Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Simon Pkukat Cherpka Title: Family and Societal Factors as Predictors of Illicit Alcohol Consumption Abstract: This paper investigates the complex social phenomenon of illicit alcohol abuse in Embakasi East, which is attributed to a combination of family and societal environment. The primary hypothesis is that family and social environment factors have a statistically significant influence on the high consumption of illicit alcohol. Using a quantitative research design with descriptive and correlational approaches, data were collected from 119 adults that illicit alcohol consumers through a structured survey. The analysis, which included an ANOVA model, revealed a significant relationship between both family and social environments and the frequency and quantity of illicit alcohol consumption. Key findings indicate that a worsening financial situation was the most significant family environment trigger (p=.001); while affordability and accessibility (p=.000and p=.002, respectively) and peer influence were found to be the most significant societal triggers. The affordability and accessibility of illicit alcohol outlets appear to correlate directly with the financial hardships experienced within families. The findings indicate that as the price of legal alcohol rises,consumption of cheaper illicit alcohol increases, highlighting the need for policies that consider the financial context of consumers alongside traditional enforcement measures. Keywords: Illicit alcohol consumption, Social environment, family environment, Embakasi East Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Pages: 1–12 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2025 Month: September DOI: 10.66699/tprnb091 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/tprnb091 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Simon Pkukat Cherpka Author-Name: Prof Beneah Mutsotso Author-Name: Evans Okumu Title: Social norms related to illicit alcohol consumption Abstract: This paper explores the influence of social norms on illicit alcohol consumption in Embakasi East, focusing on the interplay between community attitudes, peer influence, and accessibility factors. Guided by the premise that prevailing social norms significantly shape drinking behaviours, a quantitative research design was adopted, employing descriptive and correlational approaches. Data were obtained from 119 adult consumers of illicit alcohol through survey questionnaires. Statistical analysis, including ANOVA, revealed that peer acceptance of illicit drinking, perceived normalisation of alcohol misuse within social circles, and affordability were key predictor norms of consumption patterns. Results also indicate that normalised social tolerance towards illicit alcohol is closely linked to the density and accessibility of unlicensed outlets, creating a reinforcing cycle of demand. The findings underscore the need for multi-level interventions combining community-based norm change strategies with stricter control of illicit alcohol availability to effectively address harmful consumption behaviours. Keywords: Illicit alcohol consumption, social norms, Quantity and Frequency of Consumption Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Pages: 12–24 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2025 Month: September DOI: 10.66699/adgxxz03 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/adgxxz03 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Simon Pkukat Cherpka Author-Name: Evans Okumu Title: Social Profile of Illicit Alcohol Consumers Abstract: This paper examines the association between social profiles and illicit alcohol consumption in Embakasi East, Nairobi, focusing on two key indicators: frequency of visits to illicit alcohol outlets and quantity consumed per session. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected from 119 current and former consumers through structured surveys. This paper shows that males (80%), unmarried individuals (75%), and adults aged 30–39 (46%) were significantly more likely to visit illicit alcohol outlets more than five times per week. Similarly, high-volume consumption; over 4 litres per visit was most prevalent among males (30%), individuals with no formal education (55%), low-income earners earning less than KES 10,000 (50%), and the unmarried (70%). The type of illicit alcohol consumed showed no significant association with either frequency or volume. These findings offer a granular social profile of high-risk consumers and underscore the need for targeted, socially informed interventions beyond conventional regulatory approaches. Keywords: Illicit alcohol consumption, social profiles, frequency of use, quantity consumed Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Pages: 25–38 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2025 Month: September DOI: 10.66699/yhchk310 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/yhchk310 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Mahad Author-Name: Mbegera Title: Coping with Absence How Rural Households Adapt to Migration in Afgoye, Somalia Abstract: This papers investigates the effects of rural-urban migration on communities in Afgoye. It explores social, economic, and gender-related factors, including environmental and economic push factors, and migration-induced networks. Using a mixed-methods approach with a sample of 384 individuals and key informant interviews, the research found that rural households make various adjustments, such as diversifying income and changing household labour dynamics, to cope with migration. The most significant finding was a statistically significant increase in household labour demands, which fills a gap in previous literature that often focuses more on remittances and social networks. The study highlights the resilience of rural households and provides valuable insights for policies aimed at supporting these communities. Keywords: Rural-urban migration, Household labour demands, Remittances, Coping strategies, Afgoye, Somalia Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Pages: 39-50 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2025 Month: September DOI: 10.66699/v8ckrp69 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/v8ckrp69 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Mbegera Author-Name: ahmed Title: The Nature of Rural-Urban Migration Networks and their Socio-economic Effects in Afgoye, Lower Shabel Abstract: This study examines the nature of rural-urban migration networks and their socio-economic effects in Afgoye, Somalia. Using a mixed-methods approach with a sample of 384 individuals, the research reveals that networks, particularly those based on family and kinship, play a vital role in shaping migration outcomes. Quantitative analysis showed that both rural and urban networks positively impact socio-economic conditions, with rural networks exhibiting a slightly stronger influence due to enhanced community cohesion. However, a significant gender