1st International Research Conference Proceedings Chuka University, 2014

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://repository.chuka.ac.ke/handle/123456789/18323

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Browsing 1st International Research Conference Proceedings Chuka University, 2014 by Subject "Corporate Social Responsibility"

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    Consequences of Large-Scale Land Use Changes on Environment, Livelihood and Food Security in the Yala Swamp Ecosystem in Kenya
    (Chuka University, 2015) Chuka University
    African wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems and as such play an important role in ameliorating the effects of global warming, biodiversity conservation, as well as natural resources provision, which drives many rural economies. Yala swamp is a large fresh water wetland, a recognized biodiversity hotspot that supports local livelihoods in Lake Victoria basin. This study evaluated the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of converting large parts of the swamp to farming to support perceived food security. Primary qualitative data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews of randomly selected stakeholders. One hundred questionnaires were administered to the stakeholders who included men, women and youth. Secondary data was collected from published work, books, print and electronic media. Although conversion of the Yala swamp wetland is contributing in Corporate Social Responsibility, there exists a strong conflict with the local community. Overall the local community and the environment have been negatively impacted and there will be long-term negative consequences regarding environmental degradation, food security and livelihood opportunities. The Kenyan government should commission a new Environmental Impact Assessment and enact and implement a strong wetland policy. There is need for awareness creation to enhance participation of local communities in decision-making. Other livelihood diversification programmes to reduce dependence on the wetland are also recommended.
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    Corporate Social Responsibility for Sustainable Development in Africa: A Review of Theory and Practice
    (Chuka University, 2015) Chuka University
    Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fosters development. Sufficient and effective action by the corporate world has resulted in development. The African continent has however not experienced commendable economic development through CSR. In some situations, communities have been exposed to health risks and greater poverty as companies expropriate community resources and claim to practice CSR for development. This study systematically reviewed literature on CSR and development in Africa over the last 10 years to identify the themes, incentives and challenges in the practice of CSR. Good governance, economic incentives, contextualization of CSR action, appropriate and robust legal and institutional frameworks are essential for CSR to play a meaningful role in developing the continent. This has been hampered by CSR initiatives being uncoordinated and failing to be integrated in core functions of organizations. It is also necessary to contextualize CSR to the needs and environment of Africa. Governments ought to provide a facilitative environment to encourage CSR for development in terms of policy formulation and setting in place oversight bodies to monitor and coordinate CSR activity. Corporate establishments need to form partnerships to reduce the overall cost of CSR and impact greatly on the development. Countries need to encourage companies to disclose their policies and practice so that they are held accountable to governments and communities adjacent to their establishments.