Eastern African Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences
The Eastern African Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences is a high-quality open-access, peer-reviewed, and refereed multidisciplinary research journal, dedicated to serving society through the global dissemination of information through an unparalleled commitment to quality, reliability, innovation, and research work. Eastern African Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences welcomes and acknowledges high-quality theoretical and empirical original research papers, case studies, review papers, literature reviews, and conceptual frameworks from researchers, academicians, professionals, practitioners, and students from all over the world. Eastern African Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences engages its noble efforts for development and endeavors to give you the best.
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Customer Profiling Practices and Growth of Retail, Small and Medium Enterprises in Nairobi County, Kenya
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are widely recognised for their contribution to employment, innovation, and sustainable growth. However, their growth remains a significant challenge, since the majority of them fail within their first few years of operation. This study examined the relationship between customer profiling practices and the growth of retail Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study adopted a positivist research philosophy and a descriptive correlational design. The study population included 199,600 registered retail SMEs in Nairobi County. A sample of 439 SMEs was determined using Yamane’s sample size determination formula and selected through stratified and simple random sampling techniques, with data gathered using structured questionnaires between July and September 2025. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics including frequency, mean, and standard deviation, and inferential statistics including Pearson correlation and simple linear regression, and was analysed using SPSS Version 30. Findings revealed that customer profiling practices have a strong positive correlation (r = 0.777) with SME growth, explaining 60.4% of growth variation. That is, SMEs that effectively implement customer profiling practices tend to experience higher levels of growth. The study concludes that customer profiling practices significantly enhance the growth of retail SMEs in Nairobi County by improving marketing effectiveness, operational efficiency, and competitiveness. It recommends formalising data-driven profiling systems, investing in affordable analytics tools, strengthening staff capacity, and promoting supportive policies for SME digital transformation and resource access.
Copyright (c) 2026 Philip M. Ole Kamwaro, Damary Sikalieh, Charity Muraguri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Police Professionalism and Civilian Oversight in the Management of Political Transition-Related Conflicts in Nairobi City County Informal Settlements
This study examined police professionalism and civilian oversight in the management of political transition-related conflicts in the informal settlements of Nairobi County with reference to Kibera, Mathare, and Mukuru during the 2013, 2017, and 2022 General Elections. The study assessed police adherence to professional policing standards; analysed spatial and socio-economic disparities influencing policing outcomes; evaluated the influence of civilian oversight institutions (COIs) on police professionalism and identified challenges and opportunities shaping professional policing. Guided by social contract and conflict transformation theories, the study adopted pragmatic and interpretivist paradigms within a mixed-methods descriptive survey design. Using the Krejcie and Morgan sampling framework, a sample of 384 respondents was drawn from a target population of 635,282 and proportionately distributed across Kibera (112), Mathare (125), and Mukuru (147) using stratified purposive and random sampling techniques involving police officers, community members, and COI representatives. Data were collected through questionnaires, key informant interviews (KIIs), focus group discussions (FGDs), and documentary review and analysed using descriptive, inferential, and thematic methods. Findings indicated that police professionalism during transition conflicts remained moderate and spatially uneven. The overall police professionalism index (PPI) score of 46% was computed from indicators of legality, accountability, political neutrality, proportional use of force, ethical conduct, and community engagement. Aggressive policing was highest in Mathare (57%), Kibera (48%), and Mukuru (34%). Although civilian oversight improved accountability and procedural compliance, weak enforcement capacity and delayed complaint resolution limited its effectiveness. The study recommends strengthening civilian oversight, decentralising accountability services, and institutionalising professionalism-focused scenario-based policing training during political transitions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Peter Mulesi, Kennedy Onkware, George Lutomia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Evaluating the Level of Reflective Practice Among Pre-Service Teachers in Tumu College of Education, Ghana
A report from the National Teaching Council of Ghana (NTC) shows that the performance of prospective teachers in General Professional Knowledge is dwindling. This calls for the need to assess the performance of final year pre-service teachers on key indicators like reflective practice, which is a cross-cutting issue in the standards set for teacher education in Ghana. This study sought to assess the levels of reflective practice of pre-service teachers in the Tumu College of Education, as well as differences in their reflective practices based on sex and programme of study. The descriptive survey design was used, where a total of 115 respondents who were conveniently sampled responded to a questionnaire. Data were analysed using means, standard deviations, and t-test. Findings of the study show that pre-service teachers reported a moderate level of reflective practice (M=3.27, SD= .75). However, the study found no differences in reflective practice among pre-service teachers based on sex t(113) = .90, p = .373, and programme of study t(113) = -1.07, p = .289. The study recommends that lecturers in Colleges of Education and mentors in partner schools incorporate reflective teaching in the training and mentorship of pre-service teachers through peer reflections during teaching, action research, and journaling, among others.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kassim File Dangor https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Political Will in Implementing Administrative Reforms in Selected Councils in Tanzania: An Analysis of the Shortcomings of the Open Performance Review and Appraisal System
This study examined the influence of political will on the implementation of administrative reform, particularly the Open Performance Review and Appraisal System (OPRAS) in the Arusha and Dodoma City Councils. Anchored in Political Economy Theory, the research assessed expressed commitment, budgetary allocation, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and follow-up actions by political leaders. The study adopted a concurrent mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires from 381 respondents, while qualitative data were obtained from 45 key informant interviews and a review of written documents. A cross-sectional design guided the analysis, with data processed in SPSS Version 23 and thematically analysed. Findings revealed weak political will across all dimensions. Over 54% of respondents rated political leaders' support and follow-up on OPRAS as unsatisfactory, while 52% indicated that budgetary allocations were inadequate and untimely. Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms were perceived as ineffective by 56% of respondents. These deficiencies resulted in delayed promotions, limited training, demotivated employees, and suboptimal service delivery. The study confirms that political leaders often prioritise visible infrastructure projects over administrative reforms like OPRAS due to electoral and patronage considerations. The study concludes that genuine political will is indispensable for the successful implementation of administrative reforms. It recommends stronger budgetary commitment, institutionalised monitoring frameworks, capacity-building for political leaders, and the alignment of OPRAS outcomes with human resource decisions. Without sustained political support, administrative reforms will continue to function as a symbolic rather than a transformative tool in Tanzania's local government authorities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Adella O. Nyello https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Post-Donor Sustainability of Development Initiatives among Catholic Women Religious Congregations: A Systematic Literature Review
