5. Research Articles

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Push Factors towards Consociational Democracy in Plural Sub National Polities: The Case of Mandera County, Kenya
(International Journal of Humanities Social Sciences and Education (IJHSSE), 2019-10) Joseph M. Mutungi
Consociational democracy has been advanced as the antidote to politically motivated violent conflicts in plural societies because of its strong support for inclusion of all significant segments in the population. This variant of democracy is advanced as favoring peace and stability. The focus of research has however tended to be on heterogeneity at the national level. Little research exists to examine the pull factors towards consociational democracy at the sub-national polities, most of which exhibit heterogeneity within homogeneity, thanks to gerrymandering by the political elite during the review of boundaries. This study which is anchored on the social capital theory, argues that social-cultural networks at the sub-national level strongly influence support for consociational democracy which is organized along ethnic identities. Instructively, the primordial and instrumental identities are used simultaneously depending on what the concerned social group(s) intend to achieve.
Street-Level Bureaucrats as Policy Entrepreneurs: The Nexus between Timing of Traffic Enforcement Activities and Road Safety Policy Outcomes
(Wiley Online Library, 2020-12) Zedekia Sidha; Patrick Asingo; Justine Magutu
This article examines the influence of street-level bureaucratic discretion over the timing of implementation on road safety policy outcomes. It is premised on freshly collected data from road users and traffic enforcement officers in Nairobi, Kenya. It employed Street-Level Bureaucratic Theory for purposes of conceptualization. It observed that traffic police divisions, like most street-level bureaucracies, are chronically under-resourced. They do not have sufficient officers and equipment to monitor safety police compliance and conduct traffic control activities among other roles. To cope with these challenges, they make discretionary choices over activities to concentrate on at any given time. Given that the police play an important role in fostering road safety policy compliance, the study concludes that their failure to target safety implementation at the time when the violations are prevalent is linked to the incessant road safety policy failures across the globe.
Building Sustainable Community Peace and Cohesion in Informal Settlements: The Agency of Grassroots Organizations in Kibra, Kenya
(International Journal of Innovative Research and Knowledge, 2021-04) Christine J. Agaya; Joseph M. Mutungi
Consensus among scholars and practitioners points towards the agency of grassroots organizations in building sustainable peace and cohesion. These organizations are advanced as both organic and all-inclusive, which are important aspects of sustainability. Despite this acknowledgement, little research has been devoted towards establishing the factors that predispose the grassroots organizations as viable platforms for building peace and cohesion. This study which is anchored on the intergroup contact theory argues that the voluntary nature of grassroots organizations, their people-centric nature, emphasis on citizen participation as well as the presence of collaborative abilities render these organizations central to the bottom-up approach to building peace and cohesion. Contact between the groups helps create the kind of social capital necessary for collective action and subsequently reduction in prejudice.
Improving midwifery educators’ capacity to teach emergency obstetrics and newborn care in Kenya universities: a pre-post study
(2022) Cheptum, Joyce Jebet
Background: International Confederation of Midwives and World Health Organization recommend core competencies for midwifery educators for effective theory and practical teaching and practice. Deficient curricula and lack of skilled midwifery educators are important factors affecting the quality of graduates from midwifery programmes. The objective of the study was to assess the capacity of university midwifery educators to deliver the updated competency-based curriculum after the capacity strengthening workshop in Kenya. Methods: The study used a quasi-experimental (pre-post) design. A four-day training to strengthen the capacity of educators to deliver emergency obstetrics and newborn care (EmONC) within the updated curriculum was conducted for 30 midwifery educators from 27 universities in Kenya. Before-after training assessments in knowledge, two EmONC skills and self-perceived confidence in using different teaching methodologies to deliver the competency-based curricula were conducted. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the before-after knowledge and skills mean scores. McNemar test was used to compare differences in the proportion of educators’ self-reported confidence in applying the different teaching pedagogies. P-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Findings: Thirty educators (7 males and 23 females) participated, of whom only 11 (37%) had participated in a previous hands-on basic EmONC training – with 10 (91%) having had the training over two years beforehand. Performance mean scores increased significantly for knowledge (60.3% − 88. %), shoulder dystocia management (51.4 – 88.3%), newborn resuscitation (37.9 − 89.1%), and overall skill score (44.7 − 88.7%), p < 0.0001. The proportion of educators with confidence in using different stimulatory participatory teaching methods increased significantly for simulation (36.7 – 70%, p = 0.006), scenarios (53.3 – 80%, p = 0.039) and peer teaching and support (33.3 – 63.3%, p = 0.022). There was improvement in use of lecture method (80 – 90%, p = 0.289), small group discussions (73.3 – 86.7%, p = 0.344) and giving effective feedback (60 – 80%, p = 0.146), although this was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Training improved midwifery educators’ knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver the updated EmONC-enhanced curriculum. To ensure that midwifery educators maintain their competence, there is need for
Socio-Cultural Dynamics Influencing Border Security Management along Kenya’s Northern Border with Ethiopia
(International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications, 2022-10) Christopher L. Imboywa; Joseph M. Mutungi; Simon Muthomi
The purpose of this study was to assess the implications of the border security management on Kenya’s national security. The study assessed selected socio-cultural dynamics that influence the interactions of the border communities and their impact on border security management at the Moyale One Stop Boarder Post. The study was anchored on the realism and Regional Security Complex theories and adopted a descriptive research design. A total of 493 respondents were targeted by the study, out of which a sample of 220 was obtained using the Yamane Formula. The respondents were sampled, using purposive, stratified and simple random sampling methods. Primary data was collected using both questionnaires and Key Informant Interview (KII) guide. Collected quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics and presented in tables and figures while qualitative data was organized into themes for analysis and reported using narratives. The study established that despite the increased revenues and a reduction in insecurity incidents within the territory of Kenya as reported by 64% and 79% of the respondents respectively, incidents of insecurity continued to occur. This points to gaps in the enforcement process, attributable to the absence of a functioning border management committee. There is also lack of cooperation from the local community in providing information on illegal immigrants living among the community. This is mainly due to cross border family ties whose social capital superseded their nationality. The study recommends activation of the border security management committee with clear terms of reference and standard operating procedures to ensure that all border security agencies operate within a multi-agency framework. Further, the national and county governments should collaborate in implementing the African Union Border Programmes in order to incentivize the border community to own the border security management initiative.
Factors Affecting Quality Documentation In Labour Among Midwives At Kenyatta National Hospital
(2023) Mulei, Charity Ndunge; Cheptum, Joyce Jebet; Mageto G. Irene
Background Information: Midwives have posed varying knowledge and practice levels of quality midwifery documentation due to a number of factors. Quality midwifery documentation shows care given to two lives whose interests could be in conflict. Objective: The study sought to determine the factors affecting the quality of documentation in labour among midwives at Kenyatta National Hospital labour ward. Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study among 51 consenting midwives selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data was collected using a self administered structured questionnaire. Ethical approval was sought. Results: Most of the midwives demonstrated excellent knowledge on quality midwifery documentation. However, only 51% practised quality midwifery documentation with 21.4% making entries ahead of time, 17.4% documenting for colleagues and 13.7% documenting only normal labour. This was attributed to insufficient time (86.3%), high patient-to-midwife ratio (92.2%) and understaffing (86.3%). In conclusion, several factors affected the quality of documentation among midwives.
