Eastern African Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

Parental Attitude and Child Labour: Evidence from Central Region of Ghana

2024-12-07T19:58:27+00:00

The study focused on parental attitude and its impact on child labour participation in the Central Region of Ghana. The paper empirically examined the incidence of child labour of children between 5-17 years through a cross-sectional survey. A sample size of 788 children and parents was selected for the study. A multi-stage sampling with systematic random and purposive sampling techniques were employed. The questionnaire guide was the instrument for data collection. The study analysis was done using the probit regression model. The findings of the study showed that both father and mother attitudes significantly increase the probability of child labour participation. Mothers’ employment status and fathers’ education significantly reduce child labour participation. Children from the 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th quintiles have less probability of child labour participation. Others include educational cost, age of the child, and geographical locality of the children significantly affect child labour participation. The study recommends that the District Assemblies must strictly enforce the Children’s Act and make it operational for the restrictions regarding the employment of children. It is also recommended that the Ministry of Education and Ghana Education Service through the Inspectorate Board should design a truancy policy that would be enforced on parents to reduce child labour participation in economic activities and promote the free compulsory universal basic education policy.

An Analysis of the Online Teaching and Learning in Clothing and Textiles Programmes in Zimbabwe’s Institutions of Higher Learning

2024-12-14T18:41:34+00:00

The coronavirus, because of its contagious nature, came with many adjustments to our daily lives. One of the adjustments is how teaching and learning is done across the board from primary schools to institutions of higher learning. The purpose of this study was to analyse the online teaching and learning in clothing and textiles programmes in Zimbabwe’s institutions of higher learning. This is especially in the light of practical subjects such as Clothing and Textiles, which, are supposed to include practical and hands-on activities. The study selected three lecturers and thirty students from the three institutions of higher learning that delivered online lectures in Clothing and Textiles. In-depth interviews, questionnaires, and observation sheets were the instruments used to collect the data. The collected was analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively in line with convergent imperatives for triangulation and validation purposes. The TPACK was used as a theoretical lens to guide this inquiry. The findings revealed lack of suitable applications and software for virtual prototyping for the online teaching of the practical component of Clothing and Textile programs in higher education institutions in Zimbabwe. It was concluded that the lack of resources renders online teaching and learning as a pedagogical black box, as the lecturers become hand-capped to effectively teach for enhanced student comprehension. The study recommended that Clothing and Textiles departments in Zimbabwe encourage the design of online practical modules for use by lecturers in times of pandemics.

Narratives of Defence: A Qualitative Study of Military Strategies Against Terrorism in Nigeria

2024-12-14T19:28:20+00:00

The purpose of this qualitative study is to delve into the military's counterterrorism strategies in Nigeria, focusing on the narratives and experiences of military personnel engaged in these operations. Through in-depth interviews and case studies, the research uncovers the complexities and challenges faced by the military in combating terrorism. Key themes such as the critical role of local intelligence, the importance of community trust, and the significant impact of military tactics on civilian populations are identified. The findings highlight the successes and limitations of current strategies, offering a nuanced understanding of the military's approach to counterterrorism in Nigeria. By examining the voices of military personnel, this study provides valuable insights for the development of more effective and comprehensive counterterrorism policies and practices, with broader implications for other regions facing similar threats.

The Stigma of Handling Dead Bodies and the Psychological Well-Being of Mortuary Workers

2024-12-18T10:03:39+00:00

This study investigated how the perceived stigma of handling dead bodies impacted the psychological well-being of mortuary workers. Many studies indicate that the psychological well-being of morgue workers is affected by the reactions of the community to the work that they do. Social stigma theory was used to inform the study while correlational design was employed to determine the relationship between perceived stigma and psychological distress of mortuary workers in Nairobi County. The study adopted the Kessler Wellness Scale (K-1O), Everyday Discrimination Scale and an individual interview schedule. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze demographic data, while Pearson correlation and regression analysis were used to make inferences from the collected data. Study findings indicated 46.7% received worse service when they revealed their profession while 29.7% believed that others treated them as inferiors, and thus positioned themselves above them. In addition, 57.5% of the funeral directors mentioned that they had been insulted but did not specify when or by whom the insults were made. Furthermore, Kessler Scale results showed that a large number of employees experienced mental health problems where 43.5% expressed feeling depressed while 67.4% had anxiety. The results established a Pearson correlation coefficient of r=0.37, and a multiple correlation coefficient (R value) of 0.675, indicating a moderate positive correlation between stigma and psychological distress. The study recommended that working in morgues exposed the workers to psychological distress and efforts should be made to enhance their psychological wellbeing especially by providing support systems.

