http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/251 Search within this sub-community and its collections: Mon, 03 Aug 2026 09:17:10 GMT 2026-08-03T09:17:10Z http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1132 Design, Development And Validation Of An Arduino- Based Global System For Mobile Communication Prototype For Remote Water Level Monitoring Matu, Benard Munyiri Amidst global research on IoT-based water level monitoring devices, questions persist about sensor dependability and accuracy, especially in real-world scenarios. The research main objective was to design, develop and validate the Arduino-based Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) prototype that utilizes a JSN-SR04T waterproof ultrasonic sensor in remote water level monitoring that meets the requirements of accuracy and reliability. Two theoretical frameworks were used in this research study to bring out the relationship between the predictor and outcome variables: The ultrasonic wave reflection principle and the Piezoelectric Effect. The research method employed in this research was mixed methods research comprising of explanatory and predictive statistical approaches of gathering and analyzing data to ascertain whether there was a significant difference between the means of data obtained from the IoT-based monitoring system and those from the manual gauge. Linear and Multiple regression were used to analyze the effect of air temperature variations on ultrasonic sensors under different locations. One (1) Arduino-based GSM water level monitoring prototype that utilized a JSN-SR04T waterproof sensor was developed and used to collect sensor datasets. The research study used stratified sampling techniques and had the following sample sizes: 48 manual gauge readings, 48 sensor readings and 15 tests of GSM efficiency. Data was visualized in the Arduino serial monitor, the ThingSpeak Server application and in Excel using graphs and charts. The research study found that the developed and validated Arduino-based GSM water level monitoring prototype was very accurate and reliable for application in water reservoir level monitoring. The IoT prototype achieved a water level accuracy of 98.92 percent in a lab setting environment and an accuracy of 95.083 percent in an outdoor simulation. The ANOVA test confirms the lack of significance for the location effect on accuracy with a p-value of 0.09099. While the sensor demonstrates high accuracy, reaching 100% in certain temperature ranges during outdoor testing, there are instances of lower accuracy, particularly noticeable at 23.44°C and 42.97°C. The impact of temperature on accuracy is evident, with fluctuations noted, and a distinct decrease in accuracy observed at higher temperatures. The research study concludes that while temperature significantly affects the accuracy of outdoor readings, the location of the sensor, whether indoors or outdoors, does not significantly influence accuracy. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing sensor use in various environmental conditions. The significance of this research study is that it adds to the existing knowledge on effective water resource management through the implementation of IoT water level monitoring systems. A Project thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Applied Information Technology in the Department of Computer and Information Technology and the School of Science and Technology of Africa Nazarene University. Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1132 2024-04-01T00:00:00Z http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1130 Design, Development and Validation of an Arduino- Based Global System For Mobile Communication Prototype For Remote Water Level Monitoring Matu, Benard Munyiri Amidst global research on IoT-based water level monitoring devices, questions persist about sensor dependability and accuracy, especially in real-world scenarios. The research main objective was to design, develop and validate the Arduino-based Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) prototype that utilizes a JSN-SR04T waterproof ultrasonic sensor in remote water level monitoring that meets the requirements of accuracy and reliability. Two theoretical frameworks were used in this research study to bring out the relationship between the predictor and outcome variables: The ultrasonic wave reflection principle and the Piezoelectric Effect. The research method employed in this research was mixed methods research comprising of explanatory and predictive statistical approaches of gathering and analyzing data to ascertain whether there was a significant difference between the means of data obtained from the IoT-based monitoring system and those from the manual gauge. Linear and Multiple regression were used to analyze the effect of air temperature variations on ultrasonic sensors under different locations. One (1) Arduino-based GSM water level monitoring prototype that utilized a JSN-SR04T waterproof sensor was developed and used to collect sensor datasets. The research study used stratified sampling techniques and had the following sample sizes: 48 manual gauge readings, 48 sensor readings and 15 tests of GSM efficiency. Data was visualized in the Arduino serial monitor, the ThingSpeak Server application and in Excel using graphs and charts. The research study found that the developed and validated Arduino-based GSM water level monitoring prototype was very accurate and reliable for application in water reservoir level monitoring. The IoT prototype achieved a water level accuracy of 98.92 percent in a lab setting environment and an accuracy of 95.083 percent in an outdoor simulation. The ANOVA test confirms the lack of significance for the location effect on accuracy with a p-value of 0.09099. While the sensor demonstrates high accuracy, reaching 100% in certain temperature ranges during outdoor testing, there are instances of lower accuracy, particularly noticeable at 23.44°C and 42.97°C. The impact of temperature on accuracy is evident, with fluctuations noted, and a distinct decrease in accuracy observed at higher temperatures. The research study concludes that while temperature significantly affects the accuracy of outdoor readings, the location of the sensor, whether indoors or outdoors, does not significantly influence accuracy. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing sensor use in various environmental conditions. The significance of this research study is that it adds to the existing knowledge on effective water resource management through the implementation of IoT water level monitoring systems. A Project thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Applied Information Technology in the Department of Computer and Information Technology and the School of Science and Technology of Africa Nazarene University. Sat, 01 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1130 2024-06-01T00:00:00Z http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1118 A Model for Mitigating Cyber Security Threats and Vulnerabilities in Small and Medium Enterprises Kiragu, Rose Waithera Security breaches of touchy facts have remained as risk urge for food fluctuate from one company to another, it activates the chance evaluation gear be included with company`s facts protection coverage for you to make certain protection controls at The primary reason of this examine changed into to expand a version for use to mitigate cyber-protection threats in small and medium establishments. Threats and vulnerabilities confronted with the aid of using Small and Medium Enterprises, to evaluate the gear utilized in mitigating threats and vulnerabilities confronted with the aid of using Small and Medium Enterprises, to expand aversion for use to mitigate cyber-protection threats in small and medium establishments and to validate the version. Implemented each quantitative andqualitative study. Data was gotten using purposive sampling from Small Medium Enterprises and was analyzed using SPSS model 26 and Python. Discoveries have been that the modern-day contraptions for risk appraisal paperwork have now no longer blanketed statistics protection association for possible protection management primarily based totally on company`s hazard. The want of compelling risk evaluation primary sources which includes servers and purchaser wise devices at the hand of assailants and on this manner increment risks and chance to compromise the sources. The examine determined that vulnerabilities, authentication mechanism and schooling stood out because the unbiased variables from the coefficient examine achieved with the aid of using python making the researcher drop infrastructure competencies and facts protection coverage. Made have been that Small Medium Enterprises preserve to put in force cyber security to Small Medium Enterprises and has progressed paintings overall performance as nicely as to paintings better. Further studies are wanted on a comprehensive version to mitigate cyber security threats in Small Medium Enterprises in Kenya, strategies,demanding situations and great practices in Nairobi. Version to mitigate cyber security threats in Small Medium Enterprises in Kenya. A Dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Science in Applied Information Technology In the Department of Computer and Information Technology and the School of Science and Technology of Africa Nazarene University Mon, 01 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1118 2024-07-01T00:00:00Z http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1114 Assessment of Socio-Economic Drivers, Community Participation, and Ecological Outcomes of Community-Led Governance Systems in Ruko Conservancy, Kenya Laurine, Koech Jemutai Conserving biodiversity is critical for maintaining ecological balance, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and ensuring ecosystem health. In Kenya, habitat loss, fragmentation, and changing climate are major threats to biodiversity, increasing the frequency and severity of drought, impacting wildlife and local communities. The study examined the effectiveness of community led governance in conservation of biodiversity in Ruko Conservancy, Kenya. The study was conducted using a cross sectional, mixed method design, based on the theories of place-based learning, social learning and resource dependence. Five locations—Komolion, Korossi, Mukutani, Kapkechui, and Rugus—were identified and 330 surveys were conducted, with five key stakeholder interviews added in. GIS mapping and NDVI computation were used to explore the land use/land cover (LULC) change and vegetation health between 1985 and 2025.The findings suggest that community involvement is crucial to Ruko's conservation efforts, with younger community members more involved than the older. 