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Economic growth is dependent on well-skilled human capital. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes are paramount in provision of the requisite capabilities which encompass both academic and non-academic skills also known as whole youth development (WYD) skills. Youths leaving training institutions in Kenya experience various challenges associated with skills gap including incapacity to access, sustain and progress in the labour market. This article examines influencers of WYD skills acquisition among learners in the TVET institutions in Kenya. The article uses data from a cross-sectional survey, targeting students aged 15-25 years in both public and private TVET institutions. We analyse data from 3452 students, 347 instructors and 171 heads who participated in the study. A composite score based on four domains measured acquisition of WYD skills: functional numeracy and literacy, soft skills and digital learning. Multi-level regression results on WYD reveal better performance in well-equipped institutions compared to inadequately equipped ones. Similarly, better performance from institutions located in wealthier regions compared to those in marginalised areas. We deduce that the uptake of WYD skills among TVET students heavily relies on supply-side influencers.

There has been a growing concern in Kenya that boys have gradually been left out of the gender equation with little research capturing their schooling experiences. When examined, boys' underachievement is treated with suspicion that has led to few studies demonstrating their marginalisation. This paper explored the manifestations of boys' underachievement in education in Busia and Kirinyaga counties in Kenya. The study was carried out in 12 primary schools targeted 12 headteachers, 24 teachers, 480 pupils, 8 education officials and 180 households. Enrolment, school attendance, and candidature for national examinations data showed boys were marginalised. In addition, they lacked adequate role models. However, on performance, boys still had better results than girls. The paper concludes that boys were beginning to under participate in education and recommends the need for gender interventions to target both boys and girls and tripartite efforts at communities, county governments and national government to re-enrol boys.

Africa could benefit from the demographic dividend by identifying strategies for investing in the massive youthful workforce. The current study employs the social cognitive career theory perspective to assess Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions' curriculum coverage of various skills in Kenya. We further examine the relevance of the curricula to the labour market and barriers affecting institutions' capacity to implement practical-oriented and demand-driven curricula. A cross-sectional research design was adopted using a mixed-method approach to gather and analyse data. Findings revealed different levels of coverage of soft and technical skills in the curriculum. Inadequate resources, lack of modern equipment and technology, and minimal adoption of practical components in the curriculum were identified as barriers to acquiring skills, consequently affecting TVET students' capacity to secure employment. To promote requisite skills acquisition and accelerate youth employability, we recommend a partnership between TVET institutions and the industry. Assessing how the competencies acquired align with labour market demands is also critical. Evidence gathered from this assessment will inform the improvement of existing on-the-job training, enable institutions to scale-up successful models and foster the development of human capital that is more adaptable to the dynamic world of work.

This article presents the results of survey research on Kenyan professional school-based counsellor's perceptions of roles and appropriate activities. Data were collected from 47 Kenyan counsellors using the International Survey of School-Based Counselling Activities. Mean subscale scores and standard deviations were employed to analyse data across five dimensions of the school-based counsellor role practice: Counselling Services; Advocacy and Systemic Improvement; Prevention Programs; Administrator Role; and Educational Career Planning. Results indicated that Kenyan counsellors' highest scale of preference for role/responsibility they perform was Counselling Services (one-to-one counselling service and group counselling aimed at improving children and adolescences' mental health and academic performance). Results also indicated that Kenyan counsellors perceived Administrator Role activities as the least cogent of their responsibilities. It is suggested that these findings will facilitate future comparative research on school-based counsellors' roles and responsibilities and promote the building up of a body of literature that will inform policy development.

With Kenya having rolled out the Competence-Based Curriculum effective as from 2019, anchoring in it preschool education as an integral component, there is still a level of indistinctness as to the role of the preschool teacher in the core domains of curriculum development and reform. The perspective brings to light insights of preschool teacher engagement and interlinkage in effecting the much-desired curriculum development and reform through learner growth, creating an enabling environment, the need for preschool teacher involvement in curriculum evaluations, reforms and adaptability to transformation. The perspective examination integrates documentary analysis as well as discourse analysis. Evidently, progressive implementation of the Competence-Based Curriculum in preschool education alongside any desired adaptations in a timely, expertise and pragmatic manner driven by classroom realities is considered core in ensuring seamless successive transition of learners. It is not only the basis for foundational skills of literacy and numeracy, but also life skills grounding for learners. The findings examination posits for well-anchored and dynamic policy transition considerations at the governmental level on preschool teacher capacity development. As informed by the core domains of curriculum development, it is recommended that reform thought processes and ideologies ignited by preschool teachers from the grass-root levels should encourage a bottom-top channel of curriculum adjustment recommendations rather than a top-down, unilateral and bureaucratic system.

Teaching and learning of Chinese as a foreign language and its culture is complex for Kenyan learners. It requires them to consider contrasting intellectual, policy and economic dimensions that instead of aiding its propagation among Kenyan learners, could even facilitate a hindrance to its progression. Potential measures that could be embraced are examined in this study based on the current context in lieu of proper guidelines or policy for foreign language learning, and in the midst of China's reform and opening-up. The study adopts Stern's second language learning theoretical approach, documentary and discourse analysis as complementary to a preliminary exploratory survey. Chinese and Kenyan partnering institutions in higher education and its intersections through Chinese language development and cultural exchange are well-attuned towards attaining a competitive cadre of bilingually educated Kenyans who are appreciative of the cultural diversity between the two nations. This affords Chinese and Kenyan nationals the opportunity to engage with each other in efficient bidirectional exchanges for common intellectual and economic prosperity founded on various exchange agreements. In the quest for greater Chinese language and culture propagation, increased bidirectional participation of stakeholders in curriculum-related policymaking and implementation processes are sought. The mobilization of strategic resources through exchanges between China and Kenya hold the promise to a more certain cooperative future for all. Avenues on resource mobilization with a focus on efficient human resource management, together with an opportunities linkage framework, would benefit both countries, and thereby reinforce a common intellectual and economic prosperity.

The aim of this study was to examine the influence of selected factors on implementation of Information and Communication Technology in public secondary schools in Naivasha sub-county, Kenya. The study investigated whether the ICT infrastructural cost, schools' visions, and teachers' ICT skills hinder effective implementation of ICT policy in schools. The researcher adopted "ex post facto" research design whereby data was collected using a questionnaire for 32 Head teachers of public secondary schools and structured interview for the Quality Assurance and Standard Officers (QASO) from the Sub-county Educations office, Naivasha Sub-county. The population targeted in this study was all the Head Teachers of public secondary schools in Naivasha Sub-County. The Nominal scale data was analyzed through frequency counts and percentages while hypotheses were tested using simple regression statistic at a=0.05 level of significance. The data was interpreted and findings were highlighted. Factors related to schools' visions on ICT policy have the highest negative impact on implementation of ICT policy compared to selected factors related to cost of ICT infrastructure and teachers skills in ICT. These findings imply that implementation of ICT policy in school depends on school's vision on ICT; where school strategic plan has clear vision and strategy of implementing ICT rather than the cost of ICT infrastructure or teachers' skills in ICT. Suggested further research area in ICT implementation is, the Head teachers' attitude toward implementation of ICT policy, and the influence of teacher's age factor and implementation of ICT policy.

To promote participation and access to education, the government introduced free primary education. The introduction of FSE has resulted into increased enrolment at all levels which has been blamed for the poor performance of pupils in public primary school of Imenti Central District. The current study sought to determine the impact of enrollment on the quality of learning in primary schools in Imenti Central District. The study employed the descriptive survey research design. Purposive sampling was used to select 2 QASO officers in charge of Imenti Central district; giving a sample size of 382 participants. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used as tools for data collection. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics. The results of data analysis were presented using frequency distribution tables and bar graphs. The study established that high enrolment trends in primary schools led to overworking the staff members, inadequate teaching and learning facilities, poor sanitation facilities and inadequate classroom. The increased enrolment impacted to a great extent on the quality of learning in public primary schools. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that the government puts measures in place to avail facilities that match the pupils' enrolment.

