The Mediating Role of Organizational Transformation on The Relationship Between Strategic Leadership and Performance of Agribusiness Companies Listed at Nairobi Securities Exchange, Kenya

Journal ArticleIn the face of continuous shifts in the business landscape and intensifying competition, organizational transformation serves as a critical catalyst, enabling strategic leaders to drive and enhance organizational performance. Studies investigating the relationship between strategic leadership and organizational transformation suggest that their interaction generates significant synergy. However, very little empirical research has been conducted to evaluate the direct relationship between strategic leadership, organizational transformation and performance. This study sought to evaluate the mediating role of organizational transformation on the relationship between strategic leadership and the performance of agribusiness companies listed at the Nairobi Securities Exchange in Kenya. The study was anchored on Transformation Leadership Theory and employed a mixed research method research design. The target population consisted of all the management staff in all the six agribusiness companies listed at the NSE in Kenya. The respondents were the directors, heads of departments or functions, middle-level managers and supervisors, totalling to 120 participants. Data was analyzed by use of descriptive statistics and inferential analysis through multiple regression analysis. The robustness of the model was tested by the use of R2, to test the significance of the model, F- statistic was computed at a 95% confidence level and to determine the significance of the variables, p-values were used at 0.05 significance level. Baron and Kenny's four-approach method was used to test the mediating effect of organizational transformation on the relationship between strategic leadership and the performance of agribusiness companies listed at the NSE, Kenya. The results indicated that strategic leadership had a significant positive effect on the performance of agribusiness companies listed on the NSE and organizational transformation had a moderate effect on the relationship between strategic leadership and performance

Supplier Relationship Management Practices and Project Procurement Performance in Kenya: A Case of Nairobi City County

Master of Business Administration in Project Management and Supply Chain Management.Supplier Relationship Management practices in Nairobi City County have historically faced significant challenges, contributing to procurement inefficiencies and corruption. This study aimed to explore the effect of SRM practices on procurement performance in Nairobi City County projects. The study's objectives were to: examine the relationship between supplier collaboration and project procurement performance; determine the relationship between contract management and project procurement performance; assess the relationship between risk management and project procurement performance; and determine the moderating effect of procurement ethics on the relationship between SRM practices and project procurement performance in Nairobi City County. The theoretical framework incorporated stakeholder theory, Transaction Cost Economics (TCE) Theory and Resource-Based View (RBV) theory. The study employed a descriptive and correlational research design, targeting 496 individuals in Nairobi City County. A sample size of 149 participants was selected. Data was collected using questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found that supplier collaboration, contract management, and risk management practices all had positive relationships with project procurement performance. However, there were significant shortcomings in areas such as information sharing, contract amendments, and risk analysis. Procurement ethics was found to positively moderate the relationship between SRM practices and performance. The study concluded that while some SRM practices were effectively implemented, there were substantial areas for improvement, particularly in transparency, risk management, and ethical practices. The study recommends that Nairobi City County enhance joint planning and information sharing with suppliers, implement more transparent contract management procedures, develop robust risk mitigation strategies, and strengthen adherence to ethical procurement principles. Additionally, regular training and review of SRM practices are recommended to ensure their continued relevance and effectiveness.Daystar University, School of Business and Economic

Determinants of Cancer Care Pathways at Wajir County, Kenya: Patient Perspectives.