Human-Wildlife Conflict Management: Towards a Comprehensive Strategies for Sustainable Coexistence in Conservancies in Laikipia County
(2023) Samuel N, Kamande; Emily Okuto; John R, Kisilu
The article explores the rampant issue of human-wildlife conflicts (HWC) in conservancies, primarily focusing on Laikipia County, Kenya. In response to the escalating global challenge of HWC, privately run conservancies have emerged as a proactive approach to safeguarding natural ecosystems while promoting responsible resource utilization. These conservancies also aim to reshape societal perceptions and behaviors regarding wildlife. However, the conservancies in Laikipia County currently face a significant HWC crisis due to the encroachment of human activities into wildlife habitats. This encroachment has led to adverse consequences for biodiversity conservation and local livelihoods. The insufficiency of existing control measures necessitates the development of comprehensive strategies that can effectively reduce conflicts, protect the interests of both human and wildlife populations, and ensure the long-term viability of conservancies. The study employs the socio-ecological systems (SES) theory as its foundational framework. Research within Laikipia County involves diverse participants, including conservancy staff, community leaders, and representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) engaged in community outreach. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, utilizing questionnaires and interviews to collect primary and secondary data. Quantitative data is analyzed using SPSS version 21, while qualitative analysis uncovers underlying patterns and themes in the dataset. The study’s findings emphasize the pivotal role of community engagement and strategic land use planning in mitigating human-wildlife conflicts. The data highlights that private conservancies actively organize community training programs to raise awareness about the significance of wildlife conservation. Moreover, a shift in land use, explicitly transitioning from livestock rearing to cropland cultivation, emerges as a viable strategy for reducing conflict incidents in Laikipia County. The SES theory underscores the importance of understanding both social and ecological factors for coexistence. Social acceptability influences attitudes towards wildlife, impacting conflict dynamics and conservation efforts. Striking a balance between environmental diversity and social acceptability is crucial for effective conflict resolution. The study’s results reveal how conservancies’ impact on local lifestyles can influence attitudes and values, potentially leading to conflicts between humans and wildlife.
Challenges Experienced By Midwifery Trainers In Midwifery Training
(Journal of Midwifery and Nursing, 2023) Cheptum, Joyce Jebet; Mbuthia, Florence; Chelagat, Dinah
Midwifery involves building relationships with women, their families and the entire community. Midwives are driven by a strong conscience to provide the best care to their clients. Midwifery training is quite involving, encompassing theoretical and practical skills, thus it requires a well-managed curriculum to ensure quality training and products. Aim, the objective of this review is to highlight the challenges experienced by midwifery trainers in midwifery training. Methodology, a descriptive overview was undertaken through a rapid literature review of the relevant local and international literature to highlight the global challenges of midwifery trainers. Results, the challenges experienced in many training institutions by midwifery trainers range from infrastructural, financial resource and human resource. Discrimination of the midwifery profession, lack of motivation and poor well – being and lack of emotional resilience of the trainers and lack of/ or inequalities in the training and education opportunities are challenges in training. Clinical set up challenges include lack of support from the clinical setting, overcrowding of students or poorly resourced facilities. The emerging and re-emerging health issues poses a challenge to the midwifery trainers. Conclusion, Midwifery trainers experience and myriad of challenges, which could compromise on the quality of midwifery training.
Factors Linked to Female Genital Mutilation Practice Among Women Living In Alungu Village of Mandera County, Kenya
(2023) Mohammed, Mohammud Sheikh; Cheptum, Joyce Jebet
Background: Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) is a harmful traditional practice with severe health complications, deeply rooted in many sub-Saharan African countries. In Kenya, the prevalence of FGM/C is 15% in women aged between 15 and 49 years. The Kenyan Somalis practice FGM/C with a prevalence above 90%. FGM/C practice continues to persist in Alungu village, Mandera County in the North Eastern of Kenya despite efforts by anti-FGM programs. However, the underlying factors behind FGM practice in the area have not been explored. Objective: To assess factors contributing to female genital mutilation practice among women living in Alungu village of Mandera County, Kenya. Methods and materials: This study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional design. The study population was women of reproductive age (from 18 to 49 years) who resided in Alungu village in Mandera County, Kenya. A study sample of 98 women was selected using simple random sampling technique. Data was collected using a researcher-administered questionnaire and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Results: Most of the respondents were aged 35 – 44 (45.8%), married (100%), had no formal education (74.7%) and had no formal employment (89.2%). All participants agreed that traditional beliefs, customs and rite of passage to womanhood contributed to FGM, 90.4% of the participants acknowledged that FGM is a symbol of ethnic identity and inclusivity. Factors affecting prevention of and response to FGM were low involvement of women in anti-FGM programs (91.6%); support for FGM by local leaders and elders (100%); failure by authorities to take action against those perpetuating FGM (100%); indifference to FGM practice continuation among local religious and political leaders (96.4%) and poor enforcement of existing laws against FGM (100%). Conclusion: A wide range of socio-cultural factors did contribute to FGM practice among women living in Alungu village, Mandera County.
