Bachelor of Development Studies

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FACTORS AFFECTING WOMEN EMPOWERMENT PROJECTS IN THE COUNTY GOVERNMENTS OF KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF MURANG'A COUNTY GOVERNMENT
(Management University of Africa, 2024) MUGO PATRICIAH MUTHONI
Purpose of this study was to find out factors affecting women empowerment projects in the county governments in Kenya. The objectives of the study were to establish the effect of project planning, project monitoring, stakeholder participation and project management practices on women empowerment projects in the county governments in Kenya. The study would be of significance to management of Murang'a County Government and other researchers. Descriptive research design was used in this investigation. The target population was 60 employees in the project management department of the organization. The study will focus on project management department of the county government, which was grouped into top management, middle management, and support staff. A sample size of 45 was taken that represents 75% of the target population. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to analyze the data. Tables and figures were used to display quantitative data, while descriptive notes were also used to present qualitative data. From the analysis 88% of the respondents agreed that project planning affects women empowerment projects while 12% of the respondents disagreed. From the analysis 92% of the respondents agreed that project monitoring affects women empowerment projects while 8% of the respondents disagreed. From the analysis 96% of the respondents agreed that stakeholder participation affects women empowerment projects while 4% of the respondents disagreed. From the analysis 92% of the respondents agreed that project management practices affect women empowerment projects while 8% of the respondents disagreed. The researcher recommends that well-structured project planning should be put in place so as to lead to more successful outcomes, providing a solid foundation for the implementation and sustainability of women empowerment projects. The study recommends that integrating thorough project monitoring practices is essential for the sustainability and effectiveness of women empowerment initiatives. It was recommended organization should provide it is evident that incorporating stakeholder participation into the planning and implementation of women empowerment projects is essential for achieving positive results. The researcher recommends that project managers ensures that projects are well-coordinated, resources are utilized efficiently, and objectives are met within the specified timelines. It involves setting clear goals, defining roles and responsibilities, managing risks, and regularly assessing progress.
EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HOUSEHOLD LIVELIHOODS IN RONGAI SUB-COUNTY, NAKURU COUNTY
(Management University of Africa, 2024-11) OTOCHI TOM NYANGAU
The researcher aimed to explore the influence of change in climate on sustainable livelihoods among households in the Rongai Sub-county. Specifically, the study sought to examine the consequence of changing seasons and rainfall patterns, food insecurity, water scarcity, and infectious disease patterns on sustainable livelihoods among households in Rongai Sub-county. The study was based on entitlement theory and resilience theory. It adopted a descriptive survey research design and targeted 52,248 households in the Rongai Sub-county. Fisher’s formula was used to obtain the sample size of 96 respondents. Stratified random sampling was employed to select respondents, where each of the five wards in Rongai Sub-county represented a stratum. A questionnaire was used to collect data, and the instrument was piloted in Njoro Sub-county. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 25 statistical software. The analysis utilized descriptive statistics in the form of frequencies and percentages. The extracted data were quantitative and presented in tables for ease of interpretation. The answers directed that a substantial majority of respondents have observed changes in seasons and rainfall patterns in Rongai Sub-County. The findings reveal that water scarcity is a pressing concern for households in Rongai Sub-County, with a significant most reporting it as a problem. The study in Rongai Sub-County found that 78.3% of respondents recognized changes in seasons and rainfall patterns, significantly impacting livelihoods and revealing a strong positive correlation (r = 0.751; p < 0.05) between these changes and sustainable livelihoods. The findings in revealed that 66.3% of households experience food insecurity, significantly impacting livelihoods, with a significant positive correlation (r = 0.672; p < 0.05) between food insecurity and sustainable livelihoods. The findings also indicated that 72.3% of households face significant water scarcity challenges, adversely affecting livelihoods, health, and agricultural productivity, with a strong positive significant correlation (r = 0.672; p < 0.05) between water scarcity and sustainable livelihoods. Finally, the findings in Rongai Sub-County reveal that 67% of households have observed significant changes in infectious disease patterns, which negatively impact livelihoods and productivity, with a positive correlation (r = 0.604; p < 0.05) between infectious disease patterns and sustainable livelihoods. The study concluded that changing seasons and rainfall patterns, food insecurity, water scarcity and infectious disease patterns had an effect on sustainable livelihoods among households .The study recommended that to address the impacts of changing seasons on sustainable livelihoods in Nakuru County, it is crucial for local governments and policymakers to implement adaptive strategies that enhance community resilience.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN KENYA:A CASE STUDY OF BAWA LA TUMAINI SELF HELP GROUP,LANGATA CONSTITUENCY