This study aimed to characterize the cervical cancer diagnosis experience of Kenyan women undergoing treatment for cervical cancer. We analyzed qualitative interviews with 29 women living in rural Kenya who were currently undergoing cervical cancer treatment at Machakos Cancer Care and Research Centre at Machakos Level 5 Referral Hospital in eastern Kenya. Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted in Kiswahili and English and then de-identified and translated to English during transcription. The main themes generated were identified through an inductive approach to determine how women experienced cervical cancer symptoms and their process of navigating healthcare. Three themes emerged from the qualitative interviews: (1) delaying seeking care, (2) misinterpreting or misdiagnoses, and (3) grappling with the costly diagnosis process. Women misattributed early signs of cervical cancer to benign conditions. Women sought care only after experiencing severe symptoms. When they sought care, women reported facing lengthy and costly screening processes before receiving a cervical cancer diagnosis. There is a need to educate women on the early symptoms of cervical cancer and to increase the institutional capacity and availability of cervical cancer screening resources in healthcare facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to find the effect of customer satisfaction on the relationship between perceived service quality and customer loyalty among passengers of railway transport services in Kenya. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design and a pragmatism paradigm were used. Proportionate stratified random sampling technique was used to pick samples from each railway service provider. Simple random sampling was used to select a representative sample size of 357 respondents for the study. The study population comprised all railway customers who had frequently used Madaraka Express, Nairobi Commuter Rail, Kisumu Safari Train and Nairobi-Nanyuki Train passenger services in Kenya. Primary data was collected by a selfadministered semi-structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Stepwise regression analysis was carried out to test the research hypothesis. The results showed that customer satisfaction significantly and partially mediated the relationship between perceived service quality and customer loyalty (p-value<0.05, ß= 0.400). The study contributes to the existing literature by revealing the partial mediating influence of customer satisfaction on the relationship between perceived service quality and customer loyalty. The study recommends that policy makers should embrace perceived service quality to enhance customer loyalty and gain competitive advantage. Managers should use the study results to establish perceived service quality dimensions and customer satisfaction attributes for customer loyalty realization. Future studies may use longitudinal research design to establish causal relationship between perceived service quality and customer loyalty over a period of time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture is the mainstay of Kenya's economy and contributes significantly to the gross domestic product. A great majority of this contribution comes from smallholder farmers who paradoxically face numerous obstacles ranging from a lack of support structures to poor policies and inadequate resources. A major challenge is assisting these farmers with making improvements in their production ventures, with the recently devolved form of government in Kenya enabling any assistance to be concentrated at a much lower and specific level within established counties. The United States International University (USIU) has been involved in the development of training materials for farmers and farmer organizations, specifically a course module based on several interdisciplinary field case studies. This farmers' agribusiness training course was developed on an open educational resource (OER) platform to help both farmers, who had limited training in commercialization of agriculture, and farmer organizations. The intention of the course was to provide access to additional skills and knowledge, allowing farmers to move from a farm to a "firm." Five farmers were identified from various parts of the country and participated in partnership with USIU faculty to develop the modules for the course over a one-year period. In order to complete these modules with the farmers, project staff frequently followed up with the farmers via field trips. The farmers provided positive feedback on the OER materials despite some challenges, such as the need for participants to be computer literate in order to utilize the materials directly. However, mobile learning presents an opportunity to address this shortcoming. Kenya has witnessed tremendous growth in the use of mobile phones in the rural population whose main occupation is agriculture. Although a few farmers were found to already be using a mobile SMS service to seek recommendations from the Ministry of Agriculture on the best agriculture practices and produce marketing, there is a need to establish whether mobile technologies can enhance farmers' training and support in the rural communities.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is threefold: to pilot research on the role that trauma-healing and resilience play in developing futures consciousness/literacy; to explore how this informs the coloniality of sexuality; and to engage economically marginalised young gay and bisexual men in exploring future scenarios for the wider LGBTQI+ community in Kenya. Design/methodology/approach: This study used participatory action research to pilot the study. Workshop sessions focused on exploratory futures using an integral futures framework. Futures tools used consisted of the futures triangle, polak game and a two-by-two matrix scenario building exercise. Findings: Participants found that previous psychosocial support and mental health counselling enabled them to address past traumas, find healing and begin a productive journey of unpacking their understanding of agency and engage with developing personal and communal futures thinking – all prerequisites for effectively addressing decoloniality. Originality/value: This research represents the only study of the four-way intersection of trauma-healing, futures consciousness/literacy, the queer community in Africa and decoloniality and coloniality of sexuality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main focus of this paper was to examine the influence of public awareness on the Implementation of County Government Development Projects in Turkana North Sub County, Kenya. The paper was anchored on the civic voluntarism theory. The study adopted A descriptive research design, which targeted 30,923 people. A sample of 384 public members was arrived at using the Miller & Brewer formula, and stratified randomly was employed. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Supervisions, intensive literature review, and pre-testing validated the research instruments. The reliability of the instruments was further verified by a pilot study using 10% of the study's sample. The outcome of the pilot study revealed an internal consistency of Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.8476. this coefficient was considered ideal since it was above the threshold of 0.7. Data were analyzed descriptively using SPSS and presented in percentages, frequencies, and tables. The data analysis findings established a significant positive relationship between public awareness and the implementation of funded development projects in Turkana North sub-county, Kenya (R=0.749). Overall, public awareness influenced the implementation of funded development projects by 88.7% (R2 = 88.7%). Therefore, the study recommends that it is vital for the firms assigned to implementing development projects to consider thoroughly fostering public awareness in any project implementation. This enhances project satisfaction, project completion on time, and completion at scheduled cost. These study findings may benefit policymakers, practitioners, and researchers in forming the basis for new knowledge by identifying the knowledge gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The standard diagnosis of Ascaris lumbricoides and other soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections relies on the detection of worm eggs by copromicroscopy. However, this method is dependent on worm patency and shows only limited accuracy in low-intensity infection settings. We aimed to decipher the diagnostic accuracy of different antibodies using various Ascaris antigens in reference to copromicroscopy and quantitative PCR (qPCR), four months after national STH preventative chemotherapy among school children in western Kenya. Methodology: STH infection status of 390 school children was evaluated via copromicroscopy (Kato-Katz and mini-FLOTAC) and qPCR. In parallel, Ascaris-specific antibody profiles against larval and adult worm lysates, and adult worm excretory-secretory (ES) products were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Antibody cross-reactivity was evaluated using the closely related zoonotic roundworm species Toxocara cati and Toxocara canis. The diagnostic accuracy of each antibody was evaluated using receiver operating curve analysis and the correspondent area under the curve (AUC). Principal findings: Ascaris was the predominant helminth infection with an overall prevalence of 14.9% (58/390). The sensitivity of mini-FLOTAC and Kato-Katz for Ascaris diagnosis reached only 53.5% and 63.8%, respectively compared to qPCR. Although being more sensitive, qPCR values correlated with microscopic egg counts (R = -0.71, P<0.001), in contrast to antibody levels. Strikingly, IgG antibodies recognizing the ES products of adult Ascaris worms reliably diagnosed active Ascaris infection as determined by qPCR and microscopy, with IgG1 displaying the highest accuracy (AUC = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.75–0.91). Conclusion: IgG1 antibody responses against adult Ascaris-ES products hold a promising potential for complementing the standard fecal and molecular techniques employed for monitoring Ascaris infections. This is of particular importance in the context of deworming programs as the antibody diagnostic accuracy was independent of egg counts. Author summary: Ascaris lumbricoides is the most common human intestinal helminth globally, affecting a quarter of the world's population. Microscopic methods are used to diagnose and monitor Ascaris infections. However, these methods are unsatisfactory for diagnosing low-intensity infections, are prone to human error, their accuracy is greatly affected by the heterogeneous distribution of worm eggs and are limited to detecting only patent infections. qPCR offers an attractive alternative with regard to sensitivity and high-throughput capacity but is also limited by worm patency. Here, we compared the diagnostic