UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH PROJECTS
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Item A RESEARCH PROJECT SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE AWARD OF DEGREE OF MANAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP (PURCHASING AND SUPPLIES OPTION) OF THE MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY OF AFRICA.(MUA, 2021-07) JEFWA KALAMA MLEWAWhen highlighting the challenges facing Kenyatta National Hospital, the 2012 auditor General's report indicates that the key challenges facing Kenyatta National Hospital operations range from stock-outs to long procurement procedures. This study focuses to establish the role of strategic procurement in healthcare delivery as the main objective. The specific objectives of the study aim to establish extend in which strategic sourcing, green procurement, inventory optimization and supplier relationship management affect the healthcare delivery at Kenyatta National Hospital. The research carries out on several categories of procurement personnel of Kenyatta National Hospital who will aid in providing the required information relevant to the study. The study adopts descriptive survey design and stratified random sampling method selection for sampling. This study adopted the use of questionnaires as a tool for data collection. The study targets population of 31 employees drawn from supply chain management divisions mainly; procurement and administrative services, procurement clinical officers, contract management and tender secretariat, logistics and warehousing and KPCC supply chain. Data processing, analysis and presentation were done through descriptive statistical method (SPPS version 24) and use of tables, pie charts, and bar graphs, respectively. Both primary and secondary data was collected and analysed. Primary data was gathered using questionnaires issued to respondents. Based on the data collected and the subsequent findings of the study, it is concluded that strategic procurement plays a significant role in improving, streamlining and optimizing healthcare delivery. Particularly, strategic sourcing, green procurement practices, inventory optimization and employment of supplier relationship management positively and significantly influence healthcare delivery. The study recommends public and private entities in the healthcare sector to familiarize themselves with procurement strategic practices and implement them in their operations in order to improve its efficiency and also to streamline the entire supply chain management. The research benefits various stakeholders in the procurement environments including the authority itself, future scholars in the field, the government, as well as the general business and procurement field from various departments and levels of management ranging from staff, middle level management and top management.Item AN EVALUATION OF EFFECTS OF PERSONAL SELLING ON INSURANCE PRODUCTS SALES: A CASE STUDY OF SALES MADE AT SANLAM LIFE INSURANCE LIMITED NAKURU KENYA(Management University of Africa, 2021-08) JAMES MURIUKI NDUNIThe main objective of the study is to evaluate the effects of personal selling on insurance product sales at Sanlam Life Insurance Limited Nakuru Kenya. The study specifically sought to determine the influence of the effect of personal selling on insurance product up take, effect of personal selling on insurance negotiation process, effects of face-to-face mode of selling on the quality of business procured and the effects of personal selling on sales process Sanlam Life Insurance Limited, Nakuru Kenya. The hierarchy of effects theory, right set of situation theory, and AIDAS Theory was used to guide the research. The study used a descriptive research design and targeted 450 Sanlam Insurance Company clients. A sample size of 10% of the target population (450) was used in the study, resulting in a total of 45 consumers. As a result, the study's sample size was 45 people. A census sample technique was used in the investigation. Questionnaires were used to collect primary data. The data was analyzed, and displayed in tables. From the findings, it was determined that no personal selling methods are in use. In addition, the salesperson meets the consumer requirement outlined in the script to a large extent. Instead of selling things separately or insignificantly, the company sells them as a package. furthermore, salespeople only loosely link product or service qualities to consumer benefits. Finally, salespeople should concentrate on recognizing and serving their customers' needs and desires to the greatest extent possible. The researcher went on to say that the firm is particularly good at negotiating high ambition sites. In addition, the company determines its competitors BTNA less efficiently. Sanlam effectively distributes information regarding priorities and preferences through negotiations. Negotiations at the company aids in the creation of very effective package deals. Finally, competitive negotiations are employed when negotiators require immediate outcomes. It was determined that the company uses defaces for face-to-face selling. Face-to-face selling is a successful method to employ. The effectiveness of face-to-face selling is also very strong. The salesperson was able to persuade the consumer by using an additional face-to-face technique of selling. According to the findings, personal selling has an impact on sales. The firm's financial performance has not improved as a result of personal selling. Furthermore, personal selling has not resulted in an increase in the firm's sales volume. Personal selling with a higher profit margin is a good idea. Finally, personal selling has resulted in speedier product and