(Management University of Africa, 2024-06) NAFTALY GITAU NJUGUNA
The purpose of this study was to investigate factors influencing implementation of youth development projects in Kenya with its relation on Bawa La Tumaini self-help group. The overall objective of the study was to establish the influence of government policy, group leadership, entrepreneurship Training, band funding, and sociocultural factors bon implementation youth development projects bin Kenya. the findings of this particular study were relevant to the management Bawa La Tumaini self-help group band bother researchers. methods descriptive research design was adopted, band the study population consisted of b47 people affiliated directly to Bawa La Tumaini self-help group. this study was census where the total target population comprised the sample size of this study. The data was analyzed qualitatively band quantitatively. the result was divided into qualitative and quantitative part bas the descriptive notes, content analysis for qualitative data whereas tables & figures were bused for showing frequency of different variables. The researcher suggests that there is need should raise awareness bon the policy among youth. There should be increased youth groups band leadership structures created. The Ministry of Youth band Sports should facilitate youth groups with quality, comprehensive b& convenient training on project planning band how to approve by our income generating projects. Out of this, there were recommendations for youth income generating projects to get enough resources from elsewhere than the youth enterprise development fund in border for sustainability check bon these projects. There is need for creation of channels of information band high education colleges in the constituency, offering of rehabilitation services, creation of employment opportunities, increase youth band women representation band offering of funding.
RISK MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES IN LAND SURVEYING: A CASE STUDY OF PIONEER ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
(Management University of Africa, 2025-01) MERCY MUTHONI MARINGA
Construction and engineering projects are inherently more complex and prone to risks, adversely affecting schedule, cost, and quality. Land surveying is particularly susceptible to all the technical, legal, environmental, and operational uncertainties (because before the actual construction can occur, it is an inevitable step that must be taken). The reality is more exacerbated in Kenya, where the streets are becoming fast urbanized; the infrastructure development and the country's ambitions to realize its Vision 2030 development agenda make it even more critical to have correct and timely land data. This study aimed to assess the practice and effectiveness of the project risk management activities within the land surveying role at the Pioneer Engineering and Construction Company Ltd. It focused primarily on risk acceptance, risk avoidance, risk mitigation, and risk transfer as being among the core risk strategies and discussed the impact they had on the performance of the projects. A descriptive research design was adopted, whereas a structured questionnaire was employed to collect quantitatively oriented data on 70 research respondents, surveyors, technical staff, and project managers who directly engaged in land surveying. The sampling method was purposive, and only people with practical knowledge of surveying operations were used. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, and mean) were used to analyze data; findings were tabulated. The research aimed to find ways of reviewing the frequency and proficiency of the risk strategies adopted and the effects of these practices on the results of the projects regarding meeting timeliness, validity of data, and customer satisfaction. The findings indicated that reduced risk and avoidance of risks were the most sought and practiced measures. The respondents expressed those modern technologies, such as drones, RTK GPS, and GIS, were distributed widely, providing more correct and non-delaying data regarding operations. Preemptive risk avoidance measures were also standard, i.e., making pre-siting explorations and avoiding contentious zones. These approaches resemble the books on learning to appreciate technological integration and risk identification in the initial stages. A discriminative application of risk acceptance occurred where mitigation costs exceeded anticipated risks. However, it possessed internal control mechanisms to verify those risks. Insurance and contract provisions of risk transference were identified but were not as consistently practiced, so implementing policies should be facilitated. The research concluded that good risk management practices positively influenced project performance, resulting in improved delivery deadlines, data quality, and stakeholder satisfaction. Findings align with the project management and systems theory, which suggests a proactive and coordinated attitude towards uncertainty. However, though the study is limited to a single organization, it is educational to the actual industry participant and the policymakers seeking to enhance risk preparedness in the land surveying industry. The study suggests formalizing an official risk management system, making risk reporting mandatory in all project reports, frequent risk training to understand deep-rooted risk measurement tools, and last but not least, research into external factors of risk of land surveying in Kenya. The suggestions would allow companies to increase operational and long-term resilience to manage a more complex construction environment.
