Department of Humanities

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A critical analysis of the co-relationship between Nietzsche’s concept of moral relativism and same-sex sexual relationship as a contemporary moral issue.
(Chuka University, 2024) Nafuma Lusabe Lennoxie
This research delves deeply into the profound ways in which Friedrich Nietzsche's ideas on moral relativism influence contemporary perspectives on sexual morality, paying particular attention to same-sex relationships. By thoroughly exploring Nietzsche's philosophical concepts, the study meticulously dissects the intricate complexities inherent in moral discussions and the quest for personal freedom. Through an exhaustive analysis, it contrasts Nietzsche's radical thoughts with long-standing traditional moral values, illustrating how his ground-breaking ideas have significantly reshaped modern perspectives and legal frameworks surrounding same-sex relationships. In its scope, the research investigates a wide range of cultural and regional viewpoints, thus emphasizing the global significance and diverse interpretations of Nietzsche's philosophy. The study rigorously addresses potential criticisms and practical challenges associated with applying Nietzsche's relativism to modern moral debates, offering a balanced and comprehensive analysis. This nuanced examination aims to enrich the broader conversation on morality, fostering deeper critical thinking. Additionally, the research delves into historical contexts to illustrate how Nietzsche‘s philosophy interacted with and sometimes clashed with the established norms of his time, compared to its reception in today's world. It also examines the legal implications of Nietzschean thought on policies and frameworks concerning same-sex relationships across various societies. The study employs historical method complimented by phenomenological method to draw a comparison between Nietzsche‘s moral relativism and same-sex relationships as an example of an ethical issue requiring detailed insight through the use of both the philosophical-historical method and the phenomenological approach. The study underscores the importance of understanding these philosophical underpinnings to fully appreciate modern views on sexual morality. It not only aims to highlight Nietzsche‘s influence but also seeks to engage readers in a reflective dialogue about the nature and evolution of moral judgments. By doing so, it aspires to contribute meaningfully to ongoing discussions about equality, acceptance, and the ever-evolving standards of what constitutes moral behaviour in contemporary times. Through this ambitious scholarly endeavour, the research aims to spark continued interest and dialogue in Nietzschean philosophy and its application to today's moral and ethical landscape. Moreover, the study extends its analysis to a broader spectrum, exploring different dimensions and implications of Nietzsche's moral relativism across various facets of modern life. This approach not only enriches the understanding of Nietzsche's philosophy but also emphasizes its enduring impact on the ongoing debates about sexual morality, legal rights, and societal responses to same-sex relationships.
A critical analysis of Thomas Hobbes’ political theory and its relevance in public participation for effective governance under constitution of Kenya 2010
(Chuka University, 2024) Kobia Josphat Kaume
This study explored the topic of a critical analysis of Thomas Political Theory and its relevance in public participation for effective governance under the Kenyan constitution 2010.Public participation is viewed as a mechanism by which the citizens contribute towards governance and service delivery. It was informed by continuous lawsuits that quashed and overturned government’s decisions for not involving the public in considering their views before developing its policies despite the fact that public participation principle is enshrined in the constitution. Thomas Hobbes was a seventeenth century political philosopher and his political theory emphasizes on governance, formation of state and submission of the individual to the sovereign. For him, formation of the state is an initiative of the members of the public who come together and form a society with one appointed as the sovereign so as to bring checks and balances. Public participation is a basic component of democracy enshrined in the Kenyan constitution 2010. The purpose of this study was to critically examine and emphasize the role of public participation and its implication in democratic governance in Kenya and account the reason for the introduction of public participation under the Kenyan constitution 2010.The study was guided by three objectives: To analyze the theory of Thomas Hobbes on the necessity to move from the state of nature to the formation of society, To draw inferences from Hobbes’ theory with Kenyan context on public participation, To examine the nexus between public participation and good governance in reference to Kenya post 2010. Lack of proper and adequate public participation has led to misuse of public resources and increased the rate of corruption since no accountability. The assumption of this study was that though public participation has been conducted, it has not been effectively implemented as stipulated in the constitution. It was guided by Thomas Hobbes political theory. The theory emphasizes on public participation, consent