bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PNEUMONIA AMONG CHILDREN ADMITTED TO THE PEDIATRIC WARD OF SAIDU GROUP OF TEACHING HOSPITALS SWAT
Authors: Kumar Sandeef , Inam Ullah
Published: February 2025

Background: Pneumonia is a serious respiratory infection that remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children, particularly in resource-limited settings. Its prevalence varies across different geographic regions due to disparities in healthcare access, socioeconomic conditions, and environmental factors. Neonates and young children are at heightened risk due to their immature immune systems. Understanding the epidemiological burden of pneumonia in specific populations is essential for improving early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment strategies.
Objective: To determine the prevalence of pneumonia among children admitted to the pediatric ward of Saidu Group of Teaching Hospitals, Swat, and to analyze associated demographic and clinical characteristics.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2023 to September 2023 at the pediatric ward of Saidu Group of Teaching Hospitals, Swat, following ethical approval. Data were retrospectively collected from hospital records. Children of both genders aged 2-60 months admitted with a confirmed diagnosis of pneumonia were included, while those with incomplete records or alternative diagnoses were excluded. The sample size of 390 was calculated using the WHO formula. Key variables such as age, gender, birth weight, maternal age, family size, duration of hospital stay, and need for oxygen supplementation or intensive care were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20, and findings were presented in frequencies and percentages.
Results: Among 390 children examined, 78 (20.0%) were diagnosed with pneumonia. The highest prevalence was in infants aged 2-11 months (39.7%), with a male predominance (67.9%). Oxygen supplementation was required in 40 (51.0%) cases, and 28 (35.8%) were admitted to the intensive care unit. Birth weight between 2600-3900 grams was associated with 56.4% of cases, while maternal age between 21-30 years accounted for 65.4% of cases. Pneumonia was more prevalent in families with 4-6 members (50.0%), and firstborn children were more commonly affected (47.4%).
Conclusion: This study highlights a considerable burden of pneumonia among hospitalized children, particularly infants in their first year of life. Early diagnosis, improved preventive measures, and targeted interventions remain crucial in reducing pneumonia-related complications and improving pediatric health outcomes.
Influence of Parenting Task on Psychological Well-being of Parentally-Bereaved Adolescents in Kiambu County, Kenya
Authors: Muchiri Margaret Muriko , Kailu Zipporah Kaaria , Kaberia Angela Kanini
Published: February 2025

Parents must provide safety and sustenance, social-emotional support, instruction, supervision, and socialization to their children. The death of a parent alters parenting tasks and when the remaining parent remarries, adolescents in such families face additional challenges unique to blended families. The current study examined how parenting task influences the psychological well-being of parentally-bereaved adolescents in Kiambu County. Guided by Attachment Theory, the study adopted a descriptive survey design. Using snowball sampling, 132 parentally bereaved adolescents from reconstituted families and 10 key informants (social workers, clergies, and foster parents) were recruited. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected using questionnaires and FGD respectively. Pilot study helped in testing tool validity and reliability. The study used descriptive statistics, mean, percentage, frequency, and standard deviation, to analyze the quantitative data. Thematic analysis using a latent approach was used to analyze qualitative data. Findings indicated low levels of autonomy (mean score 2.47 and standard deviation 0.926) and self-acceptance (mean score 2.40 and standard deviation 1.048) as a measure of psychological well-being. The score on the parenting task was low as indicated by a mean score of 2.64, and a standard deviation of 0.934. The score of inferential statistics indicated a statistically significant regression model, predicting that parenting tasks influenced parentally bereaved adolescents’ psychological wellness (Sig. value = 0.000). Regression analysis showed a strong and significant link between parenting tasks (coefficient value of.264, p-value of. 013). Bereaved adolescents expressed low levels of psychological wellness and parenting task in such families strongly and positively related to low psychological wellness. The researcher recommends that the staff handling children and family matters in government and nongovernmental institutions including religious leaders, need to be guided by the study finding in creating intervention tools for psychological support for parentally bereaved adolescents.
Preparedness of Instructional Materials for Supporting the Implementation of Curriculum through Online Distance Teaching and Learning at National TVET Institutions in Kenya
Authors: Munene Rose Mbuthu , Ngeera Flora Gacheri , Kanyi Charles Mugo
Published: February 2025

