Business School

Effect of Working Capital Management on Profitability of Sugar Manufacturing Firms in Kenya: A Case of Mumias Sugar Company in Kakamega

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Effect of Working Capital Management on Profitability of Sugar Manufacturing Firms in Kenya: A Case of Mumias Sugar Company in Kakamega Obengele, Cleophas Daniel Despite considerable investment, Kenya’s sugar manufacturing sector, particularly Mumias Sugar Company, continued to experience persistent financial instability, declining profitability, and recurrent government bailouts. These financial challenges pointed to inefficiencies in working capital management (WCM). This study investigated how four key WCM components, inventory management, cash conversion cycle, accounts receivable days, and accounts payable days, affected the profitability of sugar manufacturing firms, focusing on Mumias Sugar Company in Kakamega County. Specifically, the study aimed to determine the impact of inventory management, evaluate the effect of the cash conversion cycle, assess the influence of accounts receivable days, and examine the role of accounts payable days on profitability. Anchored on the Theory of Constraints, Risk-Return Tradeoff Theory, Liquidity Preference Theory, Pecking Order Theory, and Transaction Cost Economics Theory, the study explored how firms manage operational efficiency, liquidity, and cost structures to enhance profitability. A descriptive research design was adopted, targeting 15 purposively selected employees across key departments at Mumias Sugar Company. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and financial records. Instrument reliability was tested using Cronbach’s alpha, and validity was ensured through expert reviews and piloting. Data analysis employed both descriptive and inferential statistics, including correlation and regression techniques. The findings revealed that efficient inventory management and shorter cash conversion cycles significantly enhanced profitability. Firms that maintained optimal inventory turnover ratios and minimized stock holding periods improved liquidity and reduced operational costs, thus increasing return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE). The study found a strong negative relationship between extended cash conversion cycles and profitability, confirming that delayed conversion of working capital into cash inflows impeded financial performance. Extended accounts receivable periods were also associated with cash flow constraints and higher default risks. Additionally, while delayed payments to suppliers temporarily supported liquidity, prolonged delays undermined supplier trust and increased procurement costs. All four null hypotheses (H01 to H04) were rejected, confirming that inventory management, cash conversion cycles, receivable days, and payable days each had statistically significant effects on profitability. The study contributed to new knowledge by offering firm-level evidence from a financially distressed, non-listed sugar manufacturing firm, an area previously underrepresented in WCM literature. It recommended the implementation of real-time inventory systems, stricter credit policies, and strategic supplier term negotiations. The study also proposed future research on macroeconomic influences on WCM and comparative cross-sectoral studies to identify adaptable working capital practices for struggling firms. A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Business Administration (Finance Option) in the Department of Business and the School of Africa Nazarene University.

Monitoring and Evaluation Strategies and Implementation of Kenya Rural Roads Authority Roads in Machakos County, Kenya.

