The Effect Of Last Mile Mobile Solution Software Adoption On Food Aid Distribution By World Vision In Makueni Sub-county, Makueni County, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of Last Mile Mobile Solution (LMMS) on food aid distribution by World Vision in Makueni Sub-County, Makueni County, Kenya. This research was guided by the following objectives; to establish the effect of LMMS registration on distribution of food aid, to assess the effect of LMMS accountability on distribution of food aid, and to establish the influence of LMMS harmonization on distribution of food aid in Makueni Sub-County. The study targeted 830 households receiving food aid and 20 World Vision staff working in Makueni Sub-County. Simple random sampling technique was used in the study to select 85 respondents. The information for the study was gathered by use of questionnaires as the main research instrument. The questionnaires were subjected to the heads of households and a key informant one to the World Vision staff working in Makueni Sub-county. The collected raw data was coded and analyzed by both descriptive and inferential methods using Statistical Package for Social Scientist (SPSS) software. From the findings of the study, the researcher concluded that; LMMS has created a new platform for aid distribution that is vastly different and more efficient when it comes to registering, capturing data and retrieving records of beneficiaries to both recipients and users. This is because a single distribution projects are completed at least 50% faster. Multiple distribution projects, where registration is required only once, show a time savings of 90% or more. Secondly, a digitally traceable record of every distribution reduces the risk of fraud and ensures that the right items and quantities are distributed fairly thus enhancing accountability. Important as accountability is, there are even bigger benefits with the data we collected, we can account – down to the household level – where aid has been distributed and prepare periodic and annual reports demonstrating the efficiency and effectiveness of our efforts. Lastly, LMMS harmonization has improved food distribution by avoiding duplication, sharing information through networking and improved donor relationship. This research study hopes to inform the donor agencies to improve and expand their service delivery to needy communities economically thus ensuring equitable distribution to all. It recommends that the relief agencies and the government should adopt new and innovative ways of delivering aid to the targeted people through partnerships with Information technology experts. It is also recommended that through partnerships with IT experts, harmonization/coordination of various donor agencies operating in aid distribution will reduce transaction costs by avoiding distribution overlaps.