The rise in the use of technology applications has enabled institutions of learning to adopt ICT in the provision of education and training. This has caused immense pressure for online courses at TVET institutions. The measure to address this requires a responsive curriculum for training through online mode be implemented; hence the need for TVET to be adequately prepared. Despite the importance attached to online teaching and learning, preparedness for the same has continued to face several setbacks in TVETs in Kenya; one of it being insufficient instructional materials. The purpose of this study was to assess the preparedness of instructional materials in supporting the implementation of curriculum through online distance teaching and learning at national TVET institutions in Kenya.  The study was anchored on Bruner’s constructivist learning theory. Data was collected from three national polytechnics where, trainers in Applied Sciences Department, trainees, heads of department and principals were the main respondents. A sample size of 248 respondents comprising of 3 principals, 3 heads of department, 35 trainers and 207 trainees was selected. Purposive sampling technique was used to select trainers, HoDs and principals; while stratified sampling technique was used to select trainees. Questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data. The validity and reliability of research instruments were ascertained accordingly. Quantitative data was analyzed in percentages, mean and standard deviation; while qualitative data was analyzed in themes. The findings of the study demonstrated moderate availability of online distance teaching and learning instructional materials. This finding was attributable to financial constraints. The study recommends TVET institutions to partner with online libraries, content providers, and open educational resources platforms to ensure that students have seamless access to a wide range of relevant and up-to-date online learning materials.
Securing Judicial Information: Assessment of Records Security in Nyahururu and Nakuru Law Courts
Authors: Oyaro Moureen Moige , Gichohi Paul Maku , Nzioka Catherine
Published: February 2025

Records play an integral role in the administration of justice and overall protection of human rights. Court records provide information, testimonies and evidence about cases presented; thereby, impacting the promptness and fairness of judgments rendered by judicial officials. Nonetheless, security breaches in handling of court records have resulted in the occurrence of missing files and inadvertent exposure of confidential information. These breaches have led to delays and significantly impacted the efficient administration of justice. This study examined the measures put in place to secure records in a bid to foster administration of justice at the Nakuru and Nyahururu law courts. The Records Continuum Model (RCM) guided the study. A descriptive survey design was utilized, targeting the 72 staff members from Nakuru and Nyahururu law courts. Due to the small population size, a census sampling technique was employed, resulting in a sample of 72 staff. Both questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data. Pretesting was done to check the validity and reliability of research tools, in tandem with expert review. Percentages and frequencies analyzed the quantitative data, while thematic analysis was used on the qualitative data. The findings revealed that law courts have implemented measures to protect court records. Nevertheless, there is room for further enhancement of measures put in place to ensure security of court records. The study concluded that there is a positive correlation between security measures and the promotion of judicial justice administration, and the need to therefore up-scale security measures. It recommends a comprehensive approach to revamp security measures at the law courts; integration of robust policies and innovation technologies in the protection of records; professional development programs for staff to enhance their competencies in handling security protocols; and regular monitoring and auditing of user access in order to detect and address unauthorized activities promptly.
Modeling Predictors of Health System Responsiveness among Chronic Care Centers in Tier Three Hospitals in Kenya
Authors: Kibiriti Hillary , Tenambergen Wanja Mwaura , Mapesa Job
Published: February 2025

This study sought to model predictors of health system responsiveness among diabetic and hypertensive patients in Kenyan primary hospitals. Responsiveness in the health system hinges on service provision and system demands, but there are noted deficiencies in Kenya prompting this study. The study explored how valuations, accountability, access, structural factors, organizational culture, and perceptions of justice impact responsiveness. This cross-sectional survey provided baseline data for an intervention study. From a sampling frame of 853 patients, 323 were sampled using the Fishers et al. formula. Of these, 308 questionnaires were completed: 130 from Gatundu, 98 from Uasin Gishu, and 80 from Kimilili Hospitals. Data was collected through structured questionnaires using a five-point Likert scale, after which scores were summed up and divided into favorable and unfavorable using the demarcation threshold formula. Only 38.3% of respondents reported favorable responsiveness. Three predictors; accountability, structural and organizational culture had majority in the unfavorable, while valuations, access, and justice had majority in the favorable category. Following conditional backward binomial logistic regression, the final model included four significant predictors of responsiveness; namely, structural, accountability, organizational culture, and justice perceptions. Using the Nagelkerke statistic, the model explained 15.7% variation in responsiveness. The model achieved a 79.5% success rate in predicting unfavorable responsiveness and a 46.6% success rate in predicting favorable responsiveness, with an overall correct prediction rate of 66.9%. The probability of experiencing favorable responsiveness given positive experiences in the predictors was 68.5%. In conclusion, responsiveness remains low. Critical predictors identified in this study serve as intervention targets for improving responsiveness. With 15.7% explained variation in responsiveness, there's room for further model enhancement. The study recommends managers to adopt a holistic, patient-centered care approach, and suggests implementation studies to validate the model across diverse contexts and identify additional predictive factors for responsiveness improvement.
Influence of Community Support on the Performance of the Wildlife Enterprises of Northern Rangeland Trust
Authors: Mwenda Purity Mpinda , Rintari Nancy , Mugambi Kenneth
Published: February 2025

