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PUBLIC FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND THE SUSTAINABILITY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENTS IN KENYA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-07) JAEL AYIRO OSUNDWA
Effective public financial management (PFM) is critical for good governance and sustainable development. In Kenya, county governments continue to face sustainability challenges due to persistent financial inefficiencies. This study examined the relationship between PFM practices and the sustainability of county governments, focusing on five components: financial controls, financial accountability, resource mobilization, financial monitoring, and budget implementation. Anchored in Decentralization Theory and using a positivist paradigm with an ex-post facto design, the study targeted 23 counties within the LREB, NOREB, and SEKEB economic blocs. A multi-stage sampling technique yielded 1,219 finance staff as respondents. Data were collected through questionnaires and secondary records and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Structural Equation Modeling. The findings indicated that strong financial controls enhanced fund security, efficiency, and plan adherence. Financial accountability promoted transparency, stakeholder engagement, and access to funding. Resource mobilization through revenue diversification and partnerships improved financial independence. Effective financial monitoring enabled timely corrective actions, while sound budget implementation supported strategic resource use and stability. The study concludes that county government sustainability relies on strengthening both development and recurrent budget management. It recommends enhancing internal controls, regular audits, staff capacity building, adoption of digital revenue systems, participatory budgeting, and strategic partnerships. Real-time monitoring and improved interdepartmental coordination are also essential for long-term financial sustainability
EMPLOYEE PERCEPTIONS OF STATUTORY DEDUCTIONS ON EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY IN SELECTED CONFECTIONERY MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES IN NAIROBI CITY COUNTY.
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-04) EVELYNE WANGARI NJENGA
Employee productivity is important as it determines the value of the organization. In Nairobi, the confectionery industry has witnessed increased consumer demand and expanded marketing opportunities however, productivity challenges persist influenced by various factors such as management practices as well as working conditions. Understanding these factors is essential for enhancing efficiency and competitiveness in the industry. Therefore, to improve employee productivity manufacturing companies must have strategies that involve creative and innovative thinking, quality services and timeliness in achievement of tasks. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of employee perceptions of statutory deductions on their productivity in confectionery industries in Nairobi. The research focused on specific objectives that were; to determine the effect of perceived fairness of statutory deductions, to examine the effect of administration of statutory deductions, to identify the effects of income level and to establish the effect of tax policies on employee productivity in confectionery industries in Nairobi. It also explored if organization culture had a moderating effect on the relationship between statutory deductions and employee productivity. The research was supported by the Expectancy theory, Equity theory, effort- reward imbalance theory and Hertz berg's two factor theory. A positivism philosophy was used to test the hypotheses through the use of a descriptive research design. The design used quantitative data. The research utilized simple random sampling technique to select a sample size of 73 employees from a target population of 90 employees in the selected confectionery industries for the study. The primary method of collecting data was through questionnaires. The researcher conducted a pilot study using a pre-test method where content, construct and criterion validity was ensured. To verify for reliability of the questionnaire it was tested using Cronbach’s Alpha value, with a values being > 0.70 showing that there was internal consistency. Diagnostic tests were conducted in the form of normality tests and multicollinearity tests using the Variance inflation Factor revealing a VIF < 3 which meant there was no multicollinearity between the variables. Descriptive statistics were used to present data in the form of percentages, mean, and standard deviation. As for inferential statistics multiple regressions analyzed the relationship between statutory deductions and employee productivity. Data was sorted, edited and analyzed using SPSS version 30 and regression analysis employed to show the relationship between the variables and data presented in diagrams and tables. The findings indicate that there was a significant positive relationship between employee perceptions of statutory deductions and employee productivity (0.734). Income level positively influences employee productivity (0.237) while perceived fairness (0.460) and tax policies (0.413) have a positive relationship with productivity but showed no statistically significant effect. Administration of statutory deductions demonstrated a negative relationship with productivity at (-0.589) suggesting that inefficiencies in statutory processes may hinder productivity. Organization culture showed a significant moderating effect on the relationship between statutory deductions and productivity implying that a supportive culture may offset negative impacts of deductions. Recommendations for practice from the study would be adopting equitable taxation models, having salary reviews for the employees ,enforcing fair and progressive tax policies as well as optimizing administrative efficiency and fostering a supportive culture that prioritizes employee well-being.
CREDIT MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND ASSET QUALITY OF MICROFINANCE INSTITUTIONS IN MALAWI.