Journal ArticleBackground: Cancer represents a major public health issue with substantial morbidity and mortality in low-resource settings such as Kenya. This study focuses on Wajir County in northern Kenya, a region with limited cancer care infrastructure and high unmet needs. Despite recent efforts to decentralize cancer care in Kenya, including establishing regional cancer centres in Garissa, Nakuru, and Mombasa, access to screening, diagnostics, and treatment remains constrained, particularly in rural areas. The absence of comprehensive cancer care pathways and a specialized oncology workforce in Wajir County exacerbates challenges in early detection, treatment, and palliative care. The study evaluated the availability of cancer care services at Wajir County Referral Hospital (WCRH), including screening, diagnostic services, treatment modalities, and referral systems. The study further explores the gaps in cancer care, focusing on patient perspectives, and proposes potential solutions to address these challenges. Methods: This study used mixed-methods (qualitative and quantitative) methods to understand cancer care from the perspective of patients at WCRH. It involved adult patients (over 18) with a confirmed cancer diagnosis who were receiving treatment or follow-up care between February and April 2024. Data were gathered through interviews and surveys, with research assistants helping with language translation and community navigation. The study collected information on demographics, cancer types, and prevalence rates, which were analysed using descriptive statistics. The qualitative data focused on patients' experiences with cancer awareness, treatment, and care gaps, and were analysed for common themes. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was given by all participants. Results: This study involved 25 cancer patients (12 males, 13 females) receiving treatment at WCRH. The most common cancers were esophageal (44%), cervical (28%), breast (24%), and prostate (8%). Delays in diagnosis were significant, with 12% of patients waiting over 6 years, 24% waiting 4–6 years, and 40% waiting 1–3 years before seeking care. Most diagnoses were made at WCRH (64%), with others diagnosed at the Garissa Cancer Centre (22%) or in Nairobi (20%). Diagnostic tools available at WCRH included pap smears, mammograms, PSA tests, ultrasound, CT scans, and biopsies. However, access to these tools was limited, with barium swallow (32%) being the most frequently used for esophageal cancer, followed by pap smears, biopsies, and ultrasound (16% each). Patient awareness of cancer screening was higher for cervical (68%) and breast cancer (60%) but lower for prostate cancer (32%) and esophageal cancer (4%). Despite awareness, only 8% had previously undergone screening. Regarding treatment, most patients (80%) were aware of surgical options, while fewer knew about chemotherapy (28%) or palliative care (12%). When treatment was unavailable at WCRH, most patients preferred the Garissa Cancer Centre (80%) or Nairobi (52%). Financial challenges were the primary barrier to treatment for 88% of patients, and patients suggested improving local cancer care, subsidizing treatment, and enhancing early detection and screening services. Conclusion: The findings indicate a high burden of late-stage cancer diagnoses, insufficient cancer screening and treatment services, and limited access to cancer care pathways and patient navigation systems. These results underscore the urgent need for improved cancer care pathways, enhanced awareness, and increased healthcare capacity to reduce cancer morbidity and mortality in northern Kenya. This study contributes to understanding the cancer care landscape in Wajir County and provides a foundation for future health policy initiatives aimed at bridging existing gaps in cancer car

LLB 310 P1: Electronic Commerce and the Law

LLB 310 P1: Electronic Commerce and the LawDaystar Universit

PSY 311A&T: Psychology of Learning

PSY 311A&T: Psychology of LearningDaystar Universit

An Examination of Faculty and Students Perspectives on the Role of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing or Hindering Educational Experience in eLearning

Journal ArticleThe study explored student and faculty perspectives on using Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools, like ChatGPT, in eLearning. Understanding stakeholder views is essential for the effective integration of these technologies in education. The research highlighted opportunities and challenges, with faculty expressing concerns about GenAI's impact on critical thinking, problem-solving, and academic integrity, including plagiarism. Despite this, faculty acknowledged its potential to enhance personalized learning and instructional practices, noting the need for formal training. Students viewed GenAI as a valuable tool for simplifying concepts, generating ideas, and improving learning experiences, reporting higher adoption rates for assignments and research. Ethical concerns, like overreliance on AI and reduced independent learning, were shared by both groups. The study emphasized the importance of clear guidelines, responsible usage, and training programs to address these challenges. By fostering ethical integration, educational institutions can harness GenAI's potential to enhance engagement and learning while preserving educational integrity

Is Knowledge Gap on Cancer of the Cervix Increasing the Incidence of the early onset Cancer amongst HIV Negative Young Women in Western Kenya - A Case Study of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital

journal articleIn many Low- and middle-income countries HIV and cervical cancer have always been interlinked, as HIV patients are more likely to be diagnosed with cervical cancer at a young age. The policy in Kenya is to screen all HIV positive women for cancer of the cervix. Objective: This study aimed to explore the increase in incidences of advanced cervical cancer in young HIV Negative women, as compared to HIV Positive, presenting at the hospital. Methodology: A review of hospital records of all patients aged 13-35 years presenting with Cancer of the Cervix regardless of HIV status at time of diagnosis in the period 2012 - 2019 of the study and purposive active recruitment of same age set in the 2020 – 2021period. Findings: After the introduction of routine screening of HIV +VE women, there was an increase of 18% of routine early screening of cancer of the cervix in the young HIV +VE patients as compared to their HIV –VE counterparts, from 10% to 28% in the 2012-2019 and 2020-2021 study periods. Conclusion: Our conclusion is that apparently due to the early routine cancer of the cervix screening of young HIV positive women, cases are being diagnosed very early, in the pre-cancer and early stages, leading to early treatment and remission, in turn leading to the increased contribution of young HIV negative women with advanced cancer of the cervix

