Department of Business and Economics

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://localhost:4000/handle/20.500.12092/1846

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 122

Taxation and SME's sector growth
(Society for Business Research Promotion, 2007) Nganga, Irura; Mwangi, J. Macharia
The influence of ethnicity on leisure pursuits and tourism behaviour of Somali immigrants in Leeuwarden, Netherlands
(2010-05-30) Mbuthia, Susan W.; Maingi, Shem W.
This study is based on the premise that there are fundamental differences in tourism behaviour of immigrants in Europe, such that, there are certain ethnic and cultural determinants to travel preferences, choice and behaviour. Previous studies in Europe reveal certain socio-economic constraints that face ethnic minorities in Europe. This study sought to identify these ethnic determinants/ constraints of travel behaviour amongst Somali immigrants in the Netherlands. A field survey was conducted through the use of structured interviews. The interviews were conducted to twenty nine adults living in the city of Leeuwarden, Netherlands. The respondents were college students and other adults from twenty one years and above, specifically of Somali decent. The results indicated that there were in deed ethnic differences in leisure and tourism behaviour of Somali immigrants to the Netherlands. The Bantu Somalis were more liberal and would adapt more than the other Somalis when they come into contact with other cultures. Travel preferences of these respondents were based on their personal values; personal liking; family ties and the level of interest of places to travel. Racialized expressions and social encounters played a pivotal role in the way the Somalis living in the Netherlands chose to travel and engage in their daily and leisure activities. These individuals were more or less influenced by other cultural contexts, therefore having significantly different preferences in leisure pursuits and travel behaviour. Majority of the findings confirmed that there were ethnic constraints and determinants to leisure and tourism behaviour of Somali immigrants in Leeuwarden, Netherlands. This work has demonstrated that there were indeed constraints experienced by immigrants and especially those of Somali ethnicity, and close attention to the experiences of other Netherlands immigrants such as those from Caribbean or Middle East should be researched on. This would help develop a broader analysis of immigrants’ forms and ways of travel and their experiences.
The logarithmic relationship between collective efficiency and technology development in wood enterprises in Kenya
(Journal of Geography and Regional Planning, 2011-03) Ng'ang'a, S.I; Onyango, G.M.; Kerre, B.W.
Small Manufacturing Enterprises (SMEs) contribute to economic dynamism, entrepreneurship and have potentials to contribute to sustainable industrial development in less developed countries (LDCs). They are however handicapped since they lack the capacity to develop infrastructure and acquire technologies that give them a competitive advantage in the global market. This paper explores collective efficiency as a paradigm that could inform technology development in LDCs to enhance SMEs growth. Data was obtained from wood based enterprises owner/managers (284) who were sampled from three districts Kericho, Nakuru and Uasin Gishu all in the Rift valley province of Kenya using multistage sampling strategy. Data was collected by use of questionnaires, observation and documentary analysis. Using regression analysis the study found the relationship between collective efficiency and technology development in wood based enterprises to be logarithmic. This revealed that the rate of change in technology development is higher with higher levels of joint actions up to a certain maximum point when further joint actions do not benefit the wood based enterprise. These findings demonstrate the need for a paradigm shift in the support of SMEs sector in order to sustain industrial development. The use of collective efficiency paradigm in the planning and development of infrastructure that anchors technology development for the SMEs is recommended.
Collective efficiency and its effects on infrastructure planning and development for small manufacturing enterprises in Kenya
(International Journal of Business and Public Management, 2011-03) Ng'ang'a, S.I; Onyango, G.M.; Kerre, B.W.
This paper explores the extent of use of collective efficiency among the wood enterprises in Kenya and its effect on the infrastructure planning and development. Small manufacturing enterprises are known to contribute to economic dynamism, entrepreneurship and industrial development in less developed countries. However, they are handicapped by lack of capacity to accumulate capital, develop infra- structure and acquire technologies necessary for competing in a liberalized global market individually. Data was obtained from 284 wood enterprises owner/managers selected through multistage sampling in western Kenya and by use of questionnaires, observation checklists and documentary analysis. Data analysis by regression shows that infrastructure development is affected linearly by collective efforts. The paper recommends that industrial infrastructure planning in Kenya should be informed by the Collective efficiency, Networking, Systems approach and Constructivism paradigms so as to anchor the small manufacturing enterprises in the industrialization process. The paper also recommends that a Jua Kali development authority should be established to address the needs of the small manufacturing enterprises sector borrowing from the export processing zones authority model.