and consensus in formation of government. The study was library based and the researcher used purposive sampling method to purposely sample fifteen books that were inclined to materials related to public participation and Thomas Hobbes political theory on governance in Kenya. The data were collected through reading of texts both published and unpublished Descriptive research design was used for it enabled the description of state of affairs in governance as they were in Kenya post 2010 constitution. It established that public participation contributes in effective governance, peace building and trust since citizens feel their voice is heard. It also established that corruption and misuse of public resources was contributed by lack of adequate public participation since there is no accountability. The Study was done in Chuka University, Catholic University of Eastern Africa and Consolata Institute of Philosophy libraries. The study adopted descriptive design and used critical method that questions assumptions, examine evidence, identify biases, and striving for a deeper understanding of public participation in Kenya. Critical method offered an internal or immanent criticism to the governance in Kenya under 2010 constitution. The study emphasized on the importance of effective feedback mechanisms by government to ensure implementation of decisions reached through citizen participation. It found out that public participation is an important principle of governance. It was also revealed that all county governance structures should ensure decisions reached through public participation and consensus building forums are strictly implemented. Instituting appropriate and adequate engagement forums for inclusivity, equality and effective citizen participation in management and development matters was emphasized for the development of policy that promotes effective governance. These findings significantly contributed to the understanding of the role of public participation on performance of devolved governance systems in Kenya.
A forensic linguistic study of victim impact statements of rape cases in magistrates’ courts in Meru county Kenya
(Chuka University, 2025) Kirimi Antony Kiambi
This study focuses on Forensic Linguistics which is a branch of applied linguistics that involves use of linguistic knowledge, insights and methods to the forensic context of law, language, crime investigation, trial, and judicial procedure. It is said to be language of evidence. Language is important in courtroom discourse as it enhances communication among discourse participants in court. It serves to limit, control, promote or reduce dominance since language has power. This study therefore, sought to majorly focus on Forensic Linguistic Study of Victim Impact Statements (VISs) of Rape cases at Meru County Law courts. It was guided by the following objectives; to describe the emotive vocabulary in Victim Impact Statements of rape cases and to examine victims’ use of language to establish authority in Victim Impact Statements of rape cases. The researcher adopted a Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) theory. A descriptive qualitative technique was used in this study. The data was collected from written VISs(text). Purposive sampling was used and only relevant materials and documents were collected from rape cases. The sample size for this study was fifteen VISs.The three dimensions of CDA; description, interpretation and explanation were used in data analysis. The results of this study show that emotive vocabulary is used in VISs and victims use various Linguistic Markers to show power in VISs. For instance, the findings of the study reveal thatthe lexical features heavily relied on that were emotive in nature included; descriptive vocabulary, evaluative vocabulary, Specialized/legal, rare vocabulary, word collocations, modality and shared knowledge of the society and the constitution of Kenya.They also used experiential, expressive, relation value of words and ideologically significant meaning relations to emotively voice their concerns. The study also found out that the commonly used type of power was instrumental power. This was important in maintaining and enforcing authority. Linguistic markers of power used were; legal language, modal verbs, formal language, imperative sentences, personal pronouns, discourse markers, semantic field of words, assertions, metaphors, repetition, idioms and synthetic personalization. These portrayed the victims as more superior than the accused. The study concluded that emotive language is present in VISs and play a vital role in communicating the victim’s mind in his/her quest for justice. It also concluded that Linguistic markers for power are present in the VISs. Producers of the text incorporate powerful linguistic expressions which as social agents in this context elevates them above the defendant. The fact that the Law has given them a platform to air their voices during a critical stage in the proceeding (before sentencing) and no rebuttal to the same from the defendant side, shows power asymmetry. This study is important as the findings add to the body of knowledge on Forensic Linguistics which is an emerging area of study especially courtroom discourse. The findingsalso give insight to legal practitioners especially legal decision makerson use of language in rape cases’ VISs and its relation to power as rape cases are sensitive.
