School of Business and Economics

Assessment of the role of reverse logistics on supply chain optimization: a case of plastic manufacturing firms in Kisumu County, Kenya

2026-02-17T11:20:16Z

Assessment of the role of reverse logistics on supply chain optimization: a case of plastic manufacturing firms in Kisumu County, Kenya KAMANDA, Emmah Kweng’e The plastic industry in Kenya is currently facing a pivotal moment, contending with numerous challenges that hinder its sustainability and operational effectiveness. Plastic firms in Kisumu face inefficiencies in supply chain optimization, with order fulfillment below 70% versus 90% globally, delivery delays of 7–14 days versus 2–3 days, and customer satisfaction at 64% versus 85% in emerging economies such as Vietnam. Weak reverse logistics disrupt inputs, underscoring the need for recovery, recycling, and remanufacturing solutions. A significant issue is the widespread absence of a structured approach to managing plastic products at the end of their life cycle, worsening environmental issues and wasting valuable economic prospects. In this light, the implementation of reverse logistics is identified as a crucial strategic requirement. Reverse logistics, which involves the movement of goods from their final destination for value recovery or appropriate disposal, presents an effective solution to various challenges faced by the sector. As environmental pollution and resource depletion have become growing concerns, manufacturing companies have recognized that recovering used products is an eco-friendly approach to promoting sustainable development. However, many businesses struggle with the challenge of integrating product recovery processes into their existing forward logistics systems. Supply chain optimization is a critical concern for businesses seeking to maximize efficiency, minimize costs, and deliver value to customers. As global markets continue to evolve, companies are constantly seeking innovative methods to streamline their supply chain processes and gain a competitive advantage. The improper disposal and management of plastic waste not only pollute the environment but also disrupt the supply chain of plastic products, affecting various stakeholders from manufacturers to consumers. These inefficiencies disrupt plastic recovery, reuse, and recycling, undermining both environmental sustainability and supply chain efficiency. The general objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of reverse logistics on supply chain optimization within plastic manufacturing industry in Kisumu County. The study was guided by three specific objectives: to assess the effect of plastic waste collection, plastic waste product recovery and recycling as well as plastic waste remanufacturing on supply chain optimization. The study was anchored on Triple Bottom Line Theory and Stakeholder Theory. The study utilized correlational research design and based positivist research philosophy. The study population consisted of 120 employees of the two plastic manufacturing companies in Kisumu County who were surveyed using census technique. Data analysis employed multiple regression, and results presented in tables and charts. The results collectively demonstrated that reverse logistics practices positively influence supply chain optimization in plastic manufacturing firms in Kisumu County. In particular, waste collection through source separation and automatic sorting technologies, recorded the highest explanatory power (R² = 0.502) followed by mechanical and chemical recycling (R² = 0.308) and lastly remanufacturing practices (R² = 0.134). The study concluded that improving reverse logistics activities enhances supply chain optimization. The study recommends that firms adopt advanced sorting and recycling technologies, establish partnerships with waste collectors, and integrate reverse logistics into supply chain planning to promote a circular economy and sustainable development. The study may help the plastic manufacturing sector discern the logistical bottlenecks that impede the recycling and disposal of plastic waste. The study’s findings would benefit not only plastic manufacturers but also policymakers, environmental management agencies, informal waste collectors, and the Kisumu County Government in designing effective waste recovery systems Master's Project

Perceptions of service outsourcing on organizational performance in manufacturing sector in Kenya: a case of Mayfair bakery Kisumu

