Agricultural production is a crucial driver of socio-economic development. Agricultural production improves household’s income through the sale of farm produce and at the same time it improves household nutrition level as household can access a diverse variety of foods such as meat, milk, meat and eggs. This study examined the performance of poverty alleviation programmes and socio-economic development: a case of Caritas International in Homa Bay County within Kenya. The independent variable under study was crop development. The study was anchored by the empowerment theory and supported by the restricted opportunity theory. The study adopted the descriptive study design to describe the social and economic characteristics of the target population. The target population was 1,142 household heads out of which through stratified random sampling, 92 respondents were selected to be part of the study sample. Proportionate sampling was then employed to ensure that the three sub counties under study were proportionately represented in the sample. The data was collected through questionnaire. Data analysis was done through the use of Statistical Packages for Social Science (SPSS) version 29. Descriptive and inferential statistics were generated to help in summarizing data to aid in making meaningful conclusions and recommendations. Tables, charts and percentages were used to present the summarized data. The findings of this study reveal that crop development enhances household nutrition and on other hand surplus realized from production is a source of income which can be used for investment in education, descent housing and access to better healthcare services. This study recommends that the national and county governments should supplement the efforts already made by Caritas in alleviating poverty through crop development. There is need for providing more resources to the poor households, so that crop production can be done in a large scale to enable commercialization. There is need to conduct a study on how land fragmentation affects household’s level of production in terms of technical efficiency of agriculture and the sustainability of food production system.

This study examined the effect of financial resources on the performance of community empowerment projects in Kwale County, Kenya. A descriptive research design was used with a target of 133 community empowerment projects within Kwale County. The variable relationship was determined through a regression model. The target population comprised 133 community empowerment projects in Kwale County, categorized into various programs including crop development, livestock production, fisheries, and community loaning projects. Stratified random sampling was employed) and a sample size of 67, representing 50% of the target population, was selected. The study found that human resource capabilities significantly influence the success of community empowerment projects, with an average score of 3.76 and a standard deviation of 1.4244. Regression analysis revealed that a one-unit increase in human resource capabilities accounts for 43.1% of the variance in project performance, indicating a strong relationship (R = 0.595, R² = 0.431) and a significant impact on effectiveness (F = 56.864, p < 0.05). The results suggest that enhancing human resource capabilities can substantially improve community empowerment initiatives in Kwale County, with a statistically significant increase in performance correlating with a mean index rise of 0.644 points (t = 7.480). Supporting literature corroborates these findings, highlighting that strategic human resource management practices and staff competencies positively affect project outcomes, thereby providing a competitive edge and optimizing organizational performance. The proficiency and expertise of project staff and volunteers are crucial for effective project implementation, as well-trained personnel can manage resources, design interventions, and adapt to challenges effectively. Projects with strong human resource capabilities are more likely to achieve their objectives and deliver meaningful outcomes, while also facilitating capacity building and knowledge transfer within the community. Skilled leaders and trainers empower local individuals with the necessary skills for sustaining and expanding initiatives, enhancing local ownership and improving the likelihood of long-term success. Kwale County should implement targeted recruitment strategies to attract skilled individuals with relevant experience by offering competitive compensation and incentives. Additionally, creating supportive work environments and career development opportunities will help retain experienced staff and volunteers through performance-based incentives and recognition programs.

The main goal of this research was to investigate the effects of strategic management practices on the organizational performance of state departments in Kenya, with a focus on the State Department of Agriculture. The specific objectives were to examine the effect of environmental scanning and strategic implementation on the organizational performance of state departments in Kenya. The study was guided by system theory, resource-based theory, agency theory, and goal-setting theory. A descriptive research design was employed, targeting 659 employees at the State Department of Agriculture in Upper Hill, with a sample size of 249 respondents determined using the Yamane formula. A pilot investigation was conducted to test for reliability and validity. SPSS software Version 25 was used to analyse the data, with the findings presented in tables. Ethical considerations were observed throughout the study. The study concluded the following: Environmental scanning significantly impacts the performance of Kenyan state agencies. Regular monitoring of dynamic environments, coupled with attention to diversity, enhances competitive response and strengthens organizational effectiveness. Strategic implementation also substantially influences outcomes, with efficient resource allocation and monitoring being essential, though further adjustments in resources are necessary to fully achieve strategic objectives. The report recommends that Kenyan state agencies improve their environmental scanning and strategic implementation processes to improve overall organisational effectiveness. Agencies should improve their environmental scanning procedures by focussing on competitive and dynamic situations, formulating strategic responses, and incorporating multiple viewpoints to adjust quickly to changing conditions. Strategic implementation requires prioritising effective resource allocation and creating rigorous progress monitoring tools. Clear communication and professional development options, such as mentorship and career advancement, can help employees integrate their positions with larger strategic goals, creating accountability and engagement. Future policy changes should emphasise extensive environmental scanning, consistent corporate communication, and effective resource allocation.