service movement. The study advised all insurance companies in Kenya to implement several personal selling tactics in order for them to increase and diversify their portfolios, avoid losses, and reduce costs, so increasing their competitiveness. Based on the findings, the researcher recommended that all insurance firms in Kenya implement various personal selling tactics to enable them to develop and diversify their portfolios, avoid losses, and reduce costs, so increasing their competitiveness. Furthermore, the study suggested that systems selling tactics be implemented to improve operational efficiency and the decision-making process in order to improve performance. They should engage in compromise agreements on mutually sufficient solutions, reason, and justice, which will lead to successful product sales. Also, in order to persuade customers, insurance companies should adopt and invest more in face-to-face selling. According to the survey, firms should work on increasing salesperson awareness in order to increase personal selling of insurance products. Future research should be conducted to determine the effects of technology on personal selling, according to the researchers. The researcher also suggests that such a study be carried out in other areas and businesses.Item ASSESSING TEACHER EXPECTATIONS ON STUDENTS’ ACHIEVEMENT IN KENYA . A CASE STUDY IN SELECTED PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOOL IN KAJIADO COUNTY(Management University of Africa, 2025-06) ODHIAMBO ISAAC OCHIENGThis study sought to assess teacher expectations on students’ achievement in Kajiado County, focusing on selected public secondary schools. ‘‘The purpose was to explore how teacher expectations, academic expectations, and growth mindset collectively influence students’ academic achievement’’. The study was anchored on Rosenthal and Jacobson’s Pygmalion Effect Theory, complemented by Dweck’s Mindset Theory and Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences. The research objectives were to examine the effect of teacher expectations on students’ achievement; to analyze how academic expectations shape student performance; and to evaluate the role of a growth mindset in enhancing achievement. The study targeted a population of 2,000 participants consisting of 1,600 students, 350 teachers, and 50 school administrators, with a sample size of 266 students, 60 teachers, and 7 administrators. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. Data were collected through structured questionnaires distributed among the sampled groups. The data were then analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequencies and percentages and presented in tables and charts for clarity. ‘‘Findings revealed that teacher expectations significantly influence students’ motivation and performance; academic expectations set by teachers and institutions enhance students’ commitment to academic work; and promoting a growth mindset among students contributes to improved academic outcomes’’. The study concluded that positive teacher expectations combined with supportive academic environments and deliberate cultivation of a growth mindset are critical in boosting student achievement. It recommended professional development programs for teachers to raise awareness of expectation effects, fostering growth mindset practices in classrooms, and strengthening academic support systems within schools in Kajiado County.Item ASSESSMENT OF EMPLOYEE RELATION ON ORGANIZATION PRODUCTIVITY IN KENYA: CASE STUDY OF NAROK COUNTY REFERRAL HOSPITAL(management university of africa, 2025-08) NELLY KARBOLOItem DETERMINANTS OF THE PURCHASING FUNCTION IN THE MOTOR INDUSTRY: A CASE STUDY OF SIMBA CORPORATION LIMITED MOTOR DIVISION(Management University of Africa, 2024-09) OMARIBA NICKYThe study aimed at finding out the determinants of the purchasing function in the motor industry with special reference to Simba Corporation Limited in Nairobi, Kenya. The study dealt with four objectives which determine the effects of purchasing regulations on the purchasing function in the motor industry, to investigate the effects of information technology on the purchasing function in the motor industry, to examine how the purchasing ethics affects the purchasing function in the motor industry and lastly to determine how supplier management affects the purchasing function in the motor industry. The study employed a descriptive research approach because its goal is to identify the variables linked to certain events, results, circumstances, or behavioral patterns. The top-level management, middle level management, and supportive staff constituted the study's target group. A stratified random sample strategy was employed by the researcher. Tables, charts, and graphs were used to display the data after it had been analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The research found out that 77% of the respondents in Simba Corporation Limited embraced purchasing regulations as a means to better management of purchasing activities in the motor industry. 87% of those surveyed said that technology for information had improved communication among employees and is a means of reaching the set goals of the firm in the purchasing function. 87% of the respondents were of the view that purchasing ethics has had a great impact on the improvement of performance in the purchasing function in the motor industry. 