Northern Rangeland Trust (NRT) is a wildlife-linked community enterprise that aims to alleviate poverty and improve environmental wellbeing. However, performance issues have hindered NRT's ability to form long-term alliances with donors and enterprises. The study aimed to determine how community support influences the performance of wildlife community enterprises within NRT. Guided by commitment-trust theory, this research employed a descriptive survey design. Using a census method for selection, the study targeted all 78 management employees of the Northern Rangeland wildlife community enterprises. Data was collected via questionnaires, and internal consistency was assessed using the Cronbach Alpha coefficient. Linear regression analysis revealed a significant statistical link among the factors. A pilot test of eight questionnaires at Buffalo Springs wildlife community enterprises in Isiolo County showed a Pearson correlation coefficient for community support of r=0.616** at α < 0.01 with a 95% confidence level. Results indicated that a unit increase in community support led to a performance increase in wildlife-linked community enterprises by a magnitude of 0.887. The study concluded that community support, which is underutilized by the management, is essential for the performance of wildlife community enterprises. It recommends that the managers incorporate full community support in order to enhance the performance of NRT.
Clinical and Socio-Demographic Predictors of Psychosocial Distress in Women with Breast Cancer in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Muriithi Wanjiru , Kaaria Zipporah , Mapesa Job
Published: February 2025

Research shows that 25%–50% of breast cancer patients worldwide experience distress, with some African countries reporting 71% and Kenya 34-50% distress cases. This study investigated clinical and socio-demographic predictors of breast cancer patients' psychosocial distress. Poor quality of life outcomes, reduced adherence to treatment, and inferior clinical and psychosocial functioning are all associated with psychosocial distress. This study adopted an exploratory, sequential cross-sectional design. The study targeted 763, 18–70-year-old female breast cancer patients. Breast cancer patients, nurses, lay navigator, and oncologists were enlisted through opportunity sampling technique for collection of both the qualitative and the quantitative data. Interviews, focus group discussions, and questionnaires were used to collect data. Using a total score of >11, with NCCN cut-off mark of >4 for clinically significant distress; and >7 for severe distress, psychosocial distress was screened using distress thermometer and problem checklist. Notably, income and stage of diagnosis emerged as significant predictors of psychosocial distress, clinical anxiety, and depression. Income predicted severe distress (OR = 5.5, p = 0.001), anxiety (OR = 2.8, p = 0.004), depression (OR = 4.7, p = 0.001), and early diagnosis had an inverse relationship with distress (OR = 0.3, p = 0.006) and depression (OR = 0.5, p = 0.049).  Still, testimonials showed that young women had more emotional distress, while elderly women had more physiological distress. Marriage provided two insurance policies. The study emphasises understanding of emotional and psychological distress factors, identifying patients who need extra help, and using psychotherapy and social interventions to alleviate suffering, enhance resilience, and improve treatment outcomes
Student Nurses’ Perception of the Effectiveness of the Mentorship Program in PMH in Nairobi County, Kenya
Authors: Otieno Lucy Oloo , Mutinda Agnes , Matheka Emma
Published: February 2025

Understanding the effectiveness of mentorship program from the perspective of student nurses at Pumwani Maternity Hospital reveals both significant achievements and critical areas needing improvement. This study examined student nurses' perceptions of the effectiveness of mentorship at Pumwani Maternity Hospital (PMH) in Nairobi County, Kenya. Effective mentorship in nursing has been proven essential for professional development and addressing the needs of nursing students. This study aims to evaluate how student nurses perceive mentorship at PMH, identifying the strengths and areas for improvement. A descriptive research design was adopted, targeted nursing students enrolled in clinical training at PMH. Using simple random sampling, a sample of 84 participants was enlisted. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires, featuring Likert scales and open-ended questions. The response rate was 95.2%. Analysis was done using SPSS Version 25.0. Key findings revealed that 62.5% of respondents reported positive relationships with their mentors, while 33.5% felt they were part of the team. Additionally, 64.5% agreed that procedures were adequately explained, and 70% felt that patient care was appropriately managed. Despite these positive findings, significant gaps in inclusivity and responsiveness to learner needs were identified. The study concludes that, although the mentorship program at PMH is generally effective, there is still substantial room for improvement. Recommendations include a comprehensive review of existing mentorship policies and the development of supportive systems to enhance mentee engagement and mentor effectiveness.
Aspect of Desire in Enhancing Electronic Resource Utilization among Postgraduate Students at Universities in Meru County
Authors: Shidemburi Mercy Musungu , Gichohi Paul Maku , Gatimu Winfred
Published: February 2025

