Factors influencing the effectiveness of the Nairobi river basin project campaigns on environment degradation: a study of Kianda village, Kibera

Abstract

This study sought to assess the factors that influence the effectiveness of the Nairobi River Basin project campaigns against environmental degradation within Kianda village, Kibera. It endeavored to establish the social and economic factors that may influence the community in implementing proper environmental management and conservation practices. The study also aimed at establishing if there were any political factors that hindered the residence from practicing proper environmental practices. Possible solutions to these challenges were also looked in to. The design of the study was the ex -post Jacto. Data was collected using questionnaires for teachers and students, Key Informant Interviews for community leaders and mechanics, and focus group discussions for Environmental groups, youth groups and women groups. The research instruments were validated by use of a pilot study. Reliability was determined using the split half technique. The target population were members of Kianda village, Kibera in Nairobi province both male and females. Random sampling was used to sample 20 students, 10 teachers, 5 community leaders, 5 mechanics, 10 youths, 10 women and 10 persons from environmental groups Data obtained was analyzed by use of statistical p-ackage for social sciences (SPSS) to determine the factors influencing the effectiveness of NRBP in Kianda. Findings were presented through descriptive statistics by use of frequencies and percentages. Among the findings were; most of the community member had not be trained on environmental issues. members of Kianda village belonged to various social groupings which were mainly used to generate finances. the residents had a strong sense of belonging to Kianda and that the residents of Kianda face many economic challenges which in turn affects their ability to conserve their environment. Residents were also not involved in suggesting solution to the environment problem and that there was no garbage collection services offered by the city council of Nairobi. Sanitation facilities were not adequate and this therefore enhanced the environmental degradation in Kianda: Based on these findings, the following recommendations were made; all members of Kianda should be trained on environmental issues, social groupings should also be used for income generation using waste materials that can be recycled, the strong sense of belonging should be used to evoke behavior change, provision of adequate sanitation facilities and resources. Involvement of all stakeholders in the implementation of environmental initiatives should be enhanced. The recommendations for further study include: Study on the social, economic and political factors affecting the effective implementation of environmental conservation initiatives in other villages in Kibera apart from Kianda; the role of students in environmental education and communication in their community; the role of teachers in environmental education and communication and what constraints they face; the attitude of women in environmental education and communication and the attitude of non- residents of Kibera towards the environmental initiative in Kibera.