Brenda M. Mengich, A. Karanja, G. Ogendi, G. Morara
{"title":"Effects of Surface Area and Water Level Variability on Fisheries Production in Lake Naivasha, Kenya","authors":"Brenda M. Mengich, A. Karanja, G. Ogendi, G. Morara","doi":"10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.132","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.132","url":null,"abstract":"Lake Naivasha is a freshwater, a Ramsar site and an Important Bird Area. It provides multiple services to the surrounding communities such as Fishing, Tourism and Agriculture. Lake Naivasha has been experiencing a water level variation cycle over the years as a result of it being shallow and experiencing high evaporation. Variation in water levels leads to flooding, and receding which disrupts the Lake ecosystem thus causing direct and indirect effects on fishing. The study was conducted to establish the relationship between Surface area and water level variability and fish yield and revenue in Lake Naivasha. Primary data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire, and Key informant interviews. Secondary data was collected using Landsat images that provided the temporal and spatial water level variability and documentary analysis between 1989 to 2022. Both descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. The results show a positive correlation between Surface area Variability and fish yield (r= 0.6261, R2= 0.3920) and fish revenue (r= 0.5219, R2= 0.2724). Surface area variability accounts for 39% of the variation in total fish yield, and 27% of the fish revenue. The study recommends continuous monitoring and surveillance of the lake level, and water quality by the relevant government agencies, as well as watershed management and conservation measures for the sustainability of the Lake’s fishery.","PeriodicalId":516705,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO","volume":"72 12","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141812824","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"An Evaluation of Cultural Concepts in Swahili Translated Texts: An Example of Walioteuliwa by White.","authors":"Vince A. Nyabunga","doi":"10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.130","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.130","url":null,"abstract":"This paper evaluated the cultural religious translated concepts in Walioteuliwa This book is read and studied among the SDA believers and interpreted differently among the same believers of same denomination. The objective of the study was to evaluate the difficulties in translating cultural concepts from English into Kiswahili. The study was qualitative and quantitative. Therefore, following cultural concepts were analyzed: ecological, material culture, religious concepts, linguistic concepts, figures of speech and proverbs. Seven SDA churches were purposefully selected to take part in the study. The respondents filled questionnaires and the leaders were interviewed. The actual sample size was 140 participants. Thus, 42 church leaders and 98 church goers were involved. Participants who read and write in Kiswahili only participated in the study. The skopos theory guided this research. It states that the process of translation is determined by the function of its product. Thus, that function is specified by the addressee. The results of this study showed that the strategies used by the translator posed problems in translated cultural concepts among the readers of the selected text. Therefore, this study contributed to the understanding and interpreting of cultural concepts in religious texts.","PeriodicalId":516705,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO","volume":"31 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141813651","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"The moderating Effect of Social Support on the Relationship between Occupational Stress Interventions and Performance of Academic Staff in A Subset of Public Kenyan Universities","authors":"J. M. Kinuthia, James Kiragu","doi":"10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.104","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.104","url":null,"abstract":"Occupational stress is a concept that has received a lot of attention from scholars. Knowledge workers, such as academic staff in universities, are prone to suffering from high levels of stress arising from work demands. This study set out to investigate the moderating role of social support in the association between occupational stress interventions and academic staff performance in a subset of Kenyan public universities. The research used a cross-sectional, descriptive, and explanatory design. Three public institutions with a combined total of 3277 academic staff members—Egerton, Kenyatta, and Maseno universities—constituted the observation unit. Using the Krejcie and Morgan formula, the sample size was calculated to be 342. The two-step Zendek and Keppel (2000) method for testing moderation was used in the study. Social support was found to mitigate the connection between academic staff performance and occupational stress interventions at a 95% confidence level. This is a result of social support's ability to reduce stress. Therefore, to have more productive staff members, public institutions should look for ways to assist at the organizational and supervisory levels. To provide the necessary assistance to the workers they supervise, HR managers should also provide social support training to the supervisors. The Job-Demand-Control-Support (JDCS) model supports the moderating influence of social support on the connection between OSI and staff performance.","PeriodicalId":516705,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO","volume":" 16","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141826027","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Data protection in Healthcare Information Systems Using Cryptographic Algorithm with Base64 512 bits","authors":"Agnes K. Muthaura, John Kandiri","doi":"10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.105","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.105","url":null,"abstract":"Due to the recent advancement in technology in Healthcare Information Systems, data leakages at the data level has been on the rise. Therefore, there is need to analyze the existing data protection techniques using cryptographic algorithms in Healthcare systems at the data level. Existing data-level protection techniques that are developed to ensure data-level protection in Healthcare Information Systems lack integration