Understanding Environmental Criminology: Theory, Practice, and Implications for Lagos State Residents in Nigeria

2024-12-18T15:48:08+00:00

The purpose of this paper is to explore the theoretical foundations and practical applications of environmental criminology, specifically focusing on Lagos State, Nigeria. Environmental criminology examines the spatial and environmental factors that influence criminal behaviour, providing insights into crime patterns and prevention strategies. Key concepts such as territoriality, defensible space, and crime attractors and generators are discussed in the context of Lagos State. Empirical research on the impact of environmental design on crime rates is reviewed, highlighting successes and limitations. The implications for crime prevention policies and practices in Lagos State are examined, emphasizing the need for an interdisciplinary approach that integrates urban design, social science, and law enforcement perspectives.

Effects of Government Maize Policies on Structural Transformation for Sustainable Maize Farming in Kitui County, Kenya

2024-12-31T17:25:24+00:00

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of government maize policies on structural transformation for sustainable maize farming in Kitui County, Kenya. The study employed a mixed-method research approach that aimed at employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. For quantitative data, the study employed a cross-sectional research design, while for qualitative data, the phenomenological research design was employed. The study targeted a total population of 16,669 farmers. To achieve the sample size, the study used a sample size determination formula for finite populations. Both probability and non-probability sampling methods were used to obtain the study sample. A purposive sampling procedure was used to pick a sample of 10 small-scale maize farmers and 5-Agricultural officers as key informants for in-depth interviews. A stratified random sampling procedure was used to select the 237 subjects that took part in the study. Both questionnaires and an interview guide were employed for data collection. Data was validated, edited, coded, and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 21 and further presented using figures and tables. Chi Square test for independence was used to determine the significance of the association between the variables. Qualitative data was edited, coded, and reported using descriptive narratives. The study established a statistically significant association between government maize policies and sustainable maize farming (≤ 0.05). Government maize policies were positively related to sustainable maize farming.

Contributions of Social Community Structures on Conflict Management among Pastoral Communities in the Ilemi Triangle

2025-01-01T17:01:13+00:00

Peace continues to be elusive in the Ilemi Triangle, located at the intersection of Ethiopia, Kenya, and South Sudan. The area experiences intermittent conflict among Turkana, Dassanech, Nganyatom, and Toposa. This study focused on the increased frequency and intensity of violent conflict between the Dassanech and Turkana communities in the region. Drawing from the Systems Theory, the study established how informal community social structures contribute to sustainable conflict management among the pastoralist communities in the Ilemi Triangle. Using qualitative case study methods, the study held in-depth interviews with members of local Dassanech and Turkana communities purposively selected to include a range of different members from each community who engage in inter-communal dialogue. These in-depth interviews were supplemented by focus group discussions of participants through a quota sampling, each involving members from four kraals and kebele on either side of the conflict line who are immediately affected by the conflict. The data was analysed based on themes and sub-themes. There is compelling evidence that the social roles within the structures are functional and influential. Specific functions are designated to different roles, and each role, through its respective functions, creates the system that manages the community. The study provides insights into processes associated with conflict and cooperation between these communities from social and organizational perspectives.

