African Journal of Emerging Issues https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei <p><strong>African Journal of Emerging Issues - </strong>is scholarly, open access, peer reviewed, double blind, interdisciplinary, and fully refereed journal focusing on theories, methods and applications in medicine, Engineering, Technology and Applied sciences.</p> <p>The Editorial Board is very committed to build the Journal as one of the leading African Journals of Emerging issues in the next few years to come. The Journal's reputation will be enhanced from arrangements with several organizers of international conferences in publishing selected best papers of the conference proceedings.&nbsp;</p> <div><strong>Aim</strong></div> <p align="justify"><strong>African Journal of Emerging Issues(AJOEI)</strong> is aimed to provide a highly readable and valuable addition to the literature, which will serve as an indispensable reference tool for years to come and provide a medium through which scholars and researchers all over the world publish their scholarly applied and fundamental research works including all new theoretical and experimental findings.</p> <div><strong>Scope</strong></div> <p align="justify">The coverage of the Journal publishes research articles and encourages the submission of critical review articles covering advances in recent research of such fields as well as technical notes. AJOEI will continue to provide information on the latest emerging trends and developments in this ever-expanding subject.</p> <hr align="JUSTIFY"> <div><strong>Submission</strong>:</div> <p>Authors are requested to submit their papers electronically through the<br><a href="https://ajoeijournals.org/submission">ONLINE SUBMISSION CENTRE </a>Or As Email attachment to <a href="mailto:journals@ajoeijournals.org">journals@ajoeijournals.org</a></p> African Journal of Emerging Issues en-US African Journal of Emerging Issues 2663-9335 IMPACT OF FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY (FINTECH) ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF MICRO FINANCE INSTITUTIONS IN BAHRAIN. https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/506 <p><strong>Purpose of the Study: </strong>The study sought to explore the Impact of Financial Technology (Fintech) on Financial Performance of Micro Finance Institutions in Bahrain.</p> <p><strong>Statement of the Problem:</strong> The primary objective of this study is to investigate the influence of Financial Technology (Fintech) adoption on the financial performance of Micro Finance Institutions in Bahrain. Specifically, the research aims to assess the extent to which Fintech solutions, such as digital lending and mobile banking, affect key financial indicators, such as profitability and operational efficiency, within the microfinance sector in Bahrain.</p> <p><strong>Methodology:</strong> The study was literature based. The study collected and analyzed existing research and publications to inferences.</p> <p><strong>Findings:</strong> The introduction of Financial Technology (Fintech) in Bahrain's Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs) has significantly enhanced operational efficiency, reducing costs and expediting loan processing. The automation and digitalization of financial services have led to lower overhead expenses, resulting in improved financial performance for MFIs. Fintech adoption has strengthened risk mitigation strategies within MFIs, with advanced risk assessment models enabling more accurate lending decisions. As a result, default rates and non-performing loan ratios have decreased, contributing to the financial stability of these institutions. The findings also emphasize the positive impact of Fintech on customer satisfaction and trust, with 24/7 services, mobile apps, and online banking creating a more convenient and accessible experience. Strong customer relationships are pivotal for attracting and retaining clients, ultimately benefiting the long-term financial performance of MFIs.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion:</strong> In conclusion, the impact of Financial Technology (Fintech) on the financial performance of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in Bahrain has been overwhelmingly positive. Fintech has facilitated improved operational efficiency, risk mitigation, and customer satisfaction, all of which have directly contributed to the enhanced financial stability and profitability of these institutions. To sustain and maximize these gains, MFIs must continue to embrace Fintech innovation, prioritize regulatory compliance, and invest in cybersecurity, ensuring that they remain well-positioned to serve their clients and adapt to the ever-evolving financial landscape in Bahrain.</p> <p><strong>Recommendations:</strong> Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs) in Bahrain should consider diversifying their Fintech offerings to meet a wider range of customer needs, expanding beyond traditional microloans to services like digital payments, savings, and insurance, which can increase revenue streams and improve financial performance. MFIs should actively engage in partnerships and collaborations within the Fintech ecosystem, including fintech startups, tech companies, and regulatory authorities, to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and regulatory compliance, enabling them to leverage Fintech to its fullest potential for long-term financial success.