59.1% of the respondents reported better conservation results after implementing community led governance. The ecological analysis indicated an increase in tree cover from 11.84% (1985) to 30.19% (2025), as well as a shift to a more diverse ecosystem and improved woody vegetation health. In conclusion, this study has demonstrated the importance of local involvement in resource management, biodiversity conservation, and peacebuilding, as exemplified by the Ruko Community Conservancy. Yet, outside insecurity remains a challenge, threatening governance structures and sustainability. The study calls for institutional measures to support equity and accountability, representation of women and youth through formalization, capacity development, and the inclusion of long-term monitoring in conservation funding to address these issues. They are vital in sustaining community-led conservation areas in Kenya and offer a framework for the effective management of biodiversity whilst allowing for local control. A Research Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Science in Environment and Natural Resource Management in the Department of Environment and Natural Resource Management and the School of Science and Technology of Africa Nazarene University Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1114 2026-07-01T00:00:00Z http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1105 Impact of Climate Variability on Households’ AdaptiveCapacity and Adaptive Strategies in Maasai Pastoralist Communities in Magadi Division of Kajiado County, Kenya Muya, Phiah Wanjiru Every corner of the world is already experiencing climate change, and the situation will worsen unless greenhouse gas emissions are reduced and adaptation measures are implemented. As a result, it is necessary to quantify the degree of variation and change in climate and the adaptive capacity of households and identify the potential effective adaptive strategies to buffer against climatic impacts. The goal of this study therefore, is to quantify the level of variation and change in climate, adaptive capacity of the households and the effective adaptive strategies for dealing with climate impacts of Maasai pastoral households in Magadi division of Kajiado County. The specific objectives of the study were to: (i) determine the characteristics of Maasai pastoral households, (ii) assess the level of climate variation and change, (iii) determine the adaptive capacity to climate variability and change of Maasai pastoral households, (iv) evaluate the adaptive strategies to climate variation and change undertaken by Maasai pastoral households in Magadi division of Kajiado County. This study used a mixed-methods research design. Primary data were collected through household surveys, key informant interviews, focus group discussion reports, archival documents, and journals as secondary data sources. A structured questionnaire was used to survey a stratified proportional random sample of 366 households. Thirty-four (34) key informant interviews were conducted on purposely selected respondents based on their knowledge on climate variation and change in the study area. Four Focus Group Discussions of ten (10) participants each were conducted within the four different locations in the study area to triangulate the information from the household survey. Descriptive (mean, median, mode, and frequency distributions) and inferential statistics (regression analysis, ANOVA, Chi-square, t-test) were used to analyze the collected data. Statistical tests were performed at a 5% level of significance. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM SPSS version 26) statistical software. The level climate variability was found to be high, with a coefficient of variation (CV) of 35.4 and negative standardized precipitation index (SPI) in 17 years. Climate change based on long term rainfall trends was found to be on a decreasing trend. The Maasai pastoralists perceived the level of climate variability and change to be high (M = 3.97, SD = .204) on a scale of 1 to 5. There were no statistically significant (t=3.378, df 364, p=.059) differences between the male and female household heads in their rating of climate variability. The level of adaptive capacity to climate variation and change among the Maasai pastoral households was found to be moderate (M=2.55, SD=1.156). There were no statistically significant differences (t=1.688, df 364, p=.092) between the male and female headed households. The nature based adaptive strategies to climate impacts that were recommended included: forage preservation, ranked (M=3.94, SD=1.12) on a scale of 1-5; pasture restoration with enclosures, ranked (M=3.91, SD=1.11). while the non-nature based solutions to climate risks included: diversification to non-livestock livelihoods, ranked (M = 4.17, SD = .99); training on the climate mitigation measures (M = 3.88, SD = 1.38). The findings from the study will influence policy development in implementing climate variation and change adaptive and mitigating measures in Kajiado County. A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Masters of Science in Environment and Natural Resources Management in the Department of Environment and Natural Resource Management and the School of Science and Technology of Africa Nazarene University Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1105 2025-05-01T00:00:00Z http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1104 Impact of Modern Conservancy Models on Pastoral Grazing and Environmental Sustainability: A Case of Borana Pastoralists in Merti Sub-County, Isiolo, Kenya Galma, Ambrose Abdub This study assessed the impact of modern conservancies on four areas: land tenure security and pastoral mobility, vegetation cover and ecosystem health, social cohesion and community governance, and policy strategies for sustainable grazing and conservation in Merti Sub- County, Isiolo County, Kenya. The area is predominantly inhabited by Borana pastoralists who depend on communal rangelands for their livelihoods. The emergence of community conservancies has introduced new dynamics in land governance, raising questions about their influence on customary land rights, ecosystem functionality, and local governance systems. The study pursued four objectives: to explore conservancies’ impact on land tenure security and pastoral mobility; to evaluate their effect on vegetation and ecosystem health; to analyse their influence on social cohesion and community governance; and to propose policy strategies for sustainable grazing and conservation. A mixed-methods approach engaged 150 participants, including 