Post-donor sustainability remains a major challenge for development initiatives implemented by faith-based organisations in the Global South. Catholic Women Religious Congregations (CWRCs) play a significant role in delivering education, healthcare, social protection, livelihoods support, and humanitarian services in marginalised communities. However, declining donor funding, shifting development priorities, and increased donor withdrawal raise concerns about the continuity of their initiatives. This systematic literature review synthesises empirical and theoretical studies on how organisational practices influence post-donor sustainability among CWRCs. It integrates literature on project design, leadership and governance, financial management, and human resource capacity across faith-based organisations, NGOs, and community development programmes. The review followed a systematic approach using thematic synthesis and integrative analysis of peer-reviewed articles, books, policy reports, and academic databases, including Google Scholar, Scopus, JSTOR, Web of Science, and AJOL (2010–2025). Findings show that sustainability depends less on continued donor funding and more on institutionalised adaptive leadership, participatory governance, strategic financial management, human resource development, stakeholder engagement, and organisational learning. Participatory project design enhances ownership and continuity, while strong governance improves accountability and resilience. Financial systems support sustainability through budgeting, accountability, and diversified resource mobilisation. Human resource capacity strengthens institutional continuity through skills development, leadership formation, and communication systems. Overall, sustainability is multidimensional and context-dependent, emerging from the interaction of organisational systems, institutional capabilities, and mission-driven governance. A key gap identified is the limited focus on CWRCs as distinct actors, despite their critical role in development.
Copyright (c) 2026 Munanie Syengo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Beyond Policy Alignment: Assessing Climate Change Mainstreaming in Local Government Planning in Mwanga District, Tanzania
Climate change poses significant challenges to local development planning, particularly in vulnerable semi-arid regions such as Mwanga District in Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania. This study assessed the extent of climate change mainstreaming in Mwanga District development planning processes by examining the alignment of district planning documents with national climate change frameworks and evaluating the level of practical integration of climate change considerations into district governance systems. The study employed a mixed-methods approach involving document review, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Policy content analysis and indicator-based assessment were used to evaluate climate change integration through the Policy Alignment Matrix (PAM), Climate Mainstreaming Index (CMI), and the combined Climate Change Alignment and Mainstreaming Index (CCAMI). The findings indicate that Mwanga District achieved a strong overall policy alignment score (PAM = 61.7%) and a strong Climate Mainstreaming Index (CMI = 65%), resulting in an overall CCAMI score of 63.4%, suggesting substantial integration of climate change considerations into district planning processes. However, mainstreaming was uneven across dimensions, with stronger emphasis on climate adaptation, water resource management, environmental conservation, and disaster risk reduction, while climate finance, climate mitigation, and climate information systems remained weakly integrated. Major challenges affecting mainstreaming included a lack of awareness, limited technical capacity, inadequate financial resources, and weak institutional coordination. The study concludes that although Mwanga District has established an important foundation for climate-resilient planning, effective mainstreaming requires strengthened institutional coordination, dedicated climate financing, improved technical capacity, and enhanced climate information systems. The study contributes to local climate governance literature by demonstrating the importance of integrating policy coherence and implementation effectiveness in assessing climate change mainstreaming at the local government level.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fredy L. Maro https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Household Satisfaction with Water Supply Services in Kinondoni Municipal Council, Tanzania
Although the government and water authorities have been improving urban water supply services, complaints related to water shortages and irregular distribution exist in the Kinondoni Municipal Council. This study aimed to understand the household satisfaction levels with water supply services in Kinondoni Municipal Council, Tanzania. The study employed the cross-sectional research design and used a mixed-method research approach. The simple random sampling technique was used to get 394 heads of households in Kijitonyama and Tandale wards, while the purposive sampling technique was used to obtain 18 key informants and 14 participants for the focus group discussions. The in-depth interviews focus group discussions, household questionnaire survey, and a review of documents were the methods used to collect data. The quantitative data were analysed through descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, while the qualitative data were analysed through content analysis. In this study, the target population comprised households, officials from water authorities, and officials from wards and streets levels within Kinondoni Municipal Council. The results revealed that customers had high satisfaction with water supply services due to the quick response of service providers to complaints or issues (M = 3.52, σ = 1.24). But they had moderate satisfaction with water supply services, particularly on the quality of water (M = 3.21, SD = 1.38), water pressure for household use (M = 3.32, SD = 1.39), affordability of water bills (M = 2.70, SD = 1.35), communication about supply disruptions (M = 2.88, SD = 1.31), and extent to which water supply services meet overall household needs (M = 2.93, SD = 1.37). On the other hand, customers had low satisfaction with water supply services, especially on the availability of water throughout the year (M = 2.49, SD = 1.34) and the reliability of water supply during dry seasons (M = 2.53, SD = 1.58). Furthermore, the results from ordinal logistic regression model revealed that the reliability of water supply (B = -.483, p = .014), water quality (B = -.592, p = .003), water service affordability (B = -.457, p = .019), responsiveness of service provider (B = -.485, p = .038), and regular maintenance of infrastructure (B = -.460, p = .020) had a statistically significant negative influence on households’ satisfaction with water supply services. These results suggest that unreliable water supply services, poor quality of water, unaffordable water service, unresponsive service provider, and irregular maintenance of infrastructure were less likely to influence higher customer satisfaction with water supply services compared to reliable water service, good water quality, affordable water service, responsive service provider, and regular maintenance of infrastructure. The study recommends that the government, through water utilities, should continue to improve the reliability of water supply, quality of water, affordability of services, responsiveness of service providers, and regular maintenance of infrastructure. Improvements in these areas are essential for enhancing customer satisfaction and ensuring sustainable and effective water service delivery.