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Monitoring and Evaluation Strategies and Implementation of Kenya Rural Roads Authority Roads in Machakos County, Kenya. Agei, Achan Madhel Malek Road infrastructure played a vital role in promoting rural accessibility, socio-economic advancement, and regional integration. In Machakos County, however, delays, substandard workmanship, poor-quality materials, and insufficient stakeholder engagement had marred the implementation of Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) projects. This study investigated the influence of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) strategies on the implementation of KeRRA road projects in the county, focusing specifically on stakeholder feedback mechanisms, site inspections, quality management, and technology adoption. The study was anchored on Program Theory, Stakeholder Theory, and Results-Based Management (RBM) Theory. A descriptive survey design was adopted, targeting a population of 285 individuals comprising KeRRA officials, contractors, project inspectors, community leaders, and road users. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 166 respondents. Data collection involved structured questionnaires and interviews, and data analysis was conducted using SPSS software. Descriptive statistics provided insights into patterns and trends, while inferential statistics, including correlation and regression analyses, were employed to determine relationships between the variables. The findings revealed that stakeholder feedback mechanisms significantly influenced project implementation (β = 0.625, p < 0.001), highlighting the importance of structured engagement, transparency, and responsiveness. Technology adoption also had a strong positive impact (β = 0.621, p < 0.001), with digital tools enhancing efficiency, transparency, and cost-effectiveness in project execution. Site inspections had a moderate but significant effect (β = 0.457, p < 0.001), affirming their value in monitoring progress and identifying construction defects. Quality management, while still statistically significant (β = 0.321, p < 0.001), demonstrated the weakest influence among the four variables, suggesting inconsistencies in adherence to quality standards and corrective practices. The study concluded that effective implementation of M&E strategies substantially improved the success of rural road infrastructure projects. Stakeholder engagement and technology integration emerged as the most impactful factors, supporting the idea that participatory governance and digital transformation are central to infrastructure success. Conversely, the inconsistent application of inspection protocols and quality assurance measures limited their overall effectiveness. Based on the findings, the study recommended that KeRRA and related agencies institutionalize robust stakeholder feedback mechanisms by establishing formal systems for engagement, prompt issue resolution, and consistent communication. It was also recommended that investment in digital infrastructure be scaled up to enhance project planning, tracking, and reporting. Quality management practices should be standardized across all project phases, and site inspection processes should be digitized and enforced through real-time monitoring systems. Furthermore, regular training programs should be provided to personnel involved in inspections and quality control to ensure competency and consistency. The study suggested that future research could explore the long-term impact of M&E strategies on road durability and maintenance outcomes. Additionally, further studies could examine the mediating effects of political interference, funding stability, and organizational culture on the implementation of M&E frameworks in infrastructure development. Expanding the scope to other counties or comparing urban and rural projects could also provide broader insights into the scalability and adaptability of M&E practices across different project contexts. A Thesis Proposal Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of The Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Arts in Monitoring and Evaluation in The School of Business of The Africa Nazarene University.

Effect of Data Analytics Efficacy on Climate Shock Response in Urban Areas in Kenya: A Case of Floods Response in Nairobi City County

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Effect of Data Analytics Efficacy on Climate Shock Response in Urban Areas in Kenya: A Case of Floods Response in Nairobi City County Maribie, Stephen This study examined the efficacy of data analytics in climate shock response, focusing on Nairobi City County and using floods as a case study. Grounded in the Dual System Theory and Rational Action Theory, the research aimed to assess the effects of data organization, analysis, and interpretation on urban climate shock response in Kenya. The study employed a descriptive research design targeting staff from the Kenya Meteorological Department, National Disaster Management Unit, and Nairobi City County. The study drew a sample size of 228 respondents from a population of 528 using stratified random sampling and purposive sampling. Data collection was conducted using digital questionnaires through Kobo Toolbox. The study utilised descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentages for quantitative analysis, employing the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29 and presenting in tables and graphs. The qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. The study additionally analysed the data using means and standard deviations to measure central tendencies and dispersion of the data and utilised linear regression analysis to measure the effect of each independent variable on the dependent variable. For hypothesis testing, regression analysis was used to devise the relationships between indipendent and dependent variables. The study found that data organisation does not affect climate shock response; T(166) = 1.500; β= 0.205.; P>0.05. Also, data analysis does not affect climate shock response; T (166) = 1.341; β= 0.140; P>0.05. Additionally, data interpretation does not affect climate shock response; T(166) = 1.187; β= 1.98; P>0.05. The study failed to reject all the three hypothesis. The study recommends, the adoption of an enhanced multi-stakeholders collaboration in climate shock response, development of protocols for integrating climate data findings into climate shock response strategies and investment in community awareness and resilience. On further research, the study recommends that studies be conducted on influence of the economy and politics on shock response. A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Arts in Monitoring and Evaluation; School of Business of Africa Nazarene University

Monitoring and Evaluation Practices and Road Safety Data Quality in Africa: A Case of Selected African Countries