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-09) SR. GLORIA TENTHANI
Microfinance institutions (MFIs) play a significant role in the provision of financial services to excluded members of society by providing loans (small loans), savings, and insurance to the excluded populations. By improving financial inclusion, MFIs play a significant role in driving economic activity and enhancing the lives of people who are not afforded the privilege of mainstream banking. In spite of this, MFIs face the challenge of non-performing loans, high defaults and low repayment levels of the same in terms of credit lines advanced by them. This has been the case against the MFIs, thereby impeding asset quality maintenance. The current research concerned itself with the impact of credit management practices on the quality of the asset in microfinance institutions in Malawi. The particular research question was to analyse how credit policy, client credit appraisal, credit terms and credit risk control affect the quality of the asset in the MFIs in Malawi. The hypotheses used in the research were the asymmetric information hypothesis, behavioural finance hypothesis, contract hypothesis and credit risk hypothesis. The study used the descriptive cross-sectional research design to correlate relationships among the variables. The sample was a population consisting of 107 MFIs in Malawi. The method of simple random sampling was employed to get a sample size of 84 MFIs. The primary data were obtained through the use of questionnaires, and the secondary data were collected using a data collection form that was used to obtain publicly published financial statements of all MFIs in Malawi. Information was summarized with the help of various statistics. The descriptive statistics included the frequencies, the average, the standard deviation and the percentage. The regression analysis and other inferential statistics were used to study the relationship between the credit management practices and the quality of the asset in MFIs in Malawi. Based on the study findings, it was observed that all four credit management practices included in the study significantly affected the quality of the asset. The findings indicated that credit policy had a positive and significant effect on the quality of the asset (0.295, p = 0.003). In the same way, client credit appraisal showed a large and positive association with the quality of asset (beta = 0.410, p< 0.001). The credit terms also showed a positive, significant correlation with the quality of the asset (beta 0.222, p = 0.014), and, finally, the credit risk control also showed a positive, significant correlation with the quality of the asset (beta 0.263, p = 0.007). The study concluded that standardised and uniform credit management procedures are central to the strength in recovering asset quality and the viability of microfinance institutions in Malawi. It is the recommendation of the study that credit management practices in Malawi should be standardised and enforced in all the microfinance institutions to boost repayment, to safeguard asset quality and support financial sustainability. Policymakers should encourage the concept of responsible lending and consumer protection by implementing more effective credit policies and risk management measures.
GREEN ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATIONS AND PERFORMANCE OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES IN THE PUBLIC TRANSPORT SECTOR IN NAIROBI METROPOLIS, KENYA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-09) ARNOLD SOITA WEKESA WASIKE
Investors in the public transport sector in Nairobi incur high maintenance costs due to the petroleum products used by their vehicles and this has had a negative effect on the financial performance of the SMEs. This study sought to establish the influence of green entrepreneurship orientation on the performance of public transport SMEs in Nairobi Metropolis, Kenya. The study specifically sought to: determine the influence of green innovativeness, green risk taking, green proactiveness and competitive aggressiveness on the performance of public transport SMEs in Nairobi Metropolis. The moderating role of government policy on the relationship was also determined. The study was anchored on disruptive innovation theory, risk compensation theory, proactive work theory, theory of competitive advantage and systems theory. Descriptive survey research design was adopted and the target population comprised of 334 investors in Super Metro and Metro Trans Saccos, and financial managers and route managers working in the Super Metro and Metro Trans Saccos in Nairobi Metropolis. The stratified sampling technique, simple random sampling technique and purposive sampling technique were used in this study. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire and its validity and reliability was checked. Secondary data was also gathered from financial annual reports that included performance, particularly total assets, return on equity, and return on assets from 2019 to 2024, using a data collection form. The findings showed that green innovativeness had a positive correlation with performance of SMEs in the public transport sector in Nairobi Metropolis (0.685**). The regression results indicated that green innovativeness showed a strong positive and significant relationship with the performance (β = 0.806, t=6.974, p = 0.000). In addition, the correlation results showed that green risk taking had a positive correlation with performance of SMEs in the public transport sector in Nairobi Metropolis (0.473**). The findings revealed that green risk taking had a positive but insignificant relationship with the performance of SMEs in the public transport sector in Nairobi Metropolis (β = 0.224, t=2.389, p = 0.018). The study also found that green innovativeness had a positive correlation with performance of SMEs in the public transport sector in Nairobi Metropolis (0.458**). This study found that green proactiveness has a positive and significant impact (β = 0.223, t=3.532, p = 0.000). The correlation results also showed that competitive aggressiveness had a positive correlation with performance of SMEs in the public transport sector in Nairobi Metropolis (0.657**). This study found that competitive aggressiveness had a negative and insignificant relationship with the performance of SMEs in the public transport sector in Nairobi Metropolis (β =-0.355, t=-2.288, p = 0.024). This study further found that government policy shows a strong positive and significant moderating effect on the relationship between green entrepreneurial orientations and performance of SMEs in the public transport sector in Nairobi metropolis (β = 0.779, t=5.925, p = 0.000). The study recommends that the management should provide trainings for its managers to enhance their managerial innovation. It is also recommended that the management should put in place monitoring systems to reduce technological hazards. Another recommendation is that more green services should be introduced by the SMEs in the public transport sector as they use renewable energy. The study also recommends that the management should embark on the use of digital marketing activities so as to increase the visibility of their green buses and green services to enhance performance.
INVESTMENT DIVERSIFICATION AND FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY OF CATHOLIC WOMEN RELIGIOUS CONGREGATIONS OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF NAIROBI
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-09) OSITA THEODORA CHINASA
Catholic Women Religious Congregations (CWRCs) in the Archdiocese of Nairobi are increasingly confronted with financial strain arising from declining donor support, escalating operational costs, and inadequate long-term financial planning. This study investigated the effect of investment diversification on their financial sustainability, with specific focus on equity investments, fixed income investments, and real asset investments. The analysis was anchored on Modern Portfolio Theory, Stewardship Theory, Stakeholder Theory, and the Resource-Based View. A descriptive correlational research design was employed, and data were collected from bursars of selected congregations through structured questionnaires. The study established that all three forms of investment equity, fixed income, and real assets contributed positively to strengthening financial sustainability, with fixed income investments emerging as the most reliable source of stability due to their predictable returns and low-risk profile. It concludes that a well-diversified investment portfolio is essential for enhancing the long-term financial viability of religious congregations. The study recommends adopting balanced investment strategies, strengthening governance structures, and building financial management capacity to ensure sustainable mission-driven service delivery. These findings extend investment diversification theories into the non-profit religious context and provide practical insights for policymakers, church bodies, and donors seeking to promote financial resilience in faith-based organizations.