Copyright (c) 2026 Isdory Mligo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Impact of the Fishing Industry on Boys' Academic Performance: A Case Study of North ‘A’ District in Unguja, Zanzibar, Tanzania
This study investigates how participation in the fishing industry affects boys’ academic performance in the North “A” District of Zanzibar. It identifies the types of fishing-related activities undertaken by schoolboys, examines the socio-economic factors driving their involvement, and evaluates the consequences for their education. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining quantitative and qualitative data. The sample included 150 schoolboys selected through purposive and simple random sampling, along with nine key informants who contributed qualitative insights. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages, while qualitative data were examined through content analysis. Findings show that 73% of schoolboys are actively engaged in various fishing activities. Their participation is largely influenced by socio-economic factors, including household poverty, parental occupation, peer pressure, and prevailing community norms. The study further reveals that involvement in fishing negatively impacts academic performance. Key effects include increased absenteeism, reduced school attendance, fatigue, and poor concentration in class, which contribute to poor academic performance. The study concludes that boys’ engagement in fishing significantly undermines their educational outcomes, primarily due to economic pressures and social influences. To address this issue, it recommends the development of targeted interventions aimed at reducing child involvement in fishing while promoting alternative livelihoods for families. Additional recommendations include enforcing child labour laws, offering financial and educational support, introducing flexible learning programmes, raising awareness about the importance of education, and strengthening collaboration among government agencies, schools, NGOs, and community leaders.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Strategic Human Resource Planning and Sustainable Competitive Advantage in Kenya’s Aviation Companies
This study examined the influence of Strategic Human Resource Planning (SHRP) on sustainable competitive advantage among aviation companies in Kenya. Grounded in the Resource-Based View and institutional theory, the study adopted an explanatory sequential mixed-methods research design. Quantitative data were collected through a census survey of 360 managers drawn from all 60 aviation companies licensed by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, complemented by in-depth interviews with senior managers involved in flight operations planning and operational safety oversight. Strategic Human Resource Planning was operationalised through training and development, workforce gap analysis, and supply and demand forecasting. Quantitative data were analysed using simple linear regression, while qualitative data were thematically analysed to provide explanatory insights. The findings indicate that Strategic Human Resource Planning has a strong and statistically significant influence on sustainable competitive advantage (β = 0.615, p < 0.001), explaining 37.4% of the variance in competitive outcomes (R² = 0.374). Qualitative results further reveal that strategically aligned training programs, systematic identification of skills gaps, proactive workforce forecasting, and regular human resource capability audits enhance workforce readiness, operational continuity, regulatory compliance, and organisational resilience. The study concludes that Strategic Human Resource Planning functions not merely as an administrative support activity, but as a strategic organisational capability that enables aviation firms to achieve and sustain competitive advantage in a highly regulated and skills-intensive environment, with important implications for aviation managers and policymakers.
Training Needs Assessment and Employee Skills Acquisition: Systematic Review of Strategies, Outcomes, and Best Practices
The implications of Industry 4.0 for workforce reskilling in Sub-Saharan Africa underscore the urgent need for effective employee skills development. Training Needs Assessment (TNA) plays a critical role in aligning workforce competencies with evolving labour market demands and advancing Sustainable Development Goals related to quality education and decent work. This systematic review examined the relationship between TNA and employees’ skills acquisition in Sub-Saharan Africa. Relevant studies were identified through PubMed, Scopus, African Journals Online (AJOL), Google Scholar, and the World Bank Open Knowledge Repository. Study identification, screening, and selection followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, resulting in 23 studies for analysis. Thematic synthesis, supported by a mixed-methods integration of qualitative and quantitative findings, was employed. Methodological quality was assessed using the CASP checklist and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Findings indicate that effective TNA strategies emphasise systematic assessment, stakeholder collaboration, and alignment with labour market needs, resulting in improved performance and employability. However, challenges such as resource constraints and resistance to change persist. The review underscores the importance of context-specific TNA frameworks to strengthen workforce development in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gasper Kissoka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Influence of Socio-Demographic Characteristics on Community Participation in Water Resource Management in Tanzania: A Case of Water User Associations along Wami–Ruvu Basin
Community participation in water resource management remains a key policy objective in Tanzania, yet evidence on how socio-demographic characteristics shape participation across management processes remains limited. This study examined the influence of socio-demographic factors on community participation in water resource management among Water User Associations (WUAs) in the Wami–Ruvu Basin, Tanzania. A cross-sectional research design was employed, involving 385 WUA members selected from a population of 5,546 registered members using multistage sampling. Data were collected through household questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings indicate that participation varied significantly across socio-demographic groups and water management stages. Occupation was a strong predictor of participation, with crop farmers more likely to participate in identification (OR = 2.075, p = 0.002) and planning (OR = 2.160, p = 0.001). Men were more likely to participate in implementation (+5.0 percentage points, p = 0.012) and evaluation (+7.0 percentage points, p < 0.001) than women. Education significantly influenced monitoring, where respondents with certificate-level education or higher were 13.8 percentage points more likely to participate (p = 0.020). Divorced or separated respondents consistently showed lower participation across all stages. The regression model explained 68.6% of participation variation (Nagelkerke R² = 0.686). The study concludes that community participation in water resource management is socially differentiated, requiring targeted and inclusive interventions to address persistent inequalities and strengthen sustainable water governance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Janeth I. Zemba, Mangasini A. Katundu, Cyril K. Komba https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Levels and determinants of perceived stress among psychiatric nurses working at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kenya
