bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AFRICAN WOMEN’S JOURNEY TOWARDS GENDER EQUALITY AND SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION:
Authors: Chege Juliah N
Published: November 2023

The international community has long recognized the importance of women’s full and effective participation in peace efforts, and to the maintenance and promotion of lasting peace and security. Since the UN Security Council’s unanimous adoption of UNSCR 1325 in 2000, States, regional organisations, UN agencies and civil society organisations have made firm commitments to support women’s decision-making, leadership and participation in conflict resolution, peace processes and post-conflict peace building and state building. Key peace building and State-building principles emphasize the importance of women’s participation in governance as critical to legitimate and inclusive political processes, which in turn is critical to the prevention of relapse into violence. More recently, Agenda 2030 and in particular Sustainable Development Goal 16 recognize the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment in building just, peaceful and inclusive societies. This study focused on African women’s journey towards gender equality and social transformation; role of women in peace building and conflict resolution in Baragoi, Samburu County. For the sake of analysis, this study employed an exploratory design. This study was conducted in Baragoi, Samburu County. The study included the quantification and evaluation of the concept’s existence. A descriptive technique was also used to clarify patterns extensively by using direct quotes and selected remarks from informants. The results of the study showed that many organizations active in brokering peace between women in Baragoi acknowledged the important role women played in building peace in contrast to a culture which did not recognize the role of women in building peace. The study results also showed that women were very creative and self-driven in their own initiative in peace building or conflict resolution as demonstrated by their own skills in peace building or conflict resolution. The study concluded that the transmission of a culture of peace involves a multifaceted approach, such as culture, formal education, advice and social networking
ACCESSING FINANCIAL SERVICES ON MEMBER ADVANCEMENT OF LICENSED DEPOSIT TAKING SACCOS IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA
Authors: KIBANGA (Ph.D) DR. JANE
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine access to financial services on member advancement of licensed deposit taking SACCOs in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design, where both quantitative and qualitative approaches were applied. Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used in data collection. Email (internet) and drop and pick methods were also used. Collected data was organized according to the research objectives and hypotheses using statistical package software for social sciences (SPSS). The sample had 39 respondents out of a population frame of 42 participating licensed deposit taking SACCOs in Nairobi County. They comprised of the chief executive officers, the deputies and the departmental heads from the sampled licensed deposit taking SACCOs. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics included mean, standard deviation, frequencies and percentages. Inferential statistics included correlation analysis and regression analysis. The results indicated that financial services had a statistically insignificant positive relationship with Member advancement of deposit taking SACCOs in Nairobi county Kenya. Access to financial services is a significant challenge in Kenya, where majority of the population is excluded from the formal banking sector. Deposit taking SACCOs continue to look out for their members’ interests particularly those under served by banks and providing a level of service that is not generally available in other financial institutions. The operating income is returned to depositors in the form of interest on savings and lower interest rates on loans. Licensed deposit taking SACCOs should develop diversified financial products that meet the needs of different levels of membership and therefore retain their loyalty. This changes their financial behavior for prudent borrowing to improve the liquidity conditions thus generating funds for on lending to the growing credit demand.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SALES GROWTH AND DIVIDEND PAYOUT
Authors: Chumari Teresiah Muthoni
Published: November 2023

This study analyzed the relationship that exists between dividend payout and sales growth. The study adopted a descriptive research design. Thirty financial statements of listed companies was analyzed. The research also advanced the work of previous scholars and academicians. Based on this research the results showed that there was a negative relationship between dividend payout and sales growth. This study recommended that firm managers should plan on the proportion of profits that should be retained versus the portion that will be distributed as dividends to stockholders. Managers are also rated on financial performance hence the findings of this study would be of great benefit to them and would also act as a guide to setting reliable corporate dividend policies.
AFRICAN WOMEN’S JOURNEY TOWARDS GENDER EQUALITY AND SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION:
Authors: Chege Juliah N
Published: November 2023

Women constitute at least 50% of the world population and have been making substantial contribution to socio-economic development. Unfortunately, their contribution largely remains unrecognized and unnoticed in most developing and least developed countries. Empowering women has become the key element in the development of an economy. Despite their potential, women-owned businesses in Kenya are less likely to grow, are smaller, and are twice as likely to be operating from home as male-owned businesses. Women-owned MSMEs report earning only 57% of income that male business owners earn. Thus, there is need to encourage entrepreneurship in women empowerment in efforts to eradicate unemployment and poverty in Africa continent.