DETERMINANTS OF ECONOMIC GROWTH IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA: A Panel Data Approach
(International Journal of Economics and Management Sciences, 2012) Ndambiri, H.K; Ritho, C.; Ng'ang'a, S.I; Kubowon, P.C.; Mairura, F.C.; Nyangweso, P.M.; Muiruri, E.M.; Cherotwo, F.H.
Based on a panel data of 19 Sub Saharan countries for the years 1982-2000, this study explores the determinants of economic growth in the region. Given that economic growth is essentially seen as a dynamic phenomenon, the study employs the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) to account for the factors that influence the growth of economies in the region. The study results indicate that physical capital formation, a vibrant export sector and human capital formation significantly contribute to the economic growth among sub- Saharan countries. However, government expenditure, nominal discount rate and foreign aid significantly lead to negative economic growth. As found out in the study, it is recommended that relevant policies be formulated to promote those sectors that enhance economic growth in the region
Factors Affecting Provision of Service Quality in the Public Health Sector: A Case of Kenyatta National Hospital
(International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, 2012-07) Dr. Wanjau, Kenneth N.; Muiruri, Beth Wangari; Ayodo, Eunice
Purpose – This paper seeks to explore the factors affecting provision of service quality in the public health sector in Kenya, focusing on employee capability, technology, communication and financial resources. The paper reviews existing literature and experiences on public health service provision and quality management. Design/methodology/approach – The paper reports on empirical evidence drawn from a case study of Kenyatta National Hospital – the largest referral hospital in Eastern & Central Africa. A total of one hundred and three respondents, comprising; sixteen doctors, thirty two nurses, twenty nine clinical officers, fourteen laboratory technologists and twelve pharmacists. Data was collected using closed and open ended questionnaires. Findings: Low employee’s capacity led to a decrease in provision of service quality public health sector by factor of 0.981 with while Inadequate Technology adoption in provision of health service led to a decrease in provision of service quality by a factor of 0.917. The Ineffective communication channels affected delivery service quality in public health sector by a factor of 0.768 while insufficient financial resources resulted to decrease in provision of health service quality by factor of 0.671. This implied that low employees capacity, low technology adoption, ineffective communication channels and insufficient fund affect delivery of service quality to patients in public health sector affecting health service quality perceptions, patient satisfaction and loyalty. Practical Implications – In the paper the implications for policy include: comprehensive healthcare policy,addressing the plight of the worker, the working environment, the resources to enable the healthcare personnel perform effectively, and emotional intelligence management of the workforce. Originality/value- The paper shows that the respondents in this study were various professionals in the healthcare provision, covering the comprehensive process of healthcare provision from diagnosis to treatment.The approach to study the largest referral hospital in Eastern and Central Africa region and data collected is indicative of special case of Kenyatta National hospital and may be entirely different from other public health institutions within the Eastern and Central Africa region.
Infrastructure and Technology Planning and Development for Sustainable Industrial Growth: Lessons from Wood Enterprises in Kenya
(International Journal of Business and Social Science, 2012-08) Ng'ang'a, S.I
This paper interrogates industrial development in Kenya. It presents a discourse in support of modernizing local technologies and focusing on small manufacturing enterprises (Jua Kali) to anchor sustainable industrial development in Less Developed Countries. The trend in production and performance in Wood Industry in Kenya is used to demonstrate that relying on modern technology brought in by foreign Direct Investment does not always lead to sustainable development. The paper is informed by a longitudinal survey of the performance of manufacturing and Wood Industries in Kenya.
Income Distribution and Livelihood Analysis among Horticulture Farming Households in Nyeri District, Kenya
(International Journal of Business and Social Science, 2012-10) Ndambiri, H.K; Okello, J.J; Ng'ang'a, S.I; Ritho, C.; Minyacha, S.O.; Omboro, P.I; Kubowon, P.C.