The global shift to virtual libraries and e-learning has significantly increased the use of electronic resources in university libraries, particularly for postgraduate students. Customizing these services can enhance the "Desire" component of the AIDA model, promoting availability, regular updates, perceived value, and convenience. However, empirical investigations reveal that e-resources are underutilized. This paper presents some of the results of a large study that looked at how adoption of the AIDA model can enhance utilization of e-resources among postgraduate students in universities in Meru County. It assessed the desire of postgraduate students for e-resources. It employed a mixed method approach with a descriptive survey research design. The target population comprised of departmental heads and post-graduate students. Purposive sampling technique was employed to obtain librarians, while stratified random sampling and simple random sampling method was used to select students. A sample size of 260 postgraduate students and 13 departmental heads was obtained. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview guides, with quality ensured through construct, content, and face validity checks; while reliability was measured using Cronbach's alpha. Data was analyzed by computing mean, standard deviation, and correlation analysis to test relationship, while qualitative data was analyzed thematically. There was a positive correlation between postgraduate students' desire and e-resources utilization. However, in Meru County university libraries', desire is moderate. This can be enhanced by improving resource quality, staff communication, sensitization, user experiences, marketing strategies, and technological infrastructure. The study recommended university libraries to strengthen training programs, resource marketing, promoting e-resources' benefits, and integrating them into the curriculum to enhance postgraduate students desire for e-resources.
Deep Learning Network Intrusion Detection with the Conv1d-Lstm Model: Integrating CNN and LSTM For Superior Performance
Authors: Cikambasi Ciza Lukogo , Muriira Lawrence Mwenda , Murungi Robert Mutua
Published: February 2025

Increased cases of cyber-attack and the rising levels of sophistication presents a significant threat to corporate networks, resulting in potential data breaches, financial losses, and reputational harm. Traditional Intrusion Detection Systems, which rely on predefined signatures and rules, have proven inadequate due to high false positive and false negative rates. This study introduces an innovative AI-based intrusion detection model to enhance corporate network security leveraging on deep learning techniques. The objective was to propose a Conv1d-LSTM Model, integrating convolutional neural networks (CNN) and recurrent neural networks (RNN) to analyze network traffic data from the CSE-CIC-IDS-2018 dataset, which encompasses a wide array of attack types, and provides a realistic representation of modern network traffic. This deep learning model effectively detects complex patterns and temporal dependencies in the data. The performance of the innovated model was evaluated using precision, accuracy, recall, and F1 score, to demonstrate its superior detection capabilities compared to conventional Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS). Additionally, a comparative analysis of CNN and RNN performance on the same dataset was conducted, highlighting the strengths and limitations of each approach. This research underscores the importance of integrating advanced AI methodologies into IDS frameworks to protect corporate networks from cyber threats.
Climate Change News Reporting in Kenya: Journalists as Curators
Authors: Agalo Rose , Day Peter , Ronoh Lamek , Otieno Millicent
Published: February 2025

The media's increased coverage of climate change has raised global climate change awareness. However, limited resources, and low access to information and scientific expertise have constrained climate change news coverage in Kenya. Competing news priorities and the perceived complexity of climate change issues have further contributed to this limitation. This study investigated the role of journalists in reporting climate change news in Kenya. The study employed a mixed research design where 50 questionnaires were administered to practicing journalists from four media houses based in Kenya; namely, NTV, Citizen TV, Nation, and Standard newspapers, who were purposively selected. Additionally, the researcher collected qualitative data from ten journalists from the 50 surveyed. Descriptive and thematic analysis was conducted to interpret the data according to the research questions. The findings revealed a shifting media landscape in climate journalism, highlighting the necessity for journalists to undergo specialized training in climate reporting. The findings of this study will contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 13 on climate action.
Effectiveness of Training on Uptake of Continuous Professional Development among Nurses and Midwives in Clinical Practice - Meru County, Kenya
Authors: Odhiambo Roselyne Akinyi , Marwa Immaculate Nyaseba , Gitonga Lucy Kawira
Published: February 2025