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Monitoring and Evaluation Practices and Road Safety Data Quality in Africa: A Case of Selected African Countries Bajia, Kunsoan Noella Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) in the context of road safety is a critical component of an overarching strategy aimed at reducing traffic incidents and improving road user safety. The problem of poor road safety data persists in Africa. Reliable data are indispensable for understanding the dynamics of road traffic crashes, formulating appropriate interventions, and evaluating the effectiveness of policies and programs. This study aimed to assess the influence of M&E practices on road safety data quality in Africa, focusing on seven selected African countries (Cameroon, Kenya, Lesotho, Burkina Faso, Uganda, Ghana, and Burundi). This study was guided by three specific research objectives: determining the influence of data collection on road safety data quality in Africa, establishing the influence of resource allocation on road safety data quality in Africa, and assessing the influence of M&E staff expertise on road safety data quality in Africa. To achieve the stated objectives, this study adopted a mixedmethod descriptive research design using quantitative and qualitative approaches. The target population in this study comprised road safety agencies and ministries in the selected countries, such as the road safety lead agency, Police, Health, Transport, and road safety NGO. The study adopted a stratified purposive and convenience sampling technique through which the respondents were selected. A sample size of 129 individuals was derived from the target population (180) using stratified purposive and convenience sampling. A questionnaire survey with Likert-scale questions for quantitative data and open-ended questions for qualitative data was used for data collection from respondents. Quantitative data were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics using Excel and SmartPLS4, and the results are presented in tables and figures. Qualitative reports were analyzed thematically in line with the study objectives, and the results were presented in summary essay forms. The major findings based on the three objectives of this study were a statistically significant positive influence of data collection (β = 0.462, p < 0.05, f² = 0.341), resource allocation (β = 0.258, p < 0.05, f² = 0.111) and M&E staff expertise (β = 0.224, p < 0.05, f² = 0.093) on road safety data quality. This is supported by key qualitative results that point to underreporting, inconsistent data collection, outdated technology, limited resources, lack of standardization, and inadequate training and capacity building for M&E staff. As this study has shown a statistically significant positive relationship between M&E practices and road safety data quality in the selected African countries, a key recommendation is that future studies should investigate and develop a detailed M&E framework to guide African countries in improving road safety data quality. The framework should aim to guide road safety stakeholders not only in tailoring global road safety indicators to their country contexts, but also in practically monitoring and evaluating their road safety progress towards achieving set targets. Other recommendations have been made to improve the M&E practices (data collection, resource allocation, and M&E staff expertise) to boost the quality of road safety data in Africa. A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Arts in Monitoring and Evaluation, School of Business of Africa Nazarene University

Monitoring and evaluation process on performance of private residential building projects in Nairobi County Kenya