73% of the respondents greatly believed that supplier management improves good service delivery to customers since the company is able to purchase their goods from reliable suppliers. The study recommended that purchasing regulations are vital in any organization that wants to ensure an improved management of the purchasing function, the use of IT in carrying out of purchasing activities must be embraced. Employees in the purchasing function must be encouraged to follow the purchasing code of conduct when carrying out purchasing activities. Supplier relationships must be well maintained to ensure the motor industry ability to purchase their products with ease.Item DIGITAL FINANCIAL INCLUSION AND GROWTH OF WOMEN-OWNED ENTERPRISES IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF KENYA WOMEN HOLDING(MUA, 2026-04) NASRA WOCHE MUDEItem EFFECT OF BANKING AGENCES ON CLIENT CONTENTMENT: A CASE STUDY ON EQUITY BANK OF KENYA NAIROBI CITY AGENTS(Management University of Africa, 2024-09) AKACH KEVIN OGWALOThis research looks into how consumer satisfaction in Kenya's banking industry is affected by banking agencies. banking agencies enables banks to expand their services through third-party agents, such as retail stores and mobile money providers. It was established to increase convenience and improve client happiness. By offering basic banking services to the unbanked and underbanked people, this strategy is critical for boosting inclusion of finances, especially in neglected and rural areas. The research commences stating a historical perspective on banking agencies and its relevance by exploring how it had come to be, the level of accessibility as well efficiency in terms of reaching out to clients. They examine the theoretical and empirical landscape in more detail while identifying areas requiring further work and providing a conceptual structure for guiding inquiry. A complete an explanation of the research method including design, target population, sampling strategies, data collection tools and processes as well as analytic techniques to guarantee a scientific methodology conducted according to established ethical standards. The findings of the research also highlight key factors that impact client contentment such as reliability in transactions, ease of access to BANK personnel, and standard for service quality. The research uncovered patterns and trends that expose the benefits and challenges of banking agencies. The results discussion aims to understand the reason for acting as agent banking in the Kenyan baking sector compared with the findings of prior studies. The report ends with doable suggestions for improving banking agencies' efficacy for banks, legislators, and other stakeholders. It makes recommendations for enhancing security protocols, agent training, and service delivery. Proposed research areas aim to bridge the identified knowledge gaps and enhance comprehension of the transformative effect of banking agencies on enhancing client contentment. Considering all, this research provides useful knowledge about the effectiveness of banking agencies in Kenya and how it leads to greater client satisfaction. The advice and recommendations are intended to help the banks in consolidating their products, promoting financial inclusion as well reinforcing a wide-spread expansion and sustainability of the banking sector within Kenya.Item EFFECT OF CORPORATE GOVERNANCE ON ORGANISATIONAL PERFORMANCE IN THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS SECTOR IN KENYA. A CASE OF SAFARICOM LIMITED(MUA, 2026-01) ESTHER W. NG’ANG’AThe general purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of corporate governance on organizational performance in the telecommunications segment in Kenya. A case of Safaricom Limited. Specific objectives were: To examine the influence of board composition on the performance of Safaricom Limited, to examine the effect of stakeholder involvement on the performance of Safaricom Limited, to evaluate the effect of internal controls on the performance of Safaricom Limited, and to assess the effect of leadership structure on the performance of Safaricom Limited. The investigation was anchored by Agency theory, and it was supported by Stakeholder theory and Stewardship theory. A descriptive research design was employed for this investigation. The target population was 216 Safaricom management-level staff based at the head office in Westlands. The sample size was calculated using Fisher's method. The study's primary information was collected via the application of questionnaires provided electronically to respondents via email. A pilot test with 14 participants from a Safaricom branch was carried out for this study, mainly to determine any troublesome questions and to evaluate the viability and reliability. Data collected from questionnaires was cleaned to remove errors and then coded for organization before analysis in Microsoft Excel. Measurement descriptors like mean, standard deviation, and frequency tables summarized the data's characteristics, with results presented through tables and figures for clear interpretation. The findings highlight that Safaricom's board composition integrates diversity, appropriate size, competency, female representation, and operational independence, facilitating oversight and decision-making. The study concluded that stakeholder engagement is characterized by communication, feedback systems, and participatory practices, which enhance collaboration among various groups. The study also concluded that Safaricom maintains robust internal control mechanisms through risk management, audits, and compliance monitoring, supporting effective operational procedures. The leadership structure is marked by clear roles, collaborative styles, and accountability. The study’s recommendations include enhancing board diversity, improving stakeholder communication, strengthening internal controls, and maintaining a clear leadership structure. More investigation ought to concentrate on longitudinal studies of governance of corporations and performance, and