accuracy of different antibodies using Ascaris antigen lysates as well as Ascaris excretory/secretory (ES) products using copromicroscopy and qPCR as reference. Our data show that IgG1 antibody responses directed against ES antigens of adult Ascaris worms, but not against the infective third-stage larval or adult worm extracts, reliably decipher between Ascaris-infected and Ascaris-negative participants independent of the microscopic egg counts. Our study is the first to report strong IgG1 responses directed against ES products of adult worms and their potential value as markers for an active Ascaris infection. Our results indicate the potential to develop an antibody-based Ascaris-immunoassay utilizing Ascaris-ES antigens to complement the monitoring of reinfections and transmission dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aedes aegypti mosquitos are the primary vector for dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses and tend to breed in small containers of water, with a propensity to breed in small piles of trash and abandoned tires. This study piloted the use of aerial imaging to map and classify potential Ae. aegypti breeding sites with a specific focus on trash, including discarded tires. Aerial images of coastal and inland sites in Kenya were obtained using an unmanned aerial vehicle. Aerial images were reviewed for identification of trash and suspected trash mimics, followed by extensive community walk-throughs to identify trash types and mimics by description and ground photography. An expert panel reviewed aerial images and ground photos to develop a classification scheme and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of aerial imaging versus walk-through trash mapping. A trash classification scheme was created based on trash density, surface area, potential for frequent disturbance, and overall likelihood of being a productive Ae. aegypti breeding site. Aerial imaging offers a novel strategy to characterize, map, and quantify trash at risk of promoting Ae. aegypti proliferation, generating opportunities for further research on trash associations with disease and trash interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In sub-Saharan Africa, involving male partners in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV improves maternal and infant outcomes. Male involvement is typically conceptualised as male partners attending antenatal care, which is difficult for many men. Little is known about how men view their involvement in family health within the context of HIV, particularly outside of clinic attendance. Through interviews with 35 male partners of pregnant or postpartum women living with HIV in Kenya and Zambia, this study elicited perceptions of male involvement in maternal and infant health in families affected by HIV. Men supported the importance of clinic attendance but reported conflicts with the need to work and fulfil their role as the family's financial provider. Providing money for necessities was deemed more critical for their family's health than clinic attendance. Men's involvement was conveyed through various other supportive actions, including helping with household chores and providing emotional support (showing love and reducing women's stress). Future strategies to promote male partner involvement in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and maternal and child health should build upon the actions men view as most meaningful to promote their family's health within their real-world life circumstances and cultural context, particularly their role as financial providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the effect of free trade on intra-African bilateral trade balances for Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and Tanzania to assess the potential implications of the African Continental Free Trade area. The four countries have experienced persistent trade deficits. Whether free trade within Africa can improve the national trade balances, and the drivers of bilateral trade balances are important questions for policy and strategic programmes for the countries to make the most gains from free trade area. The econometric model estimated for each country is an extension of the standard Keynesian model of trade balance to include determinants of bilateral trade flows from the gravity model. Quantitative analysis using panel regression was augmented with qualitative data from interviews with trade policy experts and trade officials from various African countries and focus group discussions with small-scale cross-border traders at the Busia and Namanga border posts in East Africa. Findings show that complete tariff elimination on intra–African trade may not impact the bilateral trade balances of Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania but could improve bilateral trade balances for Uganda by 6 percent. Within the free trade areas, Uganda's bilateral trade balances were higher within the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa but lower within the East African Community, than outside these areas. Kenya's trade balances were lower in the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, than otherwise. On the contrary, no significant difference in trade balances is established for the membership of Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania in the East African Community; Rwanda in the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa; and Tanzania in the Southern African Development Community, when compared to trade balances with non-members. The importance of macroeconomic factors is demonstrated by the increase in bilateral trade balances with higher relative price levels of trade partners; the reduction with increase in relative production and expenditure capacities of trade partners; and improvements following a depreciation of home currency for Tanzania and Uganda, yet a worsening of trade balances in Kenya. A lack of harmony in documents required for cross-border movements within the free trade areas is reported as counterproductive. All African countries should therefore fully implement protocols and cooperate in the harmonization of trade procedures for the free movement of people and goods across borders. Country policies and trade programmes should pursue increased productivity in the leading intra-African export sectors and diversify exports via foreign direct investment in strategic sectors to substitute imports from outside Africa; reduce costs of production; increase the quality of products; and improve transport infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kenya is a major player in the global ornamental trade, exporting substantial quantities of ornamental fish to the global market. The sector plays an important role in the country's economy through foreign exchange. However, the country's ornamental fish industry has not fully developed to generate more economic benefits. This paper sought to identify the existing opportunities for enhancing the production and trade of ornamental fish in the country. The findings reveal that there are opportunities for collection of native freshwater ornamental fish species from the vast freshwater resources in the country; for the culture of marine ornamental fish; for public aquariums as centres of recreation, conservation, research and education; and for employment and development of support industries. The findings also show that there are international legislations and national policies that create an enabling environment for the growth of the industry. To unlock the full potential of the industry, training and research, investment and infrastructure development, quality assurance, collaboration and networking, and environmental sustainability strategies need to be put in place. This will ensure Kenya's position as a key player in the global ornamental fish trade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Until recently, arbovirus surveillance is mainly focused on mosquito and tick vectors, resulting in the discovery of several mosquito- and tick-borne arboviruses. However, the role of sandflies in arbovirus transmission and disease has remained largely unexplored. This study sought to isolate and characterize arboviruses from phlebotomine sandflies from selected pastoral ecozones in the North Rift region of Kenya. Methods: Sandflies were collected from selected sites in North Rift Kenya between 2015 and 2018. They were sorted and pooled by sex, site, and collection date. The pools were homogenized and inoculated onto Vero cells for virus isolation. The positive pools were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction targeting different arboviruses. The isolates were further characterized by highthroughput sequencing using Illumina Miseq platform. Results: Approximately 28,226 sandflies translating to 824 pools were sampled from the selected regions. A total of 11 showed reproducible cytopathic effects on Vero cells. We identified five arboviruses: sindbis (n = 4) from Kacheliba and Baringo, Chandipura (n = 4) from Turkana and Baringo, Koutango (n = 1) and Ntepes (n = 1) from Baringo, and Bogoria (n = 1) from Kacheliba. The percent identities of the identified viruses were approximately 80% to 98% compared to known viruses in GenBank, suggesting that some of them could be novel viruses. Conclusion: This study successfully isolated and characterized five arboviruses from sandflies. The findings suggest that sandflies are potential hosts of a wide range of arboviruses and are therefore important vectors to consider in arbovirus surveillance and evaluated for their ability to transmit them. Further studies are needed to determine the public health importance and extent of exposure of these viruses to humans and livestock populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The metabarcoding of prokaryotic and fungal (Ascomycota only) ribosomal DNA was used to describe the microbial communities in soils of a remnant equatorial rainforest, maize–bean intercrop, and sugarcane in western Kenya. Cropping systems influenced the microbial community composition and functional traits (energy source and nutrient cycling) of bulk soil in each crop. Microbial richness and diversity tended to increase with cultivation intensity. The soil of the maize–bean intercrop had lower percentages and sugarcane had higher percentages of unique amplicon sequence variants of both bacteria and fungi compared to the remnant forest. Functional traits were altered by cultivation intensity. Compared to remnant forest soils, maize–bean intercrop soil had lower percentages of aerobic chemoheterotrophic bacteria and higher percentages of N-cycling bacteria, while sugarcane had higher percentages of aerobic chemoheterotrophic bacteria and lower percentages of N-cycling bacteria. In the face of increasing forest loss and pressures for agricultural productivity, this landscape provides a rich site for studying the impacts of cropping systems on soil