Continuous Professional Development refers to the process by which members of a profession broaden their knowledge and competence to acquire professional qualities required in the practice. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the need for nurses and midwives is increasing. In Meru County, the Maternal Mortality Rate remains a burden. To bridge the gap between knowledge and practice, the Nursing Council of Kenya, in line with the International Confederation of Midwives, requires nurses and midwives to complete 20 hours of CPD annually, promoting continuing education programs. This study is a follow up of phase one study carried out to assess factors that influence uptake of CPD among nurses and midwives in Meru County, Kenya. The objective of the study was to assess the effectiveness of training on uptake of CPD in clinical practice. This was a quantitative study that adopted randomized controlled trial design, utilizing the participants of the phase one study. A total of 70 nurses and midwives from the sampled participants were randomly allocated to the intervention and control groups using systematic random sampling technique. Training was conducted based on the findings of the phase one study. At the beginning of the training, all the participants (n=70) did a pretest, and a post test at the close, with participants from the intervention group being trained. This enabled the researcher to assess the effect of training on participant’s knowledge and skills. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results showed great improvement in knowledge and skills with a pretest mean of 54.19% and a posttest mean of 90%. The paired t-test value was highly statistically significant (p < .001, 95% CI). To enhance a more organized and regularized way of CPD provision, the study developed a CPD Model.
AI-Based Framework for Government Oversight of Personal Data Consent Compliance: A Case Study of Nairobi County
Authors: Musyoka Geoffrey Vundi , Mutua Robert Murungi , Tocho Jecton
Published: February 2025

In the rapidly advancing digital landscape, safeguarding individual privacy and enforcing compliance with personal data regulations have become increasingly critical. This study focuses on the challenge of inadequate government oversight in monitoring real-time compliance with personal data consent, using Nairobi County as a case study. The research introduces an AI-based framework designed to automate the detection of potential privacy breaches, verify adherence to consent agreements, and strengthen regulatory enforcement processes. Grounded in regulatory compliance theory, the study aims to enhance the capacity of oversight bodies by leveraging AI technology to analyze large volumes of data, and improving both the speed and accuracy of compliance monitoring. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches. Key stakeholders from organizations such as Safaricom PLC, the Kenya Revenue Authority, Equity Bank Kenya, the Ministry of Information, Communications, and Technology (ICT), and the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) participated in the study. Data was gathered through semi-structured questionnaires, targeting government regulators and private sector entities responsible for managing personal data. Using purposive sampling, 195 respondents were selected, ensuring a robust and representative dataset. Data analysis incorporated both thematic analysis for qualitative responses and statistical methods for quantitative data. The results indicate that the AI-based framework significantly enhances the detection and prevention of data privacy violations, streamlines compliance processes, and reduces the reliance on manual oversight. Improved governance structures and increased user awareness were found to be key factors in fostering better compliance. Despite these advancements, challenges such as regulatory adaptation and resource limitations were identified. The study concludes that AI has the potential to revolutionize government oversight by increasing transparency, accountability, and efficiency. It recommends that regulatory bodies, particularly the Ministry of ICT, adopt AI-driven solutions, and encourage public-private collaboration to ensure comprehensive and effective data governance.
Influence of Disability Diversity Policy Implementation on Service Delivery among Chartered Universities in Kenya
Authors: Maina Charity Nyambura , Nzioki Susan , Mugambi Kenneth
Published: February 2025

Diversity entails embracing and recognizing the contribution of people with differences in education background, perspectives and experiences. Organizations have realized that they can attract and retain competent employees by embracing diversity.  In Kenya, a diversity policy has been developed to guide the public institutions on the management of diversity at the workplace. The policy outlines the management of diverse workforce, such as persons with disability and ethnicity. However, there remains a notable research gap concerning the effect of diversity policies on service delivery in the universities. This study aimed at determining the influence of disability diversity policy implementation on service delivery in Chartered Universities in Kenya. The study was guided by the Social Identity theory, self-categorization and SERVQUAL model. Descriptive survey research design was adopted. The target population comprised eight Chartered universities in Kenya (both private and public) which were purposively selected; comprising 15,545 administrative staff and full-time lecturers. A sample size of 390 was drawn using the Yamane (1967) formula. Data was collected using questionnaires. Both validity and reliability of the research instruments were ensured. Inferential and descriptive statistics were adopted in the analysis. The findings of the study indicated that universities have a strong affirmative action policy for persons with disability. The study concluded that disability policy implementation established a positive and statistically significant effect on service delivery among chartered universities in Kenya. It recommends university management to collaborate with organizations dedicated to persons with disabilities, and to utilize accessible recruitment channels such as sharing job opportunities in braille, so as to attract individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, universities ought to enhance the accessibility of their premises by expanding the provision of assistive and supportive devices. The findings have implications to human resource practitioners in universities in enhancing quality service delivery by implementation of diversity policies.
Injection Safety Practices among Nurses in Kenyan Public Hospitals.
Authors: Chemoiwa R. , Tenambergen W.
Published: February 2025