Care giving for individuals with demanding mental health conditions exposes psychiatric nurses to unique challenges in their role and the potential for development of stress, which could impact their quality of life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between perceived stress and the quality of life among psychiatric nurses at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital (MNTRH), Nairobi, Kenya. The study objectives were to assess the levels of perceived stress and examine the factors contributing to perceived stress at MNTRH. This study was anchored on the Systematic Theory of Stress and Lazarus' Theory of Stress. A quantitative approach with a correlational design was used to conduct the study using a census sampling with a sample size of 120 psychiatric nurses. The sample included both male and female aged between 21 and 60 years. Respondents’ demographic characteristics were collected using a socio-demographic questionnaire. SPSS V 29 was used in data analysis. The findings showed that the perceived stress levels were moderate (82.8%). Age, gender, marital status, years of experience, qualification, work setting, shift type, and weekly working hours had no statistically significant influence on the stress levels experienced by the psychiatric nurses. The study observed moderate perceived stress among the psychiatric nurses. No demographic factor was observed to significantly influence the perceived stress. The study findings indicate that more emphasis should be placed on the practice rather than the background factors of the psychiatric nurses.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shraddha Tripathi, Susan Chemtai Changorok, Vincent Munywoki https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Technological Ecology Theory: A TVET Lecturer Development Model for Understanding Human Development in Technological Environments
The Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) artificial intelligence field is becoming increasingly sophisticated and complex. Consequently, a deeper analysis was required of lecturer development in the face of the evolving technological environment. The emphasis on the specific characteristics of an individual does not consider the larger ecological and structural drivers of technological adoption. The report introduces Technological Ecology Theory (TET), an ecological model developed through a qualitative study exploring the relationship between Mechanical Engineering lecturers and AI. TET integrates the Ecological Systems Theory (EST), the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework, and the structural realities of TVET institutions. This integration provides a comprehensive ecological perspective on how lecturers adapt to AI within Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, where challenges such as industry misalignment constrain effective AI integration and necessitate a contextualised model. The model portrays the lecturer training process in an ecological manner, which is shaped by organisational structures, environments surrounding teaching/learning, resource allocation, and job-specific experience. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of recognising multilevel influences on lecturer development, including institutional policies, community engagement, and technological infrastructure. By adopting TET, stakeholders in TVET can better design curriculum, training programmes, and support systems that address both individual competencies and the broader system dynamics impacting AI adoption. Ultimately, this ecological approach offers a framework to enhance the responsiveness and effectiveness of lecturer development, facilitating improved integration of AI technologies in teaching and learning.
Copyright (c) 2026 Percy Thabiso Mhlanga, Thokozani Isaac Mtshali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Strategic Flexibility and the Effectiveness of Quality Management Systems: Evidence from Medium-Sized Manufacturing Firms in Nairobi County, Kenya
This study investigated the effect of Strategic Flexibility on the effectiveness of Quality Management Systems (QMS) in medium-sized manufacturing firms in Nairobi County, Kenya. Guided by Dynamic Capability Theory and adopting a pragmatist mixed-methods design, data were collected from 221 respondents drawn through stratified random sampling from 496 ISO 9001:2015 certified firms. Quantitative data from quality, operations, and technical managers were analysed using SPSS version 27, while qualitative insights from 14 purposively selected senior managers were analysed using NVivo 14 through thematic coding. The two data strands were integrated sequentially, with qualitative findings used to triangulate and provide a deeper contextual explanation of the statistical results. Results show that Strategic Flexibility, reflected in market responsiveness, financial and HR flexibility, cross-functional collaboration, contingency planning, product diversification, strategic foresight, and organisational resilience, was a strong predictor of QMS effectiveness, explaining 32.4% of the variance (R² = 0.324, β = 0.276, p < 0.001). Qualitative evidence further revealed that flexible firms experienced better process consistency, reduced inefficiencies, and improved product quality. The study concludes that Strategic Flexibility is a critical dynamic capability that enhances QMS effectiveness by supporting agile resource allocation, proactive risk mitigation, and continuous improvement. Strengthening organisational flexibility mechanisms is recommended to maximise the benefits of ISO 9001:2015 and improve manufacturing performance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Amos Kings Otieno Orwa, Paul Katuse, Timothy C. Okech https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Oral Tradition and Intergenerational Transmission of Musical Knowledge in Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom: The Ensegu (flute) Tradition — An Empirical Study in Hoima City
The Ensegu (flute) ensemble occupies a central yet undocumented place in the ceremonial life of Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, western Uganda. Despite its indispensable role at the annual Empango royal coronation ceremony , its intergenerational transmission mechanisms have received no empirical investigation. This phenomenological qualitative study examined how musical knowledge is transmitted within the Ensegu tradition among master musicians, craftsmen, and apprentices in Hoima City , Uganda. Data were collected between February and July 2024 through in-depth interviews, field observations at rehearsals and the June 2024 Empango ceremony, and audio recordings. Sixteen participants were recruited through purposive sampling from a community of over forty learners, comprising two master players and instrument makers, four experienced ensemble musicians, three cultural leaders, and seven apprentices. Thematic analysis revealed six interconnected transmission mechanisms: sonic role differentiation, ceremonial apprenticeship immersion, melodic interlocking pedagogy , master-to-apprentice oral coaching, cultural memory activation through Runyoro song texts, and instrument craft transmission. The Ensegu tradition constitutes a distributed pedagogical system in which musical technique, ensemble intelligence, cultural identity, and craft knowledge are transmitted as an integrated whole. Findings carry implications for decolonial music education policy and integration of indigenous pedagogical models into Uganda's Competency-Based Curriculum.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nicholas Busobozi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Experiences of People living with Diagnosis of Esophageal Cancer: Case of Eastern Cape Municipalities, South Africa: A Phenomenological Study
Esophageal cancer is a major health issue in South Africa, especially in rural areas of the Eastern Cape, which has the highest incidence rates. While risk factors are well studied, there is limited research on patients’ lived experiences of diagnosis, treatment, and survival. This study explored the lived experiences of individuals diagnosed with esophageal cancer in Eastern Cape municipalities, examining their diagnostic journeys, coping mechanisms through treatment, and perceptions of existing support structures. A qualitative phenomenological design was employed; 12 participants (9 females, three males) aged 47-59 years were purposively sampled from three hospitals in Buffalo City, O.R. Tambo, and Amathole municipalities. In-depth semi-structured interviews were used. Data was analysed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis, guided by the Health Belief Model and Health Promotion Model. Three major themes emerged: (1) Delayed diagnosis due to late help-seeking, use of traditional healing, severe symptoms including dysphagia, haemoptysis, and weight loss; (2) Coping through treatment involving chemotherapy and radiation therapy with substantial side effects and financial burden; (3) Reliance on family support alongside gaps in health education, access to cancer services, and financial help for proper nutrition. The findings show that managing esophageal cancer in rural South Africa involves a mix of medical, traditional, and family care. They highlight the need for better community education on early symptoms, improved access to treatment facilities, emotional and financial support for patients. The study recommends healthcare policies that are patient-centred, respect cultural practices, and ensure access to proper medical treatment.
