School of Arts and Social Sciences

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    Agricultural Biotechnology in Food Security and Poverty Alleviation in Kenya: Prospects, Challenges, and Strategic Pathways
    (Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO, 2026-10-13) Recha, Charles W.; et.al
    Kenya, being a member state of the United Nations (UN), is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, with an exponentially growing human population coupled with a decline in the performance of the agriculture sector over the last decade, achievement of the first two SDGs of ending poverty and hunger may seem difficult. Levels of austerity and food insecurity are rampant, especially in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs). Agricultural biotechnology offers a way out but comes with challenges. This study, therefore, explored the prospects, challenges, and strategic pathways associated with agricultural biotechnology. Desktop Research Design was adopted. Articles were sourced from multiple electronic databases. The study established that agricultural biotechnology has the potential to boost food productivity in the ASALs through the introduction of hardy but productive breeds of livestock and varieties of crops. Furthermore, the study established that agricultural biotechnology presents nutritional and environmental benefits. Besides the prospects, the study also identified possible health, economic, and environmental challenges associated with agricultural biotechnology, especially Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). The study, therefore, recommended that the National Biosafety Authority, with help from the ministries of Agriculture, Environment, and Health, should undertake independent and unbiased research on the potential prospects and challenges of agricultural biotechnology and disseminate the findings to Kenyans to enable them to make informed decisions on whether to embrace or reject agricultural biotechnology.
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    Determinants of Household Food Security Status Among Smallholder Farmers in Laikipia County, Kenya
    (rnal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO Kenya National Commission for UNESCO is ISO 9001:2015 Certifie, 2025-12-30) Recha, Charles W.
    There are numerous factors that determine household food security status among smallholder farmers; and a variety of methods have been developed to measure food security. This study sought to establish the factors that determine household food security status among smallholder farmers in Laikipia County. Multistage sampling technique was used to select 384 smallholder farming households in Laikipia County during the 2021/2022 cropping season. Data was collected by using a questionnaire to household respondents and an interview schedule for key informants. Data collected was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28. Food security was measured using Food Consumption Scores (FCS) and Household Dietary Diversity Scale (HDDS). Descriptive statistics and ordered logistic regression analysis was used to establish the lead determinants of food security status. Results showed that the most accessed food groups were cereals and grain (82.0%), milk and other dairy products (49.5%), green leafy vegetables (45.3%) and roots and tubers (43.8%). The average Food Consumption Score (FCS) was 8.5 - food security status of ‘poor’. While the Household Dietary Diversity Scale (HDDS) was 3.9, implying households accessed four (4) out of sixteen (16) food groups. Gender (0.56), marital status (0.6), land size under cash crops (0.5) and land ownership (0.28) were the lead determinants of the Food Consumption Score. The study recommends that targeted support for female- and older-headed households, land titling, agribusiness and cash crop capacity building, robust extension services, and continued fertilizer subsidies should be implemented in order to improve food security situation among smallholder farmers in Laikipia County.
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    Gendered Challenges and Unexplored Avenues in Rural Women's Involvement in Advancing Sustainable Food Security through Tea Production in Kenya and Uganda
    (Pathways to African Feminism and Development Journal of the African Women Studies Centre, 2024-12-30) Waiganjo, Anthony Gathambĩri; Ngundo, Lucy Wangechi
    This study offers a comparative analysis of gendered tea production in Kenya and Uganda, interrogating the structural and intersectional barriers that constrain rural women’s participation in the tea value chain. Drawing on feminist intersectionality theory, the research reveals how gender, class, geography, and institutional dynamics intersect to marginalise women as undervalued labourers, despite their vital role in tea cultivation. Through qualitative insights and policy critique, the study highlights the need for inclusive reforms by the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) and Uganda Tea Development Agency (UTDA), emphasizing women’s access to training, incentives, and decision-making platforms. The findings underscore the importance of grassroots engagement and context-specific policy design, advocating for a feminist intersectional approach to enhance equity, agency, and sustainability in the tea sector. Ultimately, the study calls for a reimagining of agricultural development that centres women’s voices and contributions as vital to community resilience and food security.
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    Use of Technology in Teaching and Learning: The Need for Integration of Sustainable Technologies in the Instructional Process
    (International Journal on Studies in English Language and Literature (IJSELL), 2025-12-22) Anyonje Florence Muteheli,; Oluoch Monica Oloo
    Education plays a key role in sustainable development by helping change the behavior of people. Quality education is one of the pillars in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning. In this era of technological innovations, the nature, how and where learning takes place are all undergoing transformation. Technology provides students easy- to- access information, accelerates learning and fun opportunities to practice what they learn. They provide an alternative method for those who may be struggling to learn using the traditional methods. These technologies create a more engaging environment, in-cooperate different learning styles, improve collaboration and class management and prepare learners for the future. Students can also learn at their own pace. Such technologies not only engage students but also offer diverse platforms for students to work with new ideas and demonstrate learning understanding. In this regard some traditional methods of teaching and learning are slowly being changed to newer technology driven methods like Digital Content Learning, Learning Management Systems, Augmented and Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, Gamification among others. This paper explores the place of technology in the instructional process with a view to advance a more technology based teaching and learning process. By integrating technology in the education environment the walls of the classroom will no longer be a barrier, new ways of learning, communicating and working will be adopted for a sustainable future. A review of literature was used done to find out the use and benefits of a technology rich classroom.