health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the 1980s, Artemia franciscana from San Francisco Bay (SFB) was introduced into Kenyan saltworks, where it has colonized and established stable populations. However, little is known about its biology, particularly with respect to its parental SFB population. This study compared the salinity tolerances of Kenyan (KEN) population, their SFB progenitors and those of Great Salt Lake (GSL) populations. Growth and survival of these A. franciscana populations were evaluated under varying salinity levels in a laboratory set up. A. franciscana nauplii were cultured at a rate of 1 nauplii/mL in 36 Erlenmeyer flasks and fed microalgae (Chaetoceros sp.) at 1.5 × 106 cells/animal/day for 8 days. Survival was evaluated daily and survivors were fixed in individual vials with Lugol solution. The total length of each fixed A. franciscana nauplii specimen was measured under a compound microscope. All populations were susceptible to salinities greater than 100 g/L. Compared with the parental SFB population, the KEN population exhibited significantly reduced survival and growth at 140 g/L, suggesting a narrower salinity tolerance range. These findings underscore the need for further studies focusing on other physiological parameters, abiotic factors and genetic characterization to confirm whether the KEN population is experiencing ecological adaptation. This will contribute to the optimization of Artemia practices in various salinity environments as a result of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In sub-Saharan Africa, malaria, which remains a major public health burden, has a prevalence of 9 to 28% and malaria in pregnancy is associated with severe adverse outcomes for the mother and her baby. Here, we sought to determine the predictors of birth weight in a cohort of 140 women with malaria in pregnancy, who were recruited at the Webuye County hospital in Western Kenya. All study participants underwent malaria diagnosis through microscopic examination of blood smear samples and were grouped into the malaria-positive and malaria-negative groups. Both groups were followed up beginning at the first antenatal visit (March 2022) until delivery (December 2022) and various data, including demographic, parity, gravidity, socioeconomic, maternal and fetal outcomes were collected. Data analyses were done using SPSS version 27. Chi-square and Fisher's Exact tests were used for bivariate and relative risk analyses at a p-value of ≤0.05 (95%) confidence level. Most of the participants were aged 18–25 years, were primigravidas and married, had secondary school-level education, earned 20–30 thousand Kenya shillings, resided in rural areas, and were in the second trimester. There were 6 (4.6%) cases of low birth weight, 3 (4.5%) in the malaria-negative group and 3 (4.7%) in the malaria-positive group. During pregnancy, 41 (31.5%) were anaemic, 5 (3.8%) were HIV-positive, 5 (3.8%) had preeclampsia, and 2 (1.5%) had gestational diabetes. Our analyses show that confounding factors like anaemia, HIV, pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes did not influence birthweight (p ≥ 0.923). The malaria-positive and malaria-negative groups did not differ significantly with regard to the low birth weight (relative risk: 0.999, 95% confidence interval: 0.926–1.077). Marital status, gestational age, and area of residence were associated with malaria p ≤ 0.001, ≤ 0.001 and 0.028 respectively. In both groups, 124 of the 140 deliveries had normal birth weights and of these 63 (95.4%, n = 70) were in the malaria-negative group, whereas 61 (95.3%, n = 70) belonged to the malaria-positive group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decline of lions (Panthera leo) in Kenya has raised conservation concerns about their overall population health and long‐term survival. This study aimed to assess the genetic structure, differentiation and diversity of lion populations in the country, while considering the influence of past management practices. Using a lion‐specific Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) panel, we genotyped 171 individuals from 12 populations representative of areas with permanent lion presence. Our results revealed a distinct genetic pattern with pronounced population structure, confirmed a north‐south split and found no indication of inbreeding in any of the tested populations. Differentiation seems to be primarily driven by geographical barriers, human presence and climatic factors, but management practices may have also affected the observed patterns. Notably, the Tsavo population displayed evidence of admixture, perhaps attributable to its geographic location as a suture zone, vast size or past translocations, while the fenced populations of Lake Nakuru National Park and Solio Ranch exhibited reduced genetic diversity due to restricted natural dispersal. The Amboseli population had a high number of monomorphic loci likely reflecting a historical population decline. This illustrates that patterns of genetic diversity should be seen in the context of population histories and that future management decisions should take these insights into account. To address the conservation implications of our findings, we recommend prioritizing the maintenance of suitable habitats to facilitate population connectivity. Initiation of genetic restoration efforts and separately managing populations with unique evolutionary histories is crucial for preserving genetic diversity and promoting long‐term population viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economic growth is dependent on well-skilled human capital. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes are paramount in provision of the requisite capabilities which encompass both academic and non-academic skills also known as whole youth development (WYD) skills. Youths leaving training institutions in Kenya experience various challenges associated with skills gap including incapacity to access, sustain and progress in the labour market. This article examines influencers of WYD skills acquisition among learners in the TVET institutions in Kenya. The article uses data from a cross-sectional survey, targeting students aged 15–25 years in both public and private TVET institutions. We analyse data from 3452 students, 347 instructors and 171 heads who participated in the study. A composite score based on four domains measured acquisition of WYD skills: functional numeracy and literacy, soft skills and digital learning. Multi-level regression results on WYD reveal better performance in well-equipped institutions compared to inadequately equipped ones. Similarly, better performance from institutions located in wealthier regions compared to those in marginalised areas. We deduce that the uptake of WYD skills among TVET students heavily relies on supply-side influencers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need for performance-based management in Kenya has brought in itself changes in the approach of management of institutions. Strategic planning is very crucial in realization of this important management outlook. The purpose of this study was to establish availability and the level of implementation of strategic plans in schools in Nandi County. The study adopted a mixed-method design. The target population included district education officials, senior teachers, and principals of secondary schools. A sample of 322 respondents which form 16% of the population arrived at using Krejcie and Morgan Formula was used. The study sample comprised of 85 secondary school principals out of a population of 152 and 234 senior teachers out of 1,900, and all the 5 district education officers. The respondents were selected using purposive, proportionate, and simple random sampling technique, and the instruments for data collection were questionnaires and interview schedule. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as measures of central tendencies. The findings of this study revealed that majority of the secondary schools in Nandi County had no functional strategic plans to guide their respective schools to achieve their desired mission and vision; most of the plans in place are used in academic purposes, planning, and infrastructure development. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education should train well all school managers in public secondary schools on strategic planning process. The study therefore amplifies the need for the government to streamline the strategic plan policy in view of expectations of Ministry of Education circular in strategic planning of 2003.

Background: The sand flea, Tunga penetrans, is the cause of a severely neglected parasitic skin disease (tungiasis) in the tropics and has received little attention from entomologists to understand its transmission ecology. Like all fleas, T. penetrans has environmental off-host stages presenting a constant source of reinfection. We adapted the Berlese-Tullgren funnel method using heat from light bulbs to extract off-host stages from soil samples to identify the major development sites within rural households in Kenya and Uganda. Methods and findings: Simple, low-cost units of multiple funnels were designed to allow the extraction of >60 soil samples in parallel. We calibrated the method by investigating the impact of different bulb wattage and extraction time on resulting abundance and quality of off-host stages. A cross-sectional field survey was conducted in 49 tungiasis affected households. A total of 238 soil samples from indoor and outdoor living spaces were collected and extracted. Associations between environmental factors, household member infection status and the presence and abundance of off-host stages in the soil samples were explored using generalized models. The impact of heat (bulb wattage) and time (hours) on the efficiency of extraction was demonstrated and, through a stepwise approach, standard operating conditions defined that consistently resulted in the recovery of 75% (95% CI 63–85%) of all present off-host stages from any given soil sample. To extract off-host stages alive, potentially for consecutive laboratory bioassays, a low wattage (15–25 W) and short extraction time (4 h) will be required. The odds of finding off-host stages in indoor samples were 3.7-fold higher than in outdoor samples (95% CI 1.8–7.7). For every one larva outdoors, four (95% CI 1.3–12.7) larvae were found indoors. We collected 67% of all off-host specimen from indoor sleeping locations and the presence of off-host stages in these locations was strongly associated with an infected person sleeping in the room (OR 10.5 95% CI 3.6–28.4). Conclusion: The indoor sleeping areas are the transmission hotspots for tungiasis in rural homes in Kenya and Uganda and can be targeted for disease control and prevention measures. The soil extraction methods can be used as a simple tool for monitoring direct impact of such interventions. Author summary: The sand flea (Tunga penetrans), is the cause of a tropical parasitic skin