The objective of this study was to analyze the distribution of income and livelihood strategies among the horticulture farming households in Nyeri District, Kenya through the estimation of the Gini Coefficient. The study used secondary data obtained from a National Household Survey carried out in 2007 by Tegemeo Institute of Agricultural Policy and Development. The estimated Gini coefficients indicated that there is variability in the distribution of incomes among the households in totality and across different farm enterprises. Income from non- farm activities had the highest Gini value of 0.6804. This implies that the distribution of income from non-farm enterprises was more inconsistent across households compared to other farm enterprises that had lower Gini values. This among other reasons explains why households in Nyeri District have varied livelihood strategies leading to varied livelihood outcomes. It is suggested that to improve the distribution of income and standards of living of the households, better interventions such as education targeting the most vulnerable or the marginal household groups needs to be put in place so as to enhance household earnings. In addition, the creation of an “equal opportunity” policy for the people is suggested so that vulnerable people in the society like women, the old, the disabled and children among others can be given a priority.
Small and Medium Size Manufacturing Enterprises Growth and Work Ethics in Kenya
(Developing Country Studies, 2013) Tarus, D.K.; Ng'ang'a, S.I
Developing countries are facing a formidable unemployment challenge due to a combined effect of slow economic growth and rapid increase in population. In Kenya, Economic Recovery Strategy (ERS) estimates that 500,000 jobs would be created annually with 88% of these generated by small and medium size enterprises. Yet, the attrition level is alarming. It has been shown that for every 100 new enterprises started in a year, 60 percent close down within the first year, and those that survive the first year, 40% are likely to close in the second year (Kenya 1998; 1999). The question that begs answers is, why so? One untested theory has been unfair competition and unethical behavior of the small and medium enterprises. This leads to low confidence, and trust and difficulties in sustaining customers as well as establishing long lasting networks. This study explores the extent to which SME’s embrace business work ethic. It seeks to answer questions as to how much the growth of SMEs is affected by work ethics or lack of it. The study employed expost facto survey design among small manufacturing enterprises in Eldoret Municipality with respondents sampled through proportionate random sampling in clusters based on geographical location. This paper measures the perception of the entrepreneurs on the relative importance of ethical practices and social responsibility in business. It goes further to highlight core competencies that can be leveraged to prepare small and medium size manufacturing enterprises engage in ethical practices.
TRANSFORMING WOMEN LIVELIHOODS BY DAIRY FARMING AND MICROFINANCE IN BUNYALA, WESTERN KENYA
(Journal of Studies in Accounts and Economics, 2013-01) Omillo, F.O.; Ng'ang'a, S.I; Bennett, H.
This paper is about microfinance viewed as a social change “tool kit” and its consequent effects on livelihoods of women of Bunyala, especially those involved in small-scale diary farming. The study investigated microfinance strategies, effects and challenges encountered by the farmers. Census techniques were applied in collecting primary data on all 93 dairy farmers in Bunyala District. The main instruments of data collection were questionnaires and document analysis. Data was obtained from dairy farmers, key respondents from the government, civil society organizations and microfinance institutions in Budalang‟i. The data collected was coded and keyed into computer using Statistical Package for Social Scientist (SPSS) computer program. It was further analyzed and organized in tables, pie and bar charts for easy interpretation. Gender preferences in accessing microfinance services were not there and collateral was the biggest challenge in accessing microcredit. In conclusion microfinance was an important toolkit in providing social change and improving the livelihoods. The study suggests that women in Bunyala be empowered through trainings especially on saving methods so as to use microfinance optimally
Constructivism and the Likert Scale on the Perception of Teaching/Learning Creativity at the University Level
(Journal of Sociological Research, 2013-01) Ng'ang'a, S.I; Otii, L.