138 pastoral households and 12 key informants comprising conservancy officials, local leaders, and government officers. Data were collected through household questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and document review. Remote sensing analysis using 30-m Landsat imagery processed via Google Earth Engine was used to assess vegetation dynamics over time. To examine the impact of conservancies on land tenure security and pastoral mobility, household survey results showed that 81.9% of respondents perceived their tenure as secure despite 92.8% lacking formal land documentation. However, 14.5% reported restricted access to grazing areas due to the expansion of conservancy boundaries, and 58.7% observed changes in grazing access, with 26.1% attributing these directly to conservancy rules. Only 35.5% believed conservancies supported traditional mobility patterns, suggesting limited alignment with pastoral land-use systems. To evaluate the effect of conservancies on vegetation and ecosystem health, household responses were mixed: 40.6% believed conservancies contributed positively to environmental outcomes, 45.7% saw no impact, and only 30.4% considered conservancy lands better managed. In contrast, remote sensing analysis showed increased vegetation greenness and density within conservancies, supported by 2024 land cover maps that revealed improved shrub, grassland, and tree cover—indicating localized ecological recovery under conservancy management. To analyse the influence of conservancies on social cohesion and community governance, 55.1% of households reported receiving tangible benefits such as education support, water access, and livestock services, while 44.9% received none. Additionally, 50.7% felt excluded from conservancy decision-making. Interviews and focus groups reinforced these perceptions, highlighting elite capture, limited community involvement, and weak integration of customary governance systems like the Dedha. To propose policy strategies for sustainable grazing and conservation, the study drew on document reviews and stakeholder consultations. Key recommendations include the legal registration of communal lands to safeguard mobility corridors; formal inclusion of Dedha committees in conservancy governance; establishment of inclusive decision-making structures; investment in drought-resilient grazing infrastructure; promotion of community-based geospatial monitoring; and implementation of transparent, equitable benefit-sharing frameworks. In conclusion, while modern conservancies have potential to support rangeland restoration and diversify livelihoods, their effectiveness depends on aligning with customary tenure and mobility systems, producing measurable ecological benefits, and fostering inclusive, culturally legitimate governance. Thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the Degree of Master of Science in Environment and Natural Resource Management in Department of Environment and Natural Resource Management and in the School of Science and Technology of Africa Nazarene University Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1104 2025-06-01T00:00:00Z http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1102 Exploring the Role of Small-Scale Bioethanol Cooking Fuel Projects in Enhancing Climate Resilience in Alego-Usonga Sub-County, Siaya County, Kenya. Owiti, Pauline Climate change has emerged as a critical global challenge, affecting the most vulnerable populations, particularly in developing regions where agricultural livelihoods rely on stable 11 weather patterns. This study sought to evaluate the existing energy status and the climate change challenges affecting these communities, with the aim of establishing their energy requirements and the effects of climate fluctuations. Specifically, the study was carried out to assess community perceptions regarding greenhouse gas emissions from bioethanol versus traditional cooking fuels in Alego-Usonga Sub-County, to determine the socio-economic impacts of bioethanol projects on community livelihoods, and to identify barriers to bioethanol adoption and recommend strategies for scaling up such projects in Siaya. Several delimiters guided the study. Geographically, the research was conducted in the Alego- Usonga Sub-County, one of the six sub-counties of Siaya County. Given that the area faces high poverty levels and has experienced the effects of climate change over a long period, it provided an opportunity for an in-depth analysis of the local context and the unique challenges faced by its inhabitants. The study was anchored on the Energy Ladder Theory, a conceptual framework that explained how households and communities transitioned from using traditional, inefficient energy sources to modern, cleaner energy as their socio- economic conditions improved. A mixed-methods research design was adopted to comprehensively address the study’s objectives. A two-stage sampling method was employed to ensure a comprehensive and representative selection of communities and households within Alego-Usonga Sub-County. A structured household survey served as the primary quantitative tool used to collect data from a broad range of households. The quantitative data collected from the surveys was analyzed using SPSS to generate descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics such as means, percentages, and standard deviations were used to summarize key variables, including household energy consumption, income levels, and time saved after adopting bioethanol. The study further found that the community perceives bioethanol as a clean fuel source, with respondents strongly agreeing that it reduces air pollution and deforestation. The findings also revealed that bioethanol adoption has had a notably positive influence on household well-being