2026-02-17T08:25:00Z

Perceptions of service outsourcing on organizational performance in manufacturing sector in Kenya: a case of Mayfair bakery Kisumu AKINYI, Eunice Sydede Since the 1990s, outsourcing has been a topic of discussion and has drawn interest from corporate entities worldwide. The advent of globalization has led to a widespread adoption of outsourcing by corporate entities, mostly due to its advantages, which include cost reduction, technology access, and business expansion. While some companies have benefited greatly from outsourcing, others have not capitalized on the arrangement in its entirety. This variation demonstrates that outsourcing certain services contributes more to the performance of the organization than others. However, little is known about the perspective of outsourcing and the extent to which it affects organizational performance. Additionally, the Kenyan food industry's perception of outsourcing has not been well examined. The purpose of the study was to investigate the perceived effect of service outsourcing on organizational performance in production sector in Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to establish the effect of outsourcing security services on organizational performance, determine the influence of outsourcing cleaning services on organizational performance and finally establish the role of outsourcing logistics services in enhancing organizational performance within Mayfair Bakery Limited. The study was guided by Transaction Cost Economic Theory and Resource Based View Theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The study population was 300 employees drawn from different departments of Mayfair bakery limited. The study sample of 75 employees was obtained using Yamane (1967) simplified formula for calculating samples. A pilot study was conducted with 10 participants from a different company with similar characteristics to test reliability and validity of the research instruments. Data were majorly collected using unstructured questionnaires. Purposive and simple random sampling procedures were employed to obtain the respondents. Content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. The study reveals that logistics services outsourcing increased the profitability of Mayfair bakery. This was achieved through the reduction in logistic costs and improvement in supply chain management. In addition, the company was able to share some risks with the vendors thus reducing the level of transportation risks. Cleaning services outsourcing led to improved hygiene of the bakery. The improved hygiene attracted many customers into the business increasing sales. Cleaning service outsourcing also reduced the cost incurred for cleaning which has a positive impact on the profitability of the business. The cost reduction associated with building internal competencies increased the profitability of the bakery. The study showed that outsourcing security services reduced the cost of hiring in-house security. The cost associated with training and supervision was eliminated. Based on the findings of the study, the study concludes that service outsourcing in Mayfair bakery positively impacted on its performance. Service outsourcing increased its profitability, efficiency, effectiveness and its flexibility which reduced cost and improved the supply chain. The study recommends that other manufacturing firms should adopt these practices. This study will fill knowledge gaps and help supply chain managers develop guidelines and make decisions on service outsourcing. Additionally, it will also benefit government, academic, and supply chain stakeholders. Master's Project

Effect of working capital management strategies on financial performance of Kisumu Water and Sanitation Company

2026-02-17T07:58:05Z

Effect of working capital management strategies on financial performance of Kisumu Water and Sanitation Company AKINYI, Everline Odhiambo Working capital management is a critical driver of a firm’s liquidity, profitability, and long-term financial stability. While past studies have examined its application in manufacturing and small and medium-sized enterprises, Kenya’s public water utilities have received comparatively little research attention despite their vital role in delivering essential services. Kisumu Water and Sanitation Company Ltd (KIWASCO) has long faced operational challenges, including an estimated annual loss of more than 20,000 cubic meters of water each year, valued at approximately Ksh. 350 million. The company also struggles with rising inventory levels, persistently high non-revenue water, and missed revenue targets. This study set out to investigate the effect of working capital management strategies on the financial performance of KIWASCO. The specific objectives were to assess the impact of cash management, accounts receivable management, and inventory control on financial performance. The study was guided by the Operating Cycle Theory, which argues that efficient management of cash, receivables, and inventory shortens the operating cycle, thereby improving liquidity and profitability A correlational research design was used, targeting all 48 employees in the finance and accounting departments through a census approach. Data was collected using structured questionnaires, and a pilot test confirmed reliability with a Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient of 0. 789. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 24, employing both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. The results were presented using percentages, graphs, charts, and tables. Specifically, the analysis included descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression modeling, all derived from the study’s empirical findings. Findings showed that most respondents agreed that cash management, accounts receivable management, and inventory control directly affect financial performance. Regression analysis revealed significant positive effects for cash management (β = 0.487, t = 3.568, p < 0.05), accounts receivable management (β = 0.557, t = 4.296, p < 0.05), and inventory management (β = 0.665, t = 5.706, p < 0.05). The overall model confirmed that these strategies were statistically significant in explaining financial performance, with results leading to the rejection of all null hypotheses. Findings of the overall model revealed the following: Cash management had significant effect on financial performance (ß = 0.005, t = 0.030, p = 0.003); accounts receivable management had significant effect on financial performance (ß = 0.258, t = 1.591, p = 0.023); and inventory management had significant effect on financial performance (β = 0.514, t-value = 3.429, p=0.001) of Kisumu Water and Sanitation Company Limited. The study concludes that strengthening cash flow practices, improving receivables collection, and adopting robust inventory controls are essential to enhancing financial performance in public utilities. These findings address a critical research gap in Kenya’s water sector and provide practical guidance for managers, policymakers, and scholars working to improve efficiency and sustainability in similar organizations. Master's Project