Social norms, Power relations, and Negotiations in Decision-Making on the use of Sterilisation by Women Living with HIV in Eastern Uganda: A Qualitative Study

2025-01-06T13:19:25+00:00

Failure to translate women’s desire into increased sterilisation use has been associated with inequitable social norms in patriarchal contexts that grant men control and decision-making authority and relate womanhood to motherhood and child care. This study adopted a multiple case study design to explore the experiences of women living with HIV(WLHIV) in negotiating social norms to implement decisions on getting sterilised. The integrated social-ecological framework was utilised to understand how social norms may intersect with multiple contextual factors to limit or facilitate women’s agency in deciding to end their reproduction. Data were collected using open-ended interviews with fourteen purposefully selected sterilised WLHIV, aged 15-49 years, from two public health facilities in Tororo district. Women’s narratives of contraceptive decision-making experiences were audio recorded, transcribed, and analysed inductively and deductively using thematic content analysis. Results revealed that the decision to get sterilised is complex and influenced by the interaction between social norms and other factors such as access to information about the sterilisation method, health status, social support from family members, peers, and health workers, institutional policies, and the general socioeconomic condition in the country. The study recommends that healthcare providers should enhance the knowledge and skills of WLHIV and their social networks to assert control over inequitable structures and relations of power through a shared decision-making approach to contraceptive counselling. Family planning programmes should also increase access to free sterilisation services.

Navigating the Paradox of Decentralisation by Devolution: An Evaluation of Public Healthcare Service Delivery in Developing Countries

2025-01-20T18:53:54+00:00

Decentralisation by devolution has emerged as a strategic approach in developing countries to enhance public healthcare service delivery through increased local responsiveness and community participation. However, this shift presents a paradox: while aimed at empowering local authorities, decentralisation often exacerbates existing disparities, hinders effective resource allocation, and complicates cohesive healthcare policy implementation. This study examined the interplay between efficacy and accountability in decentralised health systems, drawing on case studies from Uganda, Kenya, Ghana, Indonesia, Brazil, South Africa, and Tanzania, employing a systematic literature review and mixed-methods approach. Key findings indicated that decentralisation can improve local healthcare service delivery, but its effectiveness is frequently constrained by governance capacity and resource allocation challenges. The research highlights the importance of strengthening local governance capabilities, fostering community engagement, and addressing contextual factors like local government competencies and fiscal resources. Limitations include a reliance on English-language publications, potentially excluding valuable insights from other languages, and the selected case studies may not represent all decentralised healthcare experiences. The study recommends comprehensive capacity-building initiatives, stronger accountability frameworks, and active community involvement to ensure equitable healthcare outcomes. By acknowledging the paradox of decentralisation, policymakers can better design and implement reforms, ultimately enhancing health service delivery in developing.

Income Inequality and Community Cohesion: A Comprehensive Analysis of East Africa

2025-01-20T19:34:19+00:00

This study examines the intricate relationship between income inequality and community cohesion in East Africa, focusing on its effects in countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Through a systematic literature review approach, relevant studies from prominent databases were synthesised to reveal how income disparities adversely impact social capital, trust, and community engagement. Findings indicate that income inequality significantly affects access to education, healthcare, social mobility, crime rates, political participation, and ultimately diminishes social cohesion. Disparities in educational and healthcare access perpetuate cycles of poverty and disadvantage, limiting opportunities for upward mobility, particularly for marginalised groups. These inequalities foster feelings of resentment, mistrust, and isolation within communities, obstructing collective action and civic participation. While the study enhances understanding of these dynamics, it is limited by potential publication bias and the exclusion of non-English sources, possibly narrowing the findings' applicability. To address these issues, policymakers must prioritise strategies that improve educational access, expand healthcare coverage, and create economic opportunities for disadvantaged populations. Such interventions could mitigate the detrimental effects of income inequality, fostering greater trust, cooperation, and solidarity among community members. In conclusion, offsetting income inequality is crucial for promoting a more equitable and cohesive society in East Africa, highlighting the need for comprehensive public policies that empower marginalised groups and enhance overall community resilience. Future research should aim to explore the evolving dynamics within this context, considering the intersections of income inequality and social cohesion across diverse settings.