Analysis of the Underlying and Proximate Drivers of Land Conflicts in Post-Conflict Gulu City, Northern Uganda
Land conflicts are increasingly common in rapidly urbanising post-conflict cities, where rising land demand interacts with weak governance and evolving tenure systems. This study examined the underlying and proximate drivers of land conflicts and how socio-economic and demographic characteristics influence the likelihood of experiencing the drivers in post-conflict Gulu City, Northern Uganda. A mixed-methods approach was employed, and data were obtained from 416 households using household surveys, 36 key informant interviews, and 06 focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 with descriptive statistics and logistic regression, while qualitative data were thematically analysed. Most (72.6%) respondents identified inadequate formal land registration as the underlying driver, while 82.2% cited rising land demand as a proximate driver. The analysis for this study relied heavily on self-reported data, which may be affected by recall bias. The study demonstrated that level of education, land ownership arrangements, religion, land size, and displacement histories significantly shape respondents’ likelihood of experiencing underlying and proximate drivers of land conflicts, notably loss of customary land tenure custodians, corruption, rising materialism and greed, fraudulent practices, rising land demand, urban expansion, and population growth. The findings demonstrated that increasing competition for land, coupled with inadequate formalisation of land ownership, continues to undermine tenure security and fuel land conflicts in post-conflict Gulu City. It, therefore, recommends that policymakers prioritise affordable and accessible formal land registration systems alongside strengthened urban land-use planning to manage rising land demand and reduce land conflicts in post-conflict Gulu City.
Copyright (c) 2026 Betty Adoch, Paul Isolo Mukwaya, Patrick Byakagaba, Frank Mugagga, Caroline Aboda, Henry Musoke Semakula, Shuaib Lwasa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Living with Giants: Community Perceptions of Elephants in the Nyerere National Park, Tanzania
This study examined community perceptions of elephants and elephant conservation in villages adjacent to Nyerere National Park in Tanzania, focusing on how human-elephant interactions shape these perceptions. A qualitative research design was adopted, using in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and observation conducted in 2025 in Kisaki and Mngazi villages. Thematic analysis was used to interpret participants' lived experiences and the meanings attached to elephants and conservation. The findings show mixed perceptions, where some community members view elephants as an important economic asset linked to tourism and national revenue. At the same time, the majority perceive them as a threat due to recurrent crop raiding, livelihood losses, and risks to human safety. These negative experiences significantly shape attitudes toward elephant conservation, leading some participants to feel fear and resistance. Perceptions are influenced by direct exposure to conflict, livelihood dependence, and experiences of institutional response. The study is limited by its qualitative design and focus on two villages, which may limit generalisability to other contexts. However, the findings highlight the need for conservation authorities to strengthen human-elephant conflict mitigation strategies, improve benefit-sharing mechanisms, and integrate community experiences into conservation planning to promote coexistence.