disparity was identified, with women experiencing slightly lower socio-economic benefits from these networks. Qualitative findings complemented this, highlighting the increased responsibilities faced by those left behind and the critical role of remittances in mitigating financial pressures. The study concludes that migration networks are central to the socio-economic dynamics of this region, but their benefits are not equally distributed, underscoring the need for targeted policies that promote equitable access to migration-related opportunities. Keywords: Rural-urban migration, socio-economic effects, migration networks, Afgoye, Somalia Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Pages: 51-62 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2025 Month: September DOI: 10.66699/x944gp16 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/x944gp16 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Nancy Chepkorir Milgo Title: Public Awareness of Fire Safety Provisions in Commercial Malls and its Influence on Preparedness Abstract: This paper examines the influence of customers’ fire safety knowledge on fire preparedness in a major commercial mall in Nairobi, Kenya. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were collected from 187 respondents through questionnaires and drill performance records. Descriptive findings revealed that 67.8% of customers lacked knowledge of appropriate fire responses, 88% had never encountered a safety officer, and 95.4% had never participated in a fire safety drill. Chi-square analyses further established a significant association between customers’ knowledge indicators and their preparedness, particularly their ability to identify fire exits, report alarms, and assist in containment (p < .05). Customers who had experienced fire drills demonstrated markedly higher preparedness than those without such experience. The study concludes that limited public awareness and lack of drills severely constrain fire readiness in malls. Embedding customer education and routine drills into mall safety management is therefore critical for reducing risks and enhancing resilience. Keywords: Fire safety, Public awareness, Preparedness, Commercial malls, Fire drills, Kenya Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Pages: 63–74 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2025 Month: September DOI: 10.66699/4q300b31 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/4q300b31 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Nancy Chepkorir Milgo Title: Architectural Design and Fire Safety: An Assessment of Engineering in Commercial Buildings Abstract: Fire safety in commercial buildings is a critical aspect of urban risk management, particularly in rapidly growing cities where public spaces serve diverse populations. Despite existing regulations, many facilities in Kenya exhibit gaps in compliance and preparedness, increasing vulnerability to fire disasters. This paper investigated architectural design conformity and statistical relationships between fire design variables and preparedness within T-Mall, Nairobi. A case study design was employed, integrating observation, evacuation plan analysis, and observational data, guided by the Kenya Fire Safety Code (KS 04-107:2008), the Occupational Safety and Health Act (2007), and Fire Risk Reduction Rules (2007). Architectural assessment revealed partial compliance in escape routes and equipment placement. Regression analysis showed that fire response time, containment duration, and fire intensity significantly predicted preparedness (F(1,34) = 2.66, p = .002, R˛ = 0.58). The study underscores the importance of enforcing safety standards and offers insights for policy, practice, and scholarly discourse. Keywords: Fire safety, Commercial buildings, Architectural design, Evacuation planning, Fire preparedness Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Pages: 75-89 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2025 Month: September DOI: 10.66699/5h4bng72 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/5h4bng72 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Nancy Chepkorir Milgo Title: Drill-Based Competence and Fire Preparedness in Commercial Structures Abstract: This study examined the influence of drill-based technical competence on fire preparedness in a commercial mall in Nairobi, Kenya. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were collected from 187 mall staff through structured questionnaires and drill performance records. Key independent variables included fire-drilling experience, possession of certification, and knowledge of fire-drill equipment; dependent variables were response time, containment time, and fire intensity at containment. Pearson’s Chi-square tests revealed significant associations between technical competence and preparedness outcomes. Staff with drilling experience and certification responded faster and contained fires more quickly, while higher equipment knowledge corresponded with lower fire intensity. Preparedness level was strongly linked to all outcome measures (p = .003). Findings suggest that enhancing technical competence through frequent drills and targeted training can substantially improve operational readiness Keywords: fire preparedness, drill-based competence, commercial structures, disaster management Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Pages: 90-98 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2025 Month: September DOI: 10.66699/j9eraw39 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/j9eraw39 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Abdi Aden Mohamed Title: Analysis of the challenges facing agro-pastoral households in Beletweyne, Somalia Abstract: Agro-pastoral households in Somalia’s Hiiraan Region combine rain-fed and riverine cultivation with livestock keeping and face drought, flooding, input scarcity, weak services, thin markets and insecurity simultaneously. Studies of these constraints usually rank them by mean severity or by the percentage of households naming them, treating constraints as mutually exclusive and unable to say how many households would remain unaffected if a given set were removed. This article applies Total Unduplicated Reach and Frequency (TURF) analysis, a portfolio-optimisation technique from marketing science, to identify the smallest set of challenges that jointly reaches the largest share of agro-pastoral households. The design builds on a household survey of 96 households in three villages of Beletweyne District. TURF analysis is formalised in nine reproducible steps, from binarisation and coverage indicators to integer optimisation, bootstrap inference and sensitivity analysis, showing how outputs are read. The approach shifts challenge assessment from what is most common to what, in combination, covers most households, and offers a transparent evidence base for sequencing interventions in fragile settings. Keywords: agro-pastoralism, TURF analysis, unduplicated reach, livelihood