in Alego-Usonga, Siaya County. Further, it was determined by the study that technical limitations, such as the skills needed to operate and maintain bioethanol equipment, were also noted as barriers. Cultural resistance was found to be minimal in this study, suggesting a strong openness within the community towards embracing alternative and cleaner cooking technologies. It was concluded by the study that while there is a promising shift toward cleaner energy through the adoption of bioethanol in Alego-Usonga, traditional biomass fuels like firewood still dominate due to structural and affordability barriers. It was also concluded by the study that while there is strong community openness toward adopting bioethanol cooking technologies in Siaya, significant barriers such as high stove costs, limited access to information, and technical challenges hinder widespread adoption. A Thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Environment and Natural Resource Management in the department of Environment and Natural Resource Management and the school of Science and Technology of Africa Nazarene University. Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1102 2025-06-01T00:00:00Z http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1077 Assessment of the Stone Quarrying Activities on Sustainable Environmental Management in Kajiado East Sub County, Kajiado County, Kenya Mworia, Karani S Stone quarrying has remained a vital economic activity, providing essential raw materials for infrastructure development. However, its environmental and socio-economic implications have raised growing concerns, especially in developing countries. Quarrying activities have had both positive and negative effects on the biophysical environment and the livelihoods of nearby communities. While the industry created employment opportunities, improved local incomes, and contributed to infrastructure development, it also resulted in significant environmental degradation, including loss of biodiversity, dust and water pollution, lowering of the water table, soil erosion, land deformation, and increased health risks such as respiratory ailments and accidents. In Kenya, the rapid expansion of quarrying operations, driven by the high demand for building materials, intensified these challenges. Although several studies have examined the impacts on air and water quality in Kajiado County, few have comprehensively assessed the changes in vegetation cover and socio-economic effects in pastoral regions, such as Kajiado East Sub-County. This gap highlighted the need for a detailed investigation into the relationship between quarrying operations, environmental outcomes, and community welfare. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of quarrying activities on the biophysical environment and socio-economic well-being of communities in Kajiado East Sub-County, and to propose sustainable management approaches. Specifically, the study sought to assess the impacts of stone quarrying on the biophysical environment, investigate its effects on local employment and livelihoods, appraise the existing policy, legal, and institutional frameworks governing quarrying operations, and develop a sustainable quarry management model applicable to Kajiado County and Kenya. A mixed-methods research design was employed, integrating a case study, descriptive survey, and cross-sectional analysis. Data were collected through stratified and simple random sampling of 500 respondents using questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, direct field observations, and analysis of Landsat and Sentinel satellite imagery spanning 1993 to 2023. Land-use and land-cover changes were analyzed using ArcGIS, while SPSS 29 facilitated statistical analysis. The study revealed that quarrying significantly contributed to land degradation, reduced vegetation cover, altered topography, and polluted both surface and groundwater resources. Socio-economically, quarrying improved employment opportunities and household incomes but also displaced communities, reduced agricultural land, triggered conflicts, and increased health hazards. Chi-square tests confirmed significant associations between quarrying intensity and both environmental quality and socio-economic welfare. Respondents identified weak regulatory enforcement, poor inter-agency coordination, and political interference as significant obstacles to effective quarry management. The study recommended strengthening environmental enforcement units, integrating phased land rehabilitation into quarry licensing, establishing community benefit-sharing frameworks, and promoting multi-stakeholder quarry management committees to achieve balanced and sustainable development. A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Science in Environment and Natural Resources Management in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Management of Africa Nazarene University Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1077 2025-06-01T00:00:00Z http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1074 Evaluating A Custom-Developed Ai Chatbot for Enhancing Gamified Phishing Awareness Training in A Small Non-Profit Organization: A Comparative Case Study at ThesciencefFor Africa Foundation Njagi, Charles Mugambi This thesis investigates the effectiveness of gamification, enhanced with a Retrieval- Augmented Generation (RAG) GPT-4-powered AI chatbot, in strengthening phishing awareness training among staff at the Science for Africa Foundation. In light of the escalating cybersecurity threats targeting non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the study responds to the growing concern that conventional training approaches—often passive and one-size-fits-all—fail to engage users meaningfully or build lasting behavioural change. By