This paper interrogates the constructivists learning environment, the constructivists learning activities and the use of the likert scale in assessing the effectiveness of teaching/learning creativity at the university level. The rapid growth in demand of university education, the rapid expansion and proliferation of both public and private universities and university colleges and the privately sponsored student programs necessitates that we continuously monitor and evaluate their performance and the creative abilities bestowed upon graduates as they join the labor market. The paper is informed by a case of a postgraduate student who sought to investigate and analyze from the students perspective, the input factors into a university system through a transformation process that leads to graduates who are expected to have creative capabilities and fit into the ever changing society. The thesis examination process was faced by challenges that lead to the program taking six years instead of the prescribed two, yet he is still the lucky one, the most of his class mates are not that lucky. The authors relate the experience they shared as student and supervisor in the process. The paper concludes that there is a problem in the constructivist learning environment created-the faculty, facilities and programs and also dissatisfaction in the methodologies employed and the role played by the facilitators. It is therefore recommended that the universities should re-examine the environment, the transformation process and the outputs to ensure that graduates meet the dynamic needs of a global society.
TRANSFORMING IMPLEMENTATION OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDUCATION PROGRAMME IN TECHNICAL TRAINING INSTITUTIONS IN KENYA
(European Centre for Research Training and Development UK (www.ea-journals.org), 2013-09) Mkala, D. Mwamisha; Dr. Wanjau, Kenneth
Effectiveness of implementation of entrepreneurship education programme in technical training institutions in Kenya is in question. Teaching and assessment methods used by teachers are insensitive to entrepreneurship learning, and the training resources provided by the institutions are insufficient. The study examined factors influencing implementation of the programme as conducted in tertiary technical institutions in Kenya. It investigated the influence of teaching and assessment methods, teachers’ network with entrepreneurship practitioners, and availability of training resources. A census survey of entrepreneurship education teachers in technical training institutions in Nairobi County was conducted, using a structured self administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS. The findings show that teachers routinely use traditional teaching and assessment methods, and institution administrations do not provide sufficient training resources or support teachers to develop networks with entrepreneurship practitioners. Recommendations include sensitizing teachers to use pedagogies that maximize entrepreneurial learning, and administrators to provide sufficient resources; also establishing a national policy framework to enforce effective programme implementation.
Influence of Technology Adoption on Entrepreneurial Orientation amongst SMEs Operators in Kenya
(The International Journal Of Humanities & Social Studies, 2014) Wanjau, Kenneth Lawrence; Kimando, Njogu; Sakwa, Maurice; Kihoro, John M.
Small and Medium Enterprises are important for economic development and jobs creation in Kenya. They face a common challenge and as a result there is need to improve on their technological advancement and innovation. The Alcohol Act 2010 was introduced in Kenya and it seeks to regulate the alcohol production and sales. The aim of this study was to assess the influences of technology adoption on entrepreneurial orientation amongst SMEs operators in Kenya. The target population was 115 owners/managers of alcohol retailing SMEs who have been in business for the last five years and are members of Pub, Entertainment and Restaurant Association of Kenya (PERAK). Qualitative and quantitative techniques were used to analyze both descriptive and inferential statistics.
Assessment of Micro Financial Institution Funding on the Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Murang’a County-Kenya
(European Journal of Business and Social Sciences, 2014) Mwangi, Njoki; Shisia, Adam; Mwai, Lilian; Okibo, Walter Bichanga
The fundamental purpose of this study was to assess the impact of Micro finance Institutions (MFIs) funding on the performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in rural Murang’a. Simple random sampling technique was employed in selecting the 50 SMEs that constituted the sample size of the research. Structured questionnaire was designed to facilitate the acquisition of relevant data which involves simple percentage graphical charts. Illustrations were tactically applied in data presentations and analysis. The findings of the study reveal that elements i.e. technology, management, training and financing were very crucial much as MFIs funding benefitted the SMEs even though only few of them were capable enough to secure the loan amount needed. Interestingly, majority of the SMEs acknowledged positive contributions of MFI funding towards promoting their market excellence and it is recommended that further research be carried out in other industries and countries in order to show whether there’s any link between MFI funding and performance on SMEs.