disease (tungiasis) that is severely neglected by scientists and policy makers yet it affects millions of people in the Americas and Sub-Saharan Africa. The adult female sand flea burrows into the skin, especially in the feet where it grows and expels hundreds of eggs that than develop off-the host on the ground. These environmental off-host stages are responsible for constant re-infection even if a person was medically treated. It was not known up to date where exactly the off-host stages are. Our study provides for the first time direct evidence that indoor floors, specifically those where people with tungiasis sleep, are hotspots for sand flea development and consequently for tungiasis transmission in East Africa. Based on our results, we recommend the interruption of the life cycle and hence prevent re-infection with locally targeted environmental prevention measures such as improving indoor floors with sealed and easily cleanable surfaces or the application of insecticides on indoor floor surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Regulation can improve professional practice and patient care, but is often weakly implemented and enforced in health systems in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Taking a de-centred and frontline perspective, we examine national regulatory actors' and health professionals' views and experiences of health professional regulation in Kenya and Uganda and discuss how it might be improved in LMICs more generally. Methods: We conducted large-scale research on professional regulation for doctors and nurses (including midwives) in Uganda and Kenya during 2019–2021. We interviewed 29 national regulatory stakeholders and 47 subnational regulatory actors, doctors, and nurses. We then ran a national survey of Kenyan and Ugandan doctors and nurses, which received 3466 responses. We thematically analysed qualitative data, conducted an exploratory factor analysis of survey data, and validated findings in four focus group discussions. Results: Kenyan and Ugandan regulators were generally perceived as resource-constrained, remote, and out of touch with health professionals. This resulted in weak regulation that did little to prevent malpractice and inadequate professional education and training. However, interviewees were positive about online licencing and regulation where they had relationships with accessible regulators. Building on these positive findings, we propose an ambidextrous approach to improving regulation in LMIC health systems, which we term deconcentrating regulation. This involves developing online licencing and streamlining regulatory administration to make efficiency savings, freeing regulatory resources. These resources should then be used to develop connected subnational regulatory offices, enhance relations between regulators and health professionals, and address problems at local level. Conclusion: Professional regulation for doctors and nurses in Kenya and Uganda is generally perceived as weak. Yet these professionals are more positive about online licencing and regulation where they have relationships with regulators. Building on these positive findings, we propose deconcentrating regulation as a solution to regulatory problems in LMICs. However, we note resource, cultural and political barriers to its effective implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-ethanol is a promising renewable energy but its production is expensive from high cost of feedstocks. In this study, sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) stalk juice was investigated for bio-ethanol production. Most reports on bio-ethanol productions use commercial Saccharomyces cerevisiae as yeast. However, this study used finger millet (Eleusine coracana) malt with already high adaptation to local conditions and high economic viability as it is being utilized by the indigenous communities. Five sweet sorghum varieties of IESV-92001-DL (V1), NTJ (V2), 15233-IESV (V3), 92008-DJ (V4) and IESV-92028-DL (V5) were planted at 0°3'45.4644" North, 34°17'16.1052" South, in Kenya. °Brix content of juice was determined at 11th to 16th weeks after sowing. Highest °Brix for all varieties were at 15th week where V1 was highest at 22.07. V1 was then harvested for the juice. Factors affecting fermentation; temperature, time, pH and yeast to substrate ratio were optimized using Taguchi method and were obtained as 30 °C, 48 hours, pH 5 and 5 g/L, respectively. Kinetics parameters of Vmax and Km were 0.35 g/L/h and 12.56 g/L, respectively. The optimized and kinetic parameters were within literature values and therefore finger millet malt has a great potential, as a substitute yeast source, in commercial bio-ethanol production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Livestock-dependent communities in Africa's drylands disproportionately experience acute malnutrition, especially during drought seasons. We detail the design and implementation of the Livestock for Health (L4H) study aimed at determining the effect of providing livestock feed and nutritional counselling to prevent seasonal spikes of acute malnutrition. Methods: The L4H study employed a 3-arm cluster randomized controlled trial to compare households in pastoralist settings in northern Kenya receiving livestock feeds during critical dry periods, with or without nutritional counseling, with control households. Over 4 dry seasons, 2019 to 2021, the study collected data on household milk production, consumption patterns, mothers'/children's nutritional status, household socioeconomic status, herd dynamics, and human and animal health status every 6 weeks. Results: L4H recruited 1734 households, with 639, 585, and 510 households assigned to intervention arms 1 and 2 and control arm 3, respectively. From these households, 1734 women and 1748 children younger than 3 years were recruited. In total, 19 419 household visits were completed, obtaining anthropometric measures 9 times on average for each child and mother. Eighty-one households (5%) were lost from the study due to the mother's death, child's death, migration, and withdrawal for other reasons. Discussion: L4H's success in a challenging environment was possible due to strong community engagement, formative studies to inform trial design, collaboration with local authorities, and effective interdisciplinary collaboration. Subsequent manuscripts will report the study findings. Trial Registration: The study was registered October 29, 2020, and is online at ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04608656). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to establish the extent to which Porter's five competitive forces (PFCF) framework, among other factors drive the choice of response strategies adopted by public universities in Kenya. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study design was descriptive and utilized a cross-sectional survey of all the public universities in Kenya by administering a structured questionnaire to the top management team. Additional primary data were collected through observations and interviews. Secondary data were also collected in order to corroborate the data collected from the primary sources. Findings: PFCF framework influenced the choice of response strategies adopted by the public universities "to a great extent", the most influence being the threat from new entrants. The influence of the choice of response strategies by PFCF framework was independent of the age and category of the universities. Pressure from stakeholders, changes in government policies and regulations, reforms in higher education, unethical response strategies by some universities and university location also influenced the choice of response strategies. Research Limitations/Implications: The study collected data from the top management team only; however, other stakeholders could have given additional information not reported here. Further, the research only considered public universities and not all higher education institutions (HEIs) in Kenya, and was cross-sectional, hence generalization and application of the results over a long time, respectively, may be limited. Practical Implications: The value of this study lies in HEIs achieving a competitive advantage and shaping strategic policy direction in the face of changing environment and global commodification of higher education. Originality/Value: Current public universities in Kenya have adopted a business-like approach in their operations in view of changing environment and have adopted coping strategies. Therefore, understanding the factors that influence the choice of response strategies is important for improvement of quality, efficiency and effectiveness as well as in policy formulation and serve as a guide to strategic management.

In Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), effective brucellosis control is limited, in part, by the lack of long-term commitments by governments to control the disease and the absence of reliable national human and livestock population-based data to inform policies. Therefore, we conducted a study to establish the national prevalence and develop a risk map for Brucella spp. in cattle to contribute to plans to eliminate the disease in Kenya by the year 2040. We randomly generated 268 geolocations and distributed them across Kenya, proportionate to the area of each of the five agroecological zones and the associated cattle population. Cattle herds closest to each selected geolocation were identified for sampling. Up to 25 cattle were sampled per geolocation and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to their owners. We tested 6,593 cattle samples for Brucella immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies using an Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We assessed potential risk factors and performed spatial analyses and prevalence mapping using approximate Bayesian inference implemented via the integrated nested Laplace approximation (INLA) method. The national Brucella spp. prevalence was 6.8% (95% CI: 6.2–7.4%). Exposure levels varied significantly between agro-ecological zones, with a high of 8.5% in the very arid zone with the lowest agricultural potential relative to a low of 0.0% in the agro-alpine zone with the highest agricultural potential. Additionally, seroprevalence increased with herd size, and the odds of seropositivity were significantly higher for females and adult animals than for males or calves. Similarly, animals with a history of abortion, or with multiple reproductive syndromes had higher seropositivity than those without. At the herd level, the risk of Brucella spp. transmission was higher in larger herds, and herds with a history of reproductive problems such as abortion, giving birth to weak calves, or having swollen testes. Geographic localities with high Brucella seroprevalence occurred in northern, eastern, and southern regions of Kenya all primarily characterized by semi-arid or arid agro-ecological zones dominated by livestock