Copyright (c) 2026 Matilda Demzee, Gideon Bulengela, Ritha Awe , John Lugis https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Dynamics of Online Evaluation: Voice from Student Teachers in an Open Distance e-Learning institution
Teacher education programs worldwide aim to balance theoretical knowledge with practical application, with teaching practice serving as a critical component in this process. While teaching practice traditionally involves face-to-face evaluations, such approaches are not always feasible in Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) contexts due to geographical constraints. Existing studies have explored the virtual teaching practicum and the unique experiences it provides. However, the existing body of literature on the evaluation of student teachers is notably limited, with an even scarcer exploration of their assessment through flexible learning tools. Employing a qualitative survey, guided by technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK) as a theoretical framework, this study aimed to examine the dynamics of online evaluation using the voices of student teachers during teaching practice in an ODeL institution. Data were collected through qualitative open-ended questionnaires from 13 purposefully sampled participants in their final year of undergraduate studies who engaged in online evaluations, and the data were analyzed thematically. The findings indicate that most student teachers demonstrated adequate preparedness for online evaluations and that the TPACK of university supervisors enabled them to provide constructive feedback. Online evaluations were further valued for their flexibility in overcoming logistical barriers and for fostering technological competence among student teachers. Findings revealed that Technological Knowledge (TK) and Technological Pedagogical Knowledge (TPK) were the most critical domains influencing the effectiveness of online teaching practice supervision. Findings indicate that participants demonstrated adequate TK in using mobile devices and digital platforms such as WhatsApp and Microsoft Teams. However, challenges related to connectivity, infrastructure, and limited platform familiarity constrained the effective enactment of TPK during online teaching practice supervision. The study recommended that universities invest in digital infrastructure and training and provide adequate institutional support. Although the findings provide valuable and transferable insights, their generalizability is constrained by the small sample size. The findings highlight the need for ODeL policy and global teacher education programs to move beyond basic digital access (TK) and prioritize the development of TPK, alongside investment in reliable digital infrastructure.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mbusiseni Dube, Carlo Daniels https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effect of Emotional Intelligence on Employee Performance in the Banking Sector of North-Kivu Province, Democratic Republic of Congo
In modern organisations, particularly in service-oriented sectors such as banking, emotional intelligence is increasingly recognised as a key factor in professional performance. Several international and regional studies have analysed the link between emotional intelligence and job effectiveness. However, empirical evidence regarding this relationship in the context of the banking sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains limited. This study aims to analyze the extent to which emotional intelligence quotient influences the performance of employees working in commercial banks in North Kivu province. The research is based on Bar-On's model of emotional intelligence and adopts a descriptive and quantitative methodological approach for data collection and analysis. A sample of 229 employees from eight commercial banks was selected to participate in the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and regression models. The results reveal a strong, statistically significant, and positive relationship between emotional intelligence and employee performance (r=0.888, p-value <0.01). The findings showed a strong, statistically significant positive relationship between emotional intelligence and employee performance. Social management intelligence was the strongest predictor of performance (R² = 82.1%), followed by emotional intelligence quotient (R² = 78.7%) and self-management intelligence (R² = 78.6%). Performance was measured by target realization, work quality, and cost-effectiveness. In conclusion, emotional intelligence appears to be a major predictor of performance in the Congolese banking sector. Financial institutions are therefore advised to actively promote the development of their employees' emotional skills to improve their professional effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ndagano Fidele , Erastus Thoronjo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The African Politics of the Dataset: AI, Indigenous Music, and Neo-Colonial Power Dynamics
The proliferation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the creative industries, especially in the context of Indigenous African music, is a deep-rooted political action that builds upon the historical dynamics of power of digital extraction and algorithmic colonialism. While existing scholarship predominantly critiques AI through Western intellectual property paradigms, it largely overlooks the training dataset as a primary site of epistemic violence. Based on a decolonial theoretical framework, this paper fills this gap by arguing that the AI training datasets are political artefacts that fix neo-colonial forms of oppression by freezing dynamic, living cultures to be consumed exogenously. The study utilises a triangulated research design and intentionally uses a multi-regional Pan-African scope of analysis, triangulating three analytical fields: a historical excavation of the 1939 Mbube (Solomon Linda) case in South Africa as an analogue blueprint of extraction; a netnographic study of five highly active industries. The findings reveal a ‘dual architecture’ of digital neo-colonialism, wherein external data colonialism via uncompensated scraping is facilitated by internal structural deficits and outdated post-colonial legislation. Empirically, the netnographic data reveals a phenomenon of ‘silent extraction,’ where grassroots resistance is actively overridden by a consumer-driven adapt or die techno-optimism. To address this perceived epistemic alienation and legal gap, the paper concludes that the way to realize ethical AI is by shifting the paradigm to Indigenous Data Sovereignty (IDSov) and the Collective Benefit, Authority to Control, Responsibility and Ethics (CARE Principles). In direct relation to the structural gaps that were revealed through the research, the paper proposes that the African Musicology Institute (AMI) should be created as a free, sovereign infrastructural centre to manage ethically sourced datasets. Finally, this study alters the academic debate of reactive copyright litigation to proactive infrastructural autonomy, which offers a critical map of computational self-determination in the Global South.
Copyright (c) 2026 Amon Kipyegon Kirui, Brian Bichanga Nyandieka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Examination of Prison-Based Vocational Training on Recidivism: A Review of Kisumu County, Kenya
Persistent recidivism undermines the effectiveness of incarceration as a tool for reform and rehabilitation in Kenya. In Kisumu County, correctional institutions face challenges such as overcrowding, limited resources, and fragmented rehabilitation programmes, raising questions about the effectiveness of prison-based vocational training in reducing reoffending. This study investigated the influence of prison-based vocational training programmes, including life skills education, counselling services, and formal education, on recidivism rates using a mixed-methods convergent parallel design. Quantitative data were collected from 220 former inmates using structured Likert-scale questionnaires, alongside 60 purposively selected prison officers and 28 probation officers. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interview guides to explore lived experiences, reintegration challenges, and perceptions of program adequacy. To ensure reliability and validity, the instruments were piloted prior to the main study, with Cronbach’s alpha employed for internal consistency of quantitative measures and expert review applied to the interview guides for content validity. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS version 25, while qualitative data were processed through thematic analysis. Data analysis was guided by Albert Bandura’s Social Learning Theory, which emphasises behavioural change through observation, modelling, and reinforcement. Findings revealed that participation in prison-based treatment programmes was inversely related to recidivism: 85% of former inmates who underwent vocational training, 80% of those receiving life skills education, 78% of those who participated in counselling services, and 86% of formal education participants did not reoffend. In contrast, 51% of inmates who did not participate in any treatment programmes returned to criminal activity. Qualitative findings highlighted that most facilities still rely on punitive approaches, with limited access to structured rehabilitation, psycho-social support, and post-release transition planning. The study concludes that prison-based treatment programmes can significantly mitigate recidivism if implemented consistently, with sufficient staffing and individualised reentry planning. It recommends targeted investment in rehabilitation infrastructure, expansion of vocational and psycho-social services, and structured post-release support to strengthen reintegration outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Timothy Vitalis Wanyama https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Implementation of the Open Performance Review and Appraisal System in improving the performance of public service employees in selected Councils in Tanzania
This study examined the implementation of the Open Performance Review and Appraisal System (OPRAS) within local government authorities in Tanzania, focusing on its impact on employee promotion and demotion, as well as its role in service delivery in Arusha City Council and Dodoma City Council. Using the New Public Management (NPM) theory, the research evaluated the extent to which OPRAS has been implemented across these urban local authorities. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a survey questionnaire, semi-structured interviews, and a document review. Quantitative data were analysed with descriptive statistics, while qualitative data underwent content analysis. The findings showed a relatively high level of OPRAS implementation, indicating that the system significantly promotes high-performing employees, demotes those with consistently poor performance (when enforced strictly), and improves public service delivery in the studied councils. However, ongoing challenges related to training, resource allocation, and institutional support were identified as limiting factors. The study recommends that the government institutionalise regular, comprehensive training programmes for public employees on the objectives, processes, and benefits of OPRAS. Additionally, policymakers are urged to review and strengthen relevant policies and strategies to facilitate more effective implementation. Training for political leaders to enhance their awareness and commitment to performance management, coupled with timely and adequate budgetary disbursement specifically earmarked for OPRAS activities, is equally essential for sustaining and improving the system’s effectiveness in Tanzanian local government authorities.