WORKING CAPITAL MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY OF RETAIL BOOKSTORES IN NAIROBI CITY COUNTY
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-08) BETTY NABUUSO
The financial viability of Nairobi City County's retail bookshops has been threatened by growing operating expenses, declining profit margins, and poor working capital management techniques. The purpose of this study was to ascertain how working capital management techniques affected the retail bookstores in Nairobi city county the ability to remain financially sustainable. In particular, it evaluated the impact of inventory management, accounts payable management, accounts receivable management, and cash management on the financial sustainability of retail bookstores in Nairobi City County. The Free Cash Flow Theory, TradeOff Theory, Resource-Based View Theory, and Economic Order Quantity Theory served as the study's pillars. The study, which used cross-sectional survey design, focused on 67 registered bookstores and received 57 responses. Multiple regression and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data collected. The results from the data collected and analyzed showed that working capital management practices had a significant impact on financial sustainability. According to the study, bookstores should improve their receivables collection procedures, optimize their credit agreements with suppliers, fortify their cash flow planning and implement effective inventory control systems that are informed by the Economic Order Quantity framework. To improve the retail book industry's resilience and financial sustainability, these tactics are crucial.
FINANCING SOURCES AND THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES IN RUIRU TOWN, KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2026-04) GEOFFREY WAKANYI
Across both developed and developing countries, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are crucial contributors to economic growth by contributing to employment, innovation, and productivity. Even with this support, many SMEs encounter ongoing financing difficulties that hinder their capacity to compete and expand. Why is this so? Commercial bank loans and trade credit have remained inadequate or unavailable for most businesses in Ruiru Town, Kiambu County, Kenya. This is a clear indication of the necessity to explore other funding avenues. The financial outcomes of SMEs were investigated by investigating the impact of four financing types, which are equity capital, asset-backed lending, debt funding, and personal savings. It was grounded in the Pecking Order Theory and the Trade-Off Theory, with a focus on correlational research. A target of 248, as per Yamane's formula, can be achieved. A structured survey was conducted among 198 owners and managers of SME businesses. They were chosen.? Using the SPSS, data was processed using both descriptive techniques (mean’s, percentages and standard deviations plus variances) and inferential analyses, including normality assessments (Kolmogorova–Smirnov and Shapiro–Wilk tests), correlation and regression modeling. The study's results showed that asset-based financing and debt financing were responsible for the most significant enhancements in cash flow, operational flexibility, and capital accessibility. Equity financing had several strategic benefits, including enhanced governance and greater network reach but was only moderately adopted due to lack of awareness or concerns about potential ownership dilution. Despite their moderate impact on long-term performance, personal savings were the most common source of start-up capital and a way to maintain complete control over the business. SME businesses were able to improve their financial performance through diversified financing sources, with the exception of those that achieved relatively modest returns on equity and assets. The study suggests that SME growth can be boosted by pooling various financing options, but the effectiveness of each depends on business maturity, operational capacity, and market conditions. The study suggests that the most effective outcomes are: heightened awareness of equity financing, less complicated collateral registration for asset-backed credit, increased support for fintech and non-traditional lending platforms, and assistance to SMEs in balancing personal savings with scalable external capital. Additionally, Also, the development of financial familiarity is crucial for entrepreneurs who want to assess their performance accurately through indicators like Return on Assets (ROA), Return On Equity (ROE) and profit margin. By implementing these measures collectively, SME competitiveness can be enhanced and financing can become sustainable.
CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES, TECHNOLOGY INFRASTRUCTURE AND SALES PERFORMANCE IN MEDIUM-SIZED CARBONATED SOFT DRINK MANUFACTURING FIRMS IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA.
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-08) ELIAS NYAGA
Food and beverage firms face challenges such as poor data integration, weak feedback management, and limited technology adoption, which hinder sales performance. This study examined how the Customer Relationship Management strategies, moderated by technology infrastructure, influence sales in Kenya’s medium-sized carbonated soft drink manufacturing firms. Customer Relationship Management strategies were conceptualized into four dimensions of customer knowledge, interaction, feedback, and value. Theories guiding the study included the Attention, Interest, Desire, and Action Model, Dynamic Capability Theory, E-Customer Knowledge Management Model, Relationship Marketing Theory, Voice of the Customer Theory, Customer Perceived Value Theory, and the Technology Adoption Model. A descriptive research design targeting 86 staff, of whom 71 responded, yielding a robust 82.6% response rate was carried out. Data were collected through structured questionnaires. SPSS (version 27) was utilized in data analysis, combining descriptive statistics, multiple regression, and diagnostic tests for normality, homoscedasticity, and multicollinearity. Inferential results revealed that customer interaction (β = 0.559, p < 0.001) and customer value (β = 0.483, p < 0.001) significantly enhanced sales performance, while customer knowledge (β = 0.065, p = 0.603) had a positive but insignificant effect. Customer feedback demonstrated a negative yet statistically significant effect (β = –0.625, p < 0.001), highlighting the risk of unmanaged feedback undermining performance. Collectively, the four Customer Relationship Management dimensions explained 52.3% of the variance in sales performance (R² = 0.523, F = 18.089, p < 0.001). Moderated regression showed that technology infrastructure exerted a strong positive effect (B = 0.198, p < 0.001), raising the model’s explanatory power to 53.6% (R² = 0.536, F = 18.198, p < 0.001). The study concluded that effective customer interaction and delivery of superior value are the most influential Customer Relationship Management levers for sales growth, while technology infrastructure acts as a pivotal moderator that enhances the effectiveness. It recommends investing in robust Customer Relationship Management systems, systematically acting on customer feedback, and training staff on technology-enabled tools to strengthen competitiveness. Future research should extend to other industries and adopt longitudinal designs to capture evolving CRM–performance dynamics.
STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND PERFORMANCE OF SUPERMARKETS IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-09) PATRICK KIOLI
The retail sector, particularly the supermarkets, plays a key role in shaping the global economy through the provision of essential goods and services to consumers. Despite this crucial role in shaping the global economy, the supermarkets face challenges, including but not limited to increasing competition, fluctuations in consumer preferences, and technological advancements. These challenges necessitate the supermarkets to adopt effective strategic management practices to enhance sustainable performance. The primary goal of this research was to determine the effect of strategic management practices on the performance of supermarkets in Nairobi City County. The study focused on four specific research objectives, namely, to determine the effect of inventory management, supply chain management, strategic human resource management, and technology adoption on the performance of the supermarkets. This research was anchored on strategic choice theory, resource-based view theory, dynamic capability view theory, and attribution theory. To achieve its main purpose, the study adopted a descriptive research design with a population of 137 branch managers drawn from the supermarkets operating in Nairobi City County as licensed by the Business Licensing Board. Due to the small target population, the study carried out a census to obtain data from all 137 branch managers. The data collection instrument was subjected to a pre-test conducted on purposively selected supermarket managers operating in Thika Town, Kiambu County. The study adopted Cronbach's Alpha the evaluate the reliability of the questionnaire items, and the results indicated that all items had a Cronbach's alpha value of more than 7.0 and concluded that they were reliable to measure the intended objectives. The data was collected by the use of a questionnaire technique and was analysed using descriptive statistics (frequency, standard deviation, and mean) and inferential statistics (correlation and regression analysis) using SPSS v26. Before collecting data, the researcher sought authorization from the university, NACOSTI, and supermarket management for permission to conduct the study as required by research ethics. The study findings indicated that strategic management practices (inventory management, supply chain management, human resource management, and technology adoption) had a positive and significant effect on the performance of supermarkets in Nairobi City County at a 5% significance level. Specifically, the findings regarding inventory strategies were significant in enhancing operational efficiency, and supply chain management findings showed that strong supplier partnerships and market relationships allow for recognition of the value of effective supply chain strategies in boosting performance. Furthermore, the results on strategic human resource management revealed a significant and positive effect of effective recruitment processes, training programs, and rewarding and employee compensation strategies on the performance outcomes of the supermarkets in Nairobi City County. Finally, adoption of technology practices exhibited a significant and positive effect on the performance of supermarkets, emphasizing continual assessment and enhancement of technological infrastructure to remain competitive in the dynamic retail industry. The study recommends that supermarkets should adopt effective and efficient strategic management practices, especially inventory management, supply chain management, human resource management, and technology adoption practices, to improve supermarket performance and gain a competitive advantage in the industry. Future studies on a similar topic should focus on conducting longitudinal studies to reveal the time effect in the relationship between strategic management practices and supermarket performance in Nairobi City County.
CASH MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY OF PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES IN KENYA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-08) IBEGBU EMMANUEL CHINONYE
Universities play a critical role in sustaining human development by instilling knowledge, skills, and promotion of talents, which contribute significantly to economic development. Nevertheless, financial challenges have been one of the major problems among the universities, making them unable to meet their financial obligations when they fall due. Private universities in Kenya have adopted cash management strategies such as tracking cash receipts and payment and meeting the cash disbursement, cash collection, and cash holding to overcome their financial distress. Despite the employment of such strategies, private universities in Kenya are still financially unsustainable, as most of them reported deficits in their income statements. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to establish the influence of cash management practices on financial sustainability in private universities in Kenya. The study was guided by four objectives: to establish the influence of cash budgeting practices, cash flow forecasting, cash control measures, and surplus cash management on the financial sustainability of private universities in Kenya. The study was anchored on economic sustainability theory (EST), the Baumol cash management model, agency theory, and modern portfolio theory. Explanatory research design was used in the study. Primary data were collected from 34 private universities in Kenya using the census method. Data was analyzed using inferential statistics, specifically correlation and multiple regression using SPSS version 25. The result of the analysis revealed that the cash management practices examined have a positive correlation with financial sustainability except for the cash budgeting practice, which exhibited a negative correlation. Meanwhile, the regression result indicated that the overall model is statistically significant, meaning that the independent variables put together explained the change in financial sustainability. However, cash budgeting practices revealed a statistically significant negative effect, while cash control measures display a low and statistically insignificant beta value. These findings underscored the imperative for private universities in Kenya to examine the implementation of cash budgeting practices in relation to financial sustainability. Furthermore, administrators of private universities in Kenya should prioritize strengthening cash budgeting practices, cash flow forecasting, cash control measures, and surplus cash management, given their correlated relationship with financial sustainability. By doing so, private universities in Kenya can possibly enhance their financial sustainability.
HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGY AND EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION IN MARIST SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN NIGERIA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-08) ARIKPO EFFAH VINCENT
This study investigated the impact of Human Resource Management Technologies (HRMT) on employee satisfaction in Marist Secondary Schools, Nigeria. HRMT tools such as Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS), Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), and e-learning platforms play a pivotal role in enhancing operational efficiency and job satisfaction. Yet, limited adoption within Nigerian educational institutions has been linked to low staff morale, high turnover, and declining academic outcomes. Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Equity Theory, Social Cognitive Theory, Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, Diffusion of Innovations, and Modernization Theory, the study focused on four HRMT dimensions: recruitment, compensation, learning, and innovation, with infrastructural development examined as a moderating factor. Using a positivist paradigm and descriptive survey design, data were collected from 223 randomly selected teaching staff out of a total population of 502 across eleven Marist Secondary Schools. Structured questionnaire ensured data reliability (Cronbach’s alpha confirmed internal consistency). SPSS Version 28 was employed for descriptive analysis, Pearson’s correlation, multiple regression, ANOVA, and diagnostic testing. Correlation results revealed that all HRMT dimensions positively and significantly relate to employee satisfaction (p < 0.01), with recruitment technology showing the strongest correlation (r = 0.533) and compensation technology the weakest (r = 0.405). Regression analysis indicated that HRMT collectively explains 38.2% of the variance in employee satisfaction (R² = 0.382), confirming its predictive strength. Findings highlighted the role of HRMT in improving recruitment transparency, payroll reliability, professional growth, and workplace innovation. The study emphasized the importance of strong digital infrastructure and cyber security in supporting HRMT success and recommends investment in AI-driven recruitment, automated payroll systems, adaptive learning tools, and secure digital platforms. These findings provided valuable direction for policymakers and education leaders aiming to enhance workforce engagement and institutional outcomes in developing contexts. Future research should investigate the long-term effects of HRMT adoption on employee well-being, psychological safety, inclusion, and performance across African educational systems.
TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP PRACTICES AND PERFORMANCE OF MARIST SECONDARY SCHOOLS, NIGERIA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-08) IHUOMA LINUS CHUKWUDI
Transformational leadership has gained widespread recognition for its role in enhancing organizational performance, particularly in the education sector. This study investigated the impact of transformational leadership practices Idealized Influence, Inspirational Motivation, Intellectual Stimulation, and Individualized Consideration on the performance of Marist secondary schools. Anchored in Bass’s Transformational Leadership Theory, the research also drew on Social Learning Theory, Goal-Setting Theory, Creative Problem-Solving Theory, and Leader-Member Exchange Theory to provide a robust conceptual framework. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, and structured questionnaires were used to collect data from 141 participants drawn from seven Marist secondary schools. Stratified random sampling was used to select teachers, while purposive sampling targeted Senior Secondary School Three students. The study adopted both positivist and post-positivist research philosophies. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS, incorporating descriptive statistics, Spearman’s rank, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analyses. Diagnostic tests for normality, multicollinearity, and homoscedasticity were conducted to validate the statistical models. Reliability was confirmed through a pilot study, with Cronbach’s Alpha values of 0.807 for teachers and 0.856for students. Results indicated that Idealized Influence had the strongest positive correlation with school performance (r = 0.910), while Inspirational Motivation (r = 0.809) significantly influenced school culture. Intellectual Stimulation (r = 0.415) and Individualized Consideration (r = 0.511) showed moderate contributions to performance. However, leadership communication gaps and inclusivity challenges were noted. The study recommended strengthening leadership communication strategies, enhancing inclusive motivational practices, promoting creativity, and implementing structured mentorship programs. It concluded by suggesting future research on the long-term effects of transformational leadership on student outcomes and the evolution of leadership practices in educational settings.
JOB SATISFACTION INDICATORS AND EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE AT THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-06) TUHAME GODWIN
This study examined the influence of job satisfaction indicators on the performance of workers at the National Council of Persons with Disabilities. This research examined the influence of job autonomy, employee remuneration, career development opportunities, and work-life balance on the performance of employees at the National Council of Persons with Disabilities in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study also sought to elucidate the moderating effect of organizational culture on the relationship between job satisfaction and employee performance at the National Council of Persons with Disabilities in Nairobi County, Kenya. This study focused on five distinct theories: Self-Determination Theory (SDT), Equity Theory, Spillover Theory, and Schein's Organizational Culture Model, in that sequence. This study used case study research. Ninety-four individuals were employed at NCPWD, constituting the target demographic. Utilizing the census method, every employee was selected to constitute the study sample. Questionnaire was used for data collection. A pilot study was done to assess the validity and reliability of the questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential statistics, together with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, were used to analyze the collected primary data. Descriptive statistics included percentages, means, and standard deviations, in addition to being shown via frequency tables, pie charts, and bar graphs. Inferential statistics included correlation and multiple linear regression analysis in order to ascertain the relationship between the independent and dependent variables of the study as well as the effect of the moderating variable. From the analysis, the study established that job autonomy (β= 0.394, p=.001<0.05), employee compensation (β= 0.413, p=.000<0.05), career development (β= 0.407, p=.000<0.05), and work-life balance (β= 0.585, p=.000<0.05) had a statistically significant effect on employee performance at NCPWD. It was also established that organization culture had a statistically significant moderating effect on the relationship between job satisfaction and employee performance at NCPWD (R2=0.803, F-statistics=35.164, p=.000<0.05). The study recommended that to sustain and improve performance, NCPWD should institutionalize policies that promote autonomy while ensuring alignment with organizational goals and accountability structures. The organization should put in place a well-structured and equitable promotion policy that ensures fairness and meritocracy, thereby fostering trust, motivation, and improved employee performance across the board. It was further recommended that the organization continues to strengthen and expand its career development initiatives. The study further recommended that the organization should regularly assess the effectiveness of its support systems—such as medical care and leave policies—to ensure they remain responsive to the evolving needs of employees and contribute positively to their overall performance and job satisfaction. The study further recommended that further studies could also explore the role of other moderating or mediating variables such as leadership styles, organizational justice, or employee engagement in the relationship between human resource practices and employee performance.