This study looked at the African women’s journey towards gender equality and social transformation; an overview role of entrepreneurship on women empowerment, a Kenyan perspective. Descriptive surveys were used as the study design. The study generated qualitative and quantitative results. Qualitative data was analyzed by use of content analysis while descriptive figures were used for quantitative analysis. From the results, the study concluded that women entrepreneurs should continue to find new ways to distinguish their companies from rivals to reduce the negative effect of intense competition on their businesses. The study recommended that the County governments should pay closer attention to women entrepreneurs in the extension of appropriate support services such as microcredits and training, based on the goal of skill-based training.
OCCUPATIONAL STRESS AND EMPLOYEES PERFORMANCE
Authors: MUCHIRI (PhD) DR. CHEGE THENYA , KHAYOTA (PhD) DR. MAURICE , OLUOCH JUDITH , GONGERA (PhD) DR. G.
Published: November 2023

Stress has a considerable negative impact on job performance. If not dealt with effectively, stress can have detrimental impact on staff and organizations performance. The aim of this study was to investigate the level of occupational stress among the employees of the Kenya disciplined services. The study target population comprised of all employees of NYS in all the six Nairobi Stations. Survey was carried out to identify their perceived job stressors and measure degree of impact of job related stress and organizations performance.  The survey method was used to help determine the level of workplace stress of the staff and the impact on staff and organizations performance. Stratified random sampling was utilized in drawing a representative sample of 111 employees from a population of 557 for the study. Structured questionnaires administered by research assistant were the main data collection instrument for the research. The researcher used statistical package for Social Scientists (SPSS) data analysis program to help generate statistical analysis further. The study findings indicated that 50.5% of staff were exposed to stress arising from excessive work pressure. In conclusion, NYS staff were largely exposed to stress arising from quantitative and qualitative work overload working during odd hours, over enrolment of students in various courses, working under strict deadlines; inadequate reward system (pay/promotion/recognition);” unnecessary” and frequent transfers especially to hardship areas; inadequate tools and equipment, bullying by senior officers (harassment, degradation, humiliation, shame, intimidation, coercion and threats of transfers); unclear task definition, guidelines, scheduling and job definition; lack of training opportunities irrelevant training not matched to skill requirements; poor placements (role not matched to competence); poor working relation (lack of staff cooperation, arguments and quarrels); and unsupportive working environment from both co-worker and supervisors in that order. The study recommended that there was need for NYS to realign its vision, mission and long-term objective for the challenges of becoming a premier disciplined Service would be reflected on the quality of service delivery, corporate image, staff productivity and efficiency in service delivery. Achieving these organization performance indicators calls for among others a stress free working environment among staff and a comprehensive stress policy to monitor, manage and prevent work stress.
INFLUENCE OF REWARD SYSTEM ON PERFORMANCE OF COMMERCIAL STATE CORPORATIONS IN KENYA
Authors: MUTIRIA ERIC NJERU , NGUGI KARANJA , SENAJI THOMAS
Published: November 2023

A reward system on organizational performance is typically a set of incentives that are offered to employees in order to encourage them to achieve certain goals or objectives. The specific nature of the rewards will vary depending on the organization, but they could include things like bonuses, raises, or even paid time off. Some possible rewards for state-owned corporation employees could include bonuses, salary increases, and promotions. Given the changes and efforts to redesign Kenya's state-owned enterprises, many still perform poorly. Kenya's state-owned commercial enterprises have lagged behind their private sector rivals. The purpose of this research was to determine the influence of reward system on performance of commercial State Corporations in Kenya. The study used a positivism research philosophy. The research study used descriptive research designs. The target respondents were three Managers from any department (Finance, HR, administration or marketing) within the commercial state corporation. Therefore, the target population was 165 respondents from 55 commercial state firms in Kenya. The study adopted a census all the 55 commercial state corporations. The study collected both primary and secondary data and utilized both qualitative and quantitative data. Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) was used to help in data analysis. Simple linear regression model, and multiple linear regression model were used to assess the relationship between the study variables. The findings indicated strong positive correlation coefficient between reward system and performance was R = 0.759. The coefficient of determination R2 = 0.576 shows that 57.6 percent of the variation in performance is accounted for by the changes in reward system, leaving 42.4 percent unexplained. Analysis of variance (F = 9.808, P-value = 0.003<0.05) established that the model is overall significant. Findings further indicated that reward system was individually statistically significant (β = 0.669, P-value = 0.003<0.05). The study revealed a strong positive correlation coefficient between reward system and performance of commercial state corporations in Kenya. The study therefore concluded that the reward systems have strong effect on individual’s entrepreneurial behavior in the state firms. The study also recommended that, manager’s rewards should be employed upon the unit of their work performance.
EFFECTIVENESS OF EMIS FOR STUDENT INFORMATION MANAGEMENT ON MANAGEMENT OF PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA
Authors: WAMUTORO MOSES , KESSIO DAVID KIPKASI , WAMBUA BENJAMIN KYALO
Published: November 2023