pastoralism interspersed with vast areas with mixed livestock-wildlife systems. The large spatial extent of our survey provides compelling evidence for the widespread geographical distribution of brucellosis risk across Kenya in a manner easily understandable for policymakers. Our findings can provide a basis for risk-stratified pilot studies aiming to investigate the cost-effectiveness and efficacy of singular and combined preventive intervention strategies that seek to inform Kenya's Brucellosis Control Policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tungiasis, a neglected tropical parasitosis, disproportionately affects children. Few empirical studies have reported neurocognitive and mental health outcomes of children with ectoparasitic skin diseases like tungiasis. Pathophysiology of tungiasis suggests it could detrimentally affect cognition and behaviour. This study pioneered the investigation of neurocognitive and mental health outcomes in children with tungiasis. Methods: This was a multi-site cross-sectional study including 454 quasi-randomly sampled school-children aged 8–14 from 48 randomly selected schools in two counties in Kenya and a district in Uganda. The participants were stratified into infected and uninfected based on the presence of tungiasis. The infected were further classified into mild and severe infection groups based on the intensity of the infection. Adapted, validated, and standardized measures of cognition and mental health such as Raven Matrices and Child Behaviour Checklist were used to collect data. Statistical tests including a multilevel, generalized mixed-effects linear models with family link set to identity were used to compare the scores of uninfected and infected children and to identify other potential risk factors for neurocognitive and behavioural outcomes. Results: When adjusted for covariates, mild infection was associated with lower scores in literacy [adjusted β(aβ) = − 8.9; 95% confidence interval (CI) − 17.2, − 0.6], language (aβ = − 1.7; 95% CI − 3.2, − 0.3), cognitive flexibility (aβ = − 6.1; 95% CI − 10.4, − 1.7) and working memory (aβ = − 0.3; 95% CI − 0.6, − 0.1). Severe infection was associated with lower scores in literacy (aβ = − 11.0; 95% CI − 19.3, − 2.8), response inhibition, (aβ = − 2.2; 95% CI − 4.2, − 0.2), fine motor control (aβ = − 0.7; 95% CI − 1.1, − 0.4) and numeracy (aβ = − 3; 95% CI − 5.5, − 0.4). Conclusions: This study provides first evidence that tungiasis is associated with poor neurocognitive functioning in children. Since tungiasis is a chronic disease with frequent reinfections, such negative effects may potentially impair their development and life achievements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

KCERT 2050 is a modelling tool designed to assist in the identification and evaluation of synergies and trade-offs within sectoral decarbonization pathways for Kenya. KCERT 2050 is positioned as a user-friendly and dynamic tool that bridges complex energy systems and emissions models with integrated impact assessment tools, aimed at aiding decision making towards carbon neutrality in both public and private sectors. The tool considers greenhouse gas emissions from various economic sectors and is validated through a collaborative process involving experts from diverse backgrounds. This study uses KCERT 2050 to examine the prospects of achieving a net−zero emissions pathway by 2050. In the baseline scenario, a significant emission trajectory is observed, with the transport sector emerging as the largest contributor. Transitioning to the net−zero pathway reveals substantial reductions across key sectors, such as transport, industry, and land use, driven by strategies including electrification, waste reduction, and afforestation. The sensitivity analysis underscores the potential for emission mitigation through various levers, including land use optimization and the adoption of cleaner transportation modes. In conclusion, our findings emphasize the potential and feasibility of Kenya's ambitious net−zero emissions target. To attain this goal, it is imperative to prioritize sustainable land use and innovative waste management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: dengue cases occur frequently in Kenya, although the trend is not uniform across the country, making this infectious disease a major public health problem that is transmitted without detection. The purpose of this review study was to determine the seroprevalence of dengue virus (DENV) infection in the Kenyan population during the last ten years to reveal geographical areas with unreported dengue fever activity. For that purpose, this review describes the recent (2010 to 2020) DENV incidences, methods of detection, and the circulating genotypes in Kenya. Methods: studies were identified to summarize reported dengue fever infections and epidemic activities in Kenya using a search approach (terms "Dengue", "Dengue Virus" and "DENV" in combination with "Infection in Kenya"). All published studies between 2010 and 2020 retrieved through search engines PubMed, Google Scholar, Research4life, and ScienceDirect were screened for eligibility. Results: a total of 21 eligible articles containing 24 studies, covering five general geographic regions and 39 sampling sites, were included in this review. The results indicate a surveillance gap in dengue fever infection serosurvey in Kenya. There was transmission between epidemics in the reported areas. Seroprevalence ranged from 0.4% to 100% during outbreaks. Coast region was the most studied region with Mombasa being the most sampled site. Conclusion: about 76.6% of Kenyan Counties' DENV seroprevalence status was found to be unknown or unreported. In addition, DENV infection was unrecognized and/or unreported in most areas of the country, especially rural Kenya. This information may serve as a basis for better awareness and detection of DENV infection during outbreaks and in establishing appropriate prevention and control measures to further avoid outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background Complications of urogenital schistosomiasis include acute inflammatory and chronic fibrotic changes within the urogenital tract. Disease burden of this neglected tropical disease is often underestimated, as only active, urine egg-patent Schistosoma infection is formally considered. Previous studies have focussed on short-term effects of praziquantel treatment on urinary tract pathology, demonstrating that acute inflammation is reversible. However, the reversibility of chronic changes is less well studied. Methods Our study compared, at two time points 14 y apart, urine egg-patent infection and urinary tract pathology in a cohort of women living in a highly endemic area having intermittent praziquantel treatment(s). In 2014 we matched 93 women to their findings in a previous study in 2000. Results Between 2000 and 2014 the rate of egg-patent infection decreased from 34% (95% confidence interval [CI] 25 to 44) to 9% (95% CI 3 to 14). However, urinary tract pathology increased from 15% (95% CI 8 to 22) to 19% (95% CI 11 to 27), with the greatest increase seen in bladder thickening and shape abnormality. Conclusions Despite praziquantel treatment, fibrosis from chronic schistosomiasis outlasts the presence of active infection, continuing to cause lasting morbidity. We suggest that future efforts to eliminate persistent morbidity attributable to schistosomiasis should include intensified disease management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Kenya, cancer is the third leading cause of death. The African Inland Church Kijabe Hospital (AICKH) is a level 4 missionary hospital. The hospital serves the Kenyan population in many areas, including cancer care, and some of these services were affected during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We aimed to leverage a recently established hospital-based cancer registry of patients treated at AICKH between 2014 and 2020 to describe the cancer cases and patient referral patterns seen at AICKH during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. A cross-sectional retrospective survey was conducted through medical records abstraction in the surgery, breast clinic, palliative care and pathology departments. A total of 3279 cases were included in the study, with females accounting for 58.1% of the cases. The top-three cancers overall were breast (23.0%), oesophagus (20.5%) and prostate (8.6%). There was a minimal increase in the number of cancer cases in 2020 (1.7%) compared with 2019, with an increase of 19.3% in 2019 compared with 2018. In conclusion, AICKH is one of the few hospitals in Kenya where a large number of cancer patients seek healthcare, and referral of cancer cases changed in 2020, which may be due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Future efforts can leverage this registry to determine the impacts of cancer diagnosis and treatment on survival outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive development and teaching have highlighted the importance of learning based on the relationship among individuals and the learning environment. Teaching and learning of science in early childhood development and education (ECDE) can only be effective if adequate facilities, materials, equipment and activities are put in place. Teaching of science in ECDE centres in Kenya is faced with numerous challenges, hence the negative influence on children's learning of the subject. This raised the question of whether we have appropriate conditions for implementation of the science curriculum in ECDE centres. This study investigated conditions for implementation of science in 115 ECDE centres managed by 230 teachers in Kakamega Municipality, Kenya. It used the ECDE facilities checklist, the ECDE classroom science materials/equipment checklist, the ECDE classroom science activities checklist, and the ECDE teacher classroom science questionnaire to analyse the availability of science materials, equipment, class size and activities for ECDE children in the classroom. Each teacher was videotaped for two consecutive days during science activities. Their attitude towards science curriculum was measured by the use of an attitude scale. The findings of the study indicated that three-quarters of the ECDE centres had appropriate general facilities. However, a majority (91.2%) of ECDE centres lacked adequate and quality classroom science materials/equipment. The activities that the ECDE teachers engaged in were mostly unrelated to science activities (85.7%), even though they had a favourable attitude towards the science curriculum. This study is significant because the resulting findings will influence practice in early childhood education by informing policy makers on prevailing conditions for implementation of the science curriculum. On the theoretical side, the findings will contribute to the development of teaching and learning science materials, science equipment and a children's science curriculum tool kit.