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Monitoring and evaluation process on performance of private residential building projects in Nairobi County Kenya Wanjira, Josphine Wawira The topic, study objectives, based on what theory, research methodology, target population, what was the sample and sampling process, data collection instruments, data analysis tools, findings, conclusion and recommendations. The overall objective of this study was to establish the influence of Monitoring and Evaluation Processes on performance of private building projects in Nairobi County, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were: To determine the effect of monitoring and evaluation planning on performance of private building projects, to examine the effect of stakeholders’ engagement on performance of private building projects, to assess the effect of capacity building on performance of private building projects and to establish the effect of utilization of M&E results on performance of private building projects in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was anchored in the Theory of Change and the Dynamic Capabilities Theory both of which were relevant with the study. A descriptive study design was adopted for the study. The sample size of the study consisted 526 respondents from construction firms, architectural firms’, quantity surveying firms and engineering consulting firms operating in Nairobi County. Data was collected by use of questionnaires that were administered to the respondents. The reliability coefficients for research instrument were above the threshold of 0.70. Data was analyzed both qualitatively and by use of inferential statistics. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and presented through percentages, means and frequencies. Inferential statistics analyses included the use of Correlation and regression analysis. The study found that there was a positive association between Monitoring and evaluation processes and performance of private building projects. The study established that there was a significant correlation between utilization of M&E Results and performance of construction companies with a P-Value of 0.000<0.05, there was a significant correlation between M & E Planning and Performance of Construction Projects with a P-Value of 0.000<0.05, there was a positive relationship between Stakeholder Engagement and Performance of Construction Projects with a P-Value of 0.000<0.05 and capacity building was a significant positive predictor of performance of construction projects with a P-Value of 0.000<0.05. The study concluded that M&E is vital in all phases of the project cycle and that if a construction project's M&E is properly carried out, it will give the management an accurate data (information) of the project progress and allow the management to identify the variation of the projects from the project management plan. The study finally concluded that M&E also aids in improving project management performance as they concentrate on enlisting all stakeholders through an informed monitoring and evaluation system, resulting in synergy and excellent output in the development of construction projects. Based on the findings that M&E planning has the highest correlation with project performance, it is here by recommended that a well thought out M&E plan needs to be in place and be fully implemented if project performance is to enhanced. From the findings, it shows that stakeholders’ engagement requires enhancement of relationships between parties, fostering and maintaining project support, collecting data for the organization, lowering the risk of conflict or other construction issues, and improving the organization's image which will result to enhance construction projects performance. This study therefore recommends that stakeholders’ engagement, is a must for M&E. The findings depicted that capacity building significantly influenced the level of performance of construction projects. This study recommends that to enhance capacity building requires the firms in the construction industry to have formal training to stakeholders which will improve client acceptance, create timely delivery, improve cost effectiveness and improve the organizations acceptance which will result to improvement in project performance. The findings depicted that utilization of M&E xiii results significantly influenced the level of performance of construction projects. The study recommends that the firms in the construction industry should M&E results which will help to obtain accurate data on the project progress. On suggestions of further areas of study, a similar study on the variables of the current study can be conducted in other organizations operating in Kenya for comparison purposes. Lastly, a similar study can be carried out to investigate effect of a moderating or mediating variable on the relationship between monitoring and evaluation and performance of construction projects.

Stakeholders’ participation and the sustainability of street lighting projects in Kiambu County

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Stakeholders’ participation and the sustainability of street lighting projects in Kiambu County Maraga, James Nyanchoka Although the Ruiru town, within Ruiru Sub-County, is well lit, the other areas outside the town are either poorly lit or not lit at all. Besides, many of street lighting units are not functioning. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the influence of stakeholder participation on the sustainability of street lighting projects in Ruiru Sub-County, Kiambu County, Kenya. The independent variable (IV) was stakeholders’ participation while the dependent variable (DV) was the sustainability of the street lighting projects. The specific objectives were to evaluate how stakeholder communication strategies influence the sustainability street lighting projects, determine how stakeholder relationship practices influence the sustainability of lighting projects, and to examine how stakeholder empowerment strategies influence the sustainability of street lighting projects. The research adopted the evaluation research design, suitable for assessing an ongoing initiative. The target population was 20,777 households and 17 key informants. Using Yamane’s formula, a sample size of 392 households was determined for the study. Thirteen (13) key informants were purposively selected including the County Government, provincial administration, and the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC). Primary data was collected using structured questionnaires administered in person to households and key informants. Secondary data was collected from the County Government of Kiambu and KPLC. Thirty-nine questionnaires, which is 10% of the household study sample, were pre-tested in the neighboring Kiuu Ward to ensure the validity and reliability of the research instruments. The study used Cronbach’s alpha method to check for reliability of the instruments, whereas it used the Kaiser- Meyer-Olkin (KMO) measure and Bartlett's Test of Sphericity methods to ensure construct validity of the instruments. Data processing involved cleaning and entry into Excel, followed by analysis using SPSS Version 22. Qualitative data from key informants were analyzed thematically and reported verbatim. The key findings of the study showed that communication strategies, relationship practices, and empowerment strategies influenced the sustainability of street lighting projects. The study concluded that effective communication, positive relationships, and empowerment are essential to enhance stakeholder participation, leading to project sustainability. The findings underscore the importance of structured stakeholder participation frameworks to ensure project sustainability. For policy development, the study recommended that policymakers implement a comprehensive stakeholder communication policy that mandates regular, transparent communication and feedback channels. For practice, the study recommended for the development and implementation of a robust stakeholder empowerment strategy aimed at increasing active precipitation in decision- making processes. Based on the findings, a critical area for future research would be the investigation of specific strategies to improve stakeholder inclusion in decision-making processes, with specific focus on exploring the barriers to effective stakeholder inclusion, identification of best practices from similar projects and development of tailored approaches that can be applied to enhance decision-making.