A lexico-pragmatic interpretation of Gi-gicugu Euphemism
(Chuka University, 2025) Maguh Miriam Wangui
This research argues that language functions not only as a tool for communication but also as a medium for expressing attitudes, emotions, and worldviews. It contributes to the field of pragmatics and sociolinguistics, with a specific focus on lexico-pragmatic analysis within African languages. The study focused on the Gĩgĩcũgũ dialect of the Kikuyu language. It examined the lexico-pragmatic interpretation of euphemism, particularly how politeness is linguistically constructed across various social contexts. The main objectives were to analyze the functions of euphemized lexical items in conveying meaning, to identify possible communication barriers arising from their use, and to explore how both positive and negative politeness strategies reflect the social values of the Gĩgĩcũgũ speaking community. The study employed a descriptive survey research design, which focused on understanding the meanings, experiences, and social contexts of language use rather than quantifying data. It aimed to capture the richness of speakers' expressions and attitudes through focus group discussions and recording of natural speeches. The study adopted a descriptive linguistic approach, which systematically described the language used in specific social settings, particularly how euphemisms function in communication within the Gĩgĩcũgũ speaking community. Purposive sampling was used to select native Gĩgĩcũgũ adult speakers from the rural Rung’eto region, ensuring fluency in the dialect and familiarity with cultural norms. The researcher used these speakers to obtain the euphemistic words and expressions used in the Gĩgĩcũgũ dialect. Data was collected through focus group discussions and recording of natural speeches. The primary instrument of data collection was researcher designed guide for capturing euphemistic expressions used in relation to key social domains such as birth, circumcision, marriage, diseases, sex and relationships, church activities, and death. Data analysis was conducted thematically in line with Brown and Levinson’s (1987) Politeness Theory, examining how euphemisms serve both communicative and social functions. The study revealed that Gĩgĩcũgũ speakers employ euphemisms to maintain politeness, manage face-threatening acts, and reinforce social cohesion. It also revealed that the use of such expressions at times leads to miscommunication or ambiguity due to generational, social and cultural differences. Ultimately, the study shed light on how euphemism in the Gĩgĩcũgũ dialect operates as a culturally embedded strategy of meaning-making and politeness.
An assessment of christians’ perception of christian marriage in the catholic church, our lady of visitation deanery, diocese of Embu, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2025) Mbogo, Gladwell Karimi
Marriage is one of the most important social institutions in the society. In the Catholic Church, it holds a profound religious and social significance. The Catholic Church teaches that marriage is one of the seven sacraments. It emphasizes on monogamy and indissolubility of marriage. There is lack of comprehensive research examining Christian’s practice of Christian marriage within Our Lady of Visitation Deanery. This study sought to assess Christians’ perception of Christian marriage in the Catholic Church, Our Lady of Visitation Deanery, Diocese of Embu, Kenya. The study was guided by the following objectives; to examine the role of the church teachings in shaping perception of Christian marriage, to evaluate factors influencing Christians’ perception of Christian marriage, to determine strategies for expanding the perception and practice of Christian marriage and to analyze the impact of societal changes on Christian marriage practices in Our Lady of Visitation Deanery. This study adopted structural functionalism theory to provide a better understanding of marriage as a social institution that fulfils key societal functions such as preservation of marital norms and values. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The target population was 5020 people. A sample of 357 respondents including the Clergy, married couples, members preparing to marry and unmarried members were selected through stratified random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. The researcher used questionnaires, interview schedule and focus group discussions to gather information. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 29 to generate descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, while qualitative data from the Clergy and unmarried members was analyzed thematically using coding, categorization and identifying of emerging patterns to interpret meanings and relevance to the research. Key findings of the study showed that most Christians in our Lady of visitation deanery value Church marriage as a sacred covenant that symbolizes faith, love and divine blessing. The study concluded that although church teachings shape Christians perception of church marriage, there is a gap between doctrinal teachings and practice of marriage. It recommended strengthening marriage catechesis and premarital counselling, continuous marriage formation, integration of culture and faith and Community sensitization in order to enhance the practice of church marriage. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on social-anthropological aspect of religion by showing how religion interacts with culture in shaping marriage practices and family relations.