constraints, Beletweyne, Somalia Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Year: 2026 Month: October DOI: 10.66699/s7gx1848 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/s7gx1848 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:118 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Abdi Aden Mohamed Title: Analysis of Crop Production Choices among Agro-Pastoral Households in Beletweyne, Somalia Abstract: Crop choice is the first and most consequential decision an agro-pastoral household makes each season, yet it is usually explained by agronomic suitability or input availability. This article applies Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovations Theory to explain why households in Beletweyne District, Somalia, adopt or reject crop options promoted through aid and extension. We operationalise the theory’s five perceived attributes of innovations (relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability and observability), its five-stage innovation-decision process, communication channels and adopter categories, and combine them in a nine-step model comprising a stage funnel, binary and multinomial logit estimation, adopter-category classification and a Bass diffusion curve. The design builds on a mixed-methods survey of 96 households in three villages, supplemented by 10 key-informant interviews and four focus-group discussions. Descriptive signals from the survey show abundant financial aid (mean 4.98 of 5) but thin extension (mean 2.85), a configuration the theory predicts will stall adoption at the knowledge and persuasion stages. Analysis shows how the outputs are read. The article offers a theory-to-estimation protocol for crop-choice research in fragile settings. Keywords: diffusion of innovations, crop choice, technology adoption, agro-pastoralism, Somalia Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Year: 2026 Month: October DOI: 10.66699/hwncct81 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/hwncct81 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:119 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Eusebius Karuti Laibuta Title: Khat Production and Rural Household Access to Formal Education Abstract: This article examines the dual role of khat production in shaping rural household access to formal education in Igembe South Sub-County, Meru County, Kenya. Using a cross-sectional survey (N=125), the study analyses how participation in the khat value chain influences educational investment and school attendance. Descriptive findings reveal a significant "education complexities": while 74% of households have members in formal education and 82.8% credit khat income as a vital financial pillar for school fees, the labour-intensive nature of the crop drives substantial schooling disruptions, including absenteeism (30%) and cognitive fatigue. Bivariate regression results indicate that access to education remains relatively uniform, with no statistically significant differentiation across gender, marital status, or the household head's educational level. Therefore, khat functions as a critical but precarious income-mediated support mechanism, where financial enablement is frequently offset by labour-related costs that undermine educational quality and consistency. Keywords: Khat production, formal education, rural livelihoods, schooling-labour nexus, Kenya Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Pages: 1-15 Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Year: 2026 Month: May DOI: 10.66699/k3912j42 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/k3912j42 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:40 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Eusebius Karuti Laibuta Title: Khat Production and Rural Household Food Security Abstract: This article examined the contribution of khat production to rural household food security in Igembe South Sub-County, Meru County, Kenya, where khat is deeply embedded in local livelihood systems. Using a cross-sectional household survey, the study analysed how households participate in the khat value chain, how khat proceeds are used to support food security, and how households perceive the importance of khat to their food welfare. The descriptive findings showed that most households used khat income to purchase both food and farm inputs, indicating that khat supports food security through immediate consumption and productive reinvestment. Most respondents also rated khat as important or highly important for household food security. Bivariate ordered logistic regression results showed no statistically significant differences in these perceptions across gender, education, marital status, or primary khat activity. Overall, the study concludes that khat functions as a broadly shared, income-mediated food security strategy, although its longer-term sustainability remains uncertain. Keywords: Khat production, household food security, rural livelihoods, cash crops, ordered logistic regression, Kenya Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Pages: 16-32 Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Year: 2026 Month: May DOI: 10.66699/c130p821 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/c130p821 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:41 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Pauline Nelima Liru Title: Conceptualising Rural Women Empowerment Abstract: Rural women empowerment is a central objective of social inclusion initiatives across the Global South, yet outcomes remain uneven and conceptually contested. Participation in collective platforms such as self-help groups and cooperatives is frequently equated with empowerment, obscuring the relational processes through which inclusion is produced, mediated, and constrained. This study addresses this gap by applying Social Network Theory, focusing specifically on the tenet of social ties, to examine how relational configurations shape social inclusion outcomes in rural women empowerment initiatives. Using a theory-driven qualitative relational synthesis, the study analyses fifteen peer-reviewed empirical studies from rural contexts in Asia and Africa. Treating case studies as sources of relational evidence, the analysis traces how bonding ties, bridging ties, and their interaction with local power relations function as mechanisms influencing access, participation, and agency. The findings show that empowerment is not a direct outcome of participation but a contingent process filtered through the balance and governance of social ties. The study advances a relational explanation for persistent heterogeneity in empowerment outcomes and calls for approaches that move beyond participation metrics. Keywords: Rural Women Empowerment, Social Ties, as Relational Processes, Inclusion Journal: Journal of Sociology in East and Horn of Africa Pages: 33-55 Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Year: 2026 Month: May DOI: 10.66699/zwbxhk98 File-URL: https://doi.org/10.66699/zwbxhk98 File-Format: text/html Handle: RePEc:eom:eajstr:a:33