The government of Kenya implemented a policy advocating for Education Management Information Systems (EMIS). This is because the manual system for managing the students’ record is becoming more cumbersome affecting the management of secondary schools. In this regard the study investigated the influence of EMIS for Student Information Management on Management of Public Secondary Schools in Uasin Gishu County. The study adopted pragmatic philosophical paradigm and employed mixed methods research design with a  target population 1334 respondents which included 183 principals, 189 deputy principals, 955 HODs in public secondary schools, 6 Sub-County Directors and  1 County Director of Education in Uasin Gishu County. Kerjcie and Morgan (1970) table was used for determining the sample size of 302 respondents which was proportionately allocated to each stratum.  Structured questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data from principals, deputy principals and heads of departments (HODs) while semi-structured interview schedules were used to collect qualitative data from sub-county directors and the County Director of Education. Internal validity was attained by increasing the sample size. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics while qualitative data was analyzed in narratives and themes. Results of data analysis were presented using tables. From the findings, the value of adjusted R squared was is 0.627, an indication that there was a variation of 62.7% on the management of public secondary schools in Uasin Gishu County due to effectiveness and efficiency of EMIS for Student Information Management. There was a significant association between EMIS and management of public secondary schools with F statistics (437.414). Regression coefficient of student information management was .577 with  P<0.05. This implied that there is a significant relationship between EMIS for student information management and management of public secondary schools. The effectiveness of EMIS for student information management on management of public secondary schools is also premised on the effective communication of student development records and instructional strategies between the management and other teachers precipitating students’ progress. In this regard, the study recommended that public secondary schools must continuously improve on their implementation of EMIS for student information management.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LEADERSHIP AND EMPLOYEES PERFORMANCE IN THE COUNTY GOVERNMENTS IN KENYA
Authors: NYAGUTHII WINFRED
Published: November 2023

This study determined the relationship between leadership and employees’ performance in the county government. The survey method was used to help determine the relationship between leadership on employees’ performance in county governments in Kenya.  Stratified sampling probability and simple random sampling techniques was utilized in drawing a representative sample from a population of 47 counties for the study. The response rate was in the percentage of questionnaires returned. Three hundred and eighty-one questionnaires were distributed to the respondents and three hundred and sixteen were returned thus achieving a response rate of 82.9 %. Structured questionnaires were administered as the main data collection tool. The study also used secondary data from textbooks, journals, organizational manuals, and the internet.   Structural equation modeling and multivariate statistical tools were used to analyze the data. Regression was used to analyze the relationship between capacity building on the employees’ performance. The hypotheses was analyzed using chi and Z-test. The results were presented in descriptive data such as tables, frequencies, charts, and percentages. The findings were that leadership positively influences employee performance. The researcher advised the county government HR specialist to strategize on how to build the capacities of leaders and their management skills to enhance support mechanisms that will improve county government employees’ performance.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL FEEDBACK ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE IN WAJIR COUNTY GOVERNMENT
Authors: ABDIKHEIR AGMADIGE , KIRIMI EUNICE , NJERU ERICK
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between performance appraisal feedback on employee performance in Wajir County Government. The study was supported by Social Cognitive Theory. This study employed a quantitative research design with the aim of systematically and numerically examining the association between performance appraisal feedback and employee performance in Wajir County Government. Using a stratified random selection technique, 110 respondents were chosen from 153 managers at various levels in the Wajir County Government as part of a descriptive research design. A questionnaire was utilized to collect the data, and content analysis, descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics were each employed for the qualitative and quantitative data analyses. The results showed that performance assessment feedback was positively and significantly correlated with employee performance at the Wajir County Government. The study's findings indicated that enhancing the implementation of performance appraisal feedback can result in improved employee performance within the Wajir County Government. As a result, the study recommended that the county government ensure regular provision of tailored performance appraisal feedback to employees, catering to their individual needs. Furthermore, the county government is encouraged to provide employees with regular performance feedback and acknowledge their achievements through rewards.
EFFECT OF SOLVENCY ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF DEPOSIT TAKING SACCOS IN KENYA
Authors: AKUKU SOPHY ODOL , NYANG’AU ANDREW , MAOBE ASENATH
Published: November 2023

The deposit taking SACCOs (DTS) play a vital role in the socioeconomic advancement of countries as they largely use authority they have over the movement of cash from surplus sources to those who need the funds through financial intermediation. However, it has been observed that the daily activities of Deposit taking SACCOs are faced with challenges.  The financial performance of Deposit taking SACCOs in terms of return on asset in Kenya has been declining from the year 2016 to 2020. The main objective of the study was to determine the effectof solvency on financial performance of Deposit taking SACCOs in Kenya. The study was guided by Pecking Order Theory. This study adopted cross sectional research design. The target population was 164 Deposit Taking SACCOs that operated from 2016 to 2020. The sample size was 61 Deposit Taking SACCOs in Kenya which were registered under SASRA. The study adopted stratified random sampling technique. The study employed the use of secondary data which was collected from the published annual financial statements of the Deposit taking SACCOs.  Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics involved mean, standard deviation, minimum and maximum.  Inferential statistics included correlation analysis, panel regression data. The study identified that; solvency had strong positive and highly significant correlation with financial performance of deposit taking savings and credit cooperative societies (SACCOS) in Kenya.
INVENTORY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE OF KENYA ANIMAL FEEDS INDUSTRY
Authors: MOSES DICKSON MOYWAYWA
Published: November 2023

