of Business & Change Management,, 2025-09) Ogeto Anna Bochere; Gichunge Evangeline; Kituku GladysThis study examined organizational culture on performance of manufacturing industries in Nairobi County. A descriptive research design was employed, targeting a sample drawn from manufacturing companies registered under the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM). Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to managers who are directly linked to change management from selected firms in Nairobi County. The quantitative data collected were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic characteristics and key study variables, while inferential statistical techniques, including the Pearson correlation and the multiple linear regression, were used to establish the strength and significance of the relationship between organization culture and performance. The findings revealed that organizational culture had a statistically significant influence on the organizational performance. The study concluded that effective organizational culture significantly contributes to improved organizational performance in the manufacturing sector. It recommended that manufacturing firms should continuously invest in inclusive culture to facilitate successful change initiatives.Item Development of an Integrated Cybersecurity Framework for Mitigating Online Identity Theft and Phishing Among Youth in Westlands Constituency, Nairobi County.(2026-10) OGORO ALICE KEMUNTOThe rapid expansion of digital platforms in communication, finance, education, and public services has heightened exposure to cyber threats, with online identity theft and phishing emerging as major risks. Despite the existence of legal frameworks and cybersecurity awareness initiatives in Kenya, urban youth remain exposed to increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. This study examined the relationships between technology adoption, cybersecurity education, policy awareness, and the mitigation of online identity theft and phishing among youth in Westlands Constituency, Nairobi County. Guided by Routine Activity Theory, the Health Belief Model, Protection Motivation Theory, and Institutional Theory, the study specifically examined the relationship between technology adoption and mitigation of identity theft and phishing; assessed the relationship between cybersecurity education and mitigation; examined the relationship between policy awareness and mitigation; determined the joint predictive contribution of the three factors; and developed a proposed empirically informed cybersecurity framework. The study adopted a descriptive correlational research design with qualitative supplementation and was predominantly quantitative. From a target population of 116,798 youth aged 18–35 years, a sample of 399 respondents was determined, of whom 338 participated in the study, representing a response rate of 84.7%. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire containing closed- and open-ended questions and supplemented by document review. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis, while qualitative responses were analysed thematically. The findings showed positive and statistically significant relationships between technology adoption, cybersecurity education, policy awareness, and the mitigation of online identity theft and phishing. Cybersecurity education had the strongest standardized predictive contribution, followed by technology adoption and policy awareness. Collectively, technology adoption, cybersecurity education, and policy awareness significantly predicted mitigation of identity theft and phishing, explaining 52.0% of the variation in mitigation outcomes (R2 = .520, F(3, 334) = 120.611, p < .001). Based on these findings, the study developed a proposed empirically informed cybersecurity framework integrating technological safeguards, cybersecurity education, and policy awareness for mitigating online identity theft and phishing among youth in Westlands Constituency. The study concludes that the three dimensions provide complementary contributions to understanding mitigation and recommends strengthening practical cybersecurity education, promoting accessible and user-friendly security technologies, and enhancing awareness of cybercrime policies and reporting mechanisms. The study contributes to knowledge by integrating technological, educational, and policy dimensions within a context-specific framework for understanding the mitigation of online identity theft and phishing among urban youth.Item Influence of Strategic Change Management Approaches On Organizational Performance in Selected Manufacturing Industries in Nairobi County(KeMU, 2026-03) OGETO ANNA BOCHEREThe dynamic internal and external environments within Kenya’s manufacturing sector require organizations to adopt strategic change management approaches to improve performance and sustain competitiveness. This study explored how various strategic change management practices affect organizational performance among selected manufacturing firms in Nairobi County, specifically investigating the effects of leadership styles, communication strategies, employee involvement, and organizational culture on organizational performance. A descriptive research design was adopted, targeting managers from manufacturing firms registered under the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) in Nairobi County, where a sample of 60 managers was selected and 52 responded. Primary data collected using structured questionnaires administered to