comparative analyses across industries.Item EFFECT OF FORENSIC ACCOUNTING IN ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE: A CASE STUDY OF PEMBE MILLERS LIMITED(2025-05) APHLINE BRIAN MWAWAItem EFFECT OF HUMAN RESOURCE STRATEGIES ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF KENYATTA NATIONAL HOSPITAL(MUA, 2026-03) NYAMBURA MAGDALINE WAMBUIThe general objective of this study was to examine the effect of Human Resource Strategies on employee performance in Public Hospitals in Kenya: A Case Study of Kenyatta National Hospital. The specific objectives were: To examine the effect of training and development strategies on employee performance at Kenyatta National Hospital, to assess the influence of compensation strategies on employee performance at Kenyatta National Hospital, to evaluate the effect of performance appraisal systems on employee performance at Kenyatta National Hospital, and to determine the impact of recruitment strategies on employee performance at Kenyatta National Hospital. The study was based on Agency Theory, with additional support from Human Capital Theory and Goal Setting Theory. This study used a descriptive research approach. The target population for this study was 6000 employees of KNH from all divisions. This inquiry utilized stratified random sampling, with sample size determined by Yamane's formula. In the study, the researcher coded, input, and revised the quantitative data gathered from surveys, which were analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Descriptive statistics measured trends, proportions, and patterns through cross-tabulation, graphs, and charts. The research concluded that various training and development methods positively impacted employees, enhancing their performance and professional growth in the workplace. Continuous skill development, mentoring, and coaching were widely regarded as beneficial, with employees recognizing significant improvements in their workplace competence and career advancement. Additionally, remuneration plans were found to be fair and motivating, with workers expressing satisfaction with wages and benefits, which in turn fostered organizational commitment. Performance assessments were also deemed effective, providing clarity and fairness, and encouraging constructive development. Finally, recruiting methods were recognized as merit-driven and efficient, enhancing workforce quality and operational effectiveness. Recommendations for public hospitals include maintaining training and growth initiatives to improve staff abilities and job competency, linking training to responsibilities and career advancement. Equitable remuneration systems should be upheld to enhance staff engagement and performance, with regular assessments for satisfaction and effort. Clear performance rating methods and constructive feedback processes are advised to foster employee trust and a performance-driven culture. Transparent recruitment techniques focusing on credentials should be prioritized to attract qualified workers and promote fairness. Future research should examine the effects of HR initiatives on efficiency across public hospitals and explore the effects of culture and leadership on these metrics.Item EFFECT OF IMPEDIMENTS IN SUPPLY CHAIN LINKAGES IN LOGISTICS COMPANIES IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF DALSEY, HILLBLOM AND LYNN (DHL) KENYA(Management University of Africa, 2025-06) KISARA NICHOLAS ODIWUORThe efficiency of logistics companies in Kenya is heavily dependent on the strength and reliability of supply chain linkages. However, impediments such as poor infrastructure, customs delays, regulatory bottlenecks, and limited technological integration continue to disrupt the iv seamless flow of goods and services. These challenges not only increase operational costs but also undermine service delivery, competitiveness, and customer satisfaction. Understanding the effects of these impediments is crucial for developing strategies that enhance supply chain resilience and improve overall logistics performance in the country. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of impediments in supply chain linkages in logistics companies in Kenya, with reference to Dalsey, Hillblom and Lynn (DHL) Kenya. The study assessed the effect of political instability, global market dynamics, government policies and infrastructure quality on supply chain linkages at DHL Kenya. The Transaction Cost Theory, the Resource Based View Theory and Supply Chain Management Theory will be applied in this study. The study target population was 74 employees within the supply chain department. Descriptive research design was adopted. The use of census as a study sampling method was adopted to include the entire target population in the study data collection process. The use of questionnaires was used to collect data. The data was analyzed through quantitative method and presented through tables. The finding of this study established a connection between political instability, global market dynamics, government policies and infrastructure quality on supply chain linkages. The study concludes that, customs authorities in politically unstable countries often operate inefficiently due to corruption, lack of resources, or frequent policy changes. This results in prolonged clearance times, lost or damaged shipments, and additional fees, all of which negatively impact the reliability of cross-border supply chain linkages. Trade agreements influence logistics operations in that, when these agreements are altered or terminated, logistics firms must adjust to new tariffs, documentation requirements, and route restrictions. These abrupt shifts can disrupt partnerships with suppliers and clients, leading