MST-Department of Gender and Development Studies

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The Place and Role of Women in the S.D.A. Church in Kenya (1911-1990)
(Kenyatta University, 1994) Okemwa, Pacificah Florence
This study examines the place and role of women in the S.D.A. Church in Kenya. The theoretical framework used in this study examines patriarchy as the basis of women's subjugation. This is because the patriarchal society clearly defined what women should do, say and how they should behave. Women's sphere of influence was the home. The basic argument in this study is that women have been relegated to a subordinate position. Consequently, these women only play minor roles in the church. Chapter One outlines the procedure that used in investigating and analysing data. It also lays out the methodology used. Chapter two describes the traditional Gusii society. It uncovers some of the subtle aspects of this society plus some practices and beliefs that are oppressive to women. This information is used as a basis for analysis in later chapters. Chapter three examines Adventist missionary education. This discussion shows how the missionary education contributed to the subordination of women in the S.D.A. Church in Kenya. The missionaries trained men to become evangelists while women were encouraged to get married to the mission boys. Chapter four , examines the factors influencing the place and role of women in the S.D.A. Church. These include the white missionaries who have been serving the S.D.A. Church in Kenya since its establishment, the Bible, the teaching of Ellen G. White and the culture of the Abagusii. This chapter also analyses the ordination practice In the S.D.A. Church. Attempt is made to show how ordination has been used to keep women out of the leadership positions and decision making in the church. In Chapter five, the roles of women in the S.D.A.Church are described and interpreted. Here, it is observed that women play only minor roles. Finally, we conclude that the S.D.A. Church has hampered the wholistic development and participation of women in church affairs. Therefore, it is suggested that the S.D.A.Church has to open all ministries to women in order for it to adhere to the authentic christian principles.
Challenges facing income generating women groups in informal settlements: A study of selected women groups in Kibera
(Kenyatta University, 2012) Abala, Elizabeth
This study examined the challenges facing income generating women groups in informal settlements in Kenya with a special focus on women groups in Kibera slums. The study stemmed from the need to evaluate the impact of efforts put in place by the government and other stakeholders to improve the socio-economic status of women in Kenya. Thus, this study examined the underlying factors that affect the performance of women groups in Kibera slums. In this, we focused on the income generating activities that women groups in Kibera engage in, rules, regulations and procedures governing the operations of these groups and the socio-economic challenges facing women groups. The study was anchored in Sara Longwe’s women empowerment model as its conceptual framework. Using the model, we explored challenges facing women groups and the strategies that these groups employ to improve their socio-economic status. The study employed structured questionnaires and Focus Group Discussion in data collection. Data collected was cleaned, coded and entered in the computer. With the aid of SPSS, we subjected the refined data to analysis. Qualitative data was categorized into themes and subthemes for easier interpretation and analysis. The findings indicate that women groups in informal settlements have devised various income generating activities to improve their income, have got strict rules and regulations governing their operations and show a strong commitment to what they do in order to improve their socio-economic challenges. The findings from the study will be very informative to the government, NGOs and other Policy makers on the best strategies to use in empowering women in Kenya.
Change and continuity in the practice of clitoridectomy: a case study of the Tharaka of Meru East district
(2012-02-09) Kanake, Angeline Karithi
The purpose of this study was to establish the reasons behind the continued practice of clitoridectomy among the Tharaka people, despite the presence of various agents of change like Christianity and formal education in the Tharaka. Clitoridectomy has been discouraged since the colonial era and some rituals and ceremonies that accompanied it have been abandoned, leaving mainly the surgical operation. A further concern was to establish whether those who practice clitoridectomy are aware of its implications to health. A basic assumption was that clitoridectomy has social and religious significance, and as such is a resilient custom. The study area was Meru East District that is composed of three divisions namely, North Tharaka and South Tharaka. Female circumcision is one of the customs that have been a source of dispute and conflict in Kenya and elsewhere in the world. Various groups of people continue with the practice while others are against it. This study adopted a theoretical framework derived from Dahrendorff and Coser's theory of equilibrium, conflict and social change. The theory assumes that every society experiences social conflicts that lead to change. In the study, it is noted that conflict is part and parcel of the process of change affecting clitoridectomy among the Tharaka. The primary data were collected through questionnaires, observation and interviews. The informants were sampled from three administrative divisions of Tharaka District. The data were transcribed and incorporated with the library sources. They were interpreted, analyzed, and used as basis for explaining change and continuity of female circumcision among the Tharaka. The major findings from the study revealed that clitoridectomy is prevalent among Tharaka people and is practiced as a rite of passage from childhood to adulthood. Due to various factors such as formal education, urbanization and Christianity, the practice has undergone several changes. The study observes that clitoridectomy had a major social and religious role that worked best in the indigenous Tharaka community. Nevertheless, in view of the dangers that result from it, those who undergo clitoridectomy suffer more harm than good. It is recommended by this study that more information is vital to enlighten people in Tharaka of the dangers associated with female circumcision, in a move towards its eradication. The study observes that those who attack it often enhance cultural resilience. It is therefore recommended that the stakeholders like the local men and women leaders in Tharaka be involved in developing any program that may bring meaningful change. It is only those who practice these religious rituals who can make a judgment about their modification or their usefulness. The Tharaka themselves have the ultimate responsibility of evaluating the making conscious choices about their behaviour.