The teacher training in primary teachers' colleges undergo a preservice training of 2 years after successful completion, they are awarded a primary teacher education certificate (Namunga & Otunga, 2012). The teacher education preparation programs in Kenya have been to prepare teachers to meet the challenge of the shortage of teachers in the country in the pre-primary, primary and the secondary school levels. Review of the Existing Structure of Teacher Education There is urgent need to review the policies, administrative structures, recruitment of staff and students, financing of teacher education program and teacher education curriculum. Current Programs of Teacher Education in Kenya Otunga et al. (2011) have documented the four levels of teacher education in Kenya: Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE), Primary Teacher Education, Diploma and graduate teacher education. [Extracted from the article]

Athletic identity is a precursor to numerous sport inclinations like participation, talent development and competition. This becomes more salient in educational institutions where student-athletes are required to play a dual role. The purpose of this study was to explore the athletic identity of university athletes in selected sports. It was postulated that athletic identity formation of the university athletes will vary based on selected variables of gender, age and year of study. Data was collected from athletes who were taking part in university sports championships using Athletic Identity Measurement Scale (AIMS). The sample comprised 183 (67.78%) males and 89 (32.22%) females. Most of the university athletes were in the 1st and 3rd years of study, and 60% of the players had two years of playing experience. The results revealed that the university athletes had high perceptions of self- identity, social identity and exclusivity and low perceptions on negative affectivity. It is concluded that athletic identity is mediated by situational factors such as age and gender. Consequently, sports psychologists and coaches need to assist athletes improve and sustain their athletic identities. Sport psychologists could train the athletes on how to enhance athletic identity and maximize their sports performance. Future research could address, athletic identity and sports performance as well as athletic identity and athletes in specific playing positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaria remains a public health concern globally. Resistance to anti-malarial drugs has consistently threatened the gains in controlling the malaria parasites. Currently, artemether-lumefantrine (AL) and dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DP) are the treatment regimens against Plasmodium falciparum infections in many African countries, including Kenya. Recurrent infections have been reported in patients treated with AL or DP, suggesting the possibility of reinfection or parasite recrudescence associated with the development of resistance against the two therapies. The Plasmodium falciparum cysteine desulfurase IscS (Pfnfs1) K65 selection marker has previously been associated with decreased lumefantrine susceptibility. This study evaluated the frequency of the Pfnfs1 K65 resistance marker and associated K65Q resistant allele in recurrent infections collected from P. falciparum-infected individuals living in Matayos, Busia County, in western Kenya. Methods: Archived dried blood spots (DBS) of patients with recurrent malaria infection on clinical follow-up days after treatment with either AL or DP were used in the study. After extraction of genomic DNA, PCR amplification and sequencing analysis were employed to determine the frequencies of the Pfnfs1 K65 resistance marker and K65Q mutant allele in the recurrent infections. Plasmodium falciparum msp1 and P. falciparum msp2 genetic markers were used to distinguish recrudescent infections from new infections. Results: The K65 wild-type allele was detected at a frequency of 41% while the K65Q mutant allele was detected at a frequency of 22% in the recurrent samples. 58% of the samples containing the K65 wild-type allele were AL treated samples and while 42% were DP treated samples. 79% of the samples with the K65Q mutation were AL treated samples and 21% were DP treated samples. The K65 wild-type allele was detected in three recrudescent infections (100%) identified from the AL treated samples. The K65 wild-type allele was detected in two recrudescent DP treated samples (67%) while the K65Q mutant allele was identified in one DP treated (33%) recrudescent sample. Conclusions: The data demonstrate a higher frequency of the K65 resistance marker in patients with recurrent infection during the study period. The study underscores the need for consistent monitoring of molecular markers of resistance in regions of high malaria transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteriophage therapy targeting the increasingly resistant Vibrio cholerae is highly needed. Hence, studying the phenotypic behavior of potential phages under different conditions is a prerequisite to delivering the phage in an active infective form. The objective of this study was to characterize phage VP4 (vB_vcM_Kuja), an environmental vibriophage isolated from River Kuja in Migori County, Kenya in 2015. The phenotypic characteristics of the phage were determined using a one‐step growth curve, restriction digestion profile, pH, and temperature stability tests. The results revealed that the phage is stable through a wide range of temperatures (20−50°C) and maintains its plaque‐forming ability at pH ranging from 6 to 12. The one‐step growth curve showed a latent period falling between 40 and 60 min, while burst size ranged from 23 to 30 plaque‐forming units/10 µl at the same host strain. The restriction digestion pattern using EcoRI, SalI, HindIII, and XhoI enzymes showed that HindIII could cut the phage genome. The phage DNA could not be restricted by the other three enzymes. The findings of this study can be used in future studies to determine phage−host interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaria, chikungunya virus (CHIKV), and dengue virus (DENV) are endemic causes of fever among children in Kenya. The risks of infection are multifactorial and may be influenced by built and social environments. The high resolution overlapping of these diseases and factors affecting their spatial heterogeneity has not been investigated in Kenya. From 2014-2018, we prospectively followed a cohort of children from four communities in both coastal and western Kenya. Overall, 9.8% were CHIKV seropositive, 5.5% were DENV seropositive, and 39.1% were malaria positive (3521 children tested). The spatial analysis identified hot-spots for all three diseases in each site and in multiple years. The results of the model showed that the risk of exposure was linked to demographics with common factors for the three diseases including the presence of litter, crowded households, and higher wealth in these communities. These insights are of high importance to improve surveillance and targeted control of mosquito-borne diseases in Kenya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tungiasis is a neglected tropical skin disease caused by the sand flea Tunga penetrans. Female fleas penetrate the skin, particularly at the feet, and cause severe inflammation. This study aimed to characterize disease burden in two highly affected regions in Kenya, to test the use of thermography to detect tungiasis-associated inflammation and to create a new two-level classification of disease severity suitable for mapping, targeting, and monitoring interventions. Methods: From February 2020 to April 2021, 3532 pupils age 8–14 years were quasi-randomly selected in 35 public primary schools and examined for tungiasis and associated symptoms. Of the infected pupils, 266 were quasi-randomly selected and their households visited, where an additional 1138 family members were examined. Inflammation was assessed using infra-red thermography. A Clinical score was created combining the number of locations on the feet with acute and chronic symptoms and infra-red hotspots. Results: The overall prevalence of tungiasis among all the school pupils who were randomly selected during survey rounds 1 and 3 was 9.3% [95% confidence interval (CI): 8.4–10.3]. Based on mixed effects logistic models, the odds of infection with tungiasis among school pupils was three times higher in Kwale (coastal Kenya) than in Siaya [western Kenya; adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.18–0.74]; three times higher in males than in females (aOR = 3.0, 95% CI: 2.32–3.91) and three times lower among pupils sleeping in a house with a concrete floor (aOR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.24–0.44). The odds of finding an infected person among the household population during surveys before the COVID-19 pandemic was a third (aOR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.19–0.53) of that when schools were closed due to COVID-19 restrictions and approximately half (aOR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.29–0.68) in surveys done after school re-opening (round 3). Infection intensity was positively correlated with inflammation as measured by thermography (Spearman's rho = 0.68, P < 0.001) and with the clinical score (rho = 0.86, P < 0.001). Based on the two-level classification, severe cases were associated with a threefold higher level of pain (OR = 2.99, 95% CI: 2.02–4.43) and itching (OR = 3.31, 95% CI: 2.24–4.89) than mild cases. Conclusions: Thermography was a valuable addition for assessing morbidity and the proposed two-level classification of disease severity clearly separated patients with mild and severe impacts. The burden of tungiasis was considerably higher in households surveyed during COVID-19 restrictions suggesting underlying risks are found in the home environment more than in school. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cholera is an issue of major public health importance. It was first reported in Kenya in 1971, with the country experiencing outbreaks through the years, most recently in 2021. Factors associated with the outbreaks in Kenya include open defecation, population growth with inadequate expansion of safe drinking water and sanitation infrastructure, population movement from neighboring countries, crowded settings such as refugee camps coupled with massive displacement of persons, mass gathering events, and changes in rainfall patterns. The Ministry of Health, together with other ministries and partners, revised the national cholera control plan to a multisectoral cholera elimination plan that is aligned with the Global Roadmap for Ending Cholera. One of the key features in the revised plan is the identification of hotspots. The hotspot identification exercise followed guidance and tools provided by the Global Task Force on Cholera Control (GTFCC). Two epidemiological indicators were used to identify the sub-counties with the highest cholera burden: incidence per population and persistence. Additionally, two indicators were used to identify sub-counties with poor WASH coverage due to low proportions of households accessing improved water sources and improved sanitation facilities. The country reported over 25,000 cholera cases between 2015 and 2019. Of 290 sub-counties, 25 (8.6%) sub-counties were identified as a high epidemiological priority; 78 (26.9%) sub-counties were identified as high WASH priority; and 30 (10.3%) sub-counties were considered high priority based on a combination of epidemiological and WASH indicators. About 10% of the Kenyan population (4.89 million) is living in these 