Effect of community-based microfinance services in financial empowerment of small-scale women traders in Kisumu west sub-county, Kenya

2026-02-17T07:48:35Z

Effect of community-based microfinance services in financial empowerment of small-scale women traders in Kisumu west sub-county, Kenya ADHIAMBO, Phosa Omondi Kenya’s microfinance outreach continues to grow steadily, playing a vital role in the 15% share that Sub-Saharan Africa contributes to global microfinance. Among its most transformative impacts is the empowerment of women: over 80% of women engaged in microfinance programs report increased financial independence. These women are twice as likely to start or expand a small business, and many experience greater autonomy in both family and community decision-making—marking microfinance not just as a financial tool, but as a catalyst for social change. Previous studies have focused on formal microfinance institutions, overlooking community-based models that play a critical role at the grassroots. This study examined the effect of community-based microfinance services on the financial empowerment of small-scale women traders in Kisumu West Sub-County, Kenya. Kisumu West Sub-County was selected due to its high poverty levels, limited formal financial access, and the strong dependence of women traders on informal financial systems like savings groups and rotating credit schemes—making it an ideal setting to assess the impact of community-based microfinance on financial empowerment. Specifically, the study assessed the effect of access to credit, financial literacy, and effect savings on financial empowerment of small-scale traders in Kisumu west sub-county. The study was anchored on the Empowerment Theory and further guided by financial inclusion and financial literacy theories. The target population was 484 small-scale women traders benefiting from community-based microfinance initiatives. A descriptive research design was adopted, with a sample of 400 respondents selected through simple random sampling. Data was collected using structured questionnaires, tested for validity and reliability, and analyzed using both descriptive statistics-frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations and inferential analyses-correlation, linear regression, and multiple regression with SPSS. Findings revealed that community-based microfinance significantly contributes to women’s financial empowerment. Access to credit was positively associated with improved financial outcomes (β = 0.101, p < 0.05), financial literacy had a strong impact (β = 0.305, p < 0.05), and savings mobilization demonstrated the greatest effect (β = 0.399, p < 0.05). Collectively, these factors enabled women to increase household income, expand their businesses, and strengthen decision-making power both economically and socially. The study concludes that community-based microfinance is a vital avenue for empowering women traders in Kisumu West Sub-County. It recommends strengthening loan management to reduce defaults, enhancing financial literacy training, and adopting digital savings mechanisms to improve accountability. Policymakers and development actors should leverage community-based models as complementary frameworks to formal microfinance institutions in addressing poverty and promoting gender equity. Master's Project

Influence of work life balance practices on performance of women employees at tier one commercial banks in Nairobi Kenya