Church's approaches to peacebuilding and reconciliation in ethnic conflict areas in Kenya: a case study of Laikipia West district
(2012-04-12) Njoroge, Eric Mwangi
In Kenya, the phenomenon of ethnic- related conflicts seem to be frequent. As such, the Church has a call to understand and make use of her divine mission of building peace and fostering reconciliation in the society. However, one wonders which approaches the Church employs in peacebuilding and reconciliation. Could there be other additional methods of peacebuilding and reconciliation she could explore? Existing research into peacebuilding and reconciliation has shown how ineffective methodology could precipitate occurrence and resurgence of ethnic conflicts. Further ineffective methods of peacebuilding and reconciliation may result from exclusion of people's lifestyles and worldviews such as, rituals and customs and lack of complementarities. This research seeks to first, investigate the cause of ethnic conflicts in Laikipia West District. Second, identifies the peacebuilding and reconciliation processes employed by the church in Laikipia West District. Third, it evaluates African indigenous methods of peacebuilding and reconciliation among communities in Laikipia West District that could be relevant to the Church today. Finally, it suggests more effective strategies that the Church could employ in peacebuilding and reconciliation. The research was guided by a complementary framework which entailed mutual combination of theological/ penitence approach used by the church, symbolic approach based on African indigenous methods and other models of peacebuilding and reconciliation. Data for this study was obtained from primary and secondary sources. The former was both statistical and descriptive while the latter data was descriptive. The primary data were contained in duly filled questionnaires while the secondary data were in notes form. Guided by the objectives and premises of the study, the raw data was arranged according to the major themes. The study established that Laikipia West District has not known sustainable peace for a long time. The main causes of ethnic conflicts include land, poverty, militia gangs, gun culture, political incitement, racism and ethnic animosity. The study's findings indicate that churches in Laikipia West District have been at the forefront in fostering peace using different methods particularly submission, confession, and peace visits. The study established that conflicts recur because of the adoption of ineffective methods of peacebuilding and reconciliation and lack of community involvement. The study also found that complementary approach to peacebuilding and reconciliation is inevitable for long lasting peace. In multiethnic society, all actors should ensure they use a comprehensive approach that appreciates the diversity of cultural world views. After the interpretation and discussion of the data, conclusions were drawn and recommendations for further research given.