In the 21st century, businesses face high competition and volatility and must cope with changing quality standards and levels. Efficiency and effectiveness are crucial to success, and companies must deal with rising handling and operational costs. Many companies have implemented inventory management practices to address these challenges, which help optimize operations and reduce resource wastage, especially in inventory handling. Inventory management is particularly important in the animal feed industry, where inventory handling makes up 80% of all operations, and 90% of core activities involve inventory handling. Therefore, a study was conducted on 24 animal feed-producing companies to determine the impact of inventory management practices on operational performance. Data was collected using a questionnaire and study guide and analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression. The study shows a significant correlation between operational performance and EOQ (p = 0.003), JIT (p = 0.05), and MRP (p = 0.04). However, the study had some limitations, including focusing only on four inventory management practices, despite a large pool of available practices and excluding the entire supply chain from consideration. Therefore, the study recommends further research into a wider range of inventory management practices and including the entire supply chain in future studies.
EFFECTS OF NON-TARIFF BARRIERS ON RWANDA’S INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS IN THE EAST AFRICAN COMMUNITY
Authors: JEANNETTE CYUSA UWIMANA , MILUWI JOSHUA OGUTU , MUNGA JANE
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of non-tariff barriers on Rwanda’s international relations in the East African Community. The study was guided by comparative advantage theory. Descriptive research design was used to achieve the study objectives. The target population for this study constituted 184 officials of Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation from whom a sample of 126 respondents was selected using stratified random sampling method. Data was collected using a questionnaire and was analyzed using descriptive, inferential and thematic content analysis techniques. Analyzed statistical data was presented using tables and charts while qualitative data was documented using narratives. This study concluded that Non-tariff barriers have a positive and significant effect on Rwanda’s International Relations in East African Community.  From the findings, this study recommended that the government of Rwanda should continue supporting and advocating for trade liberalization within the EAC.  This can be achieved through negotiations within the EAC's Common External Tariff (CET) framework.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DIFFERENTIATION STRATEGY AND PERFORMANCE OF NAIROBI-KISUMU METER GAUGE RAILWAY SERVICES IN KENYA
Authors: OKELLO PHILIP SULUMETI , ONGESA TOM
Published: November 2023

The transport industry in Kenya has undergone drastic changes.  This has compelled the government of Kenya to modernize railway services in the country to attain competitive advantage. Indeed, Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) has been revamping transport in the rail sector to maximize service efficiency, reliability and safety. Despite this, Nairobi-Kisumu Meter Gauge Railway Services has not performed well as anticipated due to several challenges. KRC has now resorted to night travel only due to low demand. This has rendered the services uncompetitive.  This study sought to evaluate the relationship between differentiation strategy and performance of the Nairobi- Kisumu Meter Railway Services in Kenya. This study adopted a mixed research approach. The research design was descriptive in nature. The target population comprised of all 20-management staff working under this rail services. The study used census method to incorporate the whole management team in the research. Primary data was gathered by use of semi structured questionnaires. Data collected was analyzed by use of both descriptive and inferential statistics. The hypotheses were tested at a significance level of 0.05.  Findings reveal that differentiation strategy has a statistically significant relationship with the performance of the railway service. The study concluded that management enhances the application of differentiation strategy to boost performance to great heights. The findings of this study will enable stakeholders at KRC and the industry players to formulate and implement strategies that would help them attain competitive advantage in the market.
INFLUENCE OF CLAN CULTURE ON PERFORMANCE OF PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN WESTERN KENYA
Authors: MCHAIZI VICTOR , OKWEMBA EMILY , OTSYULA JOSEPH
Published: November 2023

This study assessed the influence of clan culture strategy on performance on performance of public universities in western Kenya. The study was guided by social exchange theory. The study targeted 226 respondents comprising of 27 top management, 86 deans of schools, 9 in charge strategic department, 95 senior assistant administrators and 9 students’ president in all the nine universities in western Kenya. Stratified random sampling was used in selecting a sample size of 144 respondents. Primary data was collected with the help of questionnaires. Pilot study was done at Moi university. Reliability was tested using Cronbach’s alpha and validity was tested using experts and factor analysis. Data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics comprised of mean, standard error and standard deviation. Binary logistic regression showed that clan culture strategy had a positive and significant influence on performance of public Universities in western Kenya. Western Kenya Universities and other public institutions would benefit from this study since it highlighted the key clan culture initiatives essential to their top performance, survival, and growth. Higher education institutions would find significant value in using this information as a guide when making decisions on strategic management. It was therefore concluded that adoption of clan culture strategy improves performance of public Universities. It was recommended that that management of universities should be adaptable and should rely on flexible controls and procedures.
FACTORS DETRIMENTAL TO MANAGEMENT OF DEVOLVED FUNDS IN KENYA. A CASE OF NAIROBI COUNTY
Authors: AORO CHERUBINUS OKETCH , MORONGE MAKORI
Published: November 2023