2026-02-17T07:22:36Z

Influence of work life balance practices on performance of women employees at tier one commercial banks in Nairobi Kenya WANJIRU, Caroline MUTURI Achieving work-life balance is especially important for women, as they often juggle multiple roles and responsibilities in both the workplace and the home. Balancing work and family responsibilities can be particularly challenging for women, especially those with caregiving duties for children, elderly parents, or other family members. The general objective of the study was to establish the influence of work-life balance practices on women employee performance at Tier one commercial banks in Nairobi, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to establish the influence of flexible work arrangements, implementation of leave and time-off policies, child care support and telecommuting on women employee performance at Tier 1 commercial banks in Nairobi, Kenya. The study deliberately focused on women employees in the human resource departments of Tier 1 commercial banks because women experience distinct work-life balance challenges compared to men, making their perspectives critical for this investigation. The study was guided Work-Family Border theory, Component theory, Spillover theory and Role theory. A correlational research design was used for the above study. The target population of this study constituted of 338 women employees in the human resource department in the Tier 1 commercial banks. The study used 30% of the target population to get the sample size of 101 respondents. Stratified random sampling was employed to get a representative sample. The questionnaire was used for collection of data that had closed ended questions. A pilot test of 12 respondents was selected from Family Bank for pre-testing to enhance reliability and validity of instruments. All the constructs had a Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient of 0.7 and above and thus were deemed to be reliable. The questionnaire was proofread to verify that there were no typographical or form problems to enhance validity. To analyze the data Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 25 was used. A combination of descriptive and inferential statistical methods was employed to analyze the data. The study employed inferential statistics, including correlation analysis, multiple regressions and F-statistics, with data presented in tabular form. Findings revealed that flexible work arrangements had a moderate and significant positive relationship with employee performance (r = 0.430, p < 0.000) and significantly predicted performance in the regression model (β = 0.102, p < 0.027). Implementation of leave and time-off policies showed a moderate and significant correlation with employee performance (r = 0.507, p < 0.000) and were the strongest predictor in regression (β = 0.184, p < 0.002). Child care support demonstrated a weak but significant correlation (r = 0.240, p = 0.021) and a modest predictive effect in regression (β = 0.12, p = 0.012). Telecommuting exhibited a moderate and significant correlation (r = 0.448, p = 0.000) and significantly predicted employee performance (β = 0.166, p = 0.011). R2 was 0.408, meaning that approximately 40.8% of the variability in employee performance was explained by the independent variables. These results indicate that flexible work practices, implementation of leave and time-off policies and telecommuting positively influence women employee performance, while child care support need improvement. The study recommends that commercial banks enhance part-time work arrangements, maintain and expand leave support, improve child care provisions and monitor telecommuting challenges to optimize employee satisfaction and productivity. Master's Thesis

Effect of electronic revenue collection on financial performance of county government of Siaya

2025-11-13T08:03:58Z

Effect of electronic revenue collection on financial performance of county government of Siaya ONDURU, Percila Achien’g Revenue collection among the devolved units has drawn interest from around the world. Some developing African nations like Ghana introduced devolved governments with collection of own source revenue as part of their functions. East African nations, such as Rwanda, saw establishment of local governments and own source revenue collection as an urgent and necessary corrective action in response to their economic challenges. In Kenya, County Governments were established in 2013 with Article 209 of the Constitution of Kenya (2010) providing for collection of own source revenue by the county governments. The County Government of Siaya utilized manual revenue collection systems until 2015 when the POS gadgets, ECR and Mobile payment system were introduced in the 2015/2016 F/Y. County Fiscal Strategy Papers show that during the 2013/2014, 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 F/Y, the County Government recorded negative deviations of -34, -52% and -41% in Own Source Revenue respectively. In 2017/2018, 2018/2019, 2019/2020, and 2020/2021, the County Government of Siaya also had negative deviations in Own Source Revenue of -53%, -42%, -56%, and -19% respectively. F/Y 2021/2022 recorded a positive deviation of 0.21%. Inadequate and inefficient electronic revenue collection system has been cited as the major contributor to the continued underperformance in collection of revenue. Despite the county having a partially automated system of revenue collection, it must be noted that the revenue collected has remained significantly low over the past five years. This means that the systems may be inadequately utilized thus the need to carry out an assessment with a view of increasing the revenue collection and financial performance. Research findings on effect of use of automated revenue collection on financial performance showed inconsistent results. Against this backdrop, the purpose of the study was to establish the effect of electronic revenue collection on financial performance of County Government of Siaya. Specifically, the study was to determine the effect of Point of Sale machine on financial performance of County Government of Siaya, establish the effect of Electronic Cash Register system on financial performance of County Government of Siaya and asses the effect of Mobile Payment System on financial performance of County Government of Siaya. Two theories supported the study, Expediency Theory of Taxation and Technology Acceptance Model Theory. The correlation research design was used during the study and targeted 98 personnel under the department of finance in the County Government of Siaya. Taro Yamane formula was employed to select a sample of 79 respondents. The study used primary data which was collected using questionnaire. A pilot study of eight (8) respondents was administered in Siaya County where the analysis revealed an alpha value of 0.81, above Cronbach‟s alpha coefficient of 0.7, therefore the instruments were reliable. The 8 respondents did not form part of the sample size hence 71 respondents were used for the study. Validity was determined by applying expert judgment. The data collected was analysed using multiple regression and Pearson product moment correlation to establish the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The findings showed that the use of point of sale machines had the strongest positive impact on financial performance (β=.886, p=.000), followed by the use of electronic cash registers with a beta value of β=.197, p=.000 then the use of mobile payment systems (β=.093, p=.000). The findings further revealed that there existed a significant and strong positive correlation between the use of point of sale machines (r=.995, p=.000), implying that point of sale machines significantly affected financial performance. The electronic cash registers had (r=.899, p=.000), implying that electronic cash registers significantly affected financial performance. The mobile payment systems recorded (r= .861, p=.000) and financial performance, implying that mobile payment systems significantly affected financial performance. The study concluded that the use of electronic revenue collection positively and significantly influences the financial performance of County Government of Siaya. Master's Project