Factors affecting placement and professional growth of female employees in the Hotel industry: The case of Malindi Town
(Kenyatta University, 2013) Mwalaa, Chari Eunice
Although there is increasing realization that gender disparity affects economic development, lack of equal opportunities in the employment sector continues to be a dominant feature in many countries all over the world. These disparities arise from socio-cultural, political and economic factors. Individual country efforts have yielded a lot of success in some countries like the Nordic countries where they have attained up to 100% gender parity. In Kenya, women constitute more than 50% of the total population and their active participation in economic activities will significantly boost economic growth in the country. Tremendous efforts have been made by the Kenyan government to ensure that women are well-represented in all sectors of the economy. This includes legislation, affirmative action and gender mainstreaming, among others. However, little is known about how successful these efforts have been in ensuring equity in placement and professional growth of female and male employees particularly in hotel industry. Hotel industry supports tourism, which is the leading foreign exchange earner in Kenya and the major employer in Malindi Town, Coast Province. This study sought to find out the factors that affect the placement and professional growth of female employees in 6 selected star rated hotels in Malindi Town. The specific objectives were to determine the proportion of female and male employees at different ranks, identify factors determining the placement and affecting professional growth of female employees in the selected star-rated hotels in Malindi town; and suggest effective strategies of promoting placement and professional growth of female employees in hotel industry in Malindi Town. The study used descriptive design with both quantitative and qualitative research techniques. The researcher administered closed-ended questionnaires which were used to collect quantitative data from 34 female employees in the sampled hotels. For qualitative data, an interview schedule was used to interview key informants: a human resource manager and a female employee in management from each of the 6 hotels; a total of 9 key informant interviews were conducted. Data was analyzed using SPSS. The study concluded that there were clear gender disparities in job placement in the hotels under study with the male employees being much more than the female employees. It was also concluded that even though the hotels offered equal employment opportunities for placement and promotion, the reality showed that the female employees were still low in representation in all ranks and across all the departments. This was attributed to stereo types regarding performance with regard to gender. It is recommended that clear policies be designed and the existing ones implemented to ensure gender issue are properly addressed. Several recommendations have been made for policy and further study.
Challenges facing Gender Mainstreaming of the Provincial Administration in Ruiru District, Kiambu County
(2013-11-06) Mbui, Erastus Mwenda
This study was done in Ruiru District in Kiambu County. It sought to assess the challenges facing gender mainstreaming in the provincial administration and recommend remedial measures. This was achieved through an assessment of the gender mainstreaming strategies in use, the extent to which they have contributed to gender equality and the challenges that these strategies have not been able to address in order to reduce gender inequalities in the district. A sample of 58 respondents consisting of 33 men and 25 women drawn from Githurai and Ruiru Divisions of the District was used in the study. These included eleven government officers working in the provincial administration among them five women and six men. Twelve men village elders were randomly sampled from a list of seventy nine, while all the six women village elders in the district were purposively sampled for a focus group discussion. The village elders were sampled for the role that they play in helping administrators in discharge of duties within the villages that they serve. Also randomly sampled were 29 members of the public seeking services from the offices of provincial administrators across the district. These were composed of 14 women and 15 men. The study found that though there have been efforts to mainstream gender in the provincial administration, women are yet to get their fair share of opportunities in the institution. There are still some gender inequalities in terms of the number of men and women occupying public administration offices and even the expectations of who can hold such an office. Institutional culture and environment appear to be the major challenges to gender mainstreaming efforts. The ministry of provincial administration and internal security has also not done all that is necessary to prepare the district for effective gender mainstreaming. In this respect, ministerial gender policy and action plan were found to be lacking. The study recommends the stepping up of gender mainstreaming efforts which should be preceded by a gender analysis as well as the development of a ministerial gender policy and an action plan. These should form the basis for monitoring and evaluation to ensure the targets set in the Gender Action Plan are on course.
Challenges facing Participation of Girls with Special Needs in Inclusive Primary Schools in Chuka Division in Tharaka Nithi County
(2013-11-06) Tiira, Micheni Monica
Since the early years, children with learning disabilities were enrolled in special schools and this led to their segregation from regular schools. They were basically looked down upon in the society. Today, the government and key educational stakeholders have put great efforts in trying to include these learners into mainstream schools where they learn with the regular pupils. This has not been successful since not all children with special learning needs and who have attained the school age are enrolled in schools. The main concern of the study was to investigate the challenges facing the participation of school going girls with special needs in Chuka Division of Meru South District. The researcher also sought to establish the prevalence of girls with special needs and the different measures to address these challenges. Social learning theory by Vygotsky (1981) guided the study. The study established that social interaction by girls with special needs in the school environment precedes learning. This is in agreement with Vygotsky's social learning theory who also maintains that mainstream schools are better placed to offer inclusive education but have been slow to promote environment in which learners are actually involved in their education. Descriptive case study design was used. A total population of 74 respondents participated in the study. Purposive sampling was used to achieve a sample of educational officers, teachers, parents and girls with special needs. In Meru South District, Chuka Division has more schools that offer inclusive education and therefore these respondents. Stratified random sampling was used to get a sample of "normal" children through dividing the children into groups of boys and girls and then using simple random sampling to get a sample of 10 boys and 10 girls. Four sets of instruments were used. These were observation by the researcher, questionnaire for education officers and teachers, interview schedule for parents and girls with special needs and focus groups discussions for "normal" children. The instruments were valid and reliable in collecting data since they were first piloted in one primary school and changes made accordingly. Further the instruments content validity was ascertained by the supervisors who are experts in the department. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics whereas qualitative data was analyzed thematically in line with the objectives of the study. The major challenges identified were: - Low self-esteem, lack of facilities/inaccessible, overloading of teachers, discrimination due to disability and lack of role models. Counseling for girls with special needs and national campaigns on what entails inclusive education were some of the major recommendations that came up strongly. These will help the policy makers to address the unique needs of girls with special needs and to make programs that address their diverse challenges.