Ethnicity as a Tool to Pacify Religious Extremism: A Case Study of Intrastate Conflict in Somalia
(2023) John R, Kisilu
The clan system and religion in Somalia are the two most salient identities that define the fundamental social structure of the Somali nation. This structure has been the main unifying factor of the Somali people. Unfortunately, the same system is perceived to be a stumbling block to the resolution of the Somali intrastate conflict. Observably, the clan stands out as the central pillar of social structure in Somalia. It is the entry point into the livelihood of the Somali people. This paper explores the possibility of transforming the dominance of clan kinship into an opportunity for neutralizing the negative effect of religious extremism. The paper adopts the conflict transformation theory propounded by John Paul Lederach. The philosophical outlook of the article is positive peace as advanced by Galtung. Primary data were collected through questionnaires, focus group discussions (FGDs), and semi-structured interview schedules involving 223 respondents with knowledge about conflict issues in Somalia. Secondary data were collected through a literature review of books and journals. The study identified the clan as the potent outfit in Somalia which can engage the religious extremist group, Al Shabaab, in negotiation for peace. It is impossible to conquer the Al Shabaab as it operates within the population and has high adaptability by employing asymmetrical warfare tactics. Additionally, the government of Somalia is perceived by Al Shabaab as man-made and, therefore, an illegitimate, unworthy partner to negotiate with. Furthermore, engaging the group in negotiation is a dilemma; democracies do not negotiate with terror groups lest they legitimize them as the voice of the population. Therefore, the clan becomes the legible unit to handle the responsibility of negotiation between the government and the religious extremist group, Al Shabaab. The clan can also play a key role in reaching out to the youths who are targets of radicalization campaigns from extremist groups. The study recommends that the clan system in Somalia, as an important institution in the country, should be partnered with to provide a middle ground in the conflict and serve as a bridge between the state and the religious extremist group, Al Shabaab. The clan system is likely to bring homegrown solutions to the conflict.
Information Security Threats to e-government Services in Kenya
(Global Journal of Human-Social Science, 2023) Otieno Godfred Ohndyl; James J Kimuyu; Zedekia Sidha
This study examined information security threats to e-government services commonly known as e-citizen. Grounded on General Systems Theory examined the nature of complex inter-relationships and interdependence of global society, states, non-state actors and individuals and how they relate in a complex internet –enabled communication network. Mixed method cross sectional survey was used. Targeted population of 12000 respondents from 51 Huduma Centres. Purposive sampling at 10% was chosen where 1200 structured questionnaires issued returned 966 responses at 80%. The data was processed and analysed using SPSS. The hypothesis was tested at 5% significance level. The study found that Kenyan citizens were the majority at 50%, Companies at 35%, Foreign Agencies 10% and Foreign Nationals at 5%. The services sought; Government to (G2C) 43%, Government to Business (G2B) 35%, Government to employees (G2E) 20% and Government to Government (G2G) 2%. The study identified 12 categories of information security threats i.e unauthorized access, illegal devices, unauthorized codes, distributed denial of services (ddos) false publications, computer frauds, cyber espionage, terrorism and squatting, phishing, identity thefts, electronic interceptions, fraudulent electronic data, employee aiding and child pornography.