Decentralization is meant to improve public services, but relatively few studies examine this question empirically. Poverty, inequality and social exclusion are deeply-rooted structural and historical phenomena in Kenya. Successive Kenyan governments have attempted fiscal decentralization as a way of ensuring the country achieves equitable development across the many regions. Fiscal decentralization consists primarily of devolving revenue sources and expenditure functions to lower tiers of government. By bringing the government closer to the people, fiscal decentralization is expected to boost public sector efficiency, as well as accountability and transparency in service delivery and policy-making. Decentralization also entails greater complexity in intergovernmental fiscal relations. Coordination failures in fiscal relations are likely to have a bearing on the fiscal positions, nationally and sub nationally. The purpose of this project was to find the factors that are detrimental to the management of the devolved funds in two levels of government. Increased local financing after fiscal decentralization has opposite two effects, that is, (1) the local finance derives incentive for effective management, and (2) it may induce the lack of public resource for managing public expenditure, which is particularly needed in the basics of managing the lower levels of government. This project analyzed the detrimental factors that affect management of fiscal funds by a county government. The objectives used by this study were; To establish the effects of corruption in the management of devolved funds in Nairobi City County, to determine the effect of accountability in the management of devolved funds in Nairobi City County, to determine the effect of financial regulations in the management of devolved funds in Nairobi City County and to establish the effects of adoption of IFMIS in the management of county funds in Nairobi City County. The study adopted a descriptive research design. From the findings, Accountability, Adoption of IFMIS, and Financial Regulations were found to have positive and significant effect on Financial Management while the effect of corruption was found to have a negative relationship with financial management. From the findings and conclusions therefore, this study recommended that Nairobi County Government consider Accountability, Adoption of IFMIS, and Financial Regulations as the key factors that could determine the management of devolved funds.
ROLE OF KNOWLEDGE SHARING IN SALES FORCE PERFORMANCE
Authors: JUMALE MOHAMED GHEDI , SENAJI THOMAS ANYANJE , OMANWA CLEMENCE NIKIYIZA
Published: November 2023

Organization’s face highly volatile and competitive business environments today. The ability to quickly sense and respond to market developments through knowledge gathered from the operating environment creates and sustains competitive advantage. Sales people constant interaction with the market beyond the bounds of organizational rigidity make them a source of market knowledge with least influence of group-think bias that inhibit innovation (Janis 1982). In the knowledge-based economy, an organization’s ability to create, transfer and adopt knowledge rather than allocating efficiency determines sustainability of its existence. (Prahalad and Hamel 1990). Knowledge sharing is part of the knowledge transfer component of knowledge management. The purpose of the study was to determine the effects of knowledge sharing that influence sales force performance in commercial banks. Within the context of knowledge management framework, knowledge sharing is seen as a way of exchanging knowledge internally and externally through organization channels with an aim of improving value (Lin, Wu, and Lu, 2012). Inter-personal, organizational and barriers to knowledge sharing factors affecting sales force performance was considered. There was negative and insignificant relationship between sales force learning and performance suggesting learning did not in fluence performance. Tacit knowledge gained from interaction of the salesperson with the business environment was seen to have developed with time and this experience could not be translated to explicit knowledge unless there was trust in the sales force. There was positive correlation between interpersonal skills and performance as the more time the sales force spends with building relationship with customer, the higher the performance. Teamwork had a positive and significant relationship between teamwork and sales force performance. This result suggests regular interaction between sales force teams and individuals intensify bonds and create a positive working environment where knowledge is easily shared, common understanding reached, implemented and feedback given without fear of repercussion or hoarding of knowledge. It was found current business environment for banks is challenging and knowledge from customers through the sales force drive value for institution and harness power of the client to drive results by placing customers at the center of what a bank does (M. Blanco and R. Langford, 2017). By sharing this knowledge within the sales force and integrate it to the organizational strategy and structure, there shall be overall organizational improvement in performance.
MACRO-ECONOMIC INDICATORS AND NON-PERFORMING LOANS OF PUBLIC LISTED COMMERCIAL BANKS ACROSS SECURITIES EXCHANGES IN EAST AFRICA
Authors: KAMUN JOSEPH JOEL FARRAH , OLWENY TOBIAS
Published: November 2023