EFFECTS OF PROJECT RISK MANAGEMENT ON DELIVERY OF CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING PROJECTS IN KENYA. A CASE STUDY OF KENYA NATIONAL HIGHWAYS AUTHORITY (KENHA)
(Management University of Africa, 2025-06) ELIZABETH MWARANGU
The main objective of this study was to examine the effects of project risk management on delivery of construction engineering projects in Kenya, a case study of Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA). Specific objectives were; To assess the effect of risk identification effect of risk mitigation strategies on the delivery of construction engineering projects at KeNHA and to analyze the effect of risk monitoring on the delivery of construction engineering projects at KeNHA. The research employed descriptive research design. The target population was 141 employees of Kenya National Highways Authority, Headquarters. The census approach was employed in the investigation to determine sample size. A survey was employed by the investigator in order to gather data. The study employed descriptive analysis for data analysis. Microsoft Excel aided in data analysis. According to the report, risk identification is a crucial aspect of project delivery at KeNHA, integrating stakeholder contributions and capturing information on risks. Structured frameworks for risk assessment and review cycles ensure adequate skills and strategic risk management. The study concluded that KeNHA's risk management techniques are effective, but there is room for improvement in training and resource allocation. Additionally, the study discovered that risk monitoring procedures are active and integrated during project execution, with systems for tracking risks and monitoring progress of mitigation activities. Proper monitoring helps achieve control during project execution and improves project delivery results. The study recommends that KeNHA improve its risk identification processes by expanding the tools and techniques used, including early stakeholder inclusion. Regularly reviewing and updating evaluation frameworks and providing ongoing training for assessors can enhance risk management. Reporting on project decisions based on assessments can strengthen project management. Allocating training resources on mitigation measures can enable a more proactive approach. Defining boundaries for modifying protocols can strengthen organizational agility. Integrating real-time data streams into risk monitoring can enhance risk tracking, reporting, and response. Streamlined collaboration among stakeholders can accelerate responses to new risks. Additional investigation may examine the impact of organizational culture, risk management practices, leadership style, and technological adoption on risk management efficacy.
FACTORS AFFECTING PROVISION OF CLEAN WATER IN KIBERA CONSTITUENCY, NAIROIBI COUNTY
(Management University of Africa, 2025-06) NAOMI MUTOKO KIOKO
People's living conditions can be enhanced by having access to clean water and adequate sanitation as they encourage income generating, healthy living, and clean surroundings. Nevertheless, no research has been done to date that focuses on determining the variables affecting the availability of clean water in underdeveloped nations like Kenya. The purpose of this study was to lower the frequency of waterborne illnesses in children under five and investigate the factors influencing the availability of potable water in Nairobi County's Kieran constituency. The descriptive survey approach was used as the research strategy for this investigation. All residents in Kieran Constituency who were older than eighteen were included in the targeted population. Simple random selection was used to choose a sample of 384 responders. Both qualitative and quantitative primary data were gathered for this research. Research assistants helped participants self-administer the questionnaires. While the qualitative data was subjected to content analysis, the quantitative data was evaluated using descriptive statistics with SPSS. In addition to being shown in tables and narrative style, the findings were presented using means, percentages, and frequencies. Local communities' livelihoods suffered as a result of the variables influencing the availability of clean water. The study's conclusions suggest enhancing community involvement, putting sustainable water and sanitation solutions into place, and raising awareness and educating the public.