The impact of value added tax reforms on price stability in Sugar firms: a case study of western Kenya

2025-11-12T06:05:08Z

The impact of value added tax reforms on price stability in Sugar firms: a case study of western Kenya AWUONDA, Hillary Ochieng Price stability refers to a condition where money maintains its value over a considerable period of time, by allowing money to mitigate cost efficiency, control inflationary trends and maintain economic developments, and investments. It is the reigning general price level in an economy, essential for fostering sustainable economic growth, reducing uncertainties, enhancing investment, and supporting long-term planning for households and businesses. Over the period 2019 to 2023, significant price fluctuations have been observed in the sugar sector, presumably attributed to implementation and compliance with aspects of VAT reforms (2018); including standardization of VAT rates at 16% and the expansion of the VAT base, with apparent increased cost of production inputs, such as fertilizers and machinery. The introduction of digital tax invoicing systems further complicated compliance for sugar firms, especially smaller enterprises, leading to increased operational costs. These fluctuations in production costs passed to consumers, results in to inconsistencies in sugar prices. VAT reforms, while designed to enhance government revenue and broaden the tax base, have introduced increased challenges with production inputs. Despite VAT reforms being implemented to enhance revenue collection from the proportionate cost to product values on marketed goods and services, it is unknown how compliance to the VAT reforms affect price movement in the economy. Specifically, there has been continued instability in sugar prices, affecting both producers and consumers’ returns and investment in the sugar sector. The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of Value Added Tax (VAT) reforms on price stability within the sugar firms in western Kenya. Specifically, the study seeks to examine the effects of VAT reforms on price stability by focusing on three core objectives: to evaluate the influence of inflation-linked VAT reforms on price stability, to investigate the effect of VAT reforms on the production costs within sugar firms, and to assess how compliance with VAT reforms influences price stability in the sector. The study will adopt a descriptive and causalcomparative research design. western Kenya region that has a population of over 1.2 million people residing in the region, with close to 500,000 being sugarcane farmers. Census survey will be employed to collect secondary data for the study. Secondary data, consisting of relevant inflation to sugar sector; consumer price sensitivity, input cost inflation, compliance cost, operation expense, Input cost variation, administrative cost compliance, tax reporting efficiency, price volatility index, supply demand balance in the sugar industry. With data collected from key personnel from twelve sugar firms, each having 5 respondents, resulting in sixty respondence in total. Consisting of general managers, production managers, finance managers, and sales). The regression model showed a strong relationship, with an R Square of 0.624, indicating that 62.4% of the variance in performance is explained by the predictors. Significant predictors included inflation-based VAT reforms (B = 0.633, Beta = 0.297, p = .003), money supply-based VAT reforms (B = 0.452, Beta = 0.318, p = .004), and trade openness-based VA333ms (B = 0.748, Beta = 0.353, p = .002). The study concludes that VAT reforms significantly impact performance, recommending a continued focus on targeted VAT adjustments to enhance stability in the sugar industry. The significance of this study lies in its potential to provide policymakers and industry stakeholders with empirical data on the effectiveness of VAT reforms, offering recommendations for more targeted tax policies that promote price stability and economic resilience in the sugar industry. This research is crucial as it addresses a gap in sectorspecific studies on how macroeconomic policies like VAT reforms directly impact pricing mechanisms in Kenya's sugar industry. Master's Project

