Umma Staff Publications

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Advancing operational flood forecasting, early warning and risk management with new emerging science: Gaps, opportunities and barriers in Kenya
(Wiley, 2022-01-27) Kiptum, Augustine; Mwangi, Emma; Otieno, George; Njogu, Andrew; Kilavi, Mary; Mwai, Zacharia; MacLeod, Dave; Neal, Jeff; Hawker, Laurence; O'shea, Tom; Saado, Halima; Visman, Emma; Majani, Bernard; Todd, Martin, C.
Kenya and the wider East African region suffer from significant flood risk, as illustrated by major losses of lives, livelihoods and