Reviewed Journal of Social Science & Humanities

REUNIFICATION PROCESS OF UNCLAIMED FINANCIAL ASSETS AND ITS SUCCESS RATE IN KENYA

ELIZABETH WAMBUI NJOROGE, JANE NJOROGE, PhD — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 18:27:10 -0600

This study explored the effect of the reunification process of unclaimed financial assets on its success rate in Kenya. The objectives were to determine the effect of the search for unclaimed financial assets, the claims filling process, and other collaborative initiatives on the success rate of reunification in Kenya. Theories were theory of escheatment. The study design was descriptive. Census sampling was used to sample all the 32 employees as respondents in the study. A questionnaire and an interview schedule were used. Descriptive and inferential statistics through multiple linear regression were utilized in analyzing the data. The study established that unclaimed assets alters success rate of reunification in Kenya and was statistically significant hence the null hypothesis was rejected. Claim filling process was also found significant and altered the success rate of reunification in Kenya hence the null hypothesis was also rejected. lastly, the collaborative initiative alteration led to success rate of reunification in Kenya. The t-values was significant hence the null hypothesis is rejected. Therefore, all the objectives had significant influence on the success rate of reunification in Kenya. P-values were less than the adopted threshold P <0.05) hence all the null hypothesis were rejected. The study endorsed that in order to ensure better transparency to the authority by holders of the actions taken to contact specific clients prior to surrendering assets to the UFAA, the Unclaimed Financial Authority (UFAA) should create robust systems. Additionally, the UFAA should put up a system for the prudent handling of unclaimed financial assets across all industries. Additionally, the authority has to implement consistent accounting and reporting standards for these assets across all industries and run effective public education and financial literacy initiatives. Laws and regulations on such assets should be reviewed to revise the charges incurred in the claiming process.

SEA BLINDNESS IMPLICATIONS ON MARITIME SECURITY IN MOMBASA COUNTY, KENYA

GILBERT WAITHAKA MBOGO, XAVIER FRANCIS ICHANI, PhD — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 21:08:23 -0600

Sea blindness in Africa remains a serious threat to maritime security as states continue to pay little attention to the safeguard of their maritime realm. With increase in international apprehension relating to threats of piracy, robbery, blue economy violations, environmental and climate change threats it is prudent to factor in implications of sea blindness on maritime security in Kenya. This study investigated the implications of sea blindness on maritime security in Mombasa County, Kenya. The specific objectives were to assess the extent of sea blindness maritime security awareness among residents and stakeholders involved in maritime security in Mombasa County, to analyze the socio-economic factors influencing sea blindness on maritime security in Mombasa County, to investigate the vulnerabilities associated with sea blindness and their impact on maritime security in Mombasa County and lastly to assess the effectiveness of existing civic education initiatives in addressing impact of sea blindness on maritime security. The study utilized social learning and conflict theories. Study adopted the exploratory research design employing data collection through interviews with stakeholders including the fishermen, the Kenya Navy personnel, Kenya Coast Guard officials, Kenya Maritime Authority, Kenya Ports Authority and Bandari College. The study also sampled views from the general public and expert opinions from the Non-governmental Organizations interested in sea blindness and maritime security. The findings revealed low awareness of the concept of sea blindness, although respondents showed positive engagement after its definition was explained. Economic, cultural, and social factors contributed to varying levels of awareness, while existing civic education campaigns had moderate effectiveness. The study concluded that sea blindness undermines maritime security management by delaying response times, underreporting incidents, and hindering resource allocation and policy effectiveness. It identified vulnerabilities in environmental, economic, security, and social dimensions. The study recommended enhancing economic diversification, integrating maritime education into curricula, improving policy coordination, and expanding educational campaigns to mitigate sea blindness and improve maritime.

EAST AFRICAN COMMUNITY AT THE LOUPE; REGIONAL INTEGRATION, PROGRESS, CHALLENGES AND CONFLICTS (2024)

RWIGEMA PIERRE CELESTIN, PhD, PGDE — Sun, 16 Mar 2025 07:03:06 -0500

The East African Community (EAC) has made significant strides toward regional integration, particularly in the areas of political cooperation and security. One of the key initiatives in this regard is the East African Standby Force (EASF), which aims to address regional security challenges and promote political stability. However, despite notable progress, the region continues to face challenges, including divergent political systems among member states and inadequate resources for the EASF. These obstacles hinder the effective execution of regional security strategies and the achievement of sustainable political cooperation. Strengthening political will, enhancing the operational capacity of the EASF, and improving cross-border collaboration are crucial to overcoming these barriers. The study concludes that a more coordinated and comprehensive approach to regional security is essential for the EAC's long-term stability and integration. In terms of recommendations, there is a need for increased investment in regional security mechanisms, fostering political commitment among member states, and strengthening partnerships with international actors. Additionally, addressing the root causes of conflicts, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), strengthening governance, and enhancing security cooperation are vital for ensuring lasting peace and stability in the region. In conclusion, the conflicts between EAC neighboring countries are multifaceted, involving political, ethnic, resource-based, and security concerns. While the region has made some progress in addressing these challenges, there remains a need for stronger regional cooperation and conflict-resolution mechanisms to ensure lasting peace and stability. The EAC's ability to resolve these conflicts will determine not only the future of the member states but also the prosperity and security of the wider East African region.

DECOLONIALITY IN SCIENCE COMMUNICATION

RUTH WAMBUI, PhD, JOEL ONYANGO, PhD — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 01:45:20 -0500

This study explores the impact of decoloniality in science communication in climate resilience projects, highlighting the challenges of accessibility, comprehensibility, and the integration of indigenous knowledge. It argues that while Western scientific communication methods, such as academic publishing and media briefings, have become dominant, they often fail to resonate with local communities, particularly in Africa. By reviewing current science communication practices and the role of coloniality in shaping these practices, the study identifies strategies for improving communication, such as incorporating indigenous knowledge, using simplified language, and engaging local communities. Data for this study was collected through surveys and interviews conducted during a summer school on decoloniality and science communication held in Mombasa, Kenya in 2024. As part of decoloniality in scientific research, a “35 mapping lessons-game” was designed and used to facilitate interactive learning and reflection on decoloniality and science communication. The game was used to engage participants and collect their proposed learnings and changed perspectives from the summer school. Findings revealed that many researchers struggle with effectively conveying scientific knowledge to diverse audiences. The study calls for a decolonial approach to science communication that fosters inclusivity, participatory methods, and culturally relevant content to enhance the effectiveness of climate resilience strategies.