MOBILE BANKING SERVICES ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF BANKS IN AJEGUNLE TOWN, NIGERIA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-08) MARIA OKON DAVID
This study examined the effect of mobile banking services on the financial performance of banks in Ajegunle, Lagos, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to assess the effect of mobile money service subscribers, mobile money service agents, mobile money service transactions, and the value of mobile money service transactions on bank financial performance. Adopting a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were gathered through structured questionnaires from 37 respondents, comprising 25 bank managers and 12 operational managers. The analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) with both descriptive and inferential statistics, including multiple regression analysis. The regression model showed strong explanatory power with R² = 84.6% Adjusted R² = 0.769, and an F-statistic of 11.53 (p < 0.002), indicating the overall significance of the model. Findings revealed that all independent variables had statistically significant effects: mobile money subscribers (β = 0.109, p = 0.002), mobile money agents (β = -0.690, p = 0.001), mobile money transactions (β = 0.006, p = 0.005), and transaction value (β = -0.016, p = 0.004). Given that the p-values for agent network (p = 0.001) and transaction value (p = 0.004) are both less than the 0.05 significance level, their inverse effects are statistically significant and warrant careful review in operational strategies. Both managerial and operational staff acknowledged the transformative effect of mobile banking services on profitability, cost-efficiency, customer satisfaction, and financial inclusion. The study was guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Diffusion of Innovation (DOI), Financial Performance Theory (FPT), and Financial Intermediation Theory (FIT). It concludes that optimizing mobile banking dimensions, especially through strategic expansion, efficient agent deployment, and innovation, can enhance bank performance. It recommends expanding the subscriber base, streamlining agent networks, investing in robust transaction systems, and promoting collaboration with policymakers to advance innovation and financial inclusion. Future research should explore the cost-effectiveness of agent networks, engagement strategies for active and passive subscribers, the scalability of high-value transactions, and the effect of staff training on trust and operational performance.
MICROFINANCE INSTITUTIONS STRATEGIES AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT OF WOMEN ENTERPRISES IN SIAYA COUNTY- KENYA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-07) AKINYI OBAT JACQUELYNE
Economic empowerment of women enterprises in evolving countries is a transformation point to reduce poverty, expand business, advance in economic development and a full realization of vision 2030. In spite of their significant presence and ability, women-owned enterprises in rural Kenya report stagnant or declining business performance due to financial constraints and lack of strategic support. This study explored on the effects of MFIs Strategies and economic empowerment of women enterprises in Siaya County, Kenya. Focused on four main strategies of: Product diversification, capacity building, technology adoption and risk management. The study was supported by feminist empowerment theory, financial literacy theory, technology acceptance model (TAM) theory and financial intermediation theory. The research employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design by utilizing quantitative research methodology. The target population consisted of 5 MFIs branch Managers in Siaya County and 1000 women accessing services of these MFIs. A sample size of 105 respondents was used,( 5 MFIs branch managers and 100 women), censers method was used to select MFIs branch managers and simple random sampling procedure was used to select the women. Data was collected using structured questionnaires. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for processing data. Descriptive statistics such as percentages, means and standard deviations were utilized to summarize data. For Inferential statistics, diagnostic tests (normality, heteroscedasticity and multi-collinearity) were done, analysis such as multi linear regression was used to examine the relationship between MFIs strategies and the economic empowerment in Siaya County - Kenya. The Study found out that the four strategies used by MFIs have a statistical significance on economic empowerment of women enterprise in Siaya County. Product diversification strategy having the strongest significance (β = 0.52, p = 0.001), followed by Capacity building strategy (β= 0.38, p = 0.001), Risk management strategy (β = 0.31, p = 0.0015) and last but not least, Technology adoption strategy (β = 0.28, p = 0.002). The study concludes that MFI strategies are principal drivers of rising income growth, business expansion, and women's economic independence as business owners. The study recommends that MFIs invest more in gender responsive product innovation, strengthen capacity-building efforts, and leverage technology to increase outreach. Policymakers are called upon to develop enabling regulatory frameworks for inclusive, diversified, and sustainable microfinance systems responsive to women's enterprise development.
HUMAN RESOURCE INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND TEACHERS’ PERFORMANCE AT THE CATHOLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN ONITSHA ARCHDIOCESE, NIGERIA.