Challenges Facing Infertile Persons in the Agikuyu of Kieni West Division of Nyeri County, Kenya
(2013-11-06) Mwangi, Teresia Wairimu
This study investigated the challenges experienced by infertile individuals amongst the Agikuyu community in Kieni West Division. The study was based on the premise that there are many causes of infertility, many psycho-social as well as economic challenges faced by infertile persons in the Gikuyu Community. These challenges are being experienced even when many initiatives at international and national levels have been put in place to elevate the status of all people. The study identified mechanisms used by the Agikuyu to address infertility as well suggesting ways of overcoming these challenges. The study was guided by Linda Sharon's theory (2000). It states that barrenness alters an individual's sense of self worth by creating feeling of deficiency, hopelessness and shame. Both infertile men and women experience self conceptual image as a result of infertility and although they may experience it differently, women often feel inadequate and defiant for failing to fulfill personal and societal roles, while men often feel inferior, ashamed and angry. The study targeted childless couples who have been married for at least seven years, medical practitioners, and members of the clergy, administrators and neighbours of the infertile persons. Snowball sampling was employed to sample infertile persons, while purposeful sampling was used to sample members of the clergy, chiefs and medical practitioners. Simple random sampling was employed to sample the neighbours of the infertile individuals. Data was collected using interview schedules for the infertile individuals while questionnaires were used in all other categories. Quantitative data was analysed through descriptive statistics and findings presented in charts, percentages and proportions, while qualitative data was presented in a narrative report. The research found that infertility can have serious effect on both the psychological well-being and the social status of both men and women .However, it was also noted that women pay the price of infertility in a marriage. To address these challenges ,the study recommends public education on infertility ,delivery of good infertility care bearing in mind the implications of infertility and insight into the context in which it occurs and guidance and counseling.
Effects of Gender based Violence on Girls and Women in Kibera Informal Settlement, Nairobi County
(2013-11-06) Mwereru, Jane Igoki
This sought to investigate the effects of gender based violence (GBV) on girls and women in Kibera. an informal settlement. The aim was to document the nature and forms of GBV in Kibera as well as establish their causes. In addition, it sought to investigate the effects of GBV on girls and women. The target population was sampled from the nine villages that constitute Kibera Division. Purposive sampling was applied to select these villages. Findings revealed that there were various forms and causes of GBV in Kibera that had adverse effects on all facets of girls and women's lives, their health, economic and social aspects. Based on the findings it is concluded that GBV has adverse effects on girls and women in the informal settlements. From the research findings, it is recommended that there is need for increased sensitization and enhanced advocacy on GBV, enhanced awareness education with regard to the provision of Sexual Offences Act, where to seek help and what help is available for the survivors of GBV, strengthening of the legal framework and judicial system, and socio- economic empowerment of girls and women.
Challenges to Women's Participation in Trade Unions: The Case of Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Kangundo branch
(2013-11-06) Munuve, Dorcas Ngina; Wanjama, L.; Lodiaga, Mildred Jennifer A
This study sought to find out the challenges of women in participation in trade unions using the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Kangundo Branch.The study employed a descriptive research method and collected both qualitative and quantitative data .Data was analyzed using SPSS and presented in themes using tables and figures. Evidence from this study showed that women teachers are not fully involved in formulation and implementation of policies in Kangundo KNUT Branch. They are missing in key decision making organs. Major challenges facing women teachers in relation to participation include domestic duties, cultural barriers, lack of confidence and the view that men are better leaders. It is, therefore, recommended that there is need for change in attitudes and perceptions so as to fully engage women teachers in the Kenya National Union of Teachers.