Banks play an important role in the financial system. Through their intermediation activities, banks facilitate the development process of an economy. Therefore, for this critical role to be sustainable, banks need to financially perform satisfactorily to enable them efficiently undertake their intermediation role. However, their performance in the country has been at risk due to rise in non-performing loans (NPLs) in the market. The rise in non-performing loans has led to risk aversion among banks denying ordinary people credit facilities. Numerous studies associate the rise in non-perming loans in banks with various macro-economic factors and monetary policies. These macroeconomic factors that affect a banking system, non-performing loans pose a worrisome threat to the performance of banks and the financial stability of an economy as a whole. This study established the influence of macroeconomic indicators on non-performing loans of public listed commercial banks in East Africa Securities Exchanges. The study analyzed panel dataset of 29 East Africa listed commercial banks with yearly data that spans the period from 2006 to 2020, a total of 435 bank years. The study used a correlational research design and a document review guide to extract and compile the required secondary data for analysis from the financial statements. The findings indicated that interest rate has a positive and significant effect on nonperforming loans. Inflation has a positive but non-significant effect on nonperforming loans. Growth of money supply has a positive and significant relationship on nonperforming loans of public listed commercial banks. Lastly, bank size has a positive and a significant effect on nonperforming loans of public listed commercial banks. The study concluded that interest rate, growth of money supply and bank size had a significant relationship with non-performing loans. However, inflation did not have a significant effect on non-performing loans. The study recommended that the management of the commercial banks should actively monitor and set appropriate lending rate for the loans they issue. This is because the lending rate has a significant effect on non-performing loans. Increase in lending rate means that the non-performing loans increase. Commercial banks should also enhance periodic/regular credit risk monitoring of their loan portfolios to reduce the level of non-performing loans. The study recommended that the commercial banks should come up with policies to control base lending rates to a manageable level even with high inflation rates. Central Bank of Kenya should incorporate the ever-changing operating environment of commercial banks when making changes in the money supply.
INFLUENCE OF DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS ON THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES IN KAJIADO COUNTY, KENYA
Authors: OTIENO ANTHONY OLALE , WEDA CHARLES
Published: November 2023

This study reviewed both theoretical and empirical literature that has tried to explain the relationship between demographic factors and financial performance. The study particularly considered studies done in Kenya and other countries that have examined relationships between such factors and their influence on SME financial performance. The study used secondary data gathered from financial and regulatory institutions, sampled SMEs within the county and primary data from the owner/managers of the same SMEs to acquire information regarding demographic characteristics of owner/managers and financial performance of the SMEs. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) that was used to conduct a correlation analysis between the independent variables and to produce a regression equation between the dependent and the independent variables The study findings indicate that education had a significant positive effect on the financial performance of SMEs in Kajiado County. The findings also show a positive correlation between income and financial performance. Furthermore, the findings also show a positive correlation between employment and financial performance. The study recommends that the SME managers/owners should seek to advance their education levels in relevant fields like book keeping and communication. The study also recommends initiatives be put in place by SMEs managers/owners to enhance their incomes independent of the SMEs. This will cause most SMEs to experience improved financial performance. Furthermore, the study recommends that in order for most SME owners/managers to experience better financial performance in their organisations, they should improve their employability before starting out as entrepreneurs. The findings of this study will be used to inform policy makers and other stakeholders on the extent to which education, income and employment influence financial performance of SMEs. This will help in predicting, guiding and ensuring sustainability and growth of SMEs in the county by applying measures on these demographic factors when managing the county’s economy. The study will form a basis for more research on dynamics around SME performances within Kenya, it will also add to the existing body of literature on the topics encompassing demography, finance and economics of a country.
EFFECT OF PRODUCTION STRATEGIES ON FIRM PERFORMANCE OF EQUATOR BOTTLERS COMPANY LIMITED IN KISUMU COUNTY, KENYA
Authors: OTISO JAMES RATEMO , NYANGAU ANDREW SONGORO , MARANGA WYCLIFFE OTERA
Published: November 2023

The main objective for this study is to assess production strategies and firm performance in bottlers firms in Equator in Kisumu using government policy as the moderator. This was done in Kisumu county and it was guided by resource based theory. The study employed correlation design with target population of 845 employees chosen through stratified sampling and simple techniques. The sample of 387 employees was chosen by stratified random sampling and simple sampling techniques. The major research instruments was the questionnaire for primary data. The study conducted pilot study from Eldoret bottlers limited using Cronbach alpha value of above 0.7. The study adopted both inferential and descriptive statistics using mean, and percentage presented by tables and figures for interpretations. Correlation and regression analysis was chosen to establish relationship of variables. The findings showed that productive strategy was mostly applied resulted to improve cost of returns for firm performance. It also found that market strategies were not effective for firm performance which later reduces earnings through price wars. The study also recommended that production strategies can be enhanced for firm performance. Further, it was noted that strategic management of equator bottlers can review firm performance of 5 years and above. This resulted to the need to conduct another study for production strategies on the firm performance in other organizations.
"O cudownych obrazach w Polsce Przenajświętszej Matki Bożej" Wacława (Edwarda) Nowakowskiego i jego nawiązania do rycin z kolekcji „Święci” Gabinetu Grafiki i Rysunku Muzeum Narodowego w Krakowie
Authors: Ruśnica Bogusław
Published: November 2023