Monitoring and evaluation practices and performance of government of Kenya-funded developmental projects

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Monitoring and evaluation practices and performance of government of Kenya-funded developmental projects Nyaga, Katra The need and justification for project monitoring and assessment have thus far been established. However, it is essential to consider the variables that affect monitoring and assessment, especially in county governments where significant projects and resources have stalled. This study investigated the influence of monitoring and evaluation practices on performance of government of Kenya funded developmental projects in Garissa County using the Garissa County cancer center as a case study. Specifically, this study established the influence of M & E team capacity building, M & E planning, and stakeholder participation on performance of government funded developmental projects in Garissa County, Kenya. The study was underpinned by three theories namely, Theory of Change, the System Theory and the Organization Learning theory. The target population included County Executive Committee, Chief Officer’s health and medical services, Directors of health and medical services as well as the 90-unit members of county health department of Garissa. A descriptive study approach was used, including standard deviations, percentages, frequencies and composite means .The findings indicated that capacity team building for the M & E team is associated with a positive and significant effect on the performance of the government funded projects in Garissa County. It was also established that M & E planning is linked to a positive and significant effect on the performance of the government funded projects in Garissa County. Lastly, it was established that ensuring stakeholder participation for the M & E team is associated with a positive and significant effect on the performance of the government funded projects in Garissa County. In view of the findings of the study, the study recommends the M & E division of the county government of Garissa to ensure there is stakeholder involvement in monitoring of its larger development projects. The M & E division of the county government of Garissa should also enhance capacity building of their M & E team so as to improve their competence in conducting M & E functions. There is also a need for the M & E division of the county government of Garissa to conduct a thorough planning before engaging in any M & E activities so as to enhance delivery. Future studies could consider other counties and examining effects of other constructs of monitoring practices that was not considered by the current study.

Utilization of mobile technology for data collection and enhancement of data quality among humanitarian non governmental organizations

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Utilization of mobile technology for data collection and enhancement of data quality among humanitarian non governmental organizations Benjamin, Migolo This study will aim to investigate the influence of mobile technology usage for data collection on data quality in the context of data collection for humanitarian non- governmental organizations (NGOs), with a specific focus on World Vision Kenya. The landscape of data collection in humanitarian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) has evolved significantly in the recent past due to the integration of mobile technology. This paradigm shift is global, with organizations leveraging mobile technology to enhance data collection processes and improve data quality. World Vision International has embraced mobile solutions like Last Mile Mobile Solutions® (LMMS) to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability in humanitarian services. World Vision Kenya utilizes mobile apps like KoboCollect and DreamSave among other apps to address data quality challenges. This study aims to investigate how mobile technology use for data collection influences data quality in humanitarian NGOs, focusing on accuracy, completeness, consistency, timeliness, and reliability of the data collected. This study will explore the types of mobile devices and apps used within World Vision Kenya and their influence on data quality. Staff capacity and training in mobile data collection will be assessed, considering how this influences data collection quality. Additionally, organizational support, including policies and resources, will be examined to understand their role in ensuring quality data outputs. Understanding the nuances of mobile technology utilization within humanitarian NGOs is crucial for optimizing data collection processes and improving decision-making in the humanitarian work. This research seeks to contribute to the broader discourse on leveraging technology for humanitarian aid and underscores the importance of data quality in enhancing humanitarian operations