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    The impact of Kenya-Egypt defence cooperation on Nile Basin internecine conflicts
    (African Quarterly Social Science Review, 2025-09-30) Odhiambo, Elijah Onyango Standslause; et.al
    Power asymmetries frequently compound basin politics, raising the question of how to manage with riparian hegemons, such as those in the Rhine, Tigris-Euphrates, Turkey, Egypt, India, and China, in addition to Nigeria or South Africa. These hydro hegemons often refuse to be drawn into mutual multilateral basin fora, preferring to deal with weaker partners individually on a bilateral basis. Despite the coexistence of security collaborations, basin-internecine conflicts have continued unabated, thus raising significant concerns.The concurrent existence of defense cooperation initiatives and water-related tensions between Kenya and Egypt poses challenges in balancing security interests and resolving disputes over shared water resources. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of Kenya-Egypt defense cooperation on Nile Basin internecine conflict. The study was underpinned by structural realism theory, securitization theory, and conflict theory. It was guided by descriptive research design. The study areas were Nairobi, Kenya, and Cairo, Egypt. The total sample size was 225, drawn from a target population of Kenya Defence Forces and Egypt Defence Forces at Berenice military base in Egypt; officials from the Ministry of Defense; officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Nairobi and Cairo, Egypt; the Egypt military attaché in Kenya; officials from the International Peace Support Training Centre; Kenya’s High Commissioner in Cairo, Egypt; and Kenya attachés in Cairo, Egypt. Both purposive and convenience sampling were used. Both primary and secondary data collection were used. Data was analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Study findings indicated that the Kenya-Egypt defense cooperation is viewed as an element of a much greater strategy aiming at bolstering the security architecture of the region. Its cooperation with Kenya has been both a solution to the conflict through joint peace efforts, addressing environmental concerns, shared mutual state interests, and regional stability and a causal factor to the Nile internecine conflict through promoting Egyptian hegemony and creating diplomatic hubs. The study recommends that both countries, on a sustainable basis, adopt a dyadic approach in consolidating and coordinating their strategies, devoid of either national interest obscuring the collective security endeavor.
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    Experiences of Somali Women Enterpreneurs in South Africa
    (frAfrican Feminist Epistemology: Harnessing African Feminist Knowledge Through Women’s Lived Experiences, 2025-09-02) Waiganjo, Anthony Gathambîri
    The involvement of Somali women migrants in trade within South Africa has attracted antagonism and gender-based violence from a section of black South Africans. The phobia, predominantly directed at Somali women, complicates their social and economic integration and consequently hinders sustainable entrepreneurship among refugee women. This study seeks to answer two questions: (1) What Afriphobia-related barriers hinder sustainable entrepreneurship and economic empowerment of Somali women refugees in South Africa? (2) What strategies could Somali women adopt to forge sustainable social and economic integration and development to curb Afriphobia? This qualitative study comprised forty purposively selected subjects and was anchored on social network theory and feminist intersectionality. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were used to gather data. The study area was Gauteng, which harbours the largest population of Somali women and is sporadically affected by significant Afriphobia. This Chapter advances the idea that Somali women possess numerous untapped potentials and skills that could enhance their sustainable development and socioeconomic integration in South Africa. It postulates that empowering refugee women through creating an enabling environment is a prerequisite to sustainable economic development for migrant entrepreneurs.
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    Economic diplomacy as a strategy influencing bilateral relations between Kenya and South Sudan (2011-2023)
    (African Quarterly Social Science Review, 2025-09-25) Odhiambo, Elijah Onyango Standslause
    International collaboration through different avenues such as economic diplomacy has been made possible through globalization, boiling down to continental collaborations by the utilisation of organisation’s and treaties. After independence, East African countries sought cooperation across economic and political as well as social domains. This study focused on economic diplomacy as a bilateral strategy between Kenya and South Sudan, given their geographical proximity since South Sudan gained its independence in 2011, and the potential benefits derived from such collaboration. Kenya is an outstanding economic hub in the East African region and has consistently used economic diplomacy to actualize and pursue its national interests. The objective examined the nature of bilateral relations between Kenya and South Sudan, identifying key areas that need reforms. The study aimed to illuminate the interaction between the independent variable of economic diplomacy and the dependent variable of bilateral relations. The interdependence liberalism theory and the factor endowment theory provided the theoretical framework. The data was gathered in Nairobi using questionnaires and interviews with 356 respondents, resulting in an 87.1% response rate. The data were analyzed using a mixed-method design and content analysis. The findings indicate that Kenya’s economic diplomacy positively influences bilateral relations with South Sudan, with improvements in investment and trade as well as cultural exchange. Furthermore, the study proved the positive correlation of economic diplomacy aspects of labour movements, goods and service movement and foreign direct investments in the enhancement of bilateral relations. In conclusion, the study determined that economic diplomacy has been a vital influence in improving bilateral relations between these neighbouring countries. Key policy implications recommended prioritizing more permanent solutions to enhance peace and security for a tradeconducive environment, more trade negotiations to increase trade volume and fine-tuning customs policies fostering better goods and services movement. This study shed light on a better understanding of how economic diplomacy moulds bilateral relations, giving a broad insight essential for policymakers seeking to strengthen Kenya and South Sudan engagements. The study recommended that future research explore the broader East African Community regional dynamics and the impact of existing trade policies on economic growth.