The Effects of Co-education on the Perform.ance of Girls and Boys in KCSE in Taita Taveta District of Coast Province in Kenya
(2013-11-06) Wasike, Christine Murenga
An analysis of academic performance in reports at Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) has often indicated that performance in single sex secondary schools tends to be better than in mixed secondary schools .. This study investigated the environmental factors in coeducation at public secondary schools that affect leamers' performance. The environmental factors include gender ascribed roles that inhibited learners' achievements. The study also assessed the effects of coeducation on girls and boys learning behaviors in coeducation secondary schools. Both qualitative and quantitative data were adopted by use of Albert Social Cognitive Theory of Gender Development and Differentiation Findings dicate that single sex schools perfrom better than the co-educational schools. This reveals the eed to enhance overall performance and general achievement of both boys and girls and articularly in mixed schools. It is recommended that more single sex schools should be ~tablished if performance in KCSE has to improve, and this may be the case nationally as well. rhe already existing coeducation schools should as an intervention create single sex classrooms p avoid distractions caused by the presence of the different sexes in the same class. This paration could enable teachers to reasonably address the gender differences that are associated ith either sex during the teaching and learning process.
Gender Dynamics in the Access to and Control of Benefits Accrued from Tea Farming in Kiganjo Division, Gatundu District. Kenya
(2013-11-06) Kibere, Esther Njeri; Kimani, Elishiba; Lodiaga, Mildred Lodiaga
Agriculture is the cornerstone of Kenya's economy with most households depending on it for food and livelihood. Women provide the largest share of agricultural labour in many households. Despite the important role that the women play, they are discriminated in the area of access to and control over the agricultural benefits. In agriculture, tea farming is the main foreign exchange earner. But despite the important role tea farming plays in Kenya, there are gender inequalities in the access to and control of the benefits accrued from tea. The existing gender inequalities have not been adequately investigated and documented. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the gender dynamics in the access to and control of the tea benefits. The area of this study was Mundoro location, Kiganjo division, Gatundu District. Mundoro location was purposively selected as the locale of this study because tea farming is the main agricultural economic activity in the area. Through simple random sampling two sub-locations out of four in Mundoro location were selected. Random sampling technique was used to select five per cent (5%) of the households from the two sub-locations in proportion to the population. Respondents were the household heads and two tea factory officials. Data was collected using an interview schedule for the household heads and interview guide for the factory officials. Observation checklists were used to confirm the gender dynamics in the access to and control of tea benefits within the households and at the tea factory. Data collected was analyzed according to emerging themes based on the research objectives. The major finding of this study was that women are discriminated in the area of access to and control of tea benefits and especially in finances. However, the study established that female household heads had access to and control over the tea benefits within their households. The study identified money as the key benefit and the source of all discrimination within the households. The factors that determined the access to and control over the tea benefits were identified as biased tea registration by KTDA, culture of the people, widowhood and the level of education-,These factors encouraged gender stereotypes and discrimination. Based on these findings, it was recommended that barriers that hinder women from accessing and controlling tea benefits be eliminated by putting in place gendered strategies within KTDA. Deliberate efforts should also be put in place to sensitize the stakeholders in tea farming on the need to equitably share the tea benefits. The study recommended that strategies that enhance gender equity be put in place to enable all women and men to equally access and control benefits accrued from tea farming.
Gender Factors in Implementation of life Skills Education in Secondary Schools in Nairobi, Kenya
(2013-11-06) Ndirangu, Agnes Njoki; Ngare, Grace Warnue; Wango, Geoffrey
This study explored the gender factors facing implementation of the Life Skills Education in secondary schools in Nairobi East District. Data was analysed in the light of Bandura's (1977) social learning theory and Pearson's (2002) theory on gender relations. The study employed a descriptive research design whose sample comprised of principals of secondary schools, teachers, students and Ministry of Education officials in the PDE's office. Both quantitative and qualitative data was collected using a structured questionnaire, observation, interviews and focus group discussions. Findings indicate that there are gender limitations in selecting life skills' teachers in schools and life skills were mainly taught by female teachers. Teachers indicated that they were uncomfortable teaching sensitive topics to students of the opposite sex and that the syllabus was not fully covered. The majority of female students did not like sharing their problems with boys and preferred their fellow girls. This suggests that, there are gender barriers in the teaching of life skills in schools. In addition, findings revealed that principals of schools did not facilitate teachers' attendance of seminars and workshops to enhance their skills. Based on these findings, the study recommends gender-specific teaching of life skills. Further investigation should therefore be conducted on the attitude of teachers towards teaching life skills in schools. Lastly, more studies should be conducted on the impact of life skills education in secondary schools in Kenya.