Effectiveness of Decentralisation by Devolution Approaches in Public healthcare services Delivery in Ilala Municipal Council and Geita Town Council, Tanzania

2025-01-24T14:41:55+00:00

This study investigates the effectiveness of Decentralisation by Devolution (D-by-D) in public healthcare service delivery within Ilala Municipal Council and Geita Town Council, Tanzania. Employing a mixed-methods approach, including quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with local key informants, the research reveals critical insights into how D-by-D frameworks impact healthcare quality and accessibility. Findings indicate that while some approaches, such as project monitoring and budget allocation, are perceived as effective, others—particularly multi-stakeholder involvement, participation, and strategic planning—are regarded as ineffective. The average effectiveness score across both councils suggests a moderate perception of D-by-D functioning, yet significant gaps exist regarding community engagement, resource allocation, and local governance capabilities. Challenges include inadequate funding, personnel shortages, and a lack of transparency, which hinder the realization of Decentralisation’s intended benefits. The study underscores a prevalent sense of skepticism regarding healthcare quality in both councils and highlights the necessity for reforms to better align local health priorities with community needs. To enhance the effectiveness of D-by-D, the research recommends strengthening financial support to Local Government Authorities, enhancing human resource capacity, fostering community participation, and promoting accountability and transparency in healthcare governance. This research contributes to the understanding of local governance in Tanzania and offers essential insights for policymakers aiming to improve healthcare outcomes through decentralized frameworks.

Asa, Allyson, and Davies: Three Amazons of Tonal Integrity in Yoruba Vocal Music

2025-01-27T17:11:18+00:00

The existing body of literature has engaged the translation of English hymns to the Yorùbá language by European missionaries sung to European tunes, which constituted linguistic distortion of the Yorùbá language. Little or no attention has been given to this phenomenon in Yorùbá vocal music outside core liturgical settings. Despite the distorted singing of Yorùbá words in the church and its influence on Christian and popular Yorùbá singers, there remains a school of Yorùbá composers and singers, whose music has continued to align with Yorùbá speech tone pattern. Anchored on the theory of cultural representation, this study investigates three selected female icons of contemporary Yorùbá music – Bukola Elemide, Sola Allyson Obaniyi and Yinka Davies, who have demonstrated strong allegiance to Yorùbá tonal integrity in their musical vocalisations. Purposive sampling was employed in selecting two songs from each of the artists and subjected to content analysis. The music of the three selected singers conforms to Yorùbá tonal integrity, thereby promoting appropriateness in Yorùbá vocal music composition and performance. Their music has continued to create awareness, serving as an avenue for advocacy in the proper approach to composing and singing Yoruba music.

The Potential Merits and Risks of Deploying Artificial Intelligence as a Pedagogical Tool for Teacher Education in Kenya

2025-02-03T11:34:07+00:00

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed numerous sectors of the global economy including education. In Kenya for instance, its integration in teacher education has enhanced learning experiences thereby improving pedagogical outcomes and fostering innovation. This study examines the potential risks and benefits of incorporating AI into various facets of teacher education in Kenya. By leveraging AI, teacher education programmes can harness advanced technologies to transform teacher training. Personalised learning powered by AI algorithms allows educators to address their strengths and weaknesses and tailor content and methodologies to their needs. Furthermore, immersive technologies such as virtual and augmented reality enable educators to practice real-world classroom scenarios in a controlled environment. The experience of integrating AI in teacher education in South Korea demonstrates a proven blueprint that Kenya can replicate. Despite the merits of deploying AI in teacher education, there are challenges that its use poses such as ethical concerns and inequitable access to technology among others. This study underscores the importance of strategic planning and stakeholder involvement to ensure AI’s responsible deployment in Kenyan Teacher Education ultimately transforming teaching and learning outcomes across the country.