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    Nabongo Cultural Centre: A Heritage of the Wanga Kingdom in Kakamega County, Kenya
    (The Journal of Eastern African Oral Literature, 2025-06-30) Anyonje,Florence Muteheli
    The Kenyan Constitution (2010) Article 11(1) recognizes culture as the foundation of the nation and the cumulative civilization of the Kenyan people and nation. In light of this many Kenyans identify with their tribes or ethnic groups and follow their traditions which include the way of dress, food, naming, work and rites of passage. Most Kenyans in the rural areas are proud of their language and cultural heritage (Akama, 2002). Through practice and celebration of our culture we are able to impart values and behavioral norms to the future generations who will in turn continue the legacy and Kenyan identity. D’Souza (1980) describes the Kenyan culture as a way of life that blends tradition and modernity. The question is then how will Kenyans be able to preserve their diverse cultures in light of technological advancements that have changed the way we do almost everything? This paper is a case study of Nabongo Cultural Centre, also known as ‘Eshiembekho’in the local language. It highlights the rich cultural heritage found in this cultural centre in order to create local and international awareness so that researchers, students, tourists among others can all learn the history of the Wanga Kingdom and experience the way of life of the Wanga sub-tribe from this resource centre in Kakamega County. This research was done through participant observation, interviews, document analysis, and archival studies found in Nabongo Cultural Centre. The findings of this paper indicate that indeed this cultural centre is a rich heritage of the Wanga culture and a research centre for Oral Literature.
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    Al-Shabaab’s Financial Fortitude: The Link between Funding Strategies and Organizational Resiliency
    (Open Journal of Political Science, 2025-04-24) Odhiambo,Elijah Onyango Standslause; et.al
    Al-Shabaab poses a serious threat to regional stability and security. Its financial resilience is notable, as the group has maintained its operational capabilities despite increased global counter-terrorism efforts. The ongoing political instability in Somalia, combined with weak governance structures, has created an environment that allows the group to survive and adapt. Theoretical frameworks such as the Reach Theory, the Terror-Crime Nexus Model, and the Market Model provide important insights into Al-Shabaab’s strategies. A critical factor in Al-Shabaab’s effectiveness is its ability to diversify funding sources. The results of this research indicate that the organization’s territorial control is the major source of its funding. A comprehensive understanding of Al-Shabaab’s financial mechanisms is vital for informing policy decisions aimed at disrupting its funding networks.
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    Influence Of Refugees’ Socio-Economic Security On The Livelihoods Of Host Community In Kakuma, Turkana West Sub-County, Turkana County, Kenya
    (Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies (JAIS), 2025-05-30) Odhiambo, Elijah Onyango Standslause; et.al
    The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of refugees’ socio-economic security, specifically access to healthcare services and housing conditions, on the livelihoods of the host community in Kakuma, Turkana West Sub-County, Kenya. The contention of the article is that amid increasing refugee inflows, host communities face mounting pressure on limited public services and natural resources, yet the localized impacts remain underexplored. Anchored in the Refugee Aid and Development Theory and Social Exchange Theory, the research sought to evaluate how refugee access to healthcare and housing infrastructure affects service delivery, environmental sustainability, and socio-economic well-being among host residents. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional research design and employed a mixed-methods approach. A representative sample of 418 households from the host community was selected through stratified random sampling. Data collection combined structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS for descriptive statistics, while qualitative insights were examined through thematic analysis. Ethical standards were strictly observed throughout the process. Findings reveal that shared healthcare facilities are congested, with 84% of respondents reporting overcrowding, 80% citing overstretched staff, and 73% highlighting frequent drug shortages. Refugee housing expansion was also found to affect land use and environmental stability, with 73% of respondents noting reduced access to traditional grazing land, and 76% linking refugee shelters to deforestation. The study concludes that although refugee integration brings infrastructure improvements, it simultaneously intensifies competition for scarce resources and creates tensions when host needs are inadequately addressed. It recommends inclusive planning, equitable resource allocation, improved healthcare staffing, and sustainable land use policies to enhance coexistence. The findings aim to inform policy and humanitarian strategies for fostering balanced, community-integrated refugee interventions.