Baringo County, Kenya, grapples with the profound challenges presented by recurrent drought, which threatens water resources, agricultural productivity, food security, and socio-economic stability. The main focus of this study was to assess the drought early warning information system on effective response in Baringo County Government, Kenya. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; to examine the effect of monitoring and early warning, preparedness and planning, response and mitigation, recovery and rehabilitation and evaluation and learning on effective drought response by Baringo County Government, Kenya. This study was guided by diffusion of innovation theory, resource dependence theory, contingency theory and organizational learning theory. This study used a cross-sectional survey design. This study targeted 59 officials from Directorate of Disaster Management in Baringo County Government. Census sampling technique was adopted. Therefore, the sample size for the study was 59 respondents. Data was collected using a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire. Piloting was done on 5 individuals representing 10% of study sample and was selected randomly from the target population and excluded from the final study. The data collected from the pilot group was used to test for validity and reliability of the questionnaire. Data obtained from the field was coded, cleaned, and entered into the computer for analysis using the SPSS version 28. Descriptive statistical included frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation. Inferential statistical analysis used was multiple regression and correlation analysis. The significant of each independent variable was tested at a confidence level of 95%. The study's findings, based on the beta coefficients from the multiple regression analysis, revealed that monitoring and early warning (β = 0.189, p < 0.05), preparedness and planning (β = 0.218, p < 0.05), response and mitigation (β = 0.156, p < 0.05), recovery and rehabilitation (β = 0.279, p < 0.05), and evaluation and learning (β = 0.303, p < 0.05) all positively and significantly influence the effectiveness of drought response by Baringo County Government, Kenya. It is concluded that Baringo County's drought management can be significantly improved by enhancing each of these areas. The study recommends that the county invest in advanced monitoring technologies, regularly update response plans with stakeholder input, integrate traditional and modern response techniques, prioritize sustainable recovery initiatives, and establish strong feedback and knowledge-sharing mechanisms.

Public universities in Kenya experience frequent leadership transitions due to the contractual nature of top management positions, typically occurring every five years. These changes often introduce varying leadership styles and operational approaches, posing challenges for organizational stability and effective change management. This study assessed the effect of idealized influence, a key dimension of transformational leadership, on change management in public Universities in Kenya. The study is anchored on the Transformational-Transactional Theory and also draws from ADKAR change model, and Kotter’s Eight Step Change Model to explore how leadership practices affect change management. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, with a study population comprising 669 staff members from Chuka University. A stratified random sampling technique yielded a sample of 215 respondents, and primary data was gathered using questionnaires. The findings from regression analysis indicated that idealized influence significantly and positively affects change management in public universities in Kenya. The study concluded that leaders who exhibit idealized influence through integrity, vision, and strong values are pivotal in facilitating successful organizational change. Consequently, public universities are encouraged to prioritize leadership development, focusing on idealized influence to enhance change management processes. Further research is suggested to explore the long-term effects of idealized influence on innovation, staff creativity, and overall organizational performance within the context of change management.

In rural communities, development projects are vital for addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. Effective project management techniques significantly influence the success of these initiatives. This research aimed to assess how various project management methods contribute to achieving development goals, focusing on water projects in Elgeyo Marakwet County. The study's specific objectives included examining project planning, risk management, public involvement, monitoring, and evaluation to the success of water pan projects. Utilizing three theoretical frameworks—program theory, results-based management theory, and participative theory—the study targeted seven completed water pan projects and employed a descriptive research approach. A total of 479 respondents were analyzed, including county employees, community leaders, and chairs of community water project committees. Stratified and random sampling techniques determined a sample size of 217 respondents. Primary data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire, which underwent pilot testing for validity and reliability. Data analysis utilized descriptive and inferential statistics via SPSS software. Results indicated that project planning influences the success of water pan projects (β = .567; p < 0.05). These findings suggest that enhancing project planning processes and risk management strategies is essential for achieving project goals and ensuring community satisfaction. Additionally, involving more stakeholders in monitoring processes can improve project outcomes.

This study examined the determinants of organizational productivity in public institutions in Kenya, focusing on the Kirinyaga County Government. The specific objectives were to assess how working conditions and staff development impact productivity within the County government of Kirinyaga. Anchored by Equity Theory, the study provided a foundational framework for examining organizational dynamics and their impact on productivity within public institutions like the Kirinyaga County Government. A descriptive research design targeted the 2300 employees of Kirinyaga County, using a stratified sampling technique to ensure representative sampling. Data was collected via questionnaires containing both open and closed questions. Analysis was conducted using SPSS, presenting data through descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, to provide context and insights into the findings. The findings showed that working conditions significantly influence productivity, with a mean score of 4.03 and an ANOVA F-value of 14.236 (p = 0.000), and a regression coefficient of 0.534. Staff development also showed a significant impact, with a mean of 4.02, an F-value of 12.367 (p = 0.000), and a regression coefficient of 0.482. The study concluded that working conditions and staff development are all significant determinants of productivity within the Kirinyaga County Government. These factors collectively foster a productive work environment and align with the Equity Theory, suggesting that when employees perceive fairness and support in their work environment, they are more productive. It is recommended that the Kirinyaga County Government focus on improving workplace conditions by providing necessary resources and creating a supportive environment. Enhanced training and mentorship programs are also suggested to advance staff development. Competitive remuneration policies should be implemented to maintain motivation, while organizational structures should be streamlined to empower employees and promote collaboration. These improvements are likely to increase productivity, contributing to the effectiveness of the County Government.