Wacław (Edward) Nowakowski (o. Wacław z Sulgostowa) w swoim dziele "O cudownych obrazach w Polsce Przenajświętszej Matki Bożej. Wiadomości historyczne, biograficzne i ikonograficzne" wydanym w 1902 roku zamieścił opis 1502 rycin z wizerunkami MatkiBoskiej słynących cudami, które znajdowały się na ziemiach polskich. Badania nad obiektami z kolekcji „Święci” w zbiorze Gabinetu Grafiki i Rysunku Muzeum Narodowego w Krakowie wykazały, iż w dziele o. Wacława istnieją liczne nawiązania do rycin znajdujących się w tym zbiorze. Przybliżenie tych zbieżności stanowi jednocześnie przyczynek do badań nad kultem maryjnym w Rzeczypospolitej,czego odzwierciedleniem było wytwarzanie grafik o charakterze dewocyjnym.
Opowieści przedmiotów. Zbiory prehistoryczne oraz sposoby ich prezentacji na przykładzie ekspozycji Muzeum Archeologicznego w Hamburgu
Authors: Kadłubowska Joanna
Published: November 2023

Ewolucja w postrzeganiu funkcji muzeum oraz roli zwiedzającego, a także nowe technologie końca XX i początku XXI wieku zmieniły zarówno sposób prezentowania obiektów muzealnych, jak i relacje muzeum z odbiorcą. Szczególnie ciekawie proces ten przebiegł w obszarze eksponowania zabytków archeologicznych, będących niewątpliwie grupą obiektów stanowiących nie lada wyzwanie dla muzealników. Szczątkowość zachowania, nierzadko znaczny stopień zniszczenia, monotematyczność i niepozorność prehistorycznych znalezisk oraz dystans czasowy, który dzieli nas od ich powstania, sprawiają, że nieporównywalnie trudniej osadzić je w kontekście choćby zbliżonym do pierwotnego. Przez długie lata ekspozycje archeologiczne stanowiły najsłabsze ogniwo w przestrzeni wielu muzeów, budząc ograniczony entuzjazm wśród zwiedzających. Niniejszy artykuł ma na celu prześledzenie owego procesu przeobrażeń na podstawie archiwalnych i aktualnych zasobów, dokumentujących historię wystawiennictwa w Archäologisches Museum Hamburg/Stadtmuseum Harburg, które w swojej ponad 120-letniej historii zgromadziło interesującą kolekcję archeologiczną. W układzie chronologicznym, uwzględniając historię instytucji, autorka przedstawia ewolucję tendencji wystawienniczych w Archäologisches Museum Hamburg/Stadtmuseum Harburg, począwszy od prezentacji pierwszych znalezisk pochodzących z amatorskich wykopalisk po współczesną, pełną multimediów, nowoczesną ekspozycję.
Odzyskanie obrazu Fransa Posta. Strata wojenna Muzeum Narodowego w Lublinie odnaleziona w zbiorach Muzeum Narodowego w Warszawie
Authors: Jankowska-Paluch Helena
Published: November 2023

.
Socjalistyczne treści w nowoczesnej formie? Dekoracje przestrzeni Warszawy podczas V Światowego Festiwalu Młodzieży i Studentów w 1955 roku wobec komunistycznych konceptualizacji miasta
Authors: Majewska Julia
Published: November 2023

Celem artykułu jest przyjrzenie się zjawisku V Światowego Festiwalu Młodzieży i Studentów odbywającego się w Warszawie w 1955 roku, rozumianego jako kulturowy fenomen oraz wydarzenie zakreślające cezurę czasową w dyskursie polskiej historii sztuki po 1945 roku. Zasadniczą część tekstu stanowi analiza historyczno-artystyczna formy i treści dekoracji festiwalowych, które pojawiły się w przestrzeni miejskiej Warszawy podczas międzynarodowej imprezy. Tezę badawczą artykułu stanowi założenie, że kombinacja socjalistycznej treści i awangardowej formy dekoracji wyznaczyła alternatywną drogę sztuce godzącej ideologiczne wymogi doktryny z estetyką modernistyczno-awangardową. Nadanie dekoracjom dwuznacznego statusu rozciągniętego pomiędzy realizmem a awangardą pozwoliło na odtworzenie dyskusji o roli sztuki funkcjonującej w ramach systemu i przeciw niemu. W artykule zostaje rozpatrzona przełomowa rola Festiwalu, traktowanego jako pierwszy moment po drugiej wojnie światowej, w którym na tak szeroką skalę w przestrzeni publicznej dopuszczono formy nowoczesne, które posiłkują się tradycją modernizmu. Festiwal, jako przewrót artystyczno-kulturowy, spowodował dalekosiężne zmiany – wpłynął na kształt polskiej sztuki po 1955 roku oraz sposób nadawania miastu i pojawiającym się w nim elementom wizualnym estetyki.
Oferta muzealna dla osób g/Głuchych i słabosłyszących – przykłady instytucji warszawskich
Authors: Włodarska Maria Alicja
Published: November 2023