managers directly involved in strategic change initiatives, Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics summarized demographic characteristics and study variables, while inferential statistics, including Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression, examined the relationships between strategic change management approaches and organizational performance. The findings revealed that leadership style (β = 0.42, p < 0.01), communication strategies (β = 0.35, p < 0.05), employee involvement (β = 0.31, p < 0.05), and organizational culture (β = 0.38, p < 0.01) all had statistically significant positive effects on organizational performance, and the regression model demonstrated strong explanatory power (R2 = 0.72), indicating that the four predictors collectively explained 72% of the variance in organizational performance. The study concludes that effective implementation of strategic change management approaches enhances organizational performance in manufacturing firms and recommends that firms invest in leadership development, improve communication processes, foster an inclusive culture, and actively involve employees in change initiatives to ensure successful organizational performance.Item Development of an Integrated Security Maintenance Tracking System (Isms) For Security Firms in Nairobi County(KeMU, 2026-06) MUCHIRI ESTHER WAMBUIThe growing reliance on integrated security technologies in Kenya necessitates robust maintenance of Integrated Security Management Systems (ISMS) to ensure operational continuity and resilience. This study, guided by the Design Science Research (DSR) paradigm, drew upon General Systems Theory (GST), the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) theory to examine maintenance practices within Nairobi’s private security sector and to develop a digital ISMS Maintenance Tracking System. The system comprises modules for role-based login, client and premises management, task assignment with Service Level Agreement (SLA) tracking, automated audit logging, and email notifications, all accessible via a mobile-first interface that supports offline operation for field technicians. The target population comprised ICT managers in registered private security firms in Nairobi County. A stratified purposive sample of 90 respondents was drawn, and 63 valid responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression. Findings revealed that current maintenance practices were weak and significantly negatively impacted system effectiveness (B = -0.893, p < .001). Conversely, established best practices such as preventive scheduling, accountability, and real-time monitoring showed a strong positive relationship with effectiveness (B = 0.815, p < .001). A combined model explained 75% of the variance in system effectiveness (Adj. R² = 0.741, p < .001), demonstrating that integrating best practices into an automated system substantially enhances performance. User Acceptance Testing (UAT) confirmed the system’s efficacy, with 100% of users affirming login and notification functionality, 95% rating task assignment as very easy, and 90% describing the system as user-friendly. The study concludes that automating structured best practices can overcome the limitations of current fragmented approaches. It recommends the adoption of ISMS tracking tools aligned with ISO/IEC 27001:2022 and Kenya’s Private Security Regulation Act (2016) and suggests further research into sector-wide scaling and predictive analytics integration.Item Strategy Implementation and Performance of Commercial Banks in Kenya(KeMU, 2025-10) Mwamsindo, Rita ChagaThe financial health of Tier One commercial banks in Nairobi County has been challenged by operational inefficiencies, regulatory compliance issues, and the need for technological adaptation. Despite demonstrating strong financial performance, these banks faced rising operational costs, increasing competition, and a growing burden of non-performing loans, factors that necessitated strategic innovation to maintain market dominance. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of strategy implementation on the performance of Tier One commercial banks in Nairobi County, Kenya. Specifically, the study: examined the effect of resource allocation on bank performance; assessed the influence of leadership style; determined the effect of organizational structure; and evaluated the impact of attention to technological requirements. The research was grounded in the Resource-Based View (RBV), Dynamic Capabilities Theory, and Transformational Leadership Theory, providing an integrated theoretical foundation for understanding how strategic components interact to influence performance outcomes. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The population comprised 263 senior and middle-level managers across 11 Tier One banks, from which a purposive sample of 88 respondents from 8 banks was selected. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires and analysed with SPSS Version 26.0. Descriptive, diagnostic and inferential statistics were used; inferential procedures included Pearson correlation analysis, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple linear regression to determine the independent contributions of each strategy variable. At the bivariate level, significant correlations were observed between bank performance and Resource Allocation (r = 0.630, p < 0.001) and Attention to Technological Requirements (r = 0.644, p < 0.001). Leadership Style showed a positive correlation with performance (r = 0.357, p = 0.002), while Organizational Structure correlated negatively but not significantly (r = −0.187, p = 0.113). Multiple linear regression results indicated that the model explained a substantial proportion of variance in performance (R = 0.747; R² = 0.558; Adjusted R² = 0.532; Std. Error = 0.44660). Regression coefficients were: Resource Allocation (B = 0.332, β = 0.389, t = 3.905, p < 0.001); Leadership Style (B = 0.056, β = 0.048, t = 0.510, p = 0.611); Organizational Structure (B = −0.093, β = −0.081, t = −0.951, p = 0.345); and Attention to Technological Requirements (B = 0.471, β = 0.436, t = 4.680, p < 0.001). These results show that Resource Allocation and Technological Requirements were the strongest and statistically significant predictors of performance in the combined model, whereas Leadership Style and Organizational Structure did not contribute significantly when all variables were considered simultaneously. The study concluded that an integrated strategic approach is required to optimise bank performance: prioritising investments in technology and ensuring flexible, strategic resource allocation are critical; leadership effectiveness should be aligned with these investments for maximum impact; and structural misalignments should be addressed to avoid undermining strategic execution. The study recommends targeted leadership development, greater investment in adaptable digital infrastructure, agile resource-allocation frameworks, and periodic structural reviews to enhance strategic fit. Future research could examine the mediating or moderating role of organisational culture and the long-term effects of emerging fintech on strategy implementation and performance in the banking sector.Item Alternative Banking Strategies and Organizational Performance of Tier Three Banks in Nairobi, Kenya(KeMU, 2025-09) Kinyua, Robert MuchiriThe adoption of alternative banking channels has increasingly influenced how commercial banks in Kenya perform. Notably, services like mobile banking, internet banking, and ATMs are central to enhancing banks’ operational efficiency, improving customer interaction, and driving overall institutional performance. Understanding how these alternative strategies impacted various performance indicators, played a vital role in guiding strategic choices and strengthening competitive advantage in Kenya’s banking industry. The study examined the impact of adopting alternative banking strategies and performance of the commercial banks in the country, grounding its analysis in the Resource-Based theory, the Technology Acceptance Model, and the Diffusion of Innovations Theory and Bank-Led Theory, the research examined how the adoption and strategic integration of alternative strategies affected key performance metrics, including financial performance, customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and strategic outcomes. The study utilized a descriptive research approach to evaluate how alternative banking strategies influence performance of tier-three commercial banks operating in Nairobi City. The study focused on all 21 banks in this category, targeting a total population of 2,123 employees spanning senior, middle, and operational levels. Data was gathered using structured questionnaires administered to a purposive sample of 160 staff members across the three management levels. The data analysis was carried out using SPSS Version 26.0, incorporating descriptive, diagnostic, and inferential statistics. Results from the bivariate analysis revealed that mobile banking, agency banking, and internet banking each had a meaningful positive influence on the performance of the banks. When evaluated together in a multivariate context, mobile banking (β = 0.460, p < 0.05), agency banking (β = 0.475, p < 0.05), and internet banking (β = 0.115, p < 0.05) continued to demonstrate statistically significant contributions to enhanced bank performance. In contrast, ATM banking (β = -0.051, p = 0.451) showed no significant effect due to its p-value exceeding the 0.05 threshold. These findings highlight the critical role of digital banking strategies in improving financial outcomes, enhancing customer experiences, and boosting operational efficiency. The study advocates for increased investment in digital infrastructure, greater customer education, and broader use of technology to streamline banking services. Ultimately, the results enrich the current literature on alternative banking and offer practical guidance for banks aiming to enhance performance through digital innovation.Item Christian Affiliated Guesthouse Attributes and Customer’s Choice Behaviour in Nairobi County, Kenya(KeMU, 2025-07) Nyaga, Dorothy KathambiChristian-affiliated guesthouses in Nairobi County face declining occupancy despite their role in expanding lodging options. Few studies have examined how faith-based affiliation impacts guest house choice in Nairobi. This study examined how price tariffs, service quality, institutional environment, and safety influence customer choice, guided by Consumer Behavior Theory, Theory of Planned Behavior, and Environmental Responsible Behavior Theory. Using a sequential explanatory design (mixed method), data were collected from 291 respondents (managers, supervisors, and guests) across 13 guesthouses. Quantitative analysis revealed service quality (r=0.885) and safety (r=0.790) had the strongest influence, while price tariffs (r=0.285) were least impactful. Qualitative findings highlighted guests’ prioritization of staff responsiveness and environmental