The Nature of Community Armed Groups in Northern Kenya: a framework of Territoriality and Ethnicity
(Africa Amani Journal (AAJ), 2023) Clifford Collins Omondi Okwany; Evelyne Atieno Owino; Zedekiah Opondo Sidha
In this article, we analyze the fluidity of territoriality—state control or influence of space, looking at how community-based armed groups (CBAGs) from the Pokot, Samburu, and Turkana ethnic communities take advantage of semi-territoriality—spaces with limited state security personnel. We analyze the conflict belt—areas in north and west of Samburu County bordering Baringo north and Turkana east, giving an understanding of how the change of norms and development impact the dynamics of conflict and violence in Samburu. The article benefits from our research experiences and networks from the community policing ICT4COP—EU Horizon 20201 and the Collaborative Research Centre (CRC) 228 project on Future Rural Africa.2 Our empirical evidence was gathered from 34 interviews with key informants, such as state representatives and civil society officials, and 11 focus group discussions with communities in Samburu and Turkana. The findings show that the fluidity of state-territoriality has an impact on human security, leading to community mistrust of the security forces. We recommend robust community-oriented policing (COP) as a devolved security strategy, strengthening a public-private partnership (PPP)—a hybrid of the private sectors and government in policing work and civil societies and communities in helping to monitor and evaluate the police. Additionally, mapping illegal arms and CBAGs through clan structures is a community-oriented strategy that helps strengthen territoriality and counter semi-territoriality.
Optimizing Multi-Agency Cooperation in Kenya’s National Security Planning and Response
(International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications,, 2023) Mutungi , Joseph M; Tarus , Christopher Boit
Shifting geo-political, environmental, and socio-economic factors on the global front continue to herald new realities to the national safety and security of individual countries. To address security challenges and the emergent threats, nations have had to adopt contemporary perspectives. One of the most common, and fruitful of these perspectives in the Kenyan national security setup is that of multi-agency cooperation (MAC). This qualitative inquiry therefore sought to establish the nature and structure of interagency collaboration, collecting data from 111 participants sourced through the snowball sampling method. The data was collected using interviews and thematically analyzed based on emergent themes. The study established that MAC in Kenya is structured at the cabinet level, but also often takes the peer-to-peer collaboration format, and the in-group structure of collaboration. The study proposes Blending Outsider Insights and Techniques (the BOIT Model) to enhance the operational effectiveness and outcomes of MAC frameworks within Kenya’s vast and dynamic security landscape. The model would be useful in improving perspectives and enhancing Tactical Resourcefulness under Stress (TARUS) within agencies and services involved in managing Kenya’s national security and safety.
Effective approaches for enhancing data management and semantic interoperability within the healthcare sector
(2023) Harriet, Loice Tsinale; Mbugua, Samuel; Luvanda, Anthony
In a variety of contexts, Big Data is widely used. In healthcare Big Data has its own characteristics, including heterogeneity, incompleteness, timeliness and durability, privacy, and ownership. To enhance health-related science, these features present a number of challenges for data storage, mining, and sharing. Big Data helps to understand electronic health records, gather demographic and medical data such as clinical data, medical conditions, and diagnosis, allow doctors to provide a wide variety of patients with quality health care and also to make informative decisions. The large volume of data also provides researchers in the fields of medicine and healthcare with the ability to use tools and techniques to unlock hidden solutions. This study sought to investigate the effects that the existing approaches have on enhancing data management and semantic interoperability in healthcare sector. 180 respondents who took part of the survey were chosen from the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital. It was discovered that implementing health standards and tools can help healthcare companies in a number of ways by eliminating compatibility concerns and assuring accurate data representation. Consequently, encouraging successful adoption boosts decision-making processes, encourages sustainability, improves data quality, allows for interoperability, and makes it easier to comply with regulations. These implications help improve patient care, healthcare systems, and overall health outcomes.