</p> <p><strong>Keywords:</strong> <em>Financial Technology, Financial Performance, Micro Finance Institutions, Bahrain</em> </p> Ahmed Al-Musallam Chuc Ahmed Abdulwahed Atayah Salman Qarata Özer Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-10-23 2023-10-23 5 17 1 11 STANDARDIZED TESTING AND STUDENT LEARNING AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN TALLINN, ESTONIA https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/507 <p><strong>Purpose of the Study:</strong> Standardized testing can both provide valuable insights into student performance and learning while also imposing high-stakes pressures that may hinder a well-rounded educational experience. The study sought to investigate standardized testing and student learning in Tallinn, Estonia</p> <p><strong>Statement of the Problem: </strong>The use of standardized testing in Tallinn's secondary schools raises concerns about the balance between accountability and the well-being of students, as the high-stakes nature of these exams can lead to stress and anxiety, potentially undermining the positive aspects of learning. The potential impact of teaching to the test, the unequal preparedness of students from diverse backgrounds, and the effectiveness of standardized testing in evaluating a culturally diverse student population all contribute to the complex issue at hand.</p> <p><strong>Findings:</strong> The findings in secondary schools in Tallinn, Estonia suggest that standardized testing, while serving as a tool for measuring student achievement, places considerable stress on students due to its high-stakes nature. Moreover, "teaching to the test" practices are observed, which can limit the depth and diversity of education. Disparities in student preparedness are evident, with students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds and linguistic groups facing unequal access to resources and opportunities, potentially impacting their test performance and overall learning experiences.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion:</strong> In conclusion, the high-stakes nature of standardized testing in Tallinn's secondary schools necessitates a more balanced approach that preserves accountability while addressing the well-being of students. To create a more equitable and effective education system, ongoing dialogue and innovative solutions are required to enhance the quality of education in Tallinn and better prepare students for the challenges of the future.</p> <p><strong>Recommendations:</strong> To address the challenges posed by standardized testing, Tallinn's secondary schools should diversify their assessment methods, incorporating continuous assessment and project-based evaluation, while providing educators with professional development opportunities to foster innovative, well-rounded teaching practices. Furthermore, a targeted support system must be established to address disparities in student preparedness, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have an equal opportunity to succeed in Tallinn's educational landscape.</p> <p><strong>Keywords:</strong> <em>Standardized Testing, Student Learning, Secondary Schools, Estonia</em></p> Urmas Ligi Stefanko Aivar Paet Haines Jürgen Sõerd Göloglu Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-10-23 2023-10-23 5 17 12 21 PUBLIC BUDGET MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES AND FINANCIAL GOVERNANCE https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/511 <p><strong>Purpose of Study: </strong>To review the extent of literature of budget management techniques and financial governance with the view to highlight knowledge gaps on public budget management techniques and financial governance suitable to form the basis for future research.</p> <p><strong>Statement of the Problem: </strong>Public budget management techniques and practices have been used by several public institutions across the world to enhance their financial governance systems and achieve objectives of better life and service delivery to all citizens. Public institutions are operating in environment which is complex with different levels of political powers, behaviours, characters, conflicting interests, etc. that is why public funds worldwide are faced to the risks associated with diversion into different purposes. As a result, there is need to alleviate those risks and one of the cures is the adaptation of public budget management techniques to achieve organizational objectives. The public service environment of provision of service is rarely guaranteed because of increased uncertainties of political instabilities and weak complex legal system that contradicts itself sometimes. It is vital to note that public institutions must adopt budget management techniques to avoid unhealthy behaviours and practices that have led to abuse and mismanagement of funds throughout the history. As a result of the adoption of budget management techniques and strategies, public institutions will achieve their objectives of financial governance and public goods and service delivery.</p> <p><strong>Methodology: </strong>This paper reviewed the conceptual, theoretical and empirical literature and raises several issues that present a case for a proposed theoretical model for the purpose of understanding public budget management techniques and financial governance. The theories include stewardship theory, budget theory, Budgetary Control theory, and public finance theory. This study sought to explain techniques that can be used by public institutions to well manage their budgets based on the plans approved by the legislatures and its implications on financial governance. In the new public administration and technology, public organizations need to embrace new techniques for effective budget management and efficient use of public funds.