FACTORS AFFECTING PLANNING OF DONOR FUNDED PROJECTS IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF THE KIBERA COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE (AMREF)
(Management University of Africa, 2025-06) JOEL MUNYALO WILLY
Planning is a crucial stage in the effective execution of donor-funded projects since it forms the basis for the creation of goals, plans, budgets, and schedules. Still, a variety of internal and external elements frequently impact this planning process' efficacy. Among these, stakeholder involvement, financing availability and dependability and the current economic climate are crucial. Each of these factors has the potential to have a major influence on the creation, modification and implementation of plans. To make sure that donor-funded initiatives are not only well-designed but also responsive to beneficiary demands and flexible enough to adjust to changing circumstances, it is imperative to comprehend these variables. This study aimed at determining factors affecting planning of donor funded projects in Kenya, with reference to Kibera Community Health Centre (Amref). The specific study objectives were to determine the effect of stakeholder engagement, funding and economic stability on planning of donor funded projects. A total of 65 employees represented the target population. The use of census was applied as a sampling method. The questionnaires were used as tool for collecting data. The quantitative analysis was applied, and data presentation was through tables. The study concludes that, when stakeholders are engaged during planning, they develop a sense of ownership and responsibility for the project. This increases the likelihood that they will support the project even after donor funding ends. Stakeholder ownership also ensures better resource contribution, local monitoring, and greater accountability. When donors commit to multi-year funding with clear disbursement schedules, project teams can develop long-term plans with strategic milestones, phased rollouts, and contingency buffers. This predictability fosters better integration with national development plans and allows for alignment with other donor or government programs. Stable funding environments allow planners to think big and innovate rather than just manage day-to-day risks. Economic stability assures them that their funds will be used efficiently and that projects can be planned and implemented with minimal disruption. It also enables the host government to commit complementary resources confidently. Stability fosters donor trust, encouraging more funding and allowing for longer- term development planning. Stakeholder engagement should not be limited to the initial planning phase but should continue throughout the project lifecycle. To maintain ongoing communication, donor-funded projects should include feedback mechanisms such as community scorecards, suggestion boxes and digital surveys. These tools will help capture changing opinions, emerging concerns, and innovative suggestions from stakeholders. This not only strengthens stakeholder trust but also helps the project remain responsive to dynamic local needs and conditions. The organization should synchronize the project’s budgeting and planning cycles with those of the donors and the host government. Early coordination with finance teams and national treasury officials ensures smoother integration of donor funds into government systems and vice versa. This alignment also allows for better forecasting of fund availability, reduces duplication of efforts, and improves accountability and reporting to donors and government agencies. Economic instability can create policy uncertainty that disrupts donor-funded projects, such as changes in tax laws, import restrictions, or fuel price hikes. To address these risks, project planners should promote regular policy dialogue between donors and host governments. Engaging ministries of finance, planning, and development ensures that donor-supported initiatives align with national economic recovery efforts and that policy support is provided when needed. This collaboration strengthens the enabling environment for planning and implementation, secures government co-financing, and helps avoid regulatory roadblocks that can derail planning processes.
EFFECTS OF STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ON PROJECT PERFORMANCE IN NON-GOVERMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS PROJECTS IN KENYA. A CASE OF AFRICAN MEDICAL AND RESEARCH FOUNDATION HEALTH PROJECT
(Management University of Africa, 2025-06) RUWEIDHA IBRAHIM ABDULLAH
The aim of this study was to evaluate effects of stakeholder engagement on project performance in NGO projects in Kenya. A case of AMREF Health Project. The following were the specific objectives of the study, to explore the effects of stakeholder communication, stakeholder feedback, stakeholder power dynamics and stakeholder involvement on project performance in NGO projects in Kenya. The significance of the study was to policy makers, management of health projects and future researchers. The study adopted descriptive research design. The target population for this study was 112 employees of AMREF Health Project. The study considered sample size of 56 respondents which was done using stratified random sampling as the sampling design. Data was collected through questionnaires that were distributed to the respondents. To ensure validity and reliability of the questionnaire, a pilot study was done. The data was analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods and later presented through tables, bar graphs and pie charts. In the case of NGO projects in Kenya like the AMREF Health Project active participation through communication, feedback, power relations, and participation is crucial in the determination of the performance of the project. By prioritizing these areas, the study was able to encourage better coordination, shared ownership, and more successful and sustainable results. The research advised companies to enhance strategic leadership because it has numerous positive impacts to the organizations and this hastens the implementation of the short-term objectives. It also emphasized the need to upgrade the performance monitoring which contributes to the continuous development and gives a boost to the effectuation of the policies on risk management.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE EFFECTIVE ROLLOUT OF THE DIGITAL IDENTITY SYSTEM IN KENYA, FOCUSING ON THE HUDUMA NAMBA INITIATIVE.