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-05) ANTHONY EKENE OKOYE
The effect of Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) on teacher performance was studied at the Catholic secondary schools in the Onitsha Archdiocese in Nigeria. Specifically, how major components of HRIS—Employee Self-Service Portals, E-Training Information Systems, E-Performance Appraisal Information Systems, and E-Payroll Information Systems—impacted teacher performance in terms of lesson planning, efficient communication, and class management to meet learning objectives was studied. The study also looked into moderating variables in terms of school size, determining how school size impacted how these HRIS components and teacher performance interacted to drive instructional and career outcomes. This study was based on three theories: Theory of Dynamic Capabilities, Human Capital Theory, and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). The study took place in 2024-2025 with a descriptive research design for data collection and analysis to uncover the current state, attributes, and inter-relationships among variables without manipulation. The unit of analysis in this research was the network of 36 Catholic secondary schools in Nigeria's Onitsha Archdiocese. The teachers working in the sampled Catholic secondary schools were the units of observation. The research was based on a positivism research philosophy, assuming reality is absolute and could be clearly seen and described. The target population was 1,167 people, with a calculated sample size of 389 by applying Yamane's formula. This sample was drawn through a stratified random sampling method, with first-hand data collected via questionnaires. A pilot test was used to check for questionnaires' validity and reliability. Quantitative data analysis was carried out on data from the questionnaires, with diagnostic tests for autocorrelation, normality, heteroscedasticity, and multicollinearity to check for model assumptions and ensuring valid results. The study utilized both inferential and descriptive statistics, summarizing data into frequency, percentages, means, and standard deviation, and presenting it in graphs, pie charts, bar charts, and frequency tables. Multiple linear analysis was used for inferential analysis to identify inter-relations among independent, moderating, and dependant variables in this research. Based on findings, it was established that E-Training Information System (ETIS) (b= 0.242, p = 0.000 < 0.05), E-Performance Appraisal Information System (EPAIS) (b =0.178, p = 0.003 < 0.05), E-Payroll Information System (EPIS) (b = 0.195, p = 0.000 < 0.05), and Employee Self-Service (ESS) portal (b = 0.214, p = 0.001 < 0.05) all had positive and statistically significant correlations with teacher performance, suggesting that higher levels of these HRIS components positively improved teacher performance by 0.242, 0.178, 0.195, and 0.214 units, respectively. In addition, the relationship between HRIS components and teacher performance was also moderated by school size at a significant level (b = 0.156, p = 0.001 < 0.05; F-statistic = 48.324, p = 0.000 < 0.05), implying an increase in school size contributed to an improved teacher performance by 0.156 units. The conclusion is made that HRIS implementation enhances teacher performance but underlines challenges such as disparities in resources and system usability. The suggestions include ongoing HRIS funding, customized training programs, system scalability improvements, as well as strong data security measures. The future research should investigate other moderating variables such as gender, experience, and socio-economic conditions, as well as comparative studies in different educational environments. The future research should also investigate HRIS impacts across different socio-economic contexts, sources of funding, as well as types of schools—involving public and other faith-based schools—while also conducting longitudinal studies to evaluate longterm effects on teacher performance, teacher retention, and student achievement.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES AND EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE IN THE INSURANCE COMPANIES IN KENYA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-09) ELIZABETH NYAMBURA IRUNGU
The purpose of the study was to establish effect of career development practices on employee performance in insurance companies in Nairobi City County. The specific objectives were to examine the effect of professional development courses, structured career paths, employee mentoring programs and to establish effect of staff coaching on employee performance in insurance companies in Nairobi City County. Human Capital Theory, Social Learning Theory, Theory of Work Adjustment and Self-Concept Theory and Theory of Basic Human Values. The study adopted descriptive research design. The populations of study were six NSE listed insurance companies in Nairobi offering general insurance while the target population was 1066 employees. Stratified random sampling design was used. The study adopted Yamane (1972) formulae for sample determination aided in generating 291 sample size from the target population of 1066. Primary data was collected by use of structured questionnaires that was subjected to validity tests such as face validity, construct, content and criterion validity tests. Questionnaire was subjected to reliability tests aided to assess the internal consistency of the aided by Cronbach alpha. Analysis of data involved use of descriptive analysis comprising of mean, standard deviation, frequencies and percentage ratings. Inferential analysis constituted correlation analysis and regression analysis. Findings were presented by use of Tables. From the findings, results showed that at the 1% significance level, the correlation between professional development courses and employee performance was established as r=0.832. Professional development courses correlated highly with employee performance (r = 0.832); Structured career paths showed strong correlation with employee performance (r = 0.952), the high correlations among the career development variables, staff coaching and professional development courses (r = 0.925), and between structured career paths and employee mentoring programs (r =0.895). The study recommended that for professional development courses, the policymakers in Kenyan insurance companies should establish clear guidelines that mandate regular, structured, and role-specific professional development for all employees. Training schedules should be integrated into annual operational plans, with budgets dedicated to continuous learning initiatives. The policymakers should prioritize the development and enforcement of structured career path policies. These should include transparent promotion criteria, competency-based progression systems, and regular career development reviews. The policymakers in Kenyan insurance companies develop standardized mentoring frameworks that clearly outline mentor selection criteria, program objectives, and expected outcomes.