Forum Theatre as Participatory Research in Oral Heritage Communities: Evidence from Asebu, Ghana
This paper examines Forum Theatre as a participatory research methodology for engaging oral heritage communities, drawing on evidence from a nine-month fieldwork study in the Asebu Traditional Area of the Central Region of Ghana. Grounded in qualitative, interpretivist research within the historical-case study design, the study employed in-depth interviews, participant observation, and participatory performance practice across 18 communities. The paper argues that Forum Theatre offers a culturally congruent methodology for accessing, documenting, and revitalising oral heritage in communities where knowledge transmission relies on embodied and performative traditions. Findings reveal that Forum Theatre created democratic spaces for community dialogue, enabled the recovery of fragmented oral narratives about the cultural hero Amenfi, and fostered critical consciousness among community members regarding the value of their intangible cultural heritage. The study demonstrates that conventional interview-based methods alone are insufficient for capturing the performative, affective, and communal dimensions of oral heritage, and that Forum Theatre bridges the gap between research extraction and community empowerment. Participant voices illuminate how the methodology facilitated the re-engagement of elders and youth with oral traditions threatened by formal education, foreign religion, and urbanisation. The paper contributes to debates on decolonising research methodologies in African contexts and offers a replicable framework for participatory heritage research.
Copyright (c) 2026 Evans Asante https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Teacher Trainees’ Self-Efficacy in Fostering Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Creativity and Innovation, and Digital Literacy as 21st Century Core Skills in Ghana
Since the introduction of the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) programme in Colleges of Education in Ghana, it appears studies have not evaluated the self-efficacy of students in the B.Ed programme in delivering the pre-tertiary education curriculum introduced by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA). Guided by the social cognitive theory, this study sought to fill this gap. A descriptive survey design was used, where a total of 458 teacher trainees responded to a Likert scale questionnaire. Data collected from respondents were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings of the study show that teacher trainees have high self-efficacy in fostering Critical Thinking and Problem Solving (CTPS), Creativity and Innovation (CI), and Digital Literacy (DL), with an overall mean self-efficacy given as (M = 3.69, SD = .60). The study also found statistically significant differences in teacher trainees’ self-efficacy in terms of CTPS, t(368.12) = 2.23, p = .026, as well as DL for male and female teacher trainees, t(355.59) = 2.19, p = .029. Finally, the study found no statistically significant differences in the self-efficacy of respondents in fostering CTPS, CI, and DL based on the programme of study. The study concluded that teacher trainees have the required self-efficacy to be able to foster 21st-century skills in learners. Findings of the study offer a preliminary understanding that training of teachers aligns with the expectations of the National Teacher Education Curriculum Framework (NTECF).
Copyright (c) 2026 Kassim File Dangor, Shani Osman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Resource Sovereignty, Regional Security, and Political Economy of Violence in Eastern DRC
The conflict in the eastern part of the DRC has been recognised as a result of failed interventions and compromised sovereignty; therefore, it requires an integrated analysis to understand the complex relationship among resource management, regional security, and historical narrative. The research methodology used for this study is qualitative, employing interpretive analysis of journals, United Nations Group of Experts Reports, MONUSCO Reports, International Crisis Group Reports, and an audit of the mineral supply chain from 2000 to 2025. The analysis has revealed that the conflict in the region is not a result of the minerals; however, conflict has been institutionalised in the region with the complex relationship between compromised sovereignty, regional security, and historical narrative on the management of resources, which is evident with the resurgence of M23 rebellion; therefore, it is clear that a regional security complex is present in the region. Recent interventions, including the Luanda Process, the Nairobi Process, and the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), reveal the formation of a new security complex in the region. However, the failure of these interventions also reflects the lingering trust deficit among the regions. The humanitarian consequences of the political economy of violence are significant, as instability in the Goma region reveals. The study concludes that, for stabilisation to be achieved, there is a need to reclaim resource sovereignty through mineral governance that is both transparent and accountable, as well as through regional diplomacy and security assurances to address inter-state insecurity and reorganise the underlying politics of conflict.