30-combination high-priority sub-counties. The novel method used to identify cholera hotspots in Kenya provides useful information to better target interventions in smaller geographical areas given resource constraints. Kenya plans to deploy oral cholera vaccines in addition to WASH interventions to the populations living in cholera hotspots as it targets cholera elimination by 2030. Author summary: Cholera is a major cause of diarrheal illness that can lead to severe dehydration and death within hours if left untreated. Kenya has experienced cholera outbreaks repeatedly in different parts of the country, including the refugee camps and informal settlements. To eliminate local transmission, a targeted approach to areas that are cholera prone is recommended. The findings of the hotspot mapping provide a better understanding of the smaller geographical areas in different parts of the country that have reported cholera outbreaks during the five years (2015–2019). The mapping also includes areas that have low access to improved water sources and improved sanitation facilities. The mapping findings documented here provide a rationale for prioritization of hotspots in the deployment of resource-intensive interventions, such as preventive vaccination campaigns and investment in water and sanitation infrastructure, that are key interventions to control cholera transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. We qualitatively evaluated the implementation of an Evidence-Based Multiple Focus Integrated Intensified TB Screening package (EXIT-TB) in the East African region, aimed at increasing TB case detection and number of patients receiving care. Objective: We present the accounts of participants from Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia regarding the implementation of EXIT-TB, and suggestions for scaling up. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was used to gather insights from purposefully selected healthcare workers, community health workers, and other stakeholders. A total of 27, 13, 14, and 19 in-depth interviews were conducted in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia respectively. Data were transcribed and translated simultaneously and then thematically analysed. Results: The EXIT-TB project was described to contribute to increased TB case detection, improved detection of Multidrug-resistant TB patients, reduced delays and waiting time for diagnosis, raised the index of TB suspicion, and improved decision-making among HCWs. The attributes of TB case detection were: (i) free X-ray screening services; (ii) integrating TB case-finding activities in other clinics such as Reproductive and Child Health clinics (RCH), and diabetic clinics; (iii), engagement of CHWs, policymakers, and ministry level program managers; (iv) enhanced community awareness and linkage of clients; (v) cooperation between HCWs and CHWs, (vi) improved screening infrastructure, (vii) the adoption of the new simplified screening criteria and (viii) training of implementers. The supply-side challenges encountered ranged from disorganized care, limited space, the COVID-19 pandemic, inadequate human resources, inadequate knowledge and expertise, stock out of supplies, delayed maintenance of equipment, to absence of X-ray and GeneXpert machines in some facilities. The demand side challenges ranged from delayed care seeking, inadequate awareness, negative beliefs, fears towards screening, to financial challenges. Suggestions for scaling up ranged from improving service delivery, access to diagnostic equipment and supplies, and infrastructure, to addressing client fears and stigma. Conclusion: The EXIT-TB package appears to have contributed towards increasing TB case detection and reducing delays in TB treatment in the study settings. Addressing the challenges identified is needed to maximize the impact of the EXIT-TB intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aedes aegypti is an important vector of several arboviruses including dengue and chikungunya viruses. Accurate identification of larval habitats of Ae. aegypti is considered an essential step in targeted control. This study determined Ae. aegypti productivity in selected larval habitats in Msambweni, Kwale County, Kenya. Three sequential larval habitat surveys were conducted. The first survey was habitat census (baseline) through which 83 representative larval habitats were identified and selected. The second and third surveys involved estimating daily productivity of the 83 selected larval habitats for 30 consecutive days during a wet and a dry season, respectively. Of 664 larval habitats examined at baseline, 144 larval habitats (21.7%) were found to be infested with Ae. aegypti larvae. At baseline, majority (71%) of the pupae were collected from two (2/6) larval habitat types, tires and pots. Multivariate analysis identified habitat type and the habitat being movable as the predictors for pupal abundance. During the 30-day daily pupal production surveys, only a few of the habitats harbored pupae persistently. Pupae were found in 28% and 12% of the larval habitats during the wet and dry seasons, respectively. In the wet season, drums, tires, and pots were identified as the key habitat types accounting for 85% of all pupae sampled. Three habitats (all drums) accounted for 80% of all the pupae collected in the dry season. Predictors for pupal productivity in the wet season were habitat type, place (whether the habitat is located at the back or front of the house), habitat purpose (use of the water in the habitat), and source of water. Although the multivariate model for habitat type did not converge, habitat type and habitat size were the only significant predictors during the dry season. Drums, pots, and tires were sources of more than 85% of Ae. aegypti pupae, reinforcing the "key container concept." Targeting these three types of habitats makes epidemiological sense, especially during the dry season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore communities' perspectives on the factors in the social food environment that influence dietary behaviours in African cities. Design: A qualitative study using participatory photography (Photovoice). Participants took and discussed photographs representing factors in the social food environment that influence their dietary behaviours. Follow-up in-depth interviews allowed participants to tell the 'stories' of their photographs. Thematic analysis was conducted, using data-driven and theory-driven (based on the socio-ecological model) approaches. Setting: Three low-income areas of Nairobi (n 48) in Kenya and Accra (n 62) and Ho (n 32) in Ghana. Participants: Adolescents and adults, male and female aged ≥13 years. Results: The 'people' who were most commonly reported as influencers of dietary behaviours within the social food environment included family members, friends, health workers and food vendors. They mainly influenced food purchase, preparation and consumption, through (1) considerations for family members' food preferences, (2) considerations for family members' health and nutrition needs, (3) social support by family and friends, (4) provision of nutritional advice and modelling food behaviour by parents and health professionals, (5) food vendors' services and social qualities. Conclusions: The family presents an opportunity for promoting healthy dietary behaviours among family members. Peer groups could be harnessed to promote healthy dietary behaviours among adolescents and youth. Empowering food vendors to provide healthier and safer food options could enhance healthier food sourcing, purchasing and consumption in African low-income urban communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to assess, compare, and attribute the effects due to separate and combined land use/land cover (LULC) and climate changes on hydrological processes in a tropical catchment. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model is set up and calibrated for a small contributing sub-basin of the Tana River Basin (TRB) in Kenya. The model is then applied to simulate the hydrological components (i.e., streamflow (FLOW), evapotranspiration (ET), soil water (SW), and water yield (WYLD)) for different combinations of LULC and climate scenarios. Land use data generated from Land Satellite 5 Thematic Mapper (Landsat 5TM) images for two different periods (1987 and 2011) and satellite-based precipitation data from the African Rainfall Climatology version 2 (ARC2) dataset are utilized as inputs to the SWAT model. The Nash–Sutcliffe model efficiency (NSE), coefficient of determination (R2), percent bias (PBIAS), and the ratio of root mean square error to the standard deviation (RSR) for daily streamflow were 0.73, 0.76, 3.16%, and 0.51 in calibration period, respectively, and 0.45, 0.54, 12.53%, and 0.79 in validation period, respectively, suggesting that the model performed relatively good. An analysis of the LULC data for the catchment showed that there was an increase in agricultural, grassland, and forested land with a concomitant decrease in woodland and shrubland. Simulation results revealed that change in climate had a more significant effect on the simulated parameters than the change in LULC. It is shown that changes in LULC only had very minor effects in the simulated parameters. The monthly mean FLOW and WYLD decreased by 0.02% and 0.11%, respectively, while ET and SW increased by a monthly mean of 0.2% and 2.2%. Varying the catchment climate and holding the land use constant reduced FLOW, ET, SW, and WYLD by an average monthly mean of 43.2%, 21%, 13%, and 70%, respectively, indicating that climate changes have more significant effects on the catchment hydrological processes than changes in LULC. Thus, it is necessary to evaluate and identify the isolated and combined effects of LULC and climatic changes when assessing impacts on the TRB's hydrological processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Both patients and health care providers working in mental health facilities witness high rates of incidents that have the potential to jeopardize their safety. Despite this, there are few studies that have documented the kind of incidents that are experienced, or explored the potential contributors to these incidents, and solutions that would result in better safety. This study explored various types of safety related incidents occurring in mental facilities in Kenya, perceived contributing factors, and recommendations for improve. Methods: This qualitative descriptive study was carried out between December 2019 – February 2020. It included 28 mental health staff across 14 mental health unit spread across the country. Results: All the participants reported having personally experienced an incident that threatened their safety or that of the patients. Most of the respondents (24/26. 91.67%) admitted to have experienced verbal aggression while 54.17%, (n = 24) had experienced physical assault. Participating health care workers attributed the safety incidents to poor infrastructure, limited human resources, and inadequate medication to calm down agitated patients. Suggested solutions to improve patient safety included; improving surveillance systems, hiring more specialized healthcare workers, and provision of adequate supplies such as short-acting injectable psychotropic. Conclusion: Incidents that threaten patient and staff safety are common in mental health facilities in Kenya. There is need to strengthen staff capacity and reporting mechanisms, as well as invest in infrastructural improvements, to safeguard patient and staff safety in mental health facilities in Kenya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]