</p> <p><strong>Result: </strong>Effective use of public budget management techniques leads to expansion of public goods and services provision, increase in developmental projects, citizens’ satisfaction, efficiency in utilization of funds, and improvement in economic development due to overall prices stability.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Governments and nations must introduce budget management techniques to eliminate challenges facing public officials when discharging their duties of public funds appropriations leading to mismanagement of public funds and zero provision of public goods and services as well as lack of developmental projects.</p> <p><strong>Keywords: </strong><em>Public Budget, Budget Management Techniques, Financial Governance, public sector, public service delivery.</em></p> Philip Abiel Salome Musau Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-10-26 2023-10-26 5 17 22 40 INFLUENCE OF DISTANCE FROM SCHOOL ON LEARNING OUTCOMES IN NUMBER WORK ACTIVITIES AMONG LEARNERS IN PUBLIC PRE-PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN EMBAKASI EAST SUB-COUNTY, NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/512 <p><strong>Statement of the Problem:</strong> Distance which learners cover while going to school on a daily basis determines their level of concentration in class and their eventual learning outcomes in number work activities. However, in Embakasi East Sub- County, many pre-primary school learners manifest low number work skills.</p> <p><strong>Purpose of the Study:</strong> To assess the influence of distance from school on learning outcomes in number work activities among learners in public pre-primary schools in Embakasi East Sub-county, Nairobi County, Kenya.</p> <p><strong>Methodology:</strong> The study adopted mixed methodology and applied concurrent triangulation research design. Target population was 2804 respondents comprising 23 headteachers, 103 pre-primary school teachers, 136 parents’ representatives and 2542 pre-primary school learners from which a sample of 350 respondents was obtained using Yamane’s Formula. Stratified sampling was used to create five strata based on the number of zones in Embakasi East Sub-county. From each zone, two headteachers and two parents’ representatives were selected using purposive sampling. However, from each zone, 16 teachers and 52 learners were selected using simple random sampling. This procedure enabled the researcher to sample 10 headteachers, 80 pre-primary school teachers, 10 parents’ representatives and 250 learners. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically along the objectives and presented in narrative forms. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively using frequencies and percentages. Inferential analysis was also undertaken using Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation Analysis with the help of Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS 23) and presented using tables.</p> <p><strong>Findings:</strong> The study established that many pre-primary school learners have challenges undertaking number work activities. This is attributed to the fact that many learners live in slums and go to school on foot, which affects their levels of concentration due to fatigue.</p> <p><strong>Recommendations: </strong>The Ministry of Education should liaise with other relevant agencies to improve the road infrastructure and thus, provide cheap transport for pre-primary school learners to school.</p> <p><strong>Keywords:</strong> <em>Distance from school, number work activities, learning outcomes, pre-primary schools.&nbsp; </em></p> Ruth Emily Achom Oduor Paul Mutai Ann Maina Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-11-01 2023-11-01 5 17 41 53 INFLUENCE OF TRAINING MODES FOR PRINCIPALS ON FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN WAJIR WEST SUB-COUNTY, WAJIR COUNTY, KENYA https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/513 <p><strong>Statement of the Study: </strong>The study assessed the influence of professional development training modes for principals on financial management in public secondary schools in Wajir West Sub-county, Wajir County, Kenya.</p> <p><strong>Purpose of the Study: </strong>The purpose of the study was to assess the influence of professional development training modes for principals on financial management in public secondary schools in Wajir West Sub-county, Wajir County, Kenya.</p> <p><strong>Research Methodology:</strong> The study adopted a mixed methodology and applied concurrent triangulation research design. The target population was 181 respondents, which comprised 10 principals, 170 members of the school board of management, and 1 sub-county financial auditor. A sample of 125 respondents was determined using Yamane's Formula. Stratified sampling was applied to create four strata based on the number of zones in Wajir West Sub-county. From each zone, one principal was selected using purposive sampling. The sub-county financial auditor was also selected using purposive sampling. However, from each zone, and 30 members of the school Board of Management were selected to eliminate bias. This procedure realized a sample size of four principals, 120 members of the school BOM, and the sub-county financial auditor. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically based on the objectives and presented in narrative forms. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages and inferentially using Pearson's Product Moment Correlation Analysis in Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 23) and presented using tables.