Effect of working capital management on operational performance of savings and credit co-operative societies in Kisumu County

2025-11-11T09:33:46Z

Effect of working capital management on operational performance of savings and credit co-operative societies in Kisumu County MAKORI, John Nyandika Working capital management is a very important component of corporate finance because it directly involves the planning and controlling of current assets and liabilities in a manner that eliminates the risk of inability to meet short term obligations and avoid excessive investments in these assets. However, some managers use wrong methods for working capital decisions which results in their under or overcapitalization or worse still, liquidation of their organizations. This has been the case of savings and credit co-operative societies (SACCO’S) in Kisumu County in the last decade. It has been noted that SACCO’s that are newly registered and operating within Kisumu county fail within the first three years of their formation according to statistics from Kisumu county government. In the financial year 2017/2018, a total of 14 Sacco’s within Kisumu County failed and closed down their operations. This has been attributed to failure to effectively manage their working capital. Prior studies have produced mixed results as regards the effect of working capital on performance of firms. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of working capital management on performance of Sacco’s within Kisumu County. The specific objectives of the study were to establish the effect of cash management on performance of Sacco’s, to determine the effect of debt management on performance of Sacco’s and to determine the effect of inventory management on the performance of Sacco’s within Kisumu County. The study was anchored on risk and return theory, Operating cycle theory and cash conversion cycle theory. A correlational survey design was adopted with a study population 47 finance officers judgmentally selected from 47 Sacco’s in Kisumu County. Reliability of the research instrument was ascertained by use of Cronbach’s alpha coefficient at α= 0.7. Validity of the instrument was ascertained through expert opinion. Primary data was collected by use of structured questionnaire while secondary data was obtained from the audited financial reports of the Sacco’s. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and results presented in form of tables. The results showed that the unstandardized coefficient for cash management was a 0.338 meaning that a unit % age change in cash management Sacco’s is likely to lead to a change in performance by 0.338%. Similarly, the unstandardized coefficients for debt management and inventory management were 0.680 and 0.234 respectively. This means that a unit % age change debt management and inventory management is likely to lead to a change in Sacco’s Performance by 0.1680% and 0.234% respectively. R2 = 0.702 meaning that cash management, debt management and inventory management all together account for 70.2% of performance by Sacco’s in Kisumu County. The study concludes that working capital management is a positive and predictor of operational performance of Sacco’s in Kisumu County. The study may guide policy makers to appreciate the importance of effective working capital management for the success of organizations. It may also form a basis of theory building for future research endeavors. Master's Project

Effect of strategic flexibility on performance of sugar companies in western region, Kenya

