An Investigation Into the Issues Influencing the Use of Interlocking Stabilized Soil Blocks in Kenya, a Case Study of Siaya County

Abstract

This research report presents a survey study done to investigate issues contributing to the uptake of ISSB technology in Kenya, and in particular Siaya county. The literature review revealed that, a number of factors contributed to low uptake of the technology. Key among the factors was the fact that people were found to be a bit conservative and as such, rigid to technological developments, especially in construction where many believe the conventional methods are still the best. The study was carried out in Siaya County. Stratified sample was used where the researcher, identified three strata, namely masons, housing officers and inadequate house owners. All the respondents in each stratum were selected randomly from all the six sub counties in equal measure. The study involved certified masons from all the sub counties as per the department of housing records, all sub county housing department heads, and inadequate house home owners sample size was determined using Cochran (1963) approach. To achieve the objectives of the study, 24 masons, 6 housing heads and 196 home owners responded to the questionnaires. The questionnaire had both open and close ended questions. Tables, graphs and statements were used to analyze and discuss the data. From the findings, it was evident that the continued low use of ISSB technology in siaya is as a result of the kind of attitude that people have towards new technologies, Many respondents seemed not to be aware of the cost per unit block, yet believed that it was very expensive to put a house using ISSB. It was also confirmed that the ministry had done enough sensitization on ISSB, and created adequate awareness, and the question of lack of information did not arise for the low use of the technology and generally people were just resistant to change and remained adamant on the continued use of conventional methods of building. Recommendations to improve and increase the uptake of ISSB were, a need for, more sensitization workshops, More demonstration units. The government should embrace the technology in its Projects, Clear cost guidelines should be availed to the expected recipients of new technologies and an increase in the number of interlocking mechanized Machines.