</p> <p><strong>Findings:</strong> The study found that financial management performance of many public secondary schools in Wajir West Sub-county has been low. Many of them still suffer the challenge of poor financial record-keeping, budgeting, costing and pricing, and financial reporting. This has been attributed to ineffective professional development training modes adopted to train principals.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The study concluded that professional development training modes for principals have a significant influence on financial management in public secondary schools in Wajir West Sub-county, Wajir County, Kenya.</p> <p><strong>Recommendation:</strong> The study recommends that the Ministry of Education (MoE) should create more modes of training, such as weekends, online evening classes, besides the on-job, off-job, and mentorship programs. This will allow principals to have more flexibility and choose the mode of training that best suits their needs.</p> Guyo Sora Nur Ruth Thinguri Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-11-03 2023-11-03 5 17 54 67 INDIVIDUAL FACTORS INFLUENCING EDUCATIONAL PARTICIPATION OF STUDENT MOTHERS IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN BARINGO COUNTY, KENYA https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/515 <p><strong>Purpose of the Study:</strong> The study sought to establish the influence of individual factors on educational participation of student mothers in public secondary schools in Baringo County, Kenya. The hypothesis of the study was that there is no statistically significant influence of individual factors on educational participation of student mothers in public secondary schools in Baringo County.</p> <p><strong>Statement of the Problem:</strong> Student mothers in Baringo County miss classes, drop out of school, fail to complete their homework, lack full concentration in school and class activities, have negative attitude towards school related activities, feel lonely, emotionally disturbed, hopeless and lack self-drive, determination and confidence to complete their secondary education.</p> <p><strong>Methodology:</strong> This study was<em> ex-post facto</em> in approach, which utilized the correlational research design.&nbsp; The target population for the study was 22158 student mothers in Baringo County while the accessible population was 1279 student mothers in public secondary schools in Baringo County. The sample size for the study was 296 student mothers selected using stratified random sampling from 34 public secondary schools in Baringo County. The study used closed-ended questionnaires to collect data from student mothers.</p> <p><strong>Results:</strong> Results indicated that there was a statistically significant positive and strong relationship between student mothers’ individual factors and their educational participation in secondary schools (r=0.728; p&lt; 0.05). The individual factors of student mothers accounts for 53.0% (R<sup>2</sup>=0.530) of the variation in their educational participation in secondary schools. One unit increases in the individual motivation of student mothers would result into 0.932 units increase in the educational participation of student mothers in their secondary schools with other factors held constant (β=0.932; p&lt;0.05). Therefore, the study hypothesis stating that there is no statistically significant influence of individual factors on educational participation of student mothers in public secondary schools in Baringo County was rejected at 5% significance level.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion:</strong> The study concluded that there is a statistically significant positive and strong relationship between student mothers’ individual factors and their educational participation in secondary schools. It was further concluded that individual factors have a significant influence on student mothers’ educational participation.</p> <p><strong>Recommendation:</strong> The study recommends student mothers to have positive attitudes towards childcare roles rather than feeling stressed due to conflicting demands of motherhood and student requirements. For these positive attributes to be instilled in the student mothers, the study recommends teacher counsellors to offer guidance and counselling to student mothers once they return to school. Also, parents should change the socialization process to the plight of student motherhood due to emerging trend of the changing values in the society.</p> <p><strong>Keywords:</strong> <em>Individual Factors, Student Mothers, Educational Participation</em></p> Margaret Jepkemboi Ayub Teresa Njonge Thomas K. Ronoh Micah C. Chepchieng Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-11-11 2023-11-11 5 17 68 86 ROLE OF FINANCING MONITORING AND EVALUATION STRATEGIES ON WATER SUPPLY PROJECT PERFORMANCE IN DODOMA CITY COUNCIL, TANZANIA https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/517 <p><strong>Purpose of Study: </strong>The study sought to assess the role of financing Monitoring and Evaluation strategies on the water supply project performance in Dodoma City Council.</p> <p><strong>Statement of Problem: </strong>There is inadequate financing of monitoring and evaluation strategies in Tanzania's water supply projects, thus affecting their effective implementation and overall performance.