Analysis of socio-economic and ecological usefulness of urban farming in Nkubu town, Meru county, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2024) Kawira Bridget
For a long time, agriculture has been seen as an activity that better fits in the rural areas. Nevertheless, this is no longer true in the current world where urbanization has been on the rise, hence reducing the agricultural lands. There has also been an increase in the rural –urban migration, which means high demand for food in the urban areas. This has led to increased urban farming hence attracting a number of researchers to carry out research work on the same. In as much as urban farming has attracted much attention from researchers, this study will narrow down to the socio-economic and the ecological utility of urban farming systems in Nkubu town, Meru County. The study was directed by the following objectives: to map out the spatial distribution of town regions where urban farming is practised in Nkubu town; to establish the socio-economic benefits of different urban farming systems in Nkubu; to examine the ecological usefulness of urban farming systems in Nkubu; to identify emerging challenges of urban farming systems in Nkubu. The study sampled 95 households actively practising urban farming in the town. Primary and secondary data was used to enrich the study findings. The study used the concurrent mixed method approach, which entails collection and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data at the same time in order to support the findings. Landsat 8 images of Nkubu for 2010-2020 were obtained to help identify the greenness index in the town for the stated years. The study revealed that most parts of the town practise urban farming with crop production leading at 54.40%, mixed farming 36.70% and animal rearing only at 8.90%. The study also revealed that farming activities increased as one moves from the town. The study revealed that many farmers practise urban farming as a source of income and employment. For the ecological usefulness of urban farming, the Landsat 8 images were analysed using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index. (NDVI). They revealed that the green spaces have been reducing with time in the town and this brings about the issue of reduction in air purifiers and ground water infiltration in the town. The study concluded that urban farming is very vital in the town and has great benefits when maximally practised. This study recommends promotion of more knowledge sharing networks, promotion of crop diversification and uptake of the new urban farming technologies
Assessment of social media use in church ministry in the Methodist church in Kenya, Nyambene synod
(Chuka University, 2025) Akula Elosy Mukami
The rapid growth of social media has transformed communication and interaction across sectors, including religion, by offering new avenues for evangelism, fellowship, and outreach. In Kenya, religious institutions are increasingly integrating digital tools into their ministry, yet many rural churches continue to face challenges in effectively adopting and utilizing social media for spiritual engagement. This study examined the use of social media in church ministry within the Methodist Church in Kenya (MCK), focusing on the Nyambene Synod—a largely rural context where digital transformation remains uneven. Specifically, the study sought to: (i) assess the level of awareness and adoption of social media platforms among congregants, (ii) evaluate the impact of social media on ministry activities, and (iii) identify challenges affecting its adoption and use for religious purposes. Guided by the functionalist theory, the study employed a mixed-methods research design, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. A sample of 408 respondents—including clergy, lay preachers, church leaders, and members—was drawn through stratified random and purposive sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, and analyzed using SPSS version 21. Descriptive and inferential analyses, including logistic regression, were used to determine relationships between social media use and ministry outcomes. Findings revealed high awareness and individual use of social media among congregants, with WhatsApp and Facebook being the most utilized platforms for church communication and ministry. Younger, male, and leadership respondents exhibited higher adoption levels. Social media was found to enhance evangelism, youth outreach, preaching, and dissemination of church updates, with 95.1% of respondents affirming that it expanded the church’s reach beyond its physical congregation. Logistic regression results indicated that both the variety of online ministry activities and the frequency of social media use significantly influenced positive perceptions of its impact. Nonetheless, the study identified key challenges such as poor internet connectivity— especially in remote areas—limited digital skills among older members, distractions from secular content, and the absence of formal digital ministry policies. The study concludes that social media presents vast opportunities for effective ministry in the Nyambene Synod but remains constrained by infrastructural and capacity limitations. It contributes to the discourse on digital religion by highlighting the dynamics of online ministry in rural church settings. The study recommends that the MCK develop formal social media policies, invest in digital infrastructure, and establish IT/media teams to manage online engagement. Additionally, targeted digital literacy training should be prioritized for women, older congregants, and rural members to enhance participation and reduce digital exclusion. By embracing structured digital strategies and faith-based content management, the church can strengthen spiritual growth, inclusivity, and community outreach in the digital age.