Pregnancy and Parenting Experiences among Unmarried Students in Higher Learning Institutions in Tanzania: A Case of Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy

2025-02-23T14:52:36+00:00

Pregnancy experience among unmarried university students is a worldwide concern. Although pregnancy is not a disease for students, it may be accompanied by difficulties in accomplishing academic tasks, extra financial expenses, and social segregation by lecturers, peers, parents sometimes even partners. However, a good number of pregnant students and student mothers succeed in completing their studies. This study explored the experiences of unmarried pregnant and parenting students in institutions of higher learning in Tanzania. The study was conducted at MNMA, using a qualitative descriptive design. Undergraduate, unmarried pregnant, and parenting students were sampled purposively with a sample size was 20 participants. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect information. The information was analysed using thematic analysis based on Social Inclusion Theory. The study's findings produced five themes: emotional distress during pregnancy, people's reactions and perceptions during pregnancy and parenting, academic challenges during pregnancy and parenting, financial challenges, and students’ resilience during pregnancy and parenting. The study concludes that unmarried pregnant and parenting students require emotional, academic, and social support from the Academy and other stakeholders. The study recommends the importance of developing support programmes that focus on pregnant and parenting students in institutions of higher Learning.

Unintended Pregnancy among Unmarried Female Students at the University of Dar es Salaam

2025-03-09T05:24:24+00:00

Unintended pregnancy among university students is a pressing public health issue, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. This study explored the factors contributing to unintended pregnancies among unmarried female students at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM). The study was conducted at UDSM, using a qualitative approach. Undergraduate unmarried female students were sampled purposively, with a sample size of 20 participants, and convenience sampling was used to recruit five (5) male students who consented to participate. Semi-structured interviews and four (4) focus group discussions (FGD) were used to collect information. The information was analysed using thematic analysis based on Intersectionality Theory. The study's findings produced five themes: socioeconomic vulnerability, emotional and psychological factors, cultural norms, lack of sexual and reproductive health education, and peer influence, which are the main factors influencing unintended pregnancies among unmarried female students at the University of Dar es Salaam. The study concludes that unintended pregnancies among female university students result from the intersection of economic insecurity, psychological vulnerability, sociocultural expectations, and inadequate reproductive health education. The study recommends the need for comprehensive sexual education, economic empowerment programmes, and policy reforms to support informed reproductive choices and gender equality.

Evaluation on Sukuma ethnoichthyology within cognitive semantic theory

2025-03-11T03:04:22+00:00

This paper evaluates Sukuma ethnoichthyology within the cognitive semantics theory’s envisioning of Sukuma fish names. The motivation behind the investigation was geared by the lack of study on the topic and the peculiarities found in it. The Universal Grammar and cognitive semantics theories were used in data evaluation and explanations. This study employed a qualitative case study design, focusing on Lake Victoria and Juma Island. Data was collected through observation and unstructured interviews involving ten Sukuma native fisheries selected purposively. The study revealed that most of the Sukuma fish semantics structures are not encyclopaedic, embodied experiences as claimed in cognitive semantics, thus, they are bondless between signifier and signified. This study recommends further research aimed at coining theories that offer explanations for arbitrary names. The study also underscores the need for the younger generation to prioritise learning their local language names, including those of fish, as a means of preserving their linguistic heritage.

Educating a woman is a way towards gender-based violence among women in Tanzania: A case of Kawe Ward in Kinondoni Municipal Council

2025-03-11T04:17:52+00:00

This paper intends to examine how education is used as a tool against gender-based violence among women. The study was carried out at Kinondoni Municipal Council specifically in Kawe ward. Questionnaires were used in data collection while an in-depth interview guide was used to collect information from key informants such as ward leaders, gender desk officers, and ward social welfare officers. A total of 208 respondents were sampled for the survey, whereby 75 were male and 133 were women. A mixed method was employed, whereby quantitative data from the questionnaires was examined and subjected to statistical tests mainly chi-square (P≥ 0.05), while qualitative data was coded, and themes developed. The findings of the study reveal that gender-based violence is prevalent in both women with education and those without education. Causes of gender-based violence in the study were established to include; low financial capacity, culture, education level, behaviour, upbringing, moral decline and family decline. Additionally, study findings describe the effects of gender-based violence, which include suicide, poverty, family disintegration, a generation without morals, human rights violations, diseases, and psychological torture. Additionally, study findings reveal that women, children, and single mothers are more affected group by gender-based violence. This study recommends that comprehensive approaches should be employed in the eradication of gender-based violence. They include sensitisation of societal members on gender-based violence matters, education to the girl child, women empowerment, application of religious teaching, and development of strict laws against gender-based violence.