to uncertainty and reconfiguration of existing supply chain linkages. Proactive government policies reduce transit delays, increase transparency, and build trust among supply chain partners. Logistics companies operating under such conditions are better positioned to forge strong, long-term linkages with suppliers, customers, and international logistics networks. Well-paved roads, clear signage, and optimized routing technologies ensure timely delivery to end customers. In contrast, congested or poorly planned city layouts reduce delivery efficiency, increase costs, and lead to customer dissatisfaction, thereby weakening downstream supply chain effectiveness. It is recommended that, logistics companies should develop alternative supply chain routes and modes of transportation to ensure continuity during political unrest. By using a mix of road, rail, air, and sea transport, firms can maintain operations even if one channel is disrupted. Logistics firms should adopt trade analytics platforms to monitor international market trends, trade flows, and customer preferences. These insights help anticipate changes in global demand, supply chain bottlenecks, and emerging risks or opportunities. Embracing digital platforms for customs declarations, licensing, and cargo tracking can reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies. This will help these companies to minimize human error, speed up clearance times, and improve transparency in the supply chain. The use of innovative solutions like electric bikes, drones, and route optimization software, particularly in congested or underdeveloped urban areas should be adopted to help these companies bypass infrastructure gaps to reduce delivery time.Item EFFECT OF IMPEDIMENTS IN SUPPLY CHAIN LINKAGES IN LOGISTICS COMPANIES IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF DALSEY, HILLBLOM AND LYNN (DHL) KENYA(2025-06) Kisara Nicholas OdiwuorItem EFFECT OF INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS ON IMPLEMENTATION OF SAFETY PROTOCOLS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN MWALA SUB-COUNTY, KENYA.(management university of africa, 2025-07) NTHENGE KOKI EMILYItem EFFECT OF ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE IN FIVE-STAR HOTELS: A CASE STUDY OF SAROVA HOTELS(MUA, 2026-06) JEDDY WAIRIMU GICHOHIThis research focuses on how the organizational culture can affect the performance of employees at the Sarova Hotels in Nairobi, Kenya. The performance of employees was also expected to continue to be central in the identification of service quality, operational effectiveness, and customer satisfaction in the hospitality sector. Nevertheless, the productivity and service delivery of employees remained a burden on many organizations, which in many cases was not due to the differences in the internal organizational culture. The primary aim of the research was to establish the effect of adaptive culture, role culture, ethical culture, and team culture on employee performance. Role Theory, the Organizational Culture Theory of Denison, Social Learning Theory, and the Social Identity Theory were used to guide the study and clarify that the role, shared values, learned behaviors, and group identification have an impact on employee performance. The sample population was 103 employees who were sampled by seven departments of the Sarova Hotels located in Nairobi. A census approach was used because the population is manageable, whereas stratified random sampling was utilized to guarantee representation of all the departments during quantitative analysis. The structured questionnaires with closed-ended questions based on a five-point Likert scale were used as primary data. To determine reliability and validity, a pilot study was carried out at the Hilton Hotel, taking a sample of 10 percent of the target population. Analysis of data was carried out using SPSS 26. Descriptive and inferential statistics were implemented to establish the associations between organizational culture and employee performance. The results of descriptive statistics indicated that adaptive culture, role culture, ethical culture, and team culture are highly practiced, and employee performance is also highly rated (M = 4.350). Adaptive culture (r = .476; p = .000), role culture (r = .531; p = .000), ethical culture (r = .714; p = .000), and team culture (r = .621; p = .000) were found to have positive and statistically significant relationships with the performance of employees. The four cultural dimensions together accounted for a significant amount of variance in employee performance, and together predicted employee performance outcomes, as shown in regression analysis. Ethical culture proved to be the strongest predictor, with team culture, role culture, and adaptive culture coming in second, third, and fourth, respectively. The study found that organizational culture has a positive impact on the performance of employees in the areas of flexibility, role clarity, ethical behavior, and collaboration. It also found that good cultural practices helped to increase the productivity, the quality of the service, and the effectiveness of the employees in the hotel. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that management should be more robust in training their staff on ethics, teamwork, and adaptability, communicate roles and responsibilities, and introduce more innovative practices. It also suggested regular review using performance evaluation, employee feedback, and regular culture evaluation to maintain high performance levels among employees within the organization.Item EFFECT OF PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY IN KENYAN MANUFACTURING FIRMS: A CASE STUDY OF UNGA GROUP LIMITED(MUA, 2026-03) EUNICE KEBENEIEmployee productivity will remain a critical determinant of organizational performance, competitiveness, and sustainability in the manufacturing sector. In Kenya, manufacturing firms continue to experience productivity challenges arising from weaknesses in performance management practices despite increased investment in human capital systems. This study will examine the effect of performance management practices on employee productivity in Kenyan manufacturing firms, with specific reference to Unga Group Limited. The problem to be addressed in this study will be the persistent low levels of employee productivity attributed to ineffective performance planning, appraisal, feedback and coaching, and reward and recognition practices despite the existence of formal performance management systems. The study will be guided by the objective of determining the effect of performance planning, performance appraisal, performance feedback and coaching, and reward and recognition practices on employee productivity. The scope of the study will be limited to employees of Unga Group Limited in Kenya, while its significance will lie in generating empirical evidence to inform management, policymakers, and scholars on effective performance management practices that enhance productivity. The study will be anchored on Goal-Setting Theory, Expectancy Theory, Feedback Intervention Theory, and Equity Theory, which will explain the relationship between performance management practices and employee productivity. A descriptive research design will be adopted. The target population will comprise 300 employees drawn from the production, human resource, finance, operations, and administration departments. A sample size of 171 respondents will be selected using stratified random sampling. Primary data will be collected using structured questionnaires. A pilot study will be conducted on 10% of the sample size to test the research instrument, and validity and reliability will be established through expert review and Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient respectively. Data will be analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis with the aid of SPSS, and results will be presented using tables and figures. Ethical considerations, including informed consent, voluntary participation, confidentiality, privacy, and anonymity, will be strictly observed throughout the study.Item EFFECT OF PLANNING PRACTICES ON ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF SERENA HOTELS(MUA, 2026-02) DOMINIC MUOKI MUEMAThe hospitality industry plays a significant role in economic growth, employment creation, and service sector development in Kenya. However, many hospitality organizations continue to experience performance challenges associated with operational inefficiencies, inconsistent service delivery, and ineffective resource utilization, which are often linked to weaknesses in organizational planning practices. This study examined the effect of planning practices on organizational performance in the hospitality industry in Kenya, with specific reference to Serena Hotels. The objectives of the study were to determine the effect of strategic planning practices, operational planning practices, financial planning practices, and human resource planning practices on organizational performance. The study was significant to hospitality managers, policymakers, and scholars by providing empirical evidence on how structured planning enhances organizational effectiveness. The study was anchored on the Resource-Based View theory supported by Systems Theory, Financial Control Theory, and Human Capital Theory. A descriptive research design was adopted. The target population comprised 180 employees drawn from key functional departments at Serena Hotels, from which a sample size of 124 respondents was determined using Yamane’s formula and selected through stratified random sampling. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire. A pilot study involving 10% of the sample was conducted to test the research instrument. Validity was established through expert review, while reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient to ensure internal consistency. Out of the 124 questionnaires distributed, 112 were successfully returned, representing a response rate of 90.3%. Descriptive findings indicated that respondents agreed that planning practices were effectively implemented, with composite mean scores of 4.10 for strategic planning practices, 3.91 for operational planning practices, 3.92 for financial planning practices, and 3.91 for human resource planning practices. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships between planning practices and organizational performance, with strategic planning practices recording the strongest association (r = 0.689), followed by human resource planning practices (r = 0.672), financial planning practices (r = 0.658), and operational planning practices (r = 0.641). Multiple regression analysis showed that planning practices collectively explained 61.2% of the variation in organizational performance (R² = 0.612). All independent variables had statistically significant positive effects on organizational performance, with strategic planning practices emerging as the strongest predictor (β = 0.342, p < 0.05). The study recommends strengthening participatory strategic planning processes, enhancing operational coordination through digital management systems, adopting data-driven financial planning and cost control mechanisms, investing in structured workforce development and succession planning programs, and institutionalizing continuous performance monitoring systems supported by customer feedback and service quality audits to