One of the priority areas identified by the World Health Organization in the service delivery building block is patient safety and quality of care. This is achieved by having systems and procedures that improve safety. Being a major area of intervention in the delivery of health services, the safety of injections has been identified and prioritized and  as a result, a lot of resources have been invested in support of this priority. The study aimed at investigating the safety practices of nursing staff during preparation and administration of medications via injections. The study employed a cross sectional study design. The process of injection preparation and administration was observed using checklists for 355 patients proportionately sampled from 12 sites within the Rift Valley Provincial Hospital. The results showed that Nurses in medical wards were less likely to wash their hands 125 (35.2%) during injection procedures as compared to those in the surgical units 82 (23.1%). Approximately, 159(44.8%) of nurses involved reuse of injection devices during preparation of medication. Of drugs preparation, observations showed that 142 (40%) were prepared at the patient bedside. Among the patients, more than half, 218 (62.2%) received their medication after the prescribed time. There was a strong association between the number of hours a nurse had worked and the use of sterile needle and syringe to reconstitute medication was significant p=0.000.The number of patients admitted on the study sites had a significant effect on nurses’ hand washing behavior (p=0.000), preparation of injections in a clean environment (p=0.000) and the reuse of injection devices during administration of medication (p =0.000). The hospital should ensure adequate supply of injection devices and place emphasize on infection prevention to minimize reuse. Public sensitization and surveillance system for registering and reporting of unsafe injection practices to patients in hospitals should be established.
Effects of Perceived Image of NHIF Outpatient Facilities on Utilization of Primary Care Services by Private University Employees in Nairobi County
Authors: Kironji K. , Tenambergen W. , Mwangi E.
Published: February 2025

NHIF is a mandatory health insurance fund in Kenya covering public and private formal sector workers where members are entitled to all primary health services on selecting preferred facilities from a list of providers.Some members have their monthly contributions remitted to NHIF by their employer yet do not utilize primary care services.This study sought to determine effects of perceived image of NHIF outpatient facilities on utilization of primary care services by the national formal scheme members in Nairobi while focusing on Private University employees.This study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive design with mixed methods approach.Multistage sampling with simple random sampling was used.Quantitative techniques were used for data collection.Descriptive statistics,F-Statistics,P-values, Pearson’s Rho ®,mean-scores,standard deviations,co-efficient of determination (R2)and the coefficient of multiple determinations(Adjusted R2) were analyzed using SPSS version 24.The study rationale was to inform top NHIF management to undertake decisions regarding utilization of primary health services by NHIF members by understanding effects of how safety of healthcare services,waiting time at the health facilities,healthcare workers interpersonal skills,facilities amenities and physical outlook affect utilization of primary care services.Multiple regression results indicates that in a combined relationship only three factors on perceived image of NHIF facilities influence utilization of primary care services;safety of healthcare services (X1; β1 = .315, P ˂0.05),healthcare workers interpersonal skills (X3; β3 = .0.049, P ˂0.05) and healthcare facilities amenities and physical outlook (X4; β4 = .027,P ˂0.05).Waiting time is negative(X2; β2 = -.018, P ˂0.05)and thus does not influence utilization of primary care services.In a combined model,all four factors have no scientifically significant influence on utilization of primary health services by scheme members in Nairobi County.The study recommends NHIF to vet facilities they accredit to offer primary care services to ensure safety of healthcare services,train workers on effective interpersonal skills and improve facility amenities and physical outlook of outpatient facilities.
Health Literacy on Patients’ Rights Charter Among Users of Primary Care Health Facilities in Kiambu and Machakos Counties in Kenya
Authors: Njuguna Susan , Mwaura-Tenambergen Wanja , Mapesa Job
Published: February 2025