The Contribution of Science and Technology in Countering Violent Extremism in Lamu County, Kenya
(2023) Joseph M, Kaku; John R, Kisilu
This study examines the role of science and technology in countering violent extremism (CVE) in Lamu County, Kenya. The study employed a descriptive research design and mixed-method cross-sectional survey approach, focusing on multi-agency team operations, specifically emphasizing Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) activities in the Boni Forest. The research population comprised key stakeholders and practitioners involved in CVE efforts, totaling 120 officers. A purposive sampling technique ensured diversity within the sample based on participants’ expertise, background, functional areas, departments, age, and units within the Kenya Defence Forces. Data collection involved structured questionnaires and key informant interviews for primary and secondary data from books, journals, and operating procedures. Quantitative data analysis employed SPSS for descriptive statistics, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data. The study reveals that science and technology have been integral to Kenya’s CVE efforts, with the National Counter- Terrorism Center (NCTC) playing a significant role in intelligence gathering and analysis using technology. Collaboration with international agencies allowed sharing of intelligence, aiding the prediction of attacks and identification of areas with prevalent radicalization. Surveillance technologies like drones and CCTV cameras have enhanced monitoring in high-risk areas, leading to effective response measures. Moreover, mobile money transfer systems like M-Pesa are beneficial and susceptible to misuse in financing terrorist activities, emphasizing the importance of partnerships between financial institutions and security agencies. The study recommended integrating science and technology with community engagement, education, and policy initiatives. It underscores the need for a comprehensive community-centered strategy in Lamu County, fostering partnership and trust between the government and local communities. Continuous research, capacity building, and counter-narratives using technology are essential for sustained progress in countering violent extremism. While science and technology offer invaluable tools, collaboration, and holistic approaches remain vital to achieving comprehensive results and maintaining national security.
Bridging the Gender Divide in Digital Technology Courses and Careers in Kenya
(2023) Luvanda, Anthony
Kenya’s digital technology advancements—chief among them the mobile money transfer application referred to as Mpesa—has led to the country’s status as an emerging digital economy. However, the long strides in the move toward a fully-fledged digital economy are not reflected in the digital technology workforce with regard to gender balance. While digital technology careers are highly touted as the jobs of the future, women occupy less than 30 percent of digital technology positions in Kenya. The root cause of the problem can be traced to disadvantages that girls and young women accumulate throughout their years in education. This study takes a qualitative approach in trying to identify the root causes for the exclusion of girls and young women from digital technology courses at all levels of education—namely lower primary, upper primary, junior high school, senior high school, and the tertiary level in both rural and urban communities. The study identifies various cumulative factors that contribute to fewer women taking up digital technology courses, such as: inadequate infrastructure; insufficient staffing and training of digital technology personnel at learning institutions; the negative impact of gendered social norms; poor advocacy of digital technology careers and the absence of vocational counseling; and the lack of women role models. To increase the number of women in digital technology careers, we must improve institutional digital technology infrastructure at all levels of education, enhance the training of digital technology personnel within all levels of education, build girls’ interest in digital technology-related courses from the earliest years, increase digital technology advocacy and awareness among girls, and enhance vocational counseling on digital technology career.
Implication of Public Policy Interventions on Inter-Ethnic Conflict in Isiolo County
(2023) Kariithi A, Charles; John R, Kisilu
Public policies are among some solutions states use to address inter-ethnic conflicts. The state is responsible for protecting the welfare of its citizenry, which is why the government strives to identify solutions to resolve conflicts within its borders. The study was anchored on Stakeholder Approach in Conflict Analysis. This study adopted the descriptive survey research method employing a mixture of qualitative and quantitative methods in the research process. The study was conducted in Isiolo County. The research employed probability and non-probability sampling techniques. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0, while qualitative data was analyzed using the thematic analysis method. The findings indicated that policy interventions to improve the road infrastructure would open viable markets and limit banditry attacks along the highways. Alternate sources of economic livelihoods, enabling security to allow uninterrupted access to education, availability of social amenities, and developing an early warning system to deter inter-ethnic conflicts before they escalate would be a proactive policy framework. The study recommended that equitable representation of the communities in the county government, involvement of all stakeholders in the efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure food security, Youth fund to provide alternative sources of employment, and provision of quality education to the children can be adequate public intervention measures by the government which could help resolve the inter-ethnic conflicts in Isiolo County.