2024-12-03T15:47:21Z

Effect of strategic flexibility on performance of sugar companies in western region, Kenya JEPKORIR, Carren This study delves into how strategic flexibility influences the performance of state-owned sugar companies in Kenya's Western region. Strategic flexibility is crucial for organizations to navigate market uncertainties effectively, allowing them to adapt to changing consumer preferences and competitive landscapes. Despite extensive research on its benefits, its application within Kenya's state-owned sugar firms remains largely unexplored. These firms encounter challenges like political influence, high production costs, and inefficiencies, hindering their ability to meet consumer needs efficiently. The study aims to bridge this gap by examining how strategic flexibility can enhance the performance of these firms amidst their challenges. Employing a multi-faceted approach, the research focuses on production, marketing, and supply chain flexibility and their effects on performance. It encompasses several key state-owned sugar companies in the Western region over a four-month period. The findings aim to provide valuable insights for stakeholders, including policymakers and industry managers, to devise strategies for improving sector performance. The study contributes to the broader understanding of how internal strategic adjustments can mitigate external challenges, thus enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of state-owned enterprises in the sugar industry. It also sets the stage for future academic inquiries into strategic flexibility's role in similar industrial contexts. The literature review, grounded in the Dynamic Capabilities Theory (DCT), explores how firms can adapt, innovate, and realign resources to secure competitive advantages in dynamic markets. While empirical studies highlight the positive effects of strategic flexibility across various sectors, its specific applications in the sugar industry remain underexplored. Using a descriptive correlational research design, the study examines the relationship between strategic flexibility and performance in state-owned sugar factories in Kenya. Data collected from 94 respondents reveal significant positive relationships between production, marketing, and supply chain flexibility and organizational performance. The regression analysis showed the relationship between performance and the production flexibility was significant, F (1, 61) = 257.064, p = 0.000. Also, both marketing flexibility (B = 0.335, p = 0.14) and supply chain flexibility (B = 0.447, p = 0.000) significantly influenced the performance of the organizations in the market. Recommendations include enhancing production capacity, adopting market-responsive strategies, and strengthening supply chain resilience. Limitations of the study include reliance on questionnaires and a focus solely on public companies. Future research avenues could explore qualitative aspects, compare public and private sector performance, and investigate the role of data-driven decision-making in strategic flexibility. Master's Project

Effect of cash transfers on achievement of selected sustainable development goals among female-headed households in Siaya county, Kenya

2024-12-03T15:42:06Z

Effect of cash transfers on achievement of selected sustainable development goals among female-headed households in Siaya county, Kenya ANYANGO, Simona Omondi Poverty, hunger and lack of access to clean water and sanitation is high among developing economies derailing achievement of Sustainable Development Goals. Cash transfers provide social protection to the vulnerable. Kenya’s Inua Jamii programme issues CTs to Orphans and Vulnerable children, Persons living with Severe Disability and Old Persons. The main objective of this study was to establish the effect of cash transfers on achievement of selected SDGs among female-headed households in Siaya County. The three specific objectives were to determine the effect of cash transfers on poverty reduction, hunger reduction and increasing access to clean water and sanitation among female-headed households in Siaya County. Numerous literature on cash transfers and SDGs among female-headed households point towards a significant effect of CTs on reducing poverty, reducing hunger and improving access to clean water and sanitation. The study was founded on the Household Welfare Theory which suggests income and consumption as the best measurements of household welfare. The target population was 109,680 female-headed households in Siaya County and sample size of 399 FHHs using the Yamane formula. A correlational design was adopted to study the relationship between cash transfers and SDGs. Data was collected using a structured interview schedule. Reliability and validity of data instruments was tested during the pilot study and results found to be consistent with final study. A binary logit regression analysis of data collected revealed that increasing cash transfer by 1% had a significant negative effect on poverty rate by 1.58%. The coefficient of income was (-0.686) with p value of (0.01). Consumption had no significant effect on poverty reduction. The second objective analysed cash transfer to have a coefficient (-1.212) and p value (0.004). Increasing cash transfer among by 1% significantly reduces probability of a FHH experiencing hunger by 1.2%. More frequency of meals and balanced diet in the household reduces hunger level. On the third objective, the positive coefficients of cash transfers (1.196), source of water and proper sanitation (2.703) prove that the increasing cash transfers by 1% increased access to clean water and sanitation by 1.196% and 2.703% respectively. Conclusion was drawn that cash transfers had a significant effect on overall achievement of SDGs and further study can be done on nutritional outcomes. The study recommended more targeted approach in inclusion of female-headed households with special consideration to household size. Other interventions can also be used to have far reaching effects of cash transfers on reducing hunger and access to water and sanitation health. Master's Thesis