of key security models and database security approaches such as enhanced cryptographic algorithms in the design and development of data protection techniques. In this study, design science research methodology was used to design and develop a cryptographic algorithm with Base64 512 bits to enhance data protection at the data level. Python programming language was used to develop a simulation program for experiment. The performance of the developed algorithm was tested in a healthcare information system. The results were compared with the existing cryptographic algorithms to evaluate encryption and decryption process, strength on brute force attack and plain text vulnerability. The results showed that the developed algorithm with Base64 and fixed length of 512 bits achieved optimal performance. In conclusion, healthcare data is very sensitive and critical thus enhanced cryptographic algorithms are necessary to reduce data leakages at the data level.","PeriodicalId":516705,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO","volume":" 94","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141825337","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Nickson T. Mweni, M. M. O’Connor, Maundu J. Nyamai
{"title":"Assessing The Impact of Socio-Economic Related Mathematical Learner Identity on Student Performance in Mathematics Among Secondary Schools: A Case Study of Kilifi County, Kenya","authors":"Nickson T. Mweni, M. M. O’Connor, Maundu J. Nyamai","doi":"10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.107","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.107","url":null,"abstract":"The study's goal, which was to evaluate how students' performance in mathematics was impacted by their socioeconomic identification as a mathematical learner, is shared in this article. The theoretical framework was derived from the sociocultural theory of learning. In order to collect both quantitative and qualitative data, the study used a correlational research design with a sample size of 100 students using a Student Mathematics Achievement Test and Student Interview Schedule. Prior to being connected with students' mathematical performance, content analysis quantified socioeconomically related mathematical learner identity data. The study found that student performance in mathematics is impacted by socioeconomically associated mathematical learner identities. Following analysis, the data was displayed tabulated and in narrative format. The study suggests fostering the development of meaningful interactions in order to instill in learners the relevance of mathematics in their socioeconomic situations.","PeriodicalId":516705,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO","volume":" 35","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141827013","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Indigenous Weather Forecast Systems: A Case Study of Weather Forecast Indicators for Chapo Village, Ward 17, in Matopo Zimbabwe","authors":"Sehlapi Sebata, Nozizwe Dhlamini, Mbulisi Ndlovu","doi":"10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.106","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.106","url":null,"abstract":"This research documents the indigenous weather forecast indicators used at Chapo Village, Ward 17, in Matobo District, Zimbabwe. Matobo District is in natural region IV which receives between 450-650mm per year and experiences frequent droughts. The objectives of this research were to identify and document the indigenous indicators used in this community, offer the meanings the villagers’ attach to each indicator and establish their perception of the indigenous weather forecast indicators. The study adopted a qualitative approach. Focus group discussions and interviews were held to collect data in the village. The data was analysed using a thematic approach and this was underpinned by the afrocentric theory. The results showed that villagers used trees, birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles and insects to predict the weather patterns. Of these indicators, trees had the largest number of species used in weather forecasting. The religious worldview of the locals also formed part of the intricate weather forecast systems used in the area. The people of Chapo Village value and rely on the indigenous weather forecast indicators which they derive from their environment. The study concludes that these indigenous weather forecasting methods are for form of intangible cultural heritage (ICH). There is therefore need to produce nomination files which will facilitate their inscription on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.","PeriodicalId":516705,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO","volume":" 15","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141827765","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Evaluation of Species Diversity and Ecological Functions of the Anuran Species in Kingwal Swamp, a Highland Wetland of Kenya","authors":"J. M. Kabanze","doi":"10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.99","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.99","url":null,"abstract":"Class amphibian comprises of bi-phasic life mode organisms sensitive to environmental changes. Anurans being among the class, are considered good indicators of functioning and non-functioning ecosystems (habitat quality). Globally, there has been a decline in anuran populations due to anthropogenic and abiotic factors, which include agricultural activities, wetland degradation, habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Wetlands are considered the most preferable microhabitats as breeding sites for anurans, therefore surveys in tropical wetlands to understand anuran diversity and distribution patterns are desirable and justified for implementation of effective conservation actions. The aim of the study was to evaluate the biodiversity and functional concordance of anuran species in Kingwal Swamp, one of Kenya’s least studied swamps. Through the use of visual encounters and pitfall traps with an x-drift fence, data was gathered in the wet season, morning and evening sampling between April and June 2023 from six sites along the swamp. A total of 664 individuals were recorded, from 15 different anurans belonging to seven different genera and seven families. Ptychadena was the most abundant family, while Hoplobatrachus was the least. The swamp is diverse (H’= 2.271, D = 0.8626) in anuran species with low dominance (0.1374), but evenly distributed (E = 0.6457). Most species encountered preferred insects