Effectiveness of Antenatal Health Education via Mobile Phone Calls Among Women Seeking Antenatal Care Services in Kisii County, Kenya
(2023) Malachi, Zillah M.; Lucy W. Kivuti-Bitok; Cheptum, Joyce J.; Karani, Anna K.
Knowledge of antenatal care is important in reducing maternal mortality and morbidity. Mobile phones have demonstrated an increase in the use of antenatal care services. However, few studies have indicated the effectiveness of health education on antenatal care via mobile phone calls. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of health education on antenatal care provided through mobile phone calls among pregnant women in Kisii County, Kenya. A total of 160 pregnant women up to 26 weeks of gestation were recruited for the study from 16 sub-county health facilities (clusters) in Kisii County. The women were enrolled in their first visit and followed up until delivery. The sub-county health facilities were randomly assigned to either intervention or control arms. The intervention involved giving health education on antenatal care through mobile phone calls. All the participants in both study arms received routine antenatal care. However, those enrolled in the intervention sites additionally received health education through mobile phone calls. The primary outcome measure was antenatal care knowledge scores. Baseline and end-of-study questionnaires were used to collect data. Women in the intervention group scored highly in antenatal care knowledge post-intervention as compared to those in the control group, 7.87 (SE of the difference = 0.68, p-value < 0.001, 95% CI (6.53–9.20). Health education delivered through mobile phone calls has great potential in improving antenatal care knowledge.
How and Why Women Legislators Miss Out on Legislative Leadership Roles: Gender Equality Policies and Legislative Influence in Kenya
(Springer Nature, 2023-03) Zedekia Sidha; Taji Shivachi; Justine Mokeira Magutu
Since the Beijing platform for action on women’s rights in 1995, many states and regional bodies have enacted laws to help implement the conference’s recommendations. Most of these laws are in the form of gender quotas. Arguably, 130 out of 156 states currently have one form of gender quota or the other. These quotas commonly exist in three central categories: reserved seats, party quotas and legislative quotas. This chapter dissects these categories to understand how they position women legislators—elected and nominated—for legislative leadership roles. It disassociates sex from gender quotas and compares access to legislative leadership positions between women and men and between elected and nominated local government assemblies in Kenya. We rely on Feminist Institutionalism (FI) lenses and rich empirical data to tease out the interstices between institutions, cultural structures and norms underpinning the exclusion of female legislators from legislative leadership positions. Our empirical analysis makes nuanced comparative inferences to other Eastern African states. Overall, we show that the art of nation-building in Africa, as elsewhere, is incomplete without effectively integrating women in key decision-making political institutions like the legislature.
Reversible effect of castration induced hypogonadism on the morphology of the left coronary arteries in adult male rabbits
(Anatomy and Cell Biology (ACB), 2023-07) Anangwe, Duncan; Obimbo, Moses Madadi; Ongidi, Ibsen Henric; Gichang, Peter Bundi
Hypogonadism is associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease. This study sought to describe the histomorphology of the left coronary arteries of the adult male rabbit following orchiectomy and subsequent testosterone administration. We included 20 adult male rabbits, divided into a baseline group (n=2), an interventional group subjected to castration only (n=6), an intervention group subjected to castration followed by testosterone injection (n=6), and a control group (n=6). Key variables under investigation were serum testosterone levels, the intima-media thickness of coronary arteries, smooth muscle cell density, and adventitial collagen fiber density. The mean coronary arteries’ intimal medial thickness was significantly higher in the castrated group than in controls (0.488 mm and 0.388 mm, respectively), while the testosterone-injected group had a mean of 0.440 mm. Mean smooth muscle cell density was significantly lower in the castrated rabbits versus controls (26.96% and 47.80%, respectively), this observation being reversed with testosterone injection (47.53%). Mean adventitial collagen fiber density was significantly higher in the castrated group than in controls (66.6% and 36.1%, respectively), with a marginal difference after testosterone injection (65.2%). This study demonstrates that castration induced hypogonadism causes morphological changes in the coronary arteries that are partly reversible using testosterone injections. These findings provide a morphological basis for understanding the role of testosterone in coronary arteries.

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