</p> <p><strong>Methodology:&nbsp; </strong>The study used a descriptive research design and mixed methods approach, involving 170 respondents selected via the Yamane formula, with data collected through structured questionnaires and interviews, and analyzed using SPSS (Version 26) employing descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and correlation analysis.</p> <p><strong>Result: </strong>The study found that M&amp;E financing strategies have statistically significant relationship (β = 0.083, p&lt;0.05) on-water supply projects performance. The correlation between financing of monitoring and evaluation activities and water supply project performance was also significant, r =0.817, P ˂ 0.01).</p> <p><strong>Conclusion</strong>: The study concludes that financing strategies for monitoring and evaluation significantly affect the performance of water supply projects. Further, the study concludes that there is a meaningful correlation between the financing of monitoring and evaluation activities and the overall success of these projects.</p> <p><strong>Recommendation</strong>: The study recommends allocating 2%-10% of project budgets to monitoring and evaluation (M&amp;E) activities, ensuring independent fund utilization. It also advises that organizational leaders actively participate in M&amp;E design, offering support to project staff. This approach will enhance decision-making, planning, and the effective use of learned lessons.</p> <p><strong>Keywords:</strong> <em>Monitoring and evaluation, water supply, financing of monitoring and evaluation strategies.</em></p> Aggrey Kinasha Herman Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-11-15 2023-11-15 5 17 87 103 FACTORS INFLUENCING MONITORING AND EVALUATION PLANNING ON THE PERFORMANCE OF WATER SUPPLY PROJECTS IN DODOMA CITY COUNCIL https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/518 <p><strong>Purpose of Study</strong>: The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors influencing M&amp;E planning in the implementation of the Dodoma City Council water supply project.</p> <p><strong>Statement of Problem: </strong>Despite the critical importance of water for socio-economic development and quality of life, Tanzania faces challenges in effective water resource management and implementation of water supply projects, primarily due to insufficient and poorly managed monitoring and evaluation systems within the public service sector.</p> <p><strong>Methodology: </strong>A descriptive research design and a mixed method approach, both qualitative and quantitative, were used to collect and analyze data from 170 respondents, determined by the Yamane formula. Data collection involved structured questionnaires and interviews, and analysis was conducted using SPSS (Version 26) with descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and correlation techniques.</p> <p><strong>Result</strong>: The study findings revealed that Monitoring and evaluation planning significantly affected water supply projects performance (P&lt;0.05).&nbsp; This implies that an increase in M&amp;E planning activities improves the performance of water supply projects in Dodoma City Council.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The study concluded that Dodoma City Council, Dodoma Urban Water Supply and Sewerage Authority, and Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Authority-Dodoma, provide adequate support for monitoring and evaluation practices in order to effectively increase efficiency in water supply project performance.</p> <p><strong>Recommendation</strong>:&nbsp; The study recommends that Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), Public Services Institutions (PSIs) and Local Governments Authorities (LGAs), institutionalize M&amp;E practices in their course of implementation of water supply projects.</p> <p><strong>Key words</strong>: <em>Monitoring and Evaluation, Water supply project, Mo</em><em>nitoring and Evaluation Planning</em></p> Aggrey Kinasha Herman Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-11-15 2023-11-15 5 17 104 121 LEARNER ACADEMIC SUPPORT SERVICES AND RETENTION OF STUDENTS IN OPEN DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAMMES: THE CASE OF SELECTED UNIVERSITIES IN KENYA https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/519 <p><strong>Purpose of the Study:</strong> The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of learner academic support services on the retention of students in Open Distance Learning (ODL) programmes at the selected Universities in Kenya. The hypothesis of the study was that learner academic support services do not have a significant influence on retention of learners in Open Distance Learning (ODL) programmes at the selected Universities in Kenya.</p> <p><strong>Statement of the Problem:</strong> Open Distance Learning (ODL) programmes in most of the universities in Kenya have low retention. Open Distance Learning (ODL) programmes in Kenya continue to experience excessively high attrition rates as compared to face-to-face mode of learning. Open Distance Learning (ODL) programmes encounter significant issues with student retention, as they experience dropout rates that are 10% to 20% higher than traditional classroom settings. In fact, 40% to 80% of students enrolled in ODL programmes tend to leave before completing their courses. Specifically, in Kenyan universities, 15% of the overall student dropouts are from those enrolled in ODL programmes for a Bachelor of Education degree.