Masters Theses and Dissertations

Christian Affiliated Guesthouse Attributes and Customer’s Choice Behaviour in Nairobi County, Kenya

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Christian Affiliated Guesthouse Attributes and Customer’s Choice Behaviour in Nairobi County, Kenya Nyaga, Dorothy Kathambi Christian-affiliated guesthouses in Nairobi County face declining occupancy despite their role in expanding lodging options. Few studies have examined how faith-based affiliation impacts guest house choice in Nairobi. This study examined how price tariffs, service quality, institutional environment, and safety influence customer choice, guided by Consumer Behavior Theory, Theory of Planned Behavior, and Environmental Responsible Behavior Theory. Using a sequential explanatory design (mixed method), data were collected from 291 respondents (managers, supervisors, and guests) across 13 guesthouses. Quantitative analysis revealed service quality (r=0.885) and safety (r=0.790) had the strongest influence, while price tariffs (r=0.285) were least impactful. Qualitative findings highlighted guests’ prioritization of staff responsiveness and environmental policies. Recommendations include adopting flexible payment systems and enhancing security measures. The study’s focus on Nairobi limits generalizability; future research should explore other regions and stakeholder perspectives.

Effect of Employee Training On Service Quality in Public Catering Institutions in Nairobi County

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Effect of Employee Training On Service Quality in Public Catering Institutions in Nairobi County Yegon, Erustus Kibet Service quality in Public Catering Institutions is essential for customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and institutional reputation. However, inconsistent service delivery, inefficiencies, and poor customer satisfaction remain challenges in these units. While structured training programs are recognized as crucial in enhancing employee competencies and service standards, limited research exists on the influence of employees' learning experience, employees’ training content, employees’ training-job alignment and employees’ skill transferability on service quality in Public Catering Institutions in Nairobi County. This study sought to assess the effect of employee training on service quality in Public Catering Institutions in Nairobi County. The research assessed the effects of four specific variables: employees’ learning experience, employees’ training content, employees’ training-job alignment and employees’ skill transferability. Grounded in Kirkpatrick’s Four-Level Training Evaluation Model, Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory, Social Learning Theory, and the Knowledge-Based View of the Firm, the study employed a descriptive research design. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 327 respondents from a target population of 2,211 staff members, including Heads of Catering Units, catering managers, and operational staff. Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential methods such as correlation and regression analysis, while qualitative data were evaluated thematically. Hypothesis test revealed that employees’ learning experience quality had significant effect on service quality in public catering institutions in Nairobi County. Employees’ training content relevance had significant effect on service quality in public catering institutions in Nairobi County. Employees’ training-job alignment had significant effect on service quality in public catering institutions in Nairobi County. Employees’ skill transferability level had significant effect on service quality in public catering institutions in Nairobi County. The study concludes that effective and strategically designed employee training is a key lever for improving service quality in public catering institutions. Merely conducting training is not sufficient; the training must be responsive to job realities, tailored to institutional goals, and structured to ensure practical application and skill adaptability. These insights affirm that service excellence in the public sector depends not just on resource allocation, but on the relevance and execution of employee development initiatives. Going forward, institutions must institutionalize continuous professional development, integrate modern training techniques such as blended and experiential learning, and foster a culture of ongoing skills enhancement. These measures will not only elevate service standards but also strengthen public confidence in government-run food service programs.