and frogs in their diet, terrestrial and aquatic microhabitats, specifically stagnant water, and were predominately ground/wet terrestrial dwellers breeding during wet season, and of least concern. The structural complexity of microhabitats along the swamp provided diverse niches and varieties of ways to explore environmental resources, thus species biodiversity is a function of habitat quality and diversity. However, due to increased disturbances, the study recommends nature-based non-governmental organizations and conservationists to engage local people in wetland protection to curb threats for the survival of anurans in Kenya.","PeriodicalId":516705,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO","volume":" 5","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141827341","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Social Sustainability Practices and Performance of Approved Aircraft Maintenance Organizations in Kenya","authors":"Jones Bor, James Nyadianga","doi":"10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.126","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.126","url":null,"abstract":"The study sought to examine the role played by social sustainability practices among employees on performance of approved aircraft maintenance organizations in Kenya. The independent variables of the study were; employee development, employee safety, management support and employee cooperation whereas the dependent variable is firm performance. Underpinning theory is Resource Based View Theory. Explanatory research design was used, the target population comprised of 164 aircraft engineers working for the 41 AMOs in Kenya, four respondents per organization attached to different maintenance sections were purposively selected. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data, they were administered in person. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis techniques was used for data analysis. The findings from the study revealed that employee development had a significant influence on performance of approved aircraft maintenance organizations in Kenya (β = 0.281; P=0.000<0.05). Further, employee safety was found to significantly influence the performance of approved aircraft maintenance organizations in Kenya (β = 0.189; P=0.000<0.05). Management support also had a significant influence on the performance of approved aircraft maintenance organizations in Kenya (β = 0.338; P=0.000<0.05). Finally, employee collaboration was found to significantly influence the performance of approved aircraft maintenance organizations in Kenya (β = 0.187; P=0.000<0.05). The study concluded that failure to fully embrace social sustainability practices had a hand on the declining performance of approved aircraft maintenance organizations in Kenya. The study recommends the need for management to uphold employee development and employee safety as a way of promoting employee performance thus steering organizational performance.","PeriodicalId":516705,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO","volume":" 40","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141827095","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Education Equity in Kenya","authors":"Moses M. Mwangi","doi":"10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.100","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.100","url":null,"abstract":"This article is a desk research of Kenya's educational landscape focusing on equity, challenges, and opportunities. Despite significant strides in access to basic education, disparities persist in quality and completion rates, especially in marginalized regions. Key statistics reveal higher literacy rates in Kenya than regional averages but highlight low tertiary education transition rates. The challenges include regional inequalities, resource constraints, pandemic disruptions, economic barriers, and gender disparities affecting girls' education. Initiatives and recommendations encompass empowerment programs, equitable resource allocation, technology integration, community engagement, and policy reforms. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic disparities for national development and social progress, advocating for a resilient and inclusive education system in Kenya.","PeriodicalId":516705,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO","volume":" 23","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141825851","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Exploring Learning Support Strategies for Effective Digital Experiences at Open University of Kenya","authors":"J. Soko, Violet O. Nabwire, Timothy Gachanga","doi":"10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.122","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.62049/jkncu.v4i2.122","url":null,"abstract":"The Open University of Kenya (OUK) offers flexible, inclusive, and affordable digital learning, but this comes with challenges. This action research designed, implemented, and evaluated learner support strategies for pioneer learners in their first semester to promote effective learning. A mixed research approach with a sample population of 130 participants was applied. Data was collected using questionnaires and observation tools. Validity and reliability were established through piloting, descriptive statistics, and thematic analysis were utilized to analyze and present the findings. The results revealed high satisfaction levels with OUK’s learner support strategies. Faculty learner support strategies, such as a mobile application, Panopto technology integration, a dedicated WhatsApp group, and weekly synchronous Zoom meetings, were positively received. The study recommends that OUK regularly evaluate and refine its learner support services, explore new technologies, invest in faculty training for effective technology use, and foster collaborative learning environments. These findings underscore the importance of proactive support in creating a positive and inclusive digital learning environment. The insights gained from this study are valuable for institutions offering digital learning, policymakers, learners, and stakeholders interested in this educational approach. By highlighting successful strategies and areas for improvement, the research contributes to the ongoing development of effective digital learning practices in higher education","PeriodicalId":516705,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO","volume":" 42","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141826477","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}