sustain organizational performance improvements. Ethical considerations including informed consent, voluntary participation, confidentiality, privacy, and anonymity were strictly observed throughout the study.Item EFFECT OF PLANNING PRACTICES ON ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF SERENA HOTELS(MUA, 2026-02) DOMINIC MUOKI MUEMAThe hospitality industry plays a significant role in economic growth, employment creation, and service sector development in Kenya. However, many hospitality organizations continue to experience performance challenges associated with operational inefficiencies, inconsistent service delivery, and ineffective resource utilization, which are often linked to weaknesses in organizational planning practices. This study examined the effect of planning practices on organizational performance in the hospitality industry in Kenya, with specific reference to Serena Hotels. The objectives of the study were to determine the effect of strategic planning practices, operational planning practices, financial planning practices, and human resource planning practices on organizational performance. The study was significant to hospitality managers, policymakers, and scholars by providing empirical evidence on how structured planning enhances organizational effectiveness. The study was anchored on the Resource-Based View theory supported by Systems Theory, Financial Control Theory, and Human Capital Theory. A descriptive research design was adopted. The target population comprised 180 employees drawn from key functional departments at Serena Hotels, from which a sample size of 124 respondents was determined using Yamane’s formula and selected through stratified random sampling. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire. A pilot study involving 10% of the sample was conducted to test the research instrument. Validity was established through expert review, while reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient to ensure internal consistency. Out of the 124 questionnaires distributed, 112 were successfully returned, representing a response rate of 90.3%. Descriptive findings indicated that respondents agreed that planning practices were effectively implemented, with composite mean scores of 4.10 for strategic planning practices, 3.91 for operational planning practices, 3.92 for financial planning practices, and 3.91 for human resource planning practices. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships between planning practices and organizational performance, with strategic planning practices recording the strongest association (r = 0.689), followed by human resource planning practices (r = 0.672), financial planning practices (r = 0.658), and operational planning practices (r = 0.641). Multiple regression analysis showed that planning practices collectively explained 61.2% of the variation in organizational performance (R² = 0.612). All independent variables had statistically significant positive effects on organizational performance, with strategic planning practices emerging as the strongest predictor (β = 0.342, p < 0.05). The study recommends strengthening participatory strategic planning processes, enhancing operational coordination through digital management systems, adopting data-driven financial planning and cost control mechanisms, investing in structured workforce development and succession planning programs, and institutionalizing continuous performance monitoring systems supported by customer feedback and service quality audits to sustain organizational performance improvements. Ethical considerations including informed consent, voluntary participation, confidentiality, privacy, and anonymity were strictly observed throughout the study.Item EFFECT OF REINSURANCE ON FINANCIAL STABILITY OF INSURANCE COMPANIES. A CASE OF GA INSURANCE LIMITED.(MUA, 2026-04) BRENDA CHEMOGOSE JUMAThis study examined the effect of reinsurance on the financial stability of insurance companies, focusing on GA Insurance Company Limited. The study was guided by four objectives: to investigate the impact of reinsurance diversification, assess the influence of the reinsurance utilization ratio, evaluate the effect of reinsurance recoverables, and examine how the frequency of reinsurance use affects financial stability. A descriptive research design was adopted, targeting 200 employees from executive, mid-level, and junior management, from which a sample of 100 respondents was selected using stratified random sampling. Out of these, 40 valid responses were obtained, representing an 80% response rate. Primary data was collected using structured questionnaires containing both open-ended and closed-ended questions and analyzed using SPSS through descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages, with findings presented in tables and charts. The results revealed that reinsurance significantly enhances financial stability, with 95% of respondents indicating that it improves risk management and solvency. Reinsurance diversification reduced exposure to major losses and improved risk distribution, although its effectiveness depended on geographic and economic factors. The reinsurance utilization ratio enhanced underwriting capacity and supported optimal risk retention, while reinsurance recoverables improved liquidity and showed minimal default risk despite possible concentration risks among a few reinsurers. Frequent use of reinsurance also stabilized underwriting performance and strengthened financial resilience. The study concludes that an integrated reinsurance strategy involving diversification, optimal utilization, effective management of recoverables, and consistent application is essential for improving financial stability.