Dostępność muzeów dla osób g/Głuchych i słabosłyszących to temat, który coraz częściej podlega badaniom, zarówno w obszarze naukowym, jak i praktycznym, a rosnąca liczba przykładów dostosowania placówek muzealnych do potrzeb tych osób świadczy o rozwoju humanistyki w dziedzinie dostępności. Niniejszy artykuł przedstawia wybrane aspekty działań warszawskich muzeów na tym polu, skupiając się na najbardziej zaawansowanych programach wprowadzonych do 2020 roku. Ponadto, aby poruszyć tę problematyką w sposób globalny, omówiono również kwestie terminologii związanej z kulturą Głuchych, językiem migowym i specyficznymi potrzebami, które muzea powinny uwzględniać. Dostosowywanie oferty muzeów do potrzeb osób g/Głuchych i słabosłyszących można zaobserwować w wielu przypadkach, jednak zjawisko nie ma jeszcze powszechnego charakteru. Eliminacja barier w odbiorze kultury jest ważnym i skomplikowanym procesem, który stanowi wyzwanie dla instytucji muzealnych.
Autocenzura w niepublikowanych tekstach Jadwigi Łuszczewskiej i Gustawa Zielińskiego
Authors: Król Małgorzata
Published: November 2023

Artykuł przybliża epizody z życia Gustawa Zielińskiego i Jadwigi Łuszczewskiej (Deotymy) rekonstruowane na podstawie materiałów archiwalnych, głównie tekstów intymistycznych. Rękopiśmienne dokumenty pozwalają na wzbogacenie naszej wiedzy na temat zapomnianych współcześnie, a ważnych w XIX wieku postaci oraz prześledzenie dokonywanych przez nich zabiegów autocenzuralnych. Analizowane teksty pod tym względem mają charakter wyjątkowy, ponieważ przeciwieństwie do innych dokumentów z epoki ślady autorskich ingerencji są nie tylko wyczuwalne intuicyjnie, ale również analitycznie potwierdzone.
Relationship of Vitamin D Levels with Simultaneous Occurrence of Periodontal and Cardiac Diseases
Authors: Amjid Bari Muhammad , Perveen Naghma , Sohail Fareed  , Noorul Ain Arshad  , Munir Saima , Khalil Ahmad Khan
Published: November 2023

Objective: To observe relationship of vitamin D levels with the severity of periodontal disease and also with the occurrence of cardiac diseases.
Study design: A cross-sectional study.
Place and duration of study: Nishtar institute of dentistry, Multan from March 5th, 2019 to December 1st, 2019.
Methodology: Total 150 subjects were enrolled in the study, of which half were suffering from cardiac and periodontal diseases and one third were only affected by periodontitis. Twenty five subjects were normal. Vitamin D and calcium levels were recorded from the blood samples. Mean and standard deviation were calculated between the groups with 2 sample t- test using SPSS v.23.0. The significance of difference was taken at p?0.05.
Results: Vitamin D levels were 24.98±4.53ng/ml and 41.95±1.42ng/ml in patients with high and low intensity of periodontal disease, rspectively (p=0.22). Calcium levels were 8.43±0.14nmol/L and 8.69±0.28nmol/L in patients with high and low intensity of periodontal disease, rspectively (p=0.437). Among the male cardiac patients, vitamin D levels were 20.96±2.39ng/ml and 41.67±4.78ng/ml in high and low severity of periodontal disease cases (p=0.002), whereas calcium levels were 8.03±0.30nmol/L and 8.95±0.77nmol/L in high and low severity of periodontal disease cases (p=0.075). Among the female cardiac patients, vitamin D levels were 17.5±4.93ng/ml and 21.55±18.12ng/ml (p=0.83), while calcium levels were 8.4±0.33nmol/L and 8.57±0.24nmol/L in high and low severity of periodontal disease cases, respectively (p=0.677).
Covid 19 Pandemic: Redefining National Security and Health Policy
Authors: Saima Dastageer  , Saad Abubakr Ali
Published: November 2023

The covid19 pandemic is a global health crisis of unprecedented scale and has forced the governments, policy makers and international organizations to redefine and rethink the paradigms of national security and its relationship with health policy. With approximately 1739007 confirmed cases world wide and 108432 conformed death from this disease covid19 has effectively transcended the traditional conventions on national sovereignty, borders, security and International law. From Wuhan china the disease has spread to 213 countries and territories and has involved all continents except Antarctica. Most of the countries and societies affected with covid19 have seen lock downs, travel restrictions, economic stagnation, curfews, closed businesses and schools practically disrupting normal life, weakening political and economic systems and threatening the society in general. The broad social, political, economic and religious consequences of this pandemic makes it imperative that countries especially developing countries like Pakistan rethink their national security policy and incorporate health security as an essential component of its national security doctrine.