Mpox after COVID-19 in Africa: Different Epidemic, Similar Challenges

journal articleAfrica faces again a new outbreak of mpox, heavily burdening the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Factors such as biological and ecological changes in the virus, waning of immunity to smallpox, socio-economic challenges, and global economic strain are fueling this epidemic. To analyse the drivers of the mpox outbreak in DRC, review the international and local response, and draw lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic to propose strategies for building epidemic-resilient healthcare systems in the region. The focus is on the DRC, where the mpox epidemic is concentrated, and the broader African region, assessing both rural and urban healthcare contexts. This study synthesises epidemiological data, global health policies, and local health system responses. Key insights are drawn from COVID-19 case studies, and assessment of access to diagnostics and vaccines. The DRC hosts over 95% of Africa’s mpox cases, with significant challenges in human-wildlife interactions, poverty, and weakened healthcare systems exacerbated by COVID-19. Vaccine shortages, diagnostic delays, and uneven international support reflect a repeat of challenges seen during COVID-19. Localised vaccine and diagnostics production, improved risk communication, and digital health tools are highlighted as critical interventions. An epidemic-resilient healthcare framework, leveraging local production of medical products, regulatory empowerment, and real-time data collection, is essential for controlling mpox and future outbreaks. This study underscores the need for African-led solutions, addressing socio-economic drivers, enhancing local capacities, and fostering international solidarity to mitigate future epidemic threats

Socio-Economic Factors Affecting Documentary Films Distribution: A Case of Select Independent Documentarians in Kenya

Masters ThesisDocumentary films are valuable educational resources that facilitate conversation and highlight critical issues in an engaging manner, thereby contributing to social, economic, and political development by fostering critical thinking. However, effects of socio-economic factors on documentary film distribution is unclear. The study aimed to identify the distribution channels used by Select Independent documentarians, to explore the socio-economic factors influencing the distribution of documentary films, and establish the relationship between these factors and documentary film distribution in Kenya. The study adopted an exploratory research design to obtain new insights, expand knowledge, and uncover new ideas on the phenomenon. Interview guides and FGDs were used to collect the data. The study revealed documentary film distribution channels include digital platforms like Boomplay, Netflix, Multichoice, Sponsored Ads, YouTube, Acquisition, Amazon, Social Media/Marketing, NGOs, and Showmax. However, the study revealed Kenya has a limited distribution of documentary films. The study revealed social factors like education, age, gender, and social status significantly influence documentary film distribution, while economic factors like income aspects, ticket prices, and funding network also play a role in documentary film distribution. Further, ineffective film policies negatively impact documentary film distribution, while a lack of funding significantly hinders its distribution. The study recommended structured distribution channels, training for documentarians, and funding for film structures by the National and County governments. Further, the study suggested to explore other factors affecting Kenyan documentary film distribution.Daystar Universit

Childhood Adversities and Their Associations with Mental Disorders in The World Mental Health International College Student Surveys Initiative.

Journal ArticlePurpose This study investigates associations of childhood adversities (CAs) with lifetime prevalence, 12-month prevalence, and 12-month persistence of mental disorders in a large cross-national sample of university students. Methods Data came from epidemiologic surveys carried out by the World Mental Health International College Student (WMH-ICS)Initiative across 18 countries (n=60,719). The web-based surveys screened for lifetime and 12-month prevalence and age-of-onset of common DSM-5 disorders (Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar I/II Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Alcohol and Drug Use disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and five types of CAs (family dysfunction, emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect). Multivariable Poisson regression models estimated associations of CA type, number, and frequency with disorders. Results The majority of incoming students reported exposure to at least one CA (64.9%), including 50.0 % family dysfunction, 42.2 % emotional abuse, 21.2 % physical abuse, 18.8 % neglect, and 5.0 % sexual abuse. Lifetime and 12-month disorders were significantly associated with CAs in multivariable models, although associations with disorder persistence were weaker. Population attributable risk proportions of 12-month disorders associated with CAs were in the range of 40.7–61.0 % for anxiety and mood disorders and 13.5–55.2 % for substance use disorders. Conclusion Six out of ten university students arrive at university having been exposed to CAs. These students have substantially higher risk of mental disorders than other students, primarily due to associations with lifetime risk rather than persistence. Given the considerable distress and impairment caused by mental disorders, these results underscore the need for primary and secondary prevention efforts