Coping Strategies and Income of Food Vendors within Bus Stands in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

2025-03-12T14:17:14+00:00

This paper analyses food vendors’ coping strategies to the encountered socio-economic challenges and the consequent income. This is crucial for understanding their economic resilience, informing supportive policies, enhancing livelihoods, and contributing to sustainable urban development and poverty alleviation. Through a cross-sectional study design, qualitative and quantitative data were collected from 160 respondents. Food vendors were selected randomly, while ensuring an appropriate proportion of women and men and diversity of the traded products. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS, whereby, descriptive and inferential statistics were determined. It was found that most food vendors offset economic stress by reducing rations (90%) and or opting for lower-quality ingredients (89%). Hitherto, the majority (68%) earn below the poverty line of Tshs. 7140. Multinomial regression revealed that the ‘size of capital’ and ‘food prices’ were positively statistically significant (p=.000) in predicting the increase in income. It was concluded that the opted coping strategies do not enhance the income of food vendors but the size of capital. Hence, the paper recommends that the respective local government authorities should endeavour to enhance the entrepreneurial and business capacity of food vendors, focusing on increasing access to: rational and stable capital and quality raw materials at meaningful cost to raise their income.

Unravelling ethical dilemmas: how consultants’ decisions impact road construction project performance in Dar es Salaam and Tabora, Tanzania

2025-04-11T17:40:02+00:00

This study examines how consultants' decisions, shaped by ethical dilemmas, influence the performance of road construction projects in Tanzania. Grounded in the Virtue Theory of Ethics, the research explores the role of behavioural, socio-economic, institutional, and political factors in shaping ethical decision-making within the construction sector. The study employs Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modelling (CB-SEM) to analyse 289 valid survey responses from road construction professionals. The measurement model was validated using factor loadings, while the structural model assessed the relationships between ethical dilemmas and project performance. The findings reveal that institutional factors have the most significant influence on ethical dilemmas in road construction, followed by behavioural factors, socio-economic factors, and political factors. The regression model confirms that ethical dilemmas significantly impact project performance, with governance structures, transparency, and professional integrity emerging as key determinants. The ANOVA test further confirms the statistical significance of the model, reinforcing the robustness of the relationship between ethical dilemmas and construction project outcomes. The study calls for policy reforms to strengthen ethical governance in road construction. Regulatory bodies should enforce stricter accountability measures, promote ethical leadership training, and integrate digital transparency tools. Practitioners should adopt ethics audits, stakeholder engagement frameworks, and integrity-driven decision-making to enhance project success. This study provides empirical evidence on the structural relationship between ethical dilemmas and project performance, offering a novel perspective on fostering ethical character and professional integrity in the industry. The findings inform policymakers, practitioners, and researchers on improving ethical compliance and infrastructure sustainability.

Impact of Legal and Institutional Frameworks on Sustainable Livelihoods for Urban Refugees in Nairobi County, Kenya

2025-04-18T14:34:09+00:00

Whereas the impact of legal and institutional framework on refugee well-being has been studied, scanty empirical studies exist on how these have been operationalised for impactful sustainable livelihoods of urban refugees in host countries. The study sought to fill this empirical lacuna by determining the impact of Kenya’s legal and institutional framework on sustainable livelihood pathways for urban refugees using Nairobi County, Kenya as a case. Random sampling was used to select 288 refugee households for a quantitative survey while purposive sampling was used to identify participants for Focus Group Discussions and Key Informant Interviews. Quantitative data was coded and Shapiro-Wilk and Levene tests were used to determine normality and homogeneity. Socio-demographic information was analysed using descriptive statistics; Chi-square tests and one-way analysis were used for inferential statistical analysis using R statistical software. Qualitative data from Focus Group Discussions and Key Informant Interviews were thematically analysed. The study findings established that in spite of Kenya being a signatory to key international and human rights instruments, her refugee policy is still largely restrictive and that refugee access to services is hampered thereby exposing them to constant predation by the security agents. Account ownership to ease financial access was statistically and significantly higher (p=0.007) among male than female refugees and different (p=0.001) among refugee nationalities. Operationalisation of the Refugee Act of 2021 to secure socio-economic rights for refugees and extensive legal and rights awareness among refugees, nationals and authorities need to do to fast track participatory compliance with Kenya’s international obligations to refugees.

