CONTRIBUTION OF DISABILITY INFRASTRUCTURE AND SUPERSTRUCTURAL PRACTICES TO EMPLOYMENT INCLUSIVITY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN 4-5 STAR HOTELS IN MOMBASA CITY COUNTY, KENYA

  • Binyanya Benard Kenyatta University
  • Monica Akinyi Wandolo Kenyatta University
  • Albert Chege Kariuki Kenyatta University

Abstract

Purpose of Study: The purpose of this study was to to determine the contribution of disability infrastructural and super structural practices on employment inclusivity of PWDs among 4-5 star hotels in Mombasa City County Kenya.

Problem Statement: More than one billion, or 15%, of PWDs are disproportionately excluded from the workforce globally; by 2030, that number is estimated to rise by 3.5 million, with an annual growth rate of 2.9%. PWDs employment rates average 44% against 75% (WHO, 2020). The hospitality business faces difficulties in hiring PWDs because it is a labour-intensive sector that requires able-bodied human resources.

Methodology: A mixed research design was used.  The study was underpinned by the theory of change, social oppression theory and the resource-based theory of competitive advantage. The target population was 106 participants from selected hotels and organizations in charge of disability persons;16 general managers, 16 HRM managers, 32 F&B managers, 16 executive housekeepers, 16 front office managers,1 county PWDs regional coordinator, 1 skills development and placement officer from the MLSP, Mombasa county and 8 PWDs. The sample size comprised of all the 106 participants. Data was collected using questionnaires, interviews and observation methods.

Result: The findings revealed that infrastructural and super structural practices had a moderate effect on PWDs employment inclusivity (r= 0.350, p=0.004) Multiple regression analysis was carried out. The results produced insignificant results (B=.114, p=.242), and thus infrastructural and super-structural practices do not predict employment inclusivity.

Recommendation: Hotels should enhance their disability mainstreaming efforts by prioritizing the development and implementation of comprehensive health and safety policies that encourage disability inclusion. This includes establishing proper job-matching programs tailored to the skills and capabilities of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and introducing mentorship initiatives to provide consistent support and guidance for PWD employees.

 

Keywords: Disability Inclusion, Employment Inclusivity, Infrastructure Practices, Superstructural Practices, Hospitality Industry Kenya

Author Biographies

Binyanya Benard, Kenyatta University

PhD Candidate, Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management

Monica Akinyi Wandolo , Kenyatta University

Lecturer, Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management

Albert Chege Kariuki , Kenyatta University

Lecturer, Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management

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Published
2025-01-09
How to Cite
Benard, B., Wandolo, M. A., & Kariuki, A. C. (2025). CONTRIBUTION OF DISABILITY INFRASTRUCTURE AND SUPERSTRUCTURAL PRACTICES TO EMPLOYMENT INCLUSIVITY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN 4-5 STAR HOTELS IN MOMBASA CITY COUNTY, KENYA. African Journal of Emerging Issues, 7(1), 23 - 38. Retrieved from https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/743
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Articles