Effects of Tax Reforms on Buoyancy and Elasticity of the Tax System in Kenya: 1963–2010
(Canadian Center of Science and Education, 2014) Thuku, Gideon Kiguru; Manyasa, Emmanuel O.; Wawire, Nelson H. W.; Omondi, Ochieng V.
The study examined the effects of tax reforms on tax buoyancy and elasticity estimates. The specific objectives of the study were; to determine the effect of tax modernization programme and revenue administration reforms and modernization programme on tax buoyancy and tax elasticity. The study employed regression analysis and used annual time series data for the period 1963 to 2010. Secondary data from Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, Kenya Revenue Authority, Central Bank of Kenya and World Bank was used. Elasticity estimates were determined by adjusting data for discretionary changes using the proportional adjustment method. The study revealed that both revenue administration reform and modernization programme (RARMP) and tax modernization programme (TMP) were important in explaining the variations in buoyancy and elasticity of the tax system in Kenya. Although the reforms analyzed had positive effect on both tax buoyancy and elasticity, the results indicate that this was not sufficient to help generate adequate revenue to finance the ever increasing government expenditure. With an inelastic tax system, the Kenya government has to re-evaluate the implementation strategies and pursue further reforms for it to fully exploit the tax revenue potential in the economy. Keywords: tax reforms, buoyancy, elasticity, gross domestic product
Influence of Aggressiveness and Conservativeness in Investing and Financing Policies on Performance of Industrial Firms in Kenya
(IOSR Journal of Economics and Finance (IOSR-JEF), 2014-01) Kungu, J.N.; Wanjau, Kenneth Lawrence; Waititu, Antony, G.; Gekara, Geoffrey M.
Working capital level determines whether a firm is aggressive or conservative in its operations. Aggressiveness in application of working capital management brings about improved financial performance but at the same time increases the level of risk. The paper looks at the influence of working level on performance in the industrial firms in Kenya.A sample was determined through stratified sampling method in order to include all different types of industries in Kenya. A questionnaire was used to collect data from chief Finance Officers of industrial firms in Kenya. Both descriptive and inferential analyses were done. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and regression analysis were used to test the hypothesis. The results show that there is a positive relationship between performance and working capital levels inindustrial firms in Kenya (0.544). Working Capital Levels explain 29.6% of the performance in the industrial firms in Kenya. 60.4% of the variation in performance is explained by other factors. The findings of the study revealed that the finance managers are cautious in the use of working capital items. They apply moderate financing and investment strategies.Therefore, we recommend the finance managers to be trained on issues of better utilization of working capital items for improved performance.
Effects of Credit Policy on Profitability of Manufacturing Firms in Kenya
(IOSR Journal of Economics and Finance (IOSR-JEF), 2014-01) Kungu, James, N.; Wanjau, Kenneth Lawrence; Waititu, Antony, G.; Gekara, Geoffrey M.
This paper considered the effects of credit policy on profitability of manufacturing firms in Kenya. The study looked at the elements that constitute the credit policy; credit terms, collection efforts, credit period and credit standards. A descriptive research design was used to collect the data from the field and a stratified random sampling technique was used to come up with a sample of 81 manufacturing firms. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 81 manufacturing firms in Nairobi industrial area and its environs in Kenya. However, only 71 questionnaires were returned. The chief finance officers of the manufacturing firms were requested to fill in the questionnaire. Both descriptive and inferential analyses were done. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and regression analysis were used to test the hypothesis. The results show that there is a positive relationship between profitability and credit policy in the manufacturing firms in Kenya (0.304). Credit policy explains only 9.2% of the profitability in the manufacturing firms in Kenya. 90.8% of the variation in profitability is explained by other factors. The findings of the study revealed that the way credit policy is designed impacts on the profitability of manufacturing firms. Therefore, we recommend that the finance managers of manufacturing firms regularly review the credit policy of their firms to ensure that they are ideal and result in increased profitability.
ENTREPRENEURIAL UTILIZATION OF CRUSHED STONE DUST: A COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS
(International Journal of Science Innovations and Discoveries, 2014-04-24) Ng'ang'a, S.I; Miyancha, O.; Omboto, P.I.; Likavo, P.L.