integrating gamified training modules with an interactive, real-time chatbot assistant, this research explores a novel, blended approach designed to improve user engagement, information retention, and practical response to phishing attempts. The study is grounded in literature tracing back to the 1990s, which identified user awareness and education as key pillars in phishing defence. More recent studies have emphasized the value of gamification in cybersecurity training, citing increased motivation and better learning outcomes. However, limited research has examined the role of generative AI, especially domain- specific chatbots, in complementing gamified learning environments. This study fills that gap by combining gamification and generative AI into a unified training platform and assessing its impact in a real-world organizational setting. A comparative case study design was employed involving two groups of employees. The control group underwent traditional, classroom-style phishing awareness training, while the intervention group engaged with Click Armor gamified modules, supported by a custom-developed RAG-enhanced GPT-4 chatbot capable of answering phishing- related queries and reinforcing learning in real time. A total of 58 participants—drawn from a diverse employee base across departments—took part in the study. Data collection tools included InfoSight phishing simulation tests, structured observation checklists, engagement surveys, and focus group discussions. Quantitative analysis using descriptive statistics revealed that the intervention group outperformed the control group in both engagement levels and phishing recognition scores. Qualitative analysis, conducted through thematic coding of focus group transcripts, further demonstrated that the AI chatbot contributed to a more personalized and responsive learning experience. Participants reported greater confidence, clarity, and enthusiasm during training sessions, citing the chatbot’s immediate feedback and contextual explanations as particularly helpful. The study concludes that gamified phishing awareness training, when augmented with AI chatbot support, offers a significantly more effective and scalable solution for NGOs. It recommends broader adoption of such technologies in cybersecurity education to address the evolving threat landscape in resource-constrained sectors. A Project Research Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Science in Applied Information Technology in the Department of Computer and Information Technology and the School of Science and Technology of Africa Nazarene University Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1074 2025-06-01T00:00:00Z http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1072 Blockchain Technology Framework for Securing and Automating Customer Onboarding Process: A Case of Equity Bank, Kenya. Owino, Fredrick Otieno The increasing prevalence of cyber threats and fraudulent activities has heightened the need for robust security measures in the financial sector, particularly in customer onboarding processes. This study investigated the implementation of a blockchain technology framework to enhance the security and efficiency of the customer onboarding process at Equity Bank, one of Kenya’s leading financial institutions. The research aimed to assess the impact of decentralized ledger technology, cryptographic security, and consensus mechanisms on the onboarding process. The study is guided by four specific objectives: (1) To evaluate the current problem with Equity Bank's customer onboarding process. (2) To analyze the existing blockchain technology solutions to the customer onboarding process in other institutions. (3) To analyze the existing solutions and processes for customer onboarding and assess the use of blockchain technology at Equity Bank, Kenya. (4) To develop a blockchain framework for customer onboarding, explicitly focusing on Equity Bank Kenya. (5) To test the functionality of the developed framework for consumer onboarding at Equity bank, Kenya. Corresponding research questions were formulated to explore these objectives in detail. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative interviews with Equity Bank staff, bank security experts, and customers and quantitative surveys to collect comprehensive data. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Diffusion of Innovations Theory, Information Security Theory, Distributed Ledger Theory, and Operational Efficiency Theory provide the theoretical framework for the study. These theories helped the study understand the dynamics of blockchain technology's adoption, security enhancements, and efficiency improvements. The study's significance lies in its potential to inform Equity Bank’s strategy for implementing blockchain technology, contributing to the broader body of knowledge on fintech innovations, and guiding policy development for secure and efficient customer onboarding processes. In conclusion, the research underscores the transformative potential of blockchain technology in securing the customer onboarding process, highlighting its applicability in enhancing data protection, reducing fraud, and improving operational efficiency at Equity Bank. Future research could expand the scope to include comparative studies across different banks and regions, further testing the findings and exploring additional fintech innovations. Research Project Submitted in Partial fulfillment of the requirements for The degree of Master of Science in Applied Information Technology in the Department of Computer and Information Technology and the School of Science and Technology of Africa Nazarene University. Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://repository.anu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1072 2025-06-01T00:00:00Z