Assessment of Nutrition and Dietary Practices Among Patients with Gastrointestinal Symptomatology at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Assessment of Nutrition and Dietary Practices Among Patients with Gastrointestinal Symptomatology at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya Ndirangu, Faith Wambui Gastrointestinal Symptoms (GIS) represents a range of disorders with unclear pathophysiology, presenting symptoms such as abdominal pain, ulcers, cramps, constipation, nausea, and vomiting. The disease is linked to multiple factors, including genetics, environment, infections, immune dysfunction, and altered gut microbiota. The rising incidence of GIS globally—affecting over 6.8 million individuals—is attributed to increased urbanization, industrialization, and consumption of processed foods. Sub-Saharan Africa, despite reporting an increase in GIS cases, has limited published studies on the condition, highlighting the need for localized research. The study investigated the dietary habits, nutritional status, and food choices of patients with GIS attending Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). This study assessed 200 randomly selected GIS patients diagnosed by 2023. It aimed to determine their socio-demographic characteristics, dietary patterns, the influence of food choices on disease progression, and their nutritional status. Findings indicated that females (57%) were more affected than males, though gender did not show a statistically significant association with GIS (p=0.76). The majority (40%) were aged above 34 years, and most patients (72.5%) lived in urban areas. Socio-economic factors such as marital status, education, and income had significant associations with GIS (p<0.05). Over 45% of respondents were well-educated and self-employed, and 22.4% reported a history of cigarette smoking. Dietary analysis revealed that 87% of respondents used sugar in beverages, and 87.9% preferred home-cooked meals, with only 8.1% eating in hotels. The most common foods reported to trigger GIS included beans (76.6%), spicy foods (14.1%), chapatti (13.8%), soft drinks (5.8%), and oranges (4.1%). Similarly, intolerable foods identified were legumes (28.9%), chapatti (10.4%), milk (5.8%), and oranges (5.2%). Foods that brought relief included cabbage (23.3%), potatoes (10.75%), milk (8.3%), and carrots (6.2%). Nutrient intake assessment showed excessive consumption of macronutrients compared to recommended daily allowances (RDAs): carbohydrates (154%), protein (193%), energy (127%), and fiber (211%). Consequently, 69% of participants were overweight or obese (BMI ≥26.38 kg/m²), though none were morbidly obese or underweight. Regression analysis showed a significant relationship between BMI and calorie intake (p=0.003), while the relationship between BMI and food frequency was not significant (p=0.680), contrary to most prior research. The study recommends that GIS patients regularly consult nutritionists to receive updated dietary guidance, control portion sizes to reduce excess macronutrient intake, and engage in at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Weight reduction and careful food selection, avoiding foods that aggravate symptoms, are essential. Additionally, the Ministry of Health (MOH) should develop dietary prescriptions for GIS patients and integrate GIS management strategies into national health policy guidelines.

Influence of Strategy Implementation On Performance of Hotel Industry in Kenya: A Case Study of Accor Group Hotels in Kenya

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Influence of Strategy Implementation On Performance of Hotel Industry in Kenya: A Case Study of Accor Group Hotels in Kenya Mukiri, Judy Francis The performance of international hotel chains in Kenya, including Accor Hotels, has faced growing pressure from rising customer expectations, technological disruption, and increased competition from both regional and global players. Despite Accor’s strong international brand presence, its Kenyan operations have encountered challenges in maintaining consistent service quality, operational efficiency, and guest satisfaction. Effective strategy implementation is therefore essential to sustain competitiveness and improve performance. This study examined the effects of strategic implementation on the performance of Accor Hotels in Kenya, focusing on four dimensions: employee engagement strategies, technological integration, customer feedback mechanisms, and leadership support. A descriptive research design was adopted, targeting frontline staff, customer care representatives, and managers across eight Accor Hotels in Kenya. A stratified random sampling approach yielded 118 valid responses from a population of 168 employees. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations) and inferential techniques (correlation and regression analysis). The findings revealed that all four strategic variables had a statistically significant positive effect on the performance of Accor Hotels in Kenya, with leadership support emerging as the most critical determinant. The study concluded that strategic implementation plays a pivotal role in enhancing operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and competitiveness. The study recommended that Accor Hotels strengthen employee engagement through structured training, recognition, and communication systems; accelerate technological integration by automating operations and adopting customer-facing innovations; enhance feedback mechanisms through real-time digital platforms and systematic complaint resolution; and invest in leadership development programs that emphasize strategic communication, accountability, and empowerment. Through adopting these measures, Accor Hotels can achieve sustainable performance improvements and provide lessons for the wider hospitality industry in Kenya.