(Management University of Africa, 2025-08) ZENA ABDULRAHMAN MUSA
The study's main objective was to investigate the factors affecting the effective rollout of the digital identity system in Kenya, focusing on the Huduma Namba initiative. The study was guided by the following specific objectives: to examine the impact of communication strategy and public participation on the effectiveness of Huduma Namba's rollout, to assess the influence of legal safeguards on the successful implementation of the Huduma Namba project, to evaluate the effects of exclusion and marginalized group considerations in the adoption of Huduma Namba, and to analyze the adequacy of data protection safeguards in influencing public trust in Huduma Namba. A descriptive research design was adopted, targeting government departments involved in the Huduma Namba rollout, as well as members of the public. The target population consisted of 100 respondents, and a sample size of 80 respondents was determined using Slovene’s formula. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency distributions and percentages, while qualitative data were summarized to identify emerging themes. The results were presented in tables, charts, and graphs. The findings revealed that an effective communication strategy and public participation significantly improved the awareness and adoption of Huduma Namba. However, gaps in legal safeguards affected the project's smooth implementation, as some respondents expressed concerns regarding inadequate legal frameworks. It was also established that the exclusion of marginalized groups posed a significant challenge to the universal adoption of the system. Furthermore, the study found that inadequate data protection measures led to low public trust, with respondents voicing fears of data misuse and privacy violations. The study recommended that the government strengthen public participation through awareness campaigns and stakeholder engagements to increase adoption rates. It also recommended enhancing legal safeguards to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework for the digital identity system. To address exclusion, the study proposed targeted strategies for marginalized groups to ensure inclusivity. Lastly, the study emphasized the need for robust data protection mechanisms to build public trust and ensure the security of citizens’ personal data. These findings are expected to guide policymakers and stakeholders in addressing challenges and improving the implementation of digital identity systems in Kenya.
EFFECTS OF AGRICULTURAL PRACTISES ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN COUNTY PROJECTS IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL AND RURAL INCLUSIVE GROWTH PROJECT IN NANDI COUNTY
(Management University of Africa, 2025-06) LYAN CHEROTICH
Agriculture was a critical driver of socio-economic development in Kenya, particularly within rural areas such as Nandi County, where the majority of the population depended on farming for their livelihoods. This study examined the effect of agricultural practices—specifically agroforestry, organic farming, hydroponics and aeroponics, and irrigation farming—on socioeconomic development in Nandi County, under the framework of the National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP). The study adopted a descriptive research design employing both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, interviews, and observations to ensure triangulation and enhance validity. The target population consisted of 400 individuals—including farmers, agricultural officers, local government officials, and community leaders—from which a sample of 120 respondents was selected through stratified random sampling. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis, with socio-economic development as the dependent variable and the four agricultural practices as independent variables. Instrument reliability was tested using Cronbach’s Alpha, with a threshold of 0.7, and content validity was ensured through expert review. The study achieved a 100% response rate, with all 120 questionnaires successfully completed, reflecting strong engagement from the community. The findings showed that agroforestry was highly valued for improving soil fertility, crop yields, household income, and employment opportunities, with tree planting being the most widely adopted practice. Organic farming was positively perceived for improving produce quality, food security, and household incomes, despite challenges related to input access and labor. Hydroponics and aeroponics were acknowledged for their water-saving benefits and contribution to food security, although awareness and infrastructure gaps limited their adoption. Irrigation farming was widely recognized for enhancing productivity, stabilizing food availability, and improving incomes, though access challenges remained. Overall, agricultural practices significantly improved household income, food security, employment opportunities, and quality of life in Nandi County, though connections to affordable education and health services required further strengthening. The study recommended that county authorities and stakeholders intensify training, infrastructure investment, market linkages, and supportive policies to scale up sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, it encouraged integrating agricultural gains with social services to promote inclusive and equitable socio-economic development. These findings contributed valuable insights for policymakers, development agencies, and future researchers interested in sustainable rural development in Kenya and similar contexts across sub-Saharan Africa.