Factors that motivate men to teach in preschools In Gatundu North District
(2013-11-07) Mwangi, Willy Waweru; Wango, G. M.
The field of pre-school teaching has for long been associated with women because of the attributed gender roles in the society. Factors that inspire men leading them into this highly stereotypical area and why they remain as pre-school teachers have not been adequately investigated and documented. The objective of the study was to investigate the factors that motivate men to teach in pre-schools in Gatundu North District. The subjects of the study consisted of all the male pre-school teachers in the district, sampled female pre-school teachers and headteachers from the schools these teachers were teaching. The researcher used Albert Bandura's Social Cognitive and Self Efficacy Theories to explain that one's thought process is important in making decisions to suite self. Sometimes these decisions are not in line with the socio-cultural context. It is, therefore, imperative that one should be driven by the innate forces to accomplish a desired goal while maintaining the norms of the society. The study sampled the respondents from both the male and the female pre-school teachers and the headteachers, using purposive sampling technique. Quota sampling was also used to distribute to each of the three zones the respondents proportionally. Data were collected using questionnaires and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) programme after coding it. The results indicated that the male subjects of the study were of the opinion that pre-school teaching was an employment opportunity and the gender stereotypes were an impediment to many males joining pre-school teaching. In view of this, it was concluded that the males in the pre-school teaching career in Gatundu North District were in it because of self-motivation, to demystify cultural gender stereotypes and that men and women can equally participate in the holistic development of the child. It was also recommended that conscious and deliberate efforts, through educating the public, formulation of policies and an affirmative action be put in place for the males to actualize the important space they occupy in their contribution towards the holistic development of the child. The study recommended that appropriate measures should be taken to bring in more males to pre-school teaching.
Effects of training on women-run micro and small enterprises In Kawangware Division, Nairobi County
(2013-11-07) Njoki, Sophia; Ndungo, C. M.; Wamue-Ngare, G.N.
The study examined effects of training on women-run micro and small enterprises in Kawangware Division, Nairobi County. The study was guided by Bishop (1994) theory of training through empowerment based on the human capital theory the study objectives included establishing the nature of training offered to women who runs MSEs, the effects of training on women-run MSEs, gender related challenges that hamper the growth of women-run MSEs, and responsive strategies for training of women. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and targeted four women groups trained by four MFls that operate in the area. The study used questionnaires and in-depth interview schedules as data collection instruments. The data was classified into different categories through coding and tabulation where descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution tables and percentages were used to present quantitative data. The qualitative data was presented thematically. As a result of training women-run businesses had become more profitable, had increased sales, became easier to manage and had more customers. In regard to gender-related challenges facing women-owned MSEs, the results revealed that most women entrepreneurs lack business management skills, capital as a result of gender roles. The study recommended that married women should be given support by their spouses in respect of finances, motivational encouragement, advice and actual involvement in the running of business. Access to credit by women entrepreneurs at the level of micro and small-scale enterprises, should be facilitated through innovative programs and financing arrangements that go beyond the conventional approaches; which require collateral and capital among other conditional ties. A major goal should be to promote the social and economic empowerment of women, as they constitute a vulnerable social category that is critical in sustainable development endeavours. Given that the study was confined to women running MSEs in Kawangware Division in Nairobi County, it is recommended similar studies be replicated targeting men and the youth entrepreneurs, to assess ways in which training influence their MSEs.