Influence of Public Private Partnership Drivers On Performance of Renewable Energy Projects in Kenya

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Influence of Public Private Partnership Drivers On Performance of Renewable Energy Projects in Kenya CHAMDANY, PHILIPH K.A The growing global emphasis on clean energy transition has intensified the implementation of renewable energy projects, particularly through Public-Private Partnerships. However, the performance of such projects in Kenya has remained inconsistent, prompting the need to assess the influence of key PPP drivers financial structuring, stakeholder management, resource management and risk management on the performance of renewable energy projects in Kenya. The study was guided by theories such as the Pecking Order Theory, Stakeholder Theory, Resource-Based View Theory and Prospect Theory, which provided a multidimensional lens for examining how institutional and managerial practices shape project outcomes. The study adopted an explanatory research design. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires, while secondary data were obtained from relevant project reports and regulatory agencies. The target population was 380. Sample size was 195. The stratified random sampling technique was the most appropriate approach for this study. The findings revealed that all four variables: financial structuring, stakeholder management, resource management, and risk management had a positive and statistically significant influence on project performance. The study concludes that the successful implementation of renewable energy projects through PPPs in Kenya requires strategic attention to financing models, inclusive stakeholder engagement, efficient resource allocation, and robust risk management frameworks. The study recommends strengthening PPP-driven renewable energy projects through short-term actions like expanding innovative financing options, enhancing stakeholder engagement, building technical capacity and adopting risk and climate resilience frameworks. Long-term priorities include creating a centralized financing hub, institutionalizing participatory governance, modernizing grids with storage solutions, and reinforcing regulatory frameworks with clear risk-sharing and policy consistency. The study also identifies gaps for future research, particularly the need to explore the roles of technological innovation, regulatory governance and longitudinal project tracking in the evolving renewable energy landscape.

Factors Influencing the Implementation of Performance Contracting Among Public Health Officers in Nyeri County Kenya

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Factors Influencing the Implementation of Performance Contracting Among Public Health Officers in Nyeri County Kenya MWANIKI, DENIS MURIITHI Performance contracting (PC) has been institutionalized within Kenya’s public health sector as a reform strategy to strengthen accountability, improve efficiency, and link rewards and sanctions to objectively verifiable results. However, despite its adoption, declining health indicators continue to be observed nationally and within Nyeri County, signaling persistent gaps between policy formulation and practical implementation. This study, therefore, examined the factors influencing the implementation of performance contracting among Public Health Officers (PHOs) and Public Health Technicians (PHTs) in Nyeri County. Specifically, it explored how government policies, stakeholder involvement, human resource (HR) strategies, and institutional factors shape PC implementation. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, targeting all 112 PHOs and PHTs, from which 89 respondents were selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using structured self-administered questionnaires validated through expert review and pre-tested. Analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0, applying descriptive statistics, Spearman’s correlation, and multiple regression analysis at a 0.05 level of significance. Results showed that all four independent variables significantly influenced PC implementation (R² = 0.681, F = 45.217, p < 0.001). HR strategies (β = 0.312, p = 0.001) and institutional factors (β = 0.287, p = 0.003) were the strongest predictors, underscoring the role of motivation, training, leadership, and supportive work systems. Correlation coefficients ranged from r = 0.492–0.615 (p < 0.01), indicating moderate to strong positive relationships among the variables. The study concluded that the success of performance contracting depends on integrating clear policy direction, participatory stakeholder engagement, effective HR strategies, and institutional leadership. It recommends strengthening HR capacity-building programs, aligning county policies with devolved operational contexts, and institutionalizing feedback mechanisms. The study contributes to public health management by providing empirical evidence to guide policy and managerial decisions on optimizing performance contracting in devolved health systems.

Factors Influencing Evidence-Based Decision-Making Among Specialized Nurses Working in Selected Health Facilities in Nairobi, Kenya