ORGANIZATION CORE VALUES AND PERFORMANCE OF SECURITY FIRMS IN NAIROBI COUNTY - KENYA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-08) GLADYS WANJIRU KURIA
The private security sector emerges as the primary force in protecting individuals together with assets and communities because of the evolving threat environment. The performance of private security firms remains essential in protecting public safety because security threats continuously change while people expect greater services from these organizations. This study examined the influence of organizational values—integrity, professionalism, accountability, and transparency—on the performance of private security firms in Nairobi County, Kenya. Guided by Schein’s Organizational Culture Theory, Resource-Based View (RBV), Organizational Theory, and Agency Theory, the research employed a descriptive design with data collected from 80 respondents across 30 registered firms through stratified purposive sampling. A semistructured questionnaire and pilot testing ensured validity and reliability. Performance was evaluated using the Balanced Scorecard (BSC), incorporating financial indicators such as profitability and non-financial measures including service quality, employee satisfaction, reputation, and customer trust. The statistical analysis, conducted using SPSS, revealed strong positive relationships between the core values and organizational performance. Correlation results showed professionalism (r = 0.781, p < 0.05) had the strongest association with performance, followed by integrity (r = 0.732, p < 0.05), accountability (r = 0.701, p < 0.05), and transparency (r = 0.668, p < 0.05). Regression analysis confirmed that the four values jointly explained 64.2% of the variance in organizational performance (R² = 0.642, F = 32.714, p <0.05). Professionalism emerged as the most significant predictor (β = 0.412, p < 0.05), with integrity (β = 0.285, p < 0.05), accountability (β = 0.211, p < 0.05), and transparency (β = 0.198, p < 0.05) also exerting significant effects. Qualitative responses highlighted challenges such as inconsistent application of values, weak leadership, and limited regulatory enforcement, but also proposed employee-driven interventions to strengthen ethical adherence and operational standards. The findings affirm that core organizational values are not only ethical foundations but also critical determinants of operational efficiency, customer trust, and long-term sustainability in the security sector. The study recommends institutionalizing value-based leadership, enhancing training and accountability structures, and establishing stronger regulatory frameworks. These insights contribute to organizational culture literature while offering actionable guidance for managers, policymakers, and future researchers.
AUTHENTIC LEADERSHIP STYLE AND PERFORMANCE OF STATE CORPORATIONS IN KENYA.
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-09) MERCY WAMBUI NYAMBURA
This study examined how authentic leadership style influences the performance of state corporations in Kenya, ethical leadership, related relationships, proactive leadership, and self-awareness. The study tackled perennial problems in state-owned corporations, like Delayed projects, weak financial accountability, and poor sustainability were attributed to leadership gaps. Under the guidance of four theories: Authentic Leadership, Social Learning, Leader-Leader-Member Exchange (LMX), and Transformational Leadership, the research applied a descriptive cross-sectional design targeting 171 support staff across eight departments in selected state corporations, such as Planning and Design, Construction, Road Asset Management, Policy Strategy and Compliance, Corporate Services, Audit Services, Corporation Secretary and Legal Services, and Supply Chain Management. Data were gathered through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS Version 26. Construct validity was applied to ensure alignment between the tools and theoretical constructs, while Cronbach’s Alpha showed good reliability for most variables: ethical leadership (α = 0.764), proactive leadership (α = 0.742), self-awareness (α = 0.803), and excellent reliability for performance (α = 0.997). However, these related relations showed a lower reliability score (α = 0.629), and thus, they required improvement. The regression analysis found that the combined leadership dimensions collectively explained 14.1% of performance variation (R2 = 0.141, F = 6.792, p = 0.000). All of them had significant positive effects, with self-awareness being the strongest predictor (B = 1.218, p = 0.000), then ethical leadership (B = 0.879, p = 0.007), proactive leadership (B =0.701, p = 0.019), and related relationships (B = 0.645, p = 0.034). ethical leadership had a negative standardized beta value (β = -0.224), suggesting potential resistance or reform-related disruptions. Correlation analysis confirmed that self-awareness had the strongest correlation with performance (r = .293), followed by proactive leadership (r = .228), and connected relationships (r = .227), while ethical leadership showed no significant correlation (r = .040). The study concluded that true leadership elements, especially self-awareness, positively affect performance through improved morale, innovation, accountability, and cooperation. It advocated ethics education, open communication, institutional reinforcement for innovation, and the development of emotional intelligence. Future studies were recommended to dig into regional variation, the organizational culture, and the impacts of internet transformation on leadership effectiveness in the public sphere.
DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY AND PERFORMANCE OF WILDLIFE SECTOR IN KENYA
(THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2025-09) NELSON NYAGA
Digital technology is reshaping how the public perceives, thinks about, and interacts with nature. The aim of this research was to establish the effect of Digital Technology on the performance of wildlife sector in Kenya. This study was guided by the objectives: digital platforms, administrative management, digitalization process wildlife policies on Performance of Wildlife Sector in Kenya. The research was anchored on the Knowledge-Based Theory, Systems theory of Richard Swanson, knowledge management theory, Customer Relationship Management Theory and Constraints Theory (TOC). Descriptive survey design was considered in the study. A target population of 323 management staff of KWS were studied. Census was used to engage (323) participants. Primary data was collected through structured questionnaires. To enhance content and face validity of the instruments, the researcher ensured that the items in the questionnaire covers all aspects of the variable and the expert opinion were sought. Internal consistency of the instruments was ascertained through Cronbach Alpha coefficient. Quantitative data was analyzed using measures of central tendency and dispersion, such as frequency distributions, mean, and standard deviation, computed using SPSS (version 25). Figures, tabulations, and graphs, were used to display the information. The Chi-Square and multiple regression were used to test the influence of independent variable on the dependent variable. From the findings, digital platforms including social media, service portals, and content-sharing tools were instrumental in streamlining communication, wildlife tracking, information dissemination, and professional development. further, social media tools particularly improved real-time updates and community engagement, while service platforms simplified processes such as permit access and wildlife recovery. wildlife policies were found to exert a strong moderating effect on the relationship between technology adoption and sectoral performance. The process of digitalization, especially when aligned with national ICT policies, emerged as a cornerstone of performance improvement in the wildlife sector. In recommendation, Wildlife organizations should prioritize content localization and relevance by ensuring that the digital materials used for training, research, and public communication are tailored to the local context. This includes aligning content with regional conservation needs, using local languages, and reflecting the cultural and ecological realities of the communities involved.

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