Factors influencing women's participation in Parliamentary elections in Gatundu South Constituency, Kiambu County
(2013-11-07) Ndungu, Rosemary Njeri; Wamue-Ngare, G.N.; Okemwa, Pacificah Florence
This study examined the factors that influence the political participation of women in parliamentary elections in Gatundu South Constituency. The study was based on the premise that there are socio-cultural and value related factors, which contribute to the subordination and marginalization of women in politics. The study therefore, attempted to identify and describe these factors, as well as suggest ways of overcoming the challenges facing women in political participation in that constituency. Liberal feminist theory and the concept of patriarchy guided the study. The study targeted registered voters in two of the six wards in the constituency. Polling stations in the selected wards served as the sampling units for the study. Simple random sampling was used to select two polling stations from each of the selected wards .Systematic sampling was employed to sample 30% ofthe registered voters from the selected polling stations. Three women, who had sought nominations in different political parties as parliamentary candidates, were purposively selected and interviewed for the study. A divisional-efficerrapliiefand two assistant chiefs also served as key informants. •. ~;~<,:/\:::):~';:';:-i'~ I"" Primary data were collected thro~) s&rrti-structured questionnaires and interview guides. Secondary data were o~iair1ed thro gh library research- ' , \\ • r Data analysis was done using tfue.Statistical Package for Social S'ciences (SPSS) Version 17.0 and the findings p~\ts,e~){?d,'in ~ables,gr~phs,incl-figures. Findings form qualitative data are presented in a It'~i:r'~~j'~f~~~Otrrheredeatch found that there are numerous challenges that have hinderedthe-pelitieal participation of women in Gatundu South Constituency. These include; lack of funds to finance political campaigns, being sidelined by political parties, outdated cultural practices and stereotypes that portray women as the weaker sex as well as political violence during electoral campaigns. To address these challenges, the study recommends the following measures: intensifying gender responsive civic education, restructuring political parties to ensure free and fare elections in their nominations, training women political aspirants in practical skills such as public speaking and planning political campaigns, providing female aspirants with funds to finance their political campaigns as well as eliminating gender- based violence during electoral campaign.
Challenges and their effect on the boy child education In Kieni East Districts Nyeri County
(2013-11-07) Gakinya, Teresa Wangui
In Kenya, boy child secondary education is experiencing emerging challenges which need to be established in order to arrest these worrying trends. This study sought to investigate challenges and their effects on the boy-child education in Kieni East District, Nyeri County. The research drew insight from Feminist Theory and research inspired by Postmodemism point of view which began in 1980s.There was need to carry out the study in order to understand the challenges and their effects on boy child education and come up with strategies of addressing them. The researcher explored why fewer boys than girls transited to secondary schools. The study explores many factors associated with enrolment, access, participation and progress which lie at the individual, household, school and community level and maps out how these factors interact The research explored the effects of the challenges on boy child. This study adopted descriptive survey method in order to answer the objectives and research questions it sought to achieve. The study was carried out among students, parents and teachers in Public Secondary Schools. A total of 156 respondents (84 students, 36 teachers 36 parents) were purposively sampled as subjects of the study. The main research instruments were questionnaires and interview schedule. A pilot study was conducted in one public secondary school which was not included in the actual sample. Data analysis was done using quantitative and qualitative techniques. Data was presented by use of tables, graphs and charts. Percentages and frequencies obtained were used to answer research questions. The challenges identified include drug abuse, lack of guidance and counseling, child labour, poverty, weak family institutions, corporal punishment and negative parental attitude. Other challenges included allure to easy money which led boys to join criminal gangs and to engage in criminal activities. This is as a result of the prevalence of a terror group 'Mungiki' that recruit the youth in large numbers in Kieni East District. The findings revealed that the highest dropout rate among boys was in form three followed by form two. The study recommended that the government through the ministry of education should unite with other stakeholders to sensitize the community on importance of addressing the needs of boys in secondary education. A Framework of readmitting boys who drop out of school is recommended to maximize access, enrolments and participation of boys in education. Guidance and counseling should be enhanced in schools and the boy child should be shielded from harmful practices such as drug abuse and deviant behavior. Parents should be sensitized on the importance of enrolling their children to secondary schools. The government should deal with criminal gangs like 'Mungiki.' The study helped in revealing the extent of the problem facing boy child secondary education thus opening avenues for further in depth study into gender issues in education.
Effects of gender-based violence on learners in Primary schools in Kasarani District, Nairobi County
(2013-11-07) Barasa, Sarah F.