The Assessment of the Role of Traditional Methods of Family Planning Within the Household in Coastal Communities of Tanzania: A Case of Kisiju Ward in Mkurunga District Council

2025-05-13T19:02:09+00:00

This paper intends to comprehend the assessment of the role of traditional family planning methods in Tanzania’s coastal communities. The study focused on the effectiveness of traditional methods of family planning, the commonly used traditional methods, and the relationship between child spacing and traditional methods of family planning within the household. The research was conducted in Kisiju ward, specifically at Kerekese and Kisiju Pwani villages within the Mkuranga district council. Questionnaires were utilised for data collection, along with an in-depth interview guide and a narrative to gather information from key informants such as ward leaders and older women with relevant experience. A total of 133 respondents participated in the survey, consisting of 15 males were male and 118 females. A mixed method approach was employed, whereby quantitative data from the questionnaires were analysed and subjected to statistical tests, primarily chi-square (P≥ 0.05), while qualitative data were coded, and themes were developed. The study’s findings indicate that traditional methods of family planning remain effective as they continue to be used by women in the study area for various purposes including child spacing. Additionally, it was further revealed that the commonly practiced traditional methods encompass withdrawal, tie knot, traditional herbs, tree seeds, sex abstinence, and breastfeeding. Qualitatively, reports suggest that traditional methods are still favoured by women in coastal communities due to their accessibility, and simplicity of use, effectively serving the purpose of child spacing. The findings also no statistical differences regarding gender, education level, religion, and occupation concerning the role of traditional family planning methods in these communities. The use of traditional family planning methods in these communities has historical roots and has persisted despite the introduction of modern family planning methods. Furthermore, findings suggest that, traditional family planning methods enable child spacing, being continuously employed by women of childbearing age in light of modern family planning options. The study further recommends exercising caution in the use of traditional family planning methods to minimize potential side effects among users. Additionally, it advises healthcare workers to consider couples’ preferences, cultural beliefs, awareness, and the cultural context when selecting traditional family planning methods.

Ecological Islands: Wildlife Face Extinction Threat amid Dwindling Wildlife Corridors and Dispersal Areas in Kenya’s Amboseli Ecosystem

2025-05-15T14:40:22+00:00

Kenya's national parks are renowned for their abundance and diversity of wildlife, offering unique opportunities to witness iconic African wildlife in their natural habitats, including the "Big Five". However, threats to wildlife in Kenya are increasing habitat fragmentation, particularly in areas adjacent to parks. The goal of this study was to determine the implications of emerging land use dynamics on sustainable wildlife in Kenya's Amboseli ecosystem. Primary data was obtained from field surveys, 284 household interviews, and 12 key informants’ interviews, while secondary data was obtained from literature review and benchmarking. The study findings reveal that, despite widespread worries that the group ranch subdivision would divide wildlife dispersal areas, the land subdivision has been implemented in all group ranches in the Amboseli ecosystem, and the ranches are now in various phases of the land subdivision process. The study thus concluded that if the current land dynamics within the study area are not managed, the Amboseli National Park risks becoming an ecological island and may suffer substantial deterioration due to the concentration of animals in small regions and the pressure from adjacent land users. Against this backdrop, the study recommends the identification and mapping of the minimum viable Amboseli-Chyulu conservation area and negotiate with individual landowners (of subdivided land). In the same vein, an urgent consensus is needed on the sharing of resources between different users by formulating a negotiated land use framework that will cater to all the land and resource use, while conserving critical habitats needed by people, and wildlife.