Copyright (c) 2026 Philemon Sengati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Borrowers Characteristics and Crowdfunding Success for Small and Medium Enterprises in Tanzania
This study examined the influence of borrowers’ characteristics on the success of crowdfunding campaigns among Tanzanian Small and Medium Enterprise (SMEs) using secondary data from the Kiva lending-based crowdfunding platform. The study adopts a quantitative research approach using a cross-sectional design, based on secondary data obtained from a crowdfunding platform. The initial dataset comprised 12,273 observations; however, after data cleaning and removal of missing values, a final sample of 12,139 observations was used for analysis. Binary logistic regression was conducted in Stata to assess the effect of borrower characteristics, including age, gender, experience, and education level, on the likelihood of crowdfunding success. The results indicate that gender (β = −0.731, p < 0.01), borrower experience (β = −0.100, p < 0.01), and education level (Certificate β = 1.476, p < 0.01; Diploma β = 1.339, p < 0.01) significantly influence crowdfunding success. The findings further reveal that female borrowers are more likely to obtain funding than male borrowers. Borrower experience shows a significant negative relationship with crowdfunding success, suggesting that repeated borrowing does not necessarily improve funding prospects. Education shows mixed effects: degree holders show no significant effect, whereas master’s degree holders show a significant negative relationship (β = −1.328, p < 0.01). The overall model was statistically significant (χ² = 131.905, p < 0.01), with a pseudo-R² of 0.085, indicating modest explanatory power. The study contributes to the limited empirical evidence on crowdfunding in developing countries and provides practical insights for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and crowdfunding platforms on improving alternative financing outcomes. Future studies may incorporate additional behavioural and campaign-related factors.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fred B. Kanama, Nsubili Isaga, Henrick A. Kipangula https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Moral Dimensions of Teaching: Implications for Ethical Competence in Kenya's Primary Teacher Education
This conceptual paper examines the moral dimensions of classroom teaching and their implications for teacher education in Kenya. Drawing on Buzzelli and Johnston's six-dimension framework, Narvaez's classroom climate theory, Bernstein's theory of pedagogical discourse, and Campbell's account of teacher moral agency, the paper argues that classroom climate, language, power and authority, cultural representation, curriculum, and teacher moral agency constitute an essential professional knowledge domain that is absent from both Kenya's old Primary Teacher Education (PTE) programme and the new CBC-aligned Diploma in Education framework. Through critical literature review and document analysis of four key policy texts, the paper advances a theoretical argument that this structural absence is hypothesised to have significant consequences for the moral development of Kenyan primary school pupils, a hypothesis that requires empirical validation. A three-strand curriculum integration model is proposed as a structurally feasible conceptual blueprint for reform, and comparative analysis of South African, Ugandan, and Tanzanian teacher education confirms that such integration is achievable within African education systems. The paper further argues that Kenya's reform should be grounded in indigenous ethical frameworks, including utu, heshima, and harambee, to ensure cultural legitimacy and sustainability.
Copyright (c) 2026 Virginia Nyambura Njau https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Strategic Positioning and Performance of migrants’ Remittance Services in Kenyan Commercial Banks
Given the intense local and international competition brought about by shifts in global business, commercial banks have adopted policies like strategic positioning to enhance their competitiveness. This study looked at the effect of strategic positioning on the performance of immigrants’ transmittals to banks in Kenya. The Generic Framework Theory used emphasises market segmentation and targeting specific consumer preferences. An explanatory research design was adopted, and both primary and secondary data were collected from banks' reports and websites. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.795 confirmed instrument consistency. The target population comprised 126 managers from 39 commercial banks headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya. Through the Krejcie and Morgan sampling table, a sample of 95 managers was selected. A pilot study involved 10% of the population, which was excluded from the final study. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25. The regression model applied was P = β0 + β1X1 + ε, where P represented the performance of immigrants’ transmittals, and X1 represented strategic market positioning. Findings revealed an R² value of 0.638, indicating a strong relationship between strategic positioning and performance. Market Penetration Index was 4.04, Market Development Index 4.19, and Brand Communication Index 4.11, producing an overall strategic positioning index of 4.12. All strategic dimensions positively influenced performance, with market development emerging as the strongest factor. The study revealed that banks should develop strategies like strategic positioning to attract potential clients in differentiated markets. The strategic positioning was found to be a vital factor in boosting the influx of immigrants’ transmittals into local commercial banks for positive performance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Phelista Njeru, Erastus Thoronjo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Beyond the Classroom: Sociolinguistic Factors as Predictors of Vocabulary Breadth in Tanzania’s Diverse Linguistic Landscape
This paper examines the impact of sociolinguistic factors on vocabulary breadth among secondary school learners in Tanzania. While research on sociolinguistics and language acquisition exists, the interaction between sociolinguistic factors and English vocabulary breadth in Tanzania’s educational context remains underexplored. This is significant given that English, a foreign language spoken by a minority, is the medium of instruction from secondary school onwards in a multilingual country with over 150 ethnic community languages (ECLs), and Kiswahili is spoken by the majority. The study addresses: How do sociolinguistic factors influence English vocabulary breadth among learners in Tanzania’s diverse linguistic landscape? A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was adopted to triangulate quantitative and qualitative data. Using stratified random sampling, the New Vocabulary Levels Test was administered to 320 Form 3 and 4 students from eight secondary schools in Dodoma, and interviews were conducted with the eight English teachers to provide deeper insight. Multiple regression and thematic analyses revealed that sociolinguistic factors significantly influenced vocabulary breadth. Learners who used English at home or in class, interacted with English-speaking peers, started learning English in kindergarten, and had parents with at least Form 4 education had broader vocabularies. Findings suggest that sociolinguistic factors play a crucial role in vocabulary development. Policymakers should enhance structured English exposure beyond the classroom and adopt additive bilingual approaches that consider learners’ language ecology. This study contributes to understanding the interplay between sociolinguistic factors and vocabulary mastery in a diverse linguistic setting and recommends further research on this interaction.