Crushed stone is a by-product of crushing stone which has been considered as unsalable and of no significant value. But entrepreneurs seek to use all resources and reduce waste to increase their profit margin and thus utilization of crushed stones will reduce pollution of; natural habitat, air, water and soil. Not much has been done in stone dust utilization and thus this paper examines not only the technological feasibility of using quarry dust as a concrete building material but also undertakes a cost benefit analysis for the same. The study was a case design of Sirikwa Quarry. The quarry dust was tested experimentally for technical viability in the production of building blocks; an impact assessment was conducted and a cost benefit analysis carried out to determine the commercial viability as well as social cost benefit of utilizing the quarry dust as a raw material in the manufacture of building blocks. The findings from this study are significant to the Ministries of environment and public works, local and international construction companies and quarries and SMEs. The findings indicate stone dust can replace river sand in making of concrete blocks which will lower cost building materials, reduce cost of housing and dispose stone dust leading to clean environment. It is thus recommended strongly that SMEs in the construction industry use stone dust in concrete blocks manufacture in the place of river sand.
Challenges Facing Women Entrepreneurs in Africa -A Case of Kenyan Women Entrepreneurs
(ijamee, 2014-06) Kyalo, Teresia Ngina; Kiganane, Lucy Maina
Entrepreneurship is the engine of economic growth and wheel that pedal the vehicle of economic development and has been recognized for its importance in the area of job creation, revenue generation, poverty alleviation and wealth creation [1-3] Following this, it is now identified as the central element in the theory of economic development and it makes up the largest business sector in economies [4,5]. It involves a willingness to rejuvenate market offerings, innovate, risks taking, trying out of new and uncertain products, services and markets and being more proactive than competitors towards exploring new business opportunities [6, 7]. It attracts both men and women who are interested in profitable inter-industry relationship. Women account for significant percent of the operators of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) [5, 8]. Women entrepreneurs make a substantial contribution to national economies through their participation in start-ups and their growth in small and medium businesses [9]. This paper looks at the challenges facing women entrepreneurs in Africa as entrepreneurship is regarded to be a male activity [10]. The main variables investigated were: demographic factors such as personal background, education and experience; social networks; and access to finance. The exploratory and descriptive research designs were adopted. Questionnaires were used as a tool of data collection. Stratified sampling method was used to get 130 respondents from Kenya. Data was analyzed using the SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Studies). Chi-square, ttest and logistic regression were used. Findings of the study revealed that demographic factors and social networks were the main challenges facing women entrepreneurs. However, access to finance was found not a major challenge as women entrepreneurs were found to prefer internal sources of financing. Recommendations based on these findings were: women empowerment, training and sharing of information, provision of networks to enable marketing, provision of working areas near home location because of family reasons, building of self-confidence and esteem, risk taking training to improve formal market credits and thus grow their enterprises.
Tag Archives: Information Security A Configurational Approach of the Relationship between Information Security Management and Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Kenya
(European - American Journals, 2014-07) Ndung'u, Stanley; Wanjau, Kenneth Lawrence https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3146-5324; Gichira, Robert; Mwangi, Waweru
Enterprises corresponding to a backbone of a modern society recognize information security management (ISM) as one of business management factors.Companies suffer significant financial and reputational damage due to ineffective information security management, severely impacting their performance and market valuation. Information security is vital for protecting important assets of organizations, including the information resources and the organization’s reputation. SMEs have the capacity to achieve rapid economic growth and in Kenya they employ about 85 percent of the Kenyan workforce. The need to link ISM with performance has become especially important for firms striving to achieve superior performance. However, there have been little documented evidences that existed for specific relationships between ISM and SME performance. To better understand this relationship, this paper takes a holistic approach guided by a cross-sectional research design. Using the hierarchical and moderated multiple regression (MMR) analyses, the theoretical models and hypotheses in this study were tested based on empirical data gathered from 94 SMEs that participated in the 2013 Top 100 Survey. The results revealed that entrepreneurial orientation significantly moderated the relationship between information security management and performance of SMEs. This study will enhance the skill set in Kenyan SMEs, producing a more sustainable solution, as well as contributing to the open literature.