policies. Recommendations include adopting flexible payment systems and enhancing security measures. The study’s focus on Nairobi limits generalizability; future research should explore other regions and stakeholder perspectives.Item Effect of Employee Training On Service Quality in Public Catering Institutions in Nairobi County(KeMU, 2025-10) Yegon, Erustus KibetService quality in Public Catering Institutions is essential for customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and institutional reputation. However, inconsistent service delivery, inefficiencies, and poor customer satisfaction remain challenges in these units. While structured training programs are recognized as crucial in enhancing employee competencies and service standards, limited research exists on the influence of employees' learning experience, employees’ training content, employees’ training-job alignment and employees’ skill transferability on service quality in Public Catering Institutions in Nairobi County. This study sought to assess the effect of employee training on service quality in Public Catering Institutions in Nairobi County. The research assessed the effects of four specific variables: employees’ learning experience, employees’ training content, employees’ training-job alignment and employees’ skill transferability. Grounded in Kirkpatrick’s Four-Level Training Evaluation Model, Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory, Social Learning Theory, and the Knowledge-Based View of the Firm, 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. Hypothesis test revealed that employees’ learning experience quality had significant effect on service quality in public catering institutions in Nairobi County. Employees’ training content relevance had significant effect on service quality in public catering institutions in Nairobi County. Employees’ training-job alignment had significant effect on service quality in public catering institutions in Nairobi County. Employees’ skill transferability level had significant effect on service quality in public catering institutions in Nairobi County. The study concludes 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 institutionalize continuous professional development, 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.Item Assessment of Nutrition and Dietary Practices Among Patients with Gastrointestinal Symptomatology at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya(KeMU, 2025-10) Ndirangu, Faith WambuiGastrointestinal Symptoms (GIS) represents a range of disorders with unclear pathophysiology, presenting symptoms such as abdominal pain, ulcers, cramps, constipation, nausea, and vomiting. The disease is linked to multiple factors, including genetics, environment, infections, immune dysfunction, and altered gut microbiota. The rising incidence of GIS globally—affecting over 6.8 million individuals—is attributed to increased urbanization, industrialization, and consumption of processed foods. Sub-Saharan Africa, despite reporting an increase in GIS cases, has limited published studies on the condition, highlighting the need for localized research. The study investigated the dietary habits, nutritional status, and food choices of patients with GIS attending Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). This study assessed 200 randomly selected GIS patients diagnosed by 2023. It aimed to determine their socio-demographic characteristics, dietary patterns, the influence of food choices on disease progression, and their nutritional status. Findings indicated that females (57%) were more affected than males, though gender did not show a statistically significant association with GIS (p=0.76). The majority (40%) were aged above 34 years, and most patients (72.5%) lived in urban areas. Socio-economic factors such as marital status, education, and income had significant associations with GIS (p<0.05). Over 45% of respondents were well-educated and self-employed, and 22.4% reported a history of cigarette smoking. Dietary analysis revealed that 87% of respondents used sugar in beverages, and 87.9% preferred home-cooked meals, with only 8.1% eating in hotels. The most common foods reported to trigger GIS included beans (76.6%), spicy foods (14.1%), chapatti (13.8%), soft drinks (5.8%), and oranges (4.1%). Similarly, intolerable foods identified were legumes (28.9%), chapatti (10.4%), milk (5.8%), and oranges (5.2%). Foods that brought relief included cabbage (23.3%), potatoes (10.75%), milk (8.3%), and carrots (6.2%). Nutrient intake assessment showed excessive consumption of macronutrients compared to recommended daily allowances (RDAs): carbohydrates (154%), protein (193%), energy (127%), and fiber (211%). Consequently, 69% of participants were overweight or obese (BMI ≥26.38 kg/m²), though none were morbidly obese or underweight. Regression analysis showed a significant relationship between BMI and calorie intake (p=0.003), while the relationship between BMI and food frequency was not significant (p=0.680), contrary to most prior research. The study recommends that GIS patients regularly consult nutritionists to receive updated dietary guidance, control portion sizes to reduce excess macronutrient intake, and engage in at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Weight reduction and careful food selection, avoiding foods that aggravate symptoms, are essential. Additionally, the Ministry of Health (MOH) should develop dietary prescriptions for GIS patients and integrate GIS management strategies into national health policy guidelines.