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Factors Influencing Evidence-Based Decision-Making Among Specialized Nurses Working in Selected Health Facilities in Nairobi, Kenya Agure, Safari Evidence-based decision-making (EBDM) and practice among nurses in Kenya, is largely unexplored. The study was designed to determine the factors influencing the utilization of evidence by nurses for decision-making and practice. In 2024, a concurrent, triangulation mixed methods study was designed, targeting nurses working in maternal and child (Reproductive) wards in selected facilities in Nairobi County with the sites being all public facilities of levels 4 and 5. A 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was administered to all nurses found working on the day the researcher visited the facility. Key informant interviews were also conducted on the same day. Ethical approval was sought from Kenya Methodist University and individual respondents completed Informed consent forms prior to participation in the study. All other ethical considerations required were adhered to. Quantitative data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 22 statistical software. Exploratory data analysis (EDA) was employed at the initial stage of analysis. Bivariate level analysis was used to assess the association of independent variables with EBDM utilization using Chi-square test and/ or Fisher’s Exact Test. All variables with a P-value < 0.25 in the bivariate analysis were subjected to multivariate analysis. Adjusted Odds Ratios (AOR) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs), were used to evaluate the strength of statistical association between dependent and independent variables. Qualitative data was managed using thematic analysis. Results show intuition is the most applied thought paradigm among nurses for decision making alluding to the importance of tacit knowledge in nursing. Factors that emerged as significantly associated with EBDM among reproductive nurses were individual in nature. The findings of this study are expected to inform policy and management efforts to enhance nurses’ decision making. As without nurses’ engagement with evidence and learning, EBDM contributions will continue to be negligible, it is recommend that more research be done to enhance institutional factors and the use of intuition to support EBDM. As well, strategies for harvesting tacit knowledge should be enriched.

An Assessment of Factors Influencing Clinical Learning Among Diploma Nursing Students at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Eldoret, Kenya

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

An Assessment of Factors Influencing Clinical Learning Among Diploma Nursing Students at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Eldoret, Kenya Robert, Salome Nkatha Clinical learning is a critical component of nursing education worldwide, enabling students to develop practical skills through supervised patient care. Globally and regionally, nursing students face challenges such as inadequate supervision, resource shortages, and a persistent theory-practice gap, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In Kenya, despite nurses demonstrating strong overall competencies, diploma nursing students often underperform in clinical placements compared to theoretical assessments, highlighting a pressing need for context-specific investigation. This study assessed factors influencing clinical learning among 304 diploma nursing students at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), Kenya. The objectives were to: (a) identify student-related factors; (b) evaluate training institution-related factors; (c) examine clinical setting-related influences; and (d) explore students’ experiences with the preceptorship model. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, the study samples 304 nursing students by census sampling to complete questionnaires as well as 24 students participating in a total of 4 Focus Group Discussions (FGD). Quantitative data were analyzed with SPSS version 27 using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests for associations, and multivariate regression to identify predictors of clinical performance (p ≤ 0.05). Qualitative data underwent thematic analysis to enrich understanding of preceptorship experiences. Among the 304 respondents, key quantitative findings included: 37.83% (n=115) strongly disagreed that clinical supervision was adequate (χ²=15.7, p=0.001); 36.51% (n=111) reported ineffective teaching methods (χ²=12.4, p=0.004); and 33.88% (n=103) experienced poor cooperation with clinical staff (χ²=10.8, p=0.013). Anxiety and financial constraints were notable student-related barriers (anxiety χ²=11.5, p=0.009). Regression analysis revealed that training institution-related (β=0.32, p=0.002) and clinical setting-related factors (β=0.28, p=0.005) significantly predicted clinical performance, explaining 12.5% of variance (R²=0.125, F=7.64, p=0.003). Qualitative themes included supportive preceptorship fostering confidence and skills, resource limitations such as PPE shortages, and the persistent theory-practice gap due to inconsistent clinical guidance. In conclusion, inadequate supervision, poor teaching methods, and resource scarcity are significant barriers to effective clinical learning at MTRH. Strengthening supervision, enhancing teaching strategies, and improving clinical resources are essential to bridge the theory-practice gap and improve nursing students’ clinical competence.