</p> <p><strong>Methodology:</strong> The study was guided by the pragmatism paradigm and used a cross-sectional survey design. The target population for the study was 1990 learners and the sample comprised of 322 Open Distance Learning (ODL) students pursuing Bachelor of Education related degree programmes in the three selected universities as determined by the Krejcie and Morgan (1970) formula using stratified random sampling with proportional sample size allocation. A research questionnaire was used to collect data. The study used regression analysis to test the research hypothesis at 5% significance level.</p> <p><strong>Results:</strong> Results indicated that there was a statistically significant positive and strong relationship between learner academic support services and the retention of students in ODL programmes (r=0. 775; p&lt; 0.05). The advisory support, mentorship services, tutorial services, course materials support, and feedback cumulatively accounted for 60.1% of the variance in retention of learners in ODL programmes (R<sup>2</sup>=0.601). The study established that course materials support (t=3.403, p&lt;0.05), tutorial Services (t=7.727, p&lt;0.05), and Mentorship Services (t=4.295, p&lt;0.05) were the significant predictors of learner retention on ODL programmes while feedback (t=-1.327, p&gt;0.05) and advisory support (t=0.902, p&gt;0.05) were not significant predictors.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion:</strong> The study concludes that learner academic support services with respect to course materials, tutorial services and mentorship services have a significant influence on retention of learners in open and distance learning (ODL) programmes while feedback and advisory support have no significant influence.</p> <p><strong>Recommendations:</strong> The study recommends a routine revision of course materials to guarantee their relevance and alignment with the latest curriculum. It recommends the implementation of a policy framework that mandates continual training and refresher sessions for teaching staff, to ensure their competence in digital literacy. Furthermore, it recommends the establishment of a mentorship program aimed at providing students with academic, personal, and career guidance.</p> <p><strong>Keywords</strong>: <em>Distance Education, Student Retention, Academic Support, Learner Engagement, Online Learning Programmes</em>.</p> Wycliffe Magati Ndege Anne Ndiritu Augustine Mwangi Gatotoh Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-11-15 2023-11-15 5 17 122 139 MISSION AND LEADERSHIP IN AFRICA: ANALYSIS OF SERVANT LEADERSHIP IN TANZANIA https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/520 <p><strong>Purpose of the Study</strong>: The study aimed at unveiling the mystery of Mission and servant leadership among Christians in Tanzania.</p> <p><strong>Statement of the Problem</strong>: The existing gap in understanding and practicing mission and servant leadership among Tanzanian Christians impacts the effectiveness and sustainability of leadership within faith-based communities, necessitating a comprehensive assessment to enhance leadership approaches.</p> <p><strong>Methodology</strong>: This study employed a descriptive survey research design to understand Christians interpretation of servant leadership among from their mission and Leadership experiences in Tanzania. Mixed methods approach was used to design the data collection tool which was a questionnaire and was sent online to 400 Christian faithful residing in Tanzania.</p> <p><strong>Result:</strong> The study findings established that most participants trust their religious leaders with personal issues and believe they stress community service. It found that a majority acknowledge the delegation of decision-making by leaders, but opinions are split on whether leaders place others' success before their own, illustrating diverse views on their influence and priorities. The study found that a majority of participants viewed their religious leaders positively regarding ethical standards, care for others, community help, and personal interactions. Most respondents also see themselves as missionaries and feel the Church cares for its members. Activities in which Christians partake are diverse, with charity work, social services, and Church building being predominant. Moreover, respondents generally understand the Church’s mission, with a large percentage involved in Church activities and guided by faith-based values in their mission.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion</strong>: The study concludes that religious leaders are highly esteemed, reflecting their ethical integrity and engagement in the community. High Church activity participation underscores a community anchored in faith, with members embodying the Church’s mission through service and charity.</p> <p><strong>Recommendation:</strong> Christians should live and act the way Jesus taught them. Christians are recommended to give back to the community as way of winning more people to Christ through service. Christians to exemplify Jesus’ teachings through community service, inspiring broader commitment to the faith.</p> <p><strong>Keywords</strong>: <em>Mission, Leadership, Servant leadership, Jesus Christ, Service</em></p> Flavian Kassala MATINDI Negussie Andre DOMNIC Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-11-15 2023-11-15 5 17 140 163 STOCK LIQUIDITY, GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES AND DEFAULT RISK AMONG NONFINANCIAL FIRMS LISTED IN KENYA https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/521 <p><strong>Objective:</strong> This paper analyses the impact of stock liquidity and growth opportunities on default risk of nonfinancial listed firms in Kenya.