Assessment of the contribution of the Anglican church in addressing the boy child crisis in the diocese of Embu, kenya
(Chuka University, 2024) Nyaga Moses Murithi
Leaders from Embu County have raised red flags over the diminishing numbers of boys in some schools and involvement in crime as well as drug abuse. Within the Anglican Church of Kenya, Diocese of Embu boy child is rated behind in education, a situation that might lead to lack of male leadership in future. This has translated to gender imbalances at higher educational levels which in turns hinders social mobility. The impact of this neglect on the boy child’s life is that; some have dropped out of school leading to high number of uneducated boys, others have joined outlawed sects, others have engaged into drugs and substance abuse, violence, manipulation by politicians in electioneering period among other criminal activities. The Church as a social institution is mandated to bridge gaps within the society. The purpose of this research was to access the ways in which the Anglican Church Diocese of Embu can address the boy child crisis. The objectives of the study were: to establish the nature and extent of boy child crisis in the Anglican Diocese of Embu; to investigate why there were no programs within the Anglican Church Diocese of Embu addressing the boy child crisis, and finally to suggest ways in which the Anglican Church Diocese of Embu can address the boy child crisis. This study was significant because it addressed the plight of the boys in Church and society. The study also contributed in the field of sociology of religion because it dealt with the role of religion in society. It adopted Structural Functionalism theory which addresses social interactions and relationships, and their role on development and growth of human beings in the society. The study employed cross sectional descriptive study design. The target population was 26108 men, women and boy child in ACK Churches in the Diocese of Embu. The study involved 50 Churches stratified into 7 archdeaconries and a sample of 254 men and women, and 73 boy child selected by Stratified Proportionate random sampling. The researcher purposively selected 21 Clergy and 35 Church elders. The total sample size for the study was 383 respondents, and questionnaires, interview schedules and focus group discussions were used to collect the data. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) were used to analyze the data. Analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 26.0 computer software for Windows and then presented it in form of tables and charts form. The findings highlighted various challenges faced by boys, including risky sexual behaviors, involvement in crime, domestic violence, economic hardships, and mental health issues. Gender disparities in education contributed to lower academic performance and increased vulnerability. Barriers such as insufficient mobilization, financial constraints, lack of skilled personnel, and community reluctance towards church programs limited effective intervention. Additionally, pastoral efforts in schools and boy child-focused seminars showed promise. The study recommended enhancing community engagement and passion for the well-being of boys, along with further research on societal pressures, training needs for crisis management, and spiritual development.