Monitoring and evaluation strategies and performance of conflict prevention programs in Africa

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Monitoring and evaluation strategies and performance of conflict prevention programs in Africa Meretework Shawul Areda, Meretework Shawul This study sought to investigate the effect of the monitoring and evaluation strategies and the performance of conflict prevention programs in Africa taking as a case the Continental Early Warning System (CEWS) of the African Union (AU). The study was based on three objectives: to assess the extent to which Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) influence the performance of conflict prevention programs, to examine the influence of stakeholder engagement on the performance of conflict prevention programs, and to establish how integration of conflict-sensitive strategies in M&E influences the performance of conflict prevention programs. The theoretical framework covered the theory of change and stakeholder theory. The study adopted a descriptive survey design to understand the research variables in-depth and make informed recommendations. The research site for the study is Addis Ababa, Ethiopia as the seat of the Continental Early Warning System (CEWS) of the African Union. The target population of 125 comprising staff members of the Political Affairs Peace and Security (PAPS) and the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) working and supporting conflict prevention programs of CEWS was considered. The sample size of the study calculated by using the Krejcie & Morgan table is 95. The researcher used questionnaires to gather the required information by drop-off and pick-up method as well as mailed surveys depending on the convenience. The research questionnaire was tested for consistency to correct inconsistencies. Further, Cronbach’s alpha coefficient has been used to estimate instrument reliability using the pilot responses, and it returned 0.801, which is fairly high. Once the required data was collected after securing authorization from the relevant bodies, the data was analyzed using SPSS version 29. After the finalization of the data collection, analysis of the data was made using means and standard deviations to assess the central tendencies and dispersion of the data. The study’s results revealed alignments with findings as well as discrepancies with prior studies. It emphasized the importance of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), stressing the need for alignment with strategic goals and the establishment of baseline and targets. A thorough stakeholder analysis involving internal and external stakeholders, as well as clear roles and responsibilities, were deemed crucial. Additionally, the study highlighted the significance of conflict-sensitive M&E practice, along with detailed context analysis. The study recommended the development of clear and measurable KPIs, the establishment of baseline and targets, with participation from both internal and external stakeholders, and prioritizing the integration of conflict-sensitive practice to address challenges and enhance the effectiveness of conflict prevention programs in Africa.

Effect of community participation on performance of child sponsorship programs

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Effect of community participation on performance of child sponsorship programs Ndungu, Peter Ngigi Performance of child sponsorship programs is critical in determining if the programs achieve the overarching goal of promoting child development. Understanding how community participation influences the performance of these programs is essential, considering that children live within a community context. Child sponsorship programs are designed to support children and youth beneficiaries through one aspect or many aspects of life such as health, education, skills development, talent development among others. This study proposed to investigate the effect of community participation on the performance of child sponsorship using Compassion International as the case study. The core objectives of the research were to determine the influence of community participatory planning on the performance of child sponsorship programs in Kenya, to establish the influence of community resources contribution on the performance of child sponsorship programs in Kenya, and to examine the effect of community participation in monitoring and evaluation on the performance of child sponsorship programs in Kenya. The study used Arnstein’s Ladder of Citizen Participation as the guiding theory and employed descriptive research design in research methodology. The target population was project-units team members comprised of project directors and community representatives, who implement the project. The sampling procedure used was stratified sampling where a sample size of 180 out of a total 328 project-units team members was approached to inform the study. A closed-ended questionnaire was used to collect the information from the selected respondents, and it was first piloted with 10 respondents who had similar characteristics to the target population. The questionnaires were then sent to the respondents to self- administer. Data analysis was done by use of Ms Excel and Stata to perform descriptive statistics. The study found that community participation was moderate and that it had a moderate positive effect on the performance of child sponsorship program. The study recommended a deliberate effort to involve the community especially in resources contribution to promote sustainability. Further research should be conducted on the quality of community participation to find its effect on the performance of the program.