Prevalence and Patterns of Psychoactive Substance Use Among Somali Youth Living in Eastleigh, in Nairobi, Kenya

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Prevalence and Patterns of Psychoactive Substance Use Among Somali Youth Living in Eastleigh, in Nairobi, Kenya KORIO, ADEN ABDI The usage of psychoactive substances is on the rise in many communities, particularly among the youth, and is having detrimental effects on people's health, leading to millions of deaths annually. According to a report by National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) in 2004, the use of substances like alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, khat, and inhalants such as glue was widespread among young people between the ages of 10 and 24 in Kenya. Although the use of psychoactive substances leads to significant social and public health problems, the extent of the issue in sub-Saharan Africa is yet to be determined. This study aims to establish the prevalence and patterns of psychoactive substance use, as well as the demographic characteristics associated with its use, among the Somali community residing in Eastleigh, Nairobi, Kenya. This study was a cross-sectional survey study among consenting youth living in Easleigh North. Data is presented both in descriptive and inferential statistics. The sampled three areas in Eastleigh, known for drug abuse concerns, among sampled 270 households, out of a total of 9,408 households, aiming to interview one person per household. Data collection involved trained interviewers using questionnaires to inquire about demographics and drug use, focusing on the past 12 months. The study also utilized focus group discussions with youth aged 18 to 25, visiting sampled households for this purpose. Data collected was analyzed using SPSS version 23 to provide descriptive statistics, presented in tables and graphs illustrating psychotropic drug use categories, and significant consumption patterns were identified through t-chi-square tests based on demographic and environmental factors.This study found that 75% of youth use at least one psychoactive substance, miraa was the highest used Illicit substance (47.9%), while cannabis was the highest illicit used substances (23.9%) and prescription medication was found to be 10.3% use. Onset of all psychoactive substances was below 18 years of age. Comorbid use varied between Illicit psychoactive, (32.0% to 73.5%); illicit psychoactive substances (9.8% to 100%), Illicit substances and prescription medication (11.8% to 22.7%) and illicit substances and prescription medication (26.7% to 100%). 66.% reported reason for use to be peer pressure. Contributing factors to psychoactive substance use were other family members use (p=0.000), living conditions (p=0.003), family income (p=0.014) and gender (p=0.044). This recommends that policy makers for advocacy, sensitization, provision of appropriate treatment programs, and review training for public health workers. Recommendations for public health workers include the establishment of programs for preventions, treatment and databank, networks and linkages for referrals that incorporate other partners in mental health that include psychoactive substances

Effect of Electronic Payment System On Revenue Collection Performance of County Government of Kajiado, Kenya

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Effect of Electronic Payment System On Revenue Collection Performance of County Government of Kajiado, Kenya Saigilu, Jonathan Rayiani The study examined the effect of electronic payment systems on revenue collection performance in the County Government of Kajiado, Kenya. Revenue collection is a crucial aspect of county governments, enabling them to finance development projects and meet their financial obligations. Despite the adoption of electronic payment systems, challenges such as inefficiencies, fraud, and delayed payments persist. This study aimed to determine the influence of key components of electronic payment systems; online billing, receipting, payment, and response on revenue collection performance. Guided by the Optimal Tax Theory, Resource-Based View Theory, Innovation Diffusion Theory and the Technology Acceptance Model, the study employed a descriptive research design to investigate the relationship between the independent variables and revenue collection performance. The study targeted 195 respondents, including Executive Committee Members, Finance Personnel, and Revenue Officers, using stratified sampling to ensure representation. Sample size was 131. Data was collected through structured questionnaires, validated through pilot testing, and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that all components of the electronic payment system significantly impacted revenue collection performance. Online billing and online response had the most substantial influence, demonstrating their importance in ensuring accurate billing and effective taxpayer engagement. Online receipting and payment also positively contributed by enhancing accuracy, convenience, and trust in the payment process. Correlation analysis further supported these findings, with strong positive relationships between the components of the electronic payment system and revenue collection performance. The results indicate that improving electronic payment systems can significantly enhance revenue collection by reducing inefficiencies, increasing transparency, and fostering taxpayer compliance. The study concludes that adopting and optimizing electronic payment systems is critical for achieving better revenue collection performance in county governments. The study recommends strengthening the online billing and response processes through continuous technological upgrades and robust taxpayer engagement mechanisms. Additionally, enhancing the usability of online receipting and payment platforms is essential to encourage adoption. Policymakers are urged to standardize electronic payment systems across counties and promote digital inclusion to address barriers to adoption. Future research could explore the long-term impacts of electronic payment systems, their scalability, and inter-county comparisons to identify best practices. This study provides actionable insights for county governments aiming to improve revenue collection efficiency through digital transformation.