CDEV 00150: RESEARCH METHODS
(0023-04-13) CHUKA UNIVERSITY
CDEV 0141: PRINCIPLES OF DISASTER MANAGEMENT
(0023-04-13) CHUKA UNIVERSITY
CDEV 0205: NETWORKING, LOBBYING AND ADVOCACY
(CHUKA UNIVERSITY, 2023-11-04) CHUKA UNIVERSITY
CDEV 212: COMMUNITY RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
(CHUKA UNIVERSITY, 2023-08-28) CHUKA UNIVERSITY
CDEV 222: COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION
(CHUKA UNIVERSITY, 2023-04-12) CHUKA UNIVERSITY
CDEV 224: COLLECTIVE MOVEMENTS IN COMMUNITIES
(CHUKA UNIVERSITY, 2023-04-13) CHUKA UNIVERSITY
CDEV 225: GROUP DYNAMICS
(CHUKA UNIVERSITY, 2023-08-03) CHUKA UNIVERSITY
CDEV 253: ECONOMIC PLANNING DEVELOPMENT
(CHUKA UNIVERSITY, 2023-04-13) CHUKA UNIVERSITY
CDEV 301: SOCIOLOGICAL THEORY I
(CHUKA UNIVERSITY, 2023-04-11) CHUKA UNIVERSITY
Contribution of the catholic church in addressing environmental crisis in Chuka Igambang’ombe sub-county, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2024) Gitonga Sarah Kagendo
Environmental conservation is integral in combating global climate change in the twenty first century. The Catholic Church in Kenya has integrated environmental conservation into its mission and aligned it with its apostolic mandate to care for the spiritual and social welfare of humanity. In Chuka Igambang’ombe Sub-County, the Church participates in tree planting, river rehabilitation, soil conservation, and environmental campaigns during the World Environmental Day. However, despite these efforts, environmental challenges persist, including; deforestation, pollution, inadequate clean water sources, drought, and blocked drainage systems. This study aimed at evaluating the Contribution of the Catholic Church in addressing the environmental crisis in Chuka Igambang’ombe Sub-County. The objectives were to identify causes of environmental degradation in Chuka Igambang’ombe Sub-County, examine the Church's role in addressing environmental crisis in Chuka Igambang’ombe Sub-County, and assess Biblical and theological justifications of the Church involvement in environmental conservation. The study was guided by Liberative Solidarity theory which states that all creation needs to be liberated from oppression. A descriptive survey research design using qualitative and quantitative method was utilized. The study was carried in Chuka Igambang’ombe in Tharaka Nithi County which comprised of 10 parishes. A population of 15574 Church members comprising of 20 priests, 20 Development officials, 3663 youths, 4285 CMA ,7321 CWA was targeted by the survey. A sample of 10 priests, 10 Development committee members, 86 youths, 175 CWA and 98 CMA members was obtained for the study making a total of up to 389 members of the targeted population.Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. Findings revealed significant factors contributing to environmental degradation, such as; deforestation, pollution, economic growth, burning of fossils, and population growth. The Church's approach is multifaceted, involving practical solutions, educational initiatives with theological foundations. Priests actively engaged in tree planting, construction of terraces, protection of water catchment areas, and educational seminars, showcasing a holistic commitment to environmental stewardship. Challenges, including cutting down trees, capital constraints, and scarcity of tree seedlings, were acknowledged. The study proposed several recommendations to enhance environmental conservation within the Catholic Church in Chuka Igambang’ombe Sub-County. These include, community specific conservation strategies, enhanced communication with priests, strengthened educational programs, consideration of socio-economic dimensions, collaboration with experts, and the implementation of a continuous monitoring and evaluation system. Furthermore, the study suggested avenues for further exploration, such as in depth theological studies on environmental stewardship, investigating the long-term impact of environmental conservation programs initiated by religious institutions, cross-cultural comparative studies, and exploring the potential policy implications of religious institutions' involvement in environmental conservation. These endeavors aimed to deepen understanding of environmental stewardship within religious communities and contribute to the development of effective and enduring conservation strategies
Determinants and effectiveness of adopted drought mitigation strategies among households in tharaka south sub-county, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2025) Nyaga Mary Mukami