The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and the Kenyan Constitution proclaim that children are to be protected from any kind of harm, violence or abuse. Despite the legal provisions and efforts to reduce and eliminate violence against children, particularly girls, violence and abuse are widespread in Kenya - taking place at home, in schools, and in the community at large. Cognizant of the prevalence of violence against school pupils, this study examined the effects of school-related gender- based violence in Kenya. The study sampled pupils and teachers from primary schools in Kasarani District of Nairobi County. Data were collected using questionnaires, interview guides and focus group discussion guides, analyzed using frequency distributions percentages. The study results indicate that school-related gender-based violence is an extremely grave problem. 9.6% of the respondents reported that they had been sexually assaulted at one time within the school environment by way of fondling their body parts, assaulted by both male and female perpetrators. 53% agreed that they had undergone one way of psychological abuse or the other, while 75% had suffered physical violence. The results further revealed a significant disparity in reporting patterns of each form of violence. These were influenced by several variables; reporting acts of sexual abuse for instance was influenced by the taboo surrounding matters of sex and fear of reprisals from the perpetrators. The fmdings also demonstrated that sexual abuse by teachers was also more widespread than the teachers themselves cared to admit. Consequently, both boys and girls suffered adverse effects on their learning experiences, their health and well being. This study concludes that there was overwhelming evidence that boys and girls continue suffering as a result of GBV albeit in silence and that there is a notable absence of attention to this issue in policy making, which is a critical strategic entry point if the effects of GBV on pupils are recognized. This study recommends that GBV prevention efforts must address the gender norms while response interventions should encompass reporting and referral procedures alongside health care psychosocial assistance, security and legal justice for victims.
Gender Dimensions in Guidance and Counselling among Students in Public Secondary Schools Public Secondary Schools in Githunguri District, Kiambu County
(2013-11-09) Kinyanjui, Alice Wambui; Ndungo, C. M.
One aspect of counselling in the educational system is to help boys and girls alike, to develop their capacities to the full. However, little is documented on the effect of gender factors in guidance and counselling among students in public secondary schools. The purpose of this study was to investigate how gender issues affect guidance and counselling among students in public secondary schools in Githunguri District, Kiambu County. The research had the following objectives; To find out the guidance and counselling issues among students in public secondary; to investigate if there are gender issues in guidance and counselling in secondary schools with reference to Githunguri District, whether students' issues are adequately addressed by guidance and counselling departments in secondary schools and to obtain views of teacher counsellors and students on the enhancement of guidance and the counselling departments. The research adopted a descriptive survey sample design by use of both quantitative and qualitative methods. The target population were public secondary school students in Githunguri District. Counsellor teachers in public secondary schools were used as key informants in this study. Both stratified and simple random sampling techniques were applied to select the sample of the study. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using the statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).The findings are presented using tables and frequency distributions to enhance clarity. The study findings reveal that there are more female teacher counsellors than male counsellors and more female than male students sought guidance and counselling services. The study also revealed that students' issues are not adequately addressed by the guidance and counselling programme. The study recommends that secondary school principals should appoint more male teachers in guidance and counselling and that in-service courses on gender issues should be held for teachers who offer guidance and counselling services in schools. It further recommends that school Principals should not engage teacher counsellors in disciplinary activities since that amount to role conflict. Finally students' issues should be kept secret by those entrusted in guidance and counselling.
Challenges of Mainstreaming Gender in National Planning and Budgeting Process in Kenya
(2013-11-09) Njeru, Catherine Gaku; Wamue-Ngare, G.N.; Ndungo, C. M.
The government of Kenya has expressed her intention to attain gender equality through gender mainstreaming. The government of Kenya has taken steps in establishing policies and institutional mechanisms for gender mainstreaming. However gender mainstreaming programmes are not effective. Yet, taking a gender perspective in development process including budgeting and planning process is crucial in attaining development inspirations in the Vision 2030, the Constitution and Millennium Development Goals. The study sought to find challenges of mainstreaming gender in planning and budgeting process in Kenya. The study took place in Nairobi County and focused on three ministries whose role in mainstreaming gender in planning and budgeting is considered important. The study utilized change theory that argues in any planned change reinforcing and restraining forces must be identified, analyzed and action taken. This study used a descriptive research design and collected data from primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. Secondary data was obtained from government policies, manuals and reports on gender, planning and budgeting. Literature was also reviewed from journals, books and internet sources. The study found that methods used to mainstream gender in planning and budgeting process include, trainings, integration of gender in the planning and budgeting frameworks, establishment of gender focal points and development of ministerial gender policies. Effectiveness of these methods was hindered by lack of monitoring, low gender mainstreaming skills, ineffective gender mainstreaming structures and lack of budget. The study concludes that for gender mainstreaming to be effective there is urgent need to build gender mainstreaming skills of officers in government ministries, strengthen gender focal points, allocate sufficient budget to gender work and coordinate policy development across sectors to ensure gender mainstreaming coherently runs across all sectors.

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