</p> <p><strong>Research Methodology:</strong> The study employs panel data analysis to study the 31 nonfinancial listed firms between 2011 and 2020. Default risk is estimated by Merton’s (1974) distance to default, stock liquidity is conceptualized as price impact and trading quantity, while growth opportunities is measured by the ratio of market to book value. The study employs the random effect to test the hypotheses based on the results of the Hausman test.</p> <p><strong>Results and findings:</strong> The results revealed that the stock liquidity had statistically significant effect on default risk, while growth opportunities had a moderating effect. Furthermore, tangibility, institutional ownership, firm size, firm profitability and leverage were also found as exerting a significant effect on default risk.</p> <p><strong>Recommendations:</strong> Managers may consider financing growth opportunities by leveraging on stock liquidity, which may lower the likelihood of default risk.</p> <p><strong>Keywords:</strong> <em>Default risk, stock liquidity, growth opportunities, listed firms, Kenya</em></p> Emmanuel Sikuku Wanjala Naomi Koske Ronald Bonuke Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-11-16 2023-11-16 5 17 164 180 EXPLORING THE DYNAMICS OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN SHAPING NARRATIVES AND PERCEPTIONS IN THE ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN CONFLICT: PRELIMINARY REFLECTIONS https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/522 <p>The enduring Israeli-Palestinian conflict has entered a new phase of narrative shaping with the advent of social media, profoundly influencing the dissemination of information and the dynamics of engagement. This article provides an examination of social media's influence on the conflict, offering insights into its dual capacity as a tool for both unity and division. Social media platforms have disrupted traditional media's gatekeeping role, enabling diverse voices to surface and grassroots narratives to gain international attention. These platforms empower activists and citizens to broadcast their experiences and mobilize support, yet they equally facilitate the spread of disinformation and incitement. Through a critical literature analysis, the paper explores the role these digital arenas play in shaping public opinion and influencing policy. It underscores the ethical challenges and weaponization potential of social media, while also considering its implications for future peace-making efforts. Conclusively, the article argues for the strategic and mindful use of social media, urging a balance between harnessing its power for constructive dialogue and mitigating its risks of exacerbating tensions. It underscores the importance of digital literacy and empathy in leveraging social media for a positive transformation in one of the world's most longstanding conflicts.</p> <p><strong>Keywords:</strong> <em>Social media, Israeli-Palestinian conflict, public opinion, information dissemination, political narratives, peacebuilding</em></p> Awuor Kokeyo Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-11-23 2023-11-23 5 17 181 194 FACILITATIVE ROLE OF CURRENT REGULATIONS ON ACCESSING HOUSING BY HOUSEHOLDS IN NAIROBI COUNTY THROUGH DIFFERENT HOUSING MODELS https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/523 <p><strong>Purpose of Study:</strong> This research aimed to evaluate the impact of current regulations on housing access for households in Nairobi County, focusing on various housing models. The study was conducted in Ruai Sub-Location, Ward of Kasarani Sub County, Nairobi County.</p> <p><strong>Statement of Problem:</strong> Access to affordable housing in Nairobi County is a significant challenge, influenced by government regulations, market forces, and social equity. This study investigates how current regulations either facilitate or hinder housing accessibility in this region.</p> <p><strong>Methodology:</strong> A mixed-methods approach was used, combining descriptive research design with both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. In-depth interviews were conducted with key stakeholders, including officials from housing financing organizations, government representatives, and heads of households in Ruai Sub-Location.</p> <p><strong>Findings of the Study:</strong> The study revealed complex dynamics between current regulations and housing models in Ruai, Nairobi County. Key stakeholders like the Kenya Mortgage Refinance Company, National Housing Cooperative Union, and Housing Finance Company of Kenya play essential roles in housing finance and solutions. Challenges identified include high construction costs and land governance issues, necessitating streamlined regulatory processes.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion:</strong> The study concludes that current regulations and stakeholder involvement are critical in shaping housing access in Ruai, Nairobi County. Collaborative efforts among financial institutions, government bodies, and housing cooperatives are vital.</p> <p><strong>Recommendation:</strong> The study recommends regulatory simplification, increased financial education, and ongoing advocacy for supportive policies to enhance housing accessibility in Nairobi County. These measures are expected to address the housing crisis and improve the quality of life for residents.</p> <p><strong>Keywords:</strong> <em>Housing Models, Housing Regulations, Mortgage, Cooperative, Affordability</em></p> Francis Kamande Wycliffe Oboka Moses Gweyi Michael Ngala Copyright (c) 2023 African Journal of Emerging Issues 2023-11-27 2023-11-27 5 17 195 209