Drought has always disrupted most of agricultural activities over the globe. Rainfall amounts and intensities are becoming very unpredictable, and so increasing the levels of drought occurrence and persistence. More than four fifths of Kenya’s land is ASAL including the greater part of Tharaka Nithi County. Therefore, the study examined the mitigation measures that are being applied by households in Tharaka South Sub-County to counter drought predicament. To achieve this purpose, the study examined the intensity of adoption of Drought Mitigation Strategies (DMS) the determinants of adoption of DMS and the perceived effectiveness of DMS among farming households in Tharaka South Sub-County. Tharaka South is located between latitude 00o 02’S and 00o 17’S and between longitude 37o 29’E and 38o 00’E. The study used descriptive research design. A sample of 397 respondents was chosen from a target population of 18623 households and three key informants making a total of 400.Cluster random sampling was used to select households while purposeful sampling was used to select key informants. The study used questionnaires, interviews and direct observation to collect data. The descriptive statistics, frequencies, percentages and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were used to analyse data. The quantitative data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 2020. The data was presented using graphs and tables. The study found out that planting drought tolerant crops, crop diversification and rain water harvesting had high adoption intensity with an average of (89.7%), (84.2%) and (78.1%) respectively. Soil water conservation had the lowest adoption intensity being adopted by only 6.1% of the sampled households. From the Pearson correlation test, there was significant positive correlation between DMS adoption and income (0.988, p<0.001), level of education (0.986, p<0.003), land area (0.983, p<0.006) and a negative correlation between DMS adoption and age (-0.593, p>0.003). A statistically significant positive correlation (0.106) existed between the perceived effectiveness and the overall adoption of DMS. This study recommends aligning drought mitigation efforts with people's own perspectives and carrying out assessments upfront to provide the necessary baseline information to support appropriate and strategies that are more likely to be effective and widely adopted.
DISTRIBUTION AND IMPACT OF QUARRY STONE MINING ON ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIAL ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES IN IGEMBE SOUTH SUB COUNTY MERU COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2023-10) MURIKI JOSEPH GITONGA
Mining is considered one of the essential economic activities contributing to economic progress. Authorities, the general public, stakeholder organizations, and individuals have all expressed concern about the spatial distribution, social, economic, and environmental impacts of mining on affected areas. The study examined Meru County's spatial distribution and social, economic, and ecological impacts on the residents. Cultures are diversifying in a way that mining is becoming an alternative source of income. Agriculture is still being practiced alongside mining. The general objective of this study was to develop a GIS-based spatial distribution of mining site patterns and associated impact zonation map in order to identify risk prone geo-locations in Meru County's Igembe South Sub County. The study also determined the impact of quarry stones on Meru County settlements regarding social, economic, and environmental factors. At a 0.05 level of significance, three hypotheses were evaluated. Ho1: There is no significant spatial distribution of quarry stone mining sites in Igembe South Sub County, Meru County. Ho2: There is no significant relationship between quarry stone mining and social-economic activities in Igembe South Sub County, Meru County communities. Quarry stone mining has no significant environmental impact on the communities in Igembe South Sub-County, Meru County. Other Kenyan counties were not included in the research. Data was gathered from five Igembe South communities. Data was collected from primary and secondary sources. Using PRA methodologies and processes, primary data was collected from participants' notes to detect mining-related problems in the study area, and an informal and formal survey and pair-wise assessment was used. The communities and mines in the Akachiu ward are as follows: Auki, Amwamba, Nceme, Kirindine, and Tiira. Information was obtained from 300 respondents through surveys and interviews. Data gathering was limited by prejudice and reluctance to respond to specific questions. Some of these issues were resolved by segmenting the target population and confirming field observations. Data were analysed using the nearest neighbour analysis method and descriptive means, median, and mode statistics. Further Chi-Square tests were used to generate inferential statistics. Results were then presented using tables, maps, graphs, and pie charts. Results established that mining activities have damaged land in Igembe South Sub-County, reducing food production and agricultural demands and polluting water supplies in the area, including contaminated streams. Pollution and noise are present in the area. It was affirmed that the residents know the environmental consequences of mining. The research demonstrates that mining has an impact on the environment, as well as community social and economic well-being. In light of the County Government of Meru's efforts at restoration and intervention, such as re-afforestation, the mining companies and the County Government of Meru are reviewing their methods of operation and providing alternatives to the affected areas. Mining's environmental impact should be reduced by rethinking the environmental management strategy.

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