Health literacy is associated with improved utilisation of health services leading to better health outcomes. The aim of this study was to establish the extent to which users of primary health care facilities in Kiambu and Machakos counties in Kenya have embraced health literacy as envisaged in the Patients’ Rights Charter. Specifically, the study sought to establish patient’s awareness of their rights; to establish the extent to which patients practice their responsibilities and rights in primary health care facilities; and to relate literacy to the demographic characteristic of the respondents. Health literacy of patients’ rights in the context of this study refers to the patients’ awareness of their rights and their ability to make basic health decisions concerning their rights as their responsibility. This was a descriptive cross-section study that used semi-structured questionnaire to collect quantitative data. A random sample of 422 patients from the outpatient department of four primary care health facilities was drawn. Overall, majority of the respondents agreed that they were aware of their rights and they practised their responsibilities as per the Patients’ Rights Charter. The respondents’ awareness of their rights was statistically significant with regard to age (r = 0.293**, P ˂ 0.001), level of education (r =0.293**, P ˂ 0.001) and duration of health care services (r = 0.294**, P ˂ 0.001). Respondents’ practice of their responsibilities was statistically significantly related to age (r = .244**, P ˂ 0.001) and duration of receiving health care services (r = 0.342**, P ˂ 0.001). The study concludes that patient demographic characteristics like age, level of education, and the duration they had visited the health facility for services, had an influence on their health literacy based on Patients’ Rights Charter.
Staff Retooling for Service Delivery at University of Nairobi Main Campus Library, Kenya
Authors: Odongo Stephen Odera
Published: February 2025

Over the last decade, service delivery in public academic libraries has been influenced by ever-changing client needs. These needs have been largely driven by challenges being experienced by these libraries in relation to funding and staff retooling. The needs of library users require a level of anticipation that can deliver results if academic libraries are to sustain delivery of services. To meet this growing demand, academic librarians must continuously acquire more skills and competencies to deliver services that meet the needs of the patrons. Staff retooling is an area that, if seriously invested in by an organisation, can lead to a better work environment, high staff retention and better delivery of services. The objective of this study was to establish the effectiveness of staff retooling strategies and programmes on service delivery at the University of Nairobi library. The study was based on the resource based view theory. It used a descriptive survey research design and a census sampling method to select 62 respondents. Data was collected using standardised self-administered questionnaires then analysed using a statistical software (SPSS v21). Data was thematically analysed and results presented in tables as frequencies and percentages. The results showed that service delivery was majorly affected by staff orientation, conferences/workshops, regular ICT training and mentoring. It further established that mentoring, orientation, regular ICT training, conferences/workshops and job rotation were effective in delivering services. Case studies were however not found to be effective. The study concluded that various staff retooling strategies and programmes affected service delivery. The study recommended that a structured, systematic and regular mechanism of training and developing library staff should be developed, supported and implemented within the library; the dynamic needs of users need to be identified and library staff promptly identified for retooling in order to address these emerging needs.
Risk Factors of Potentially Blinding Trachoma in Loodokilani Ward, Kajiado County, Kenya
Authors: Parsimei Ruth , Oirere B.O. N , M’mayi Consolata
Published: February 2025

Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease, that is most prevalent in the nomadic communities greatly associated with poverty. This study sought to determine the ascendancy of potentially blinding trachoma and its prospect among adults aged 18-60 years in Loodokilani ward, Kajiado County. This research was a graphic transverse study. Multistage sampling technique was used where every location represented one unit. The initial stage used the random sampling which was used for listing of households in the study area. The second stage involved going through the listed households to identify patients. A total of 155 male and 267 female adults residing in the area of study were sampled. The comprehensive occurrence of potentially blinding trachoma was established as 44.5%. Sorted by age and location, it was noted that age was statistically vital (p <0.05) to potentially blinding trachoma. Geographical locations were also significant (p<0.05) to potentially blinding trachoma. However, gender of patients was not scientifically reliable (p>0.05) to location. Majority of the respondents did not own or utilize toilets; hence, a clear indication of open defecation especially at night that led to increased number of vector-musca sorbent flies responsible for chlamydia trachomatis bacteria which causes infection. Previous studies indicate that Kajiado West subcounty recorded the least average of 11.6% on water accessibility as compared to the county`s average of 62.3%.  Due to the scarcity of water there was limited practice of hand and face washing. It was noted that all facial cleanliness and environmental hygiene indicators were statistically significant (p<0.05) to prevalence of potentially blinding trachoma, apart from presence of impermeable floored toilets and presence of eye seeking flies. Consistent community sensitizations on regular facial and environmental hygiene to achieve a trachoma free environment was recommended. Mass drug administration should continue annually until the prevalence drops below 5%.
Gaps in Examination Records Management Procedures: The Reasons for Missing Marks Syndrome in Universities in Kenya
Authors: Kiprono Samuel Serem , Gichuhi Zipporah W.
Published: February 2025

Universities are institutions of higher education which confer undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in a variety of subjects. There is need for greater care in the management of examination records at every stage of the university student’s life cycle so as to avoid the pain of students failing to graduate on time. This study was conceived with the purpose of establishing if examination records management procedures could be the cause of missing examination marks in universities in Meru and Nyeri counties in Kenya. The objective in this paper is to demonstrate the relationship between missing marks and examination records management procedures in universities. Descriptive survey research design was used in the study. Target population of 482 full time lecturers and school examination coordinators with sample size of 214 respondents, and whose response rate was 128(60%) was used. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that the selected universities had documented examination records management procedures that were updated after every five years; unfortunately, the enforcement of the procedure was lacking.  The study concludes that the main cause of missing marks in the universities was lack of central enforcement of examination procedures. The study recommends the training of all lecturers and examination coordinators on basic records management to ensure adherence to examination procedures to check cases of missing marks and scripts.
Effects of Different Levels of Fertilizer Combinations on Quality and Yield of Rhodes Grass Cultivars in Meru County, Kenya
Authors: Rotich Christopher , Mugambi Mworia , Ncene William
Published: February 2025

Production of forage plays an important role in development of livestock production systems. However, high quality and quantity of forage production is challenging to most livestock keepers due to inadequate knowledge on the effective fertilizer application and combinations for optimal production of improved grasses. The objective of this research was to determine the effect of different fertilizer combinations on yield and quality of two varieties of Rhodes grass. The treatments were; 0 Kg CAN/ha + 0 tons farmyard manure/ha, 75 kg CAN/ha + 5 tons farmyard manure/ha, 100 kg CAN/ha + 10 tons farmyard manure/ha, 125 kg CAN/ha + 15 tons farmyard manure/ha (L1, L2, L3 and L4) with two Rhodes grass varieties (Bhoma Rhodes and Katambora Rhodes grass). A randomized complete block design was used for establishment with three blocks of 2x1m separated by 1.0m pathway. Each block was subdivided into twelve subplots of 1x1m alienated by 0.5m pathways resulting into 36 plots.  The data was collected on agronomic and qualitative parameters such as plant height and percentage dry matter. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to determine any significant differences between treatment means at (P<0.05). Significant means were separated using Least Significant Difference (LSD) at 5% significant level. There was significant effect (P <0.05) after applying different rates of both CAN fertilizers and farm yard manure on the agronomic and qualitative parameters of Rhodes grass varieties except for metabolizable energy and percentage invitro dry matter digestibility. The study concluded that increase in plant attributes was achieved by application of 125 kg CAN/ha + 15 tons farmyard manure/ha and Bhoma Rhodes grass variety responded better in all treatments than Katambora Rhodes grass variety.
Effectiveness of NHIF in addressing Students’ Healthcare in Public Secondary Schools in Meru County, Kenya
Authors: Mbaabu Silas Muguna , Kibaara Tarsila , Gichohi Paul Maku
Published: February 2025

The Government of Kenya has invested in a unique NHIF program, namely EduAfya, for public secondary schools. Although EduAfya is relatively new, it has faced implementation challenges attributable to the weak structures and mechanisms for supporting its operationalization. This study aimed to assess the NHIF as a health service provision model in public secondary schools in Meru County, Kenya. The specific objective was to examine the efficacy of NHIF as an approach for addressing healthcare in public secondary schools in Meru County. The study was guided by Andersen's model of health service utilization, and adopted a descriptive survey design. 395 Public secondary schools were stratified into four categories; hence, a proportionate systematic sampling technique was applied to sample 196 principals and the Students' Council's chairpersons, while the County Director of Education was sampled purposively. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire and interview guide. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, where factor analysis, means and standard deviations were computed, while linear regression analysis was used to test the hypothesis. Qualitative data were analyzed using the thematic technique. The study noted that students were underutilizing the NHIF program (EduAfya) despite its significance in addressing their healthcare. This was attributed to low awareness, challenges in obtaining NEMIS numbers, and lack of understanding. Therefore, NHIF staff should conduct training and sensitization in public secondary schools, targeting students, principals, and parents. In addition, the Ministry of Education and NHIF should collaboratively liaise with stakeholders in accrediting more local health facilities, including private health centres, in order to enhance the proximity of access to healthcare. The government should also develop a clear policy on handling emergencies and transportation costs; streamline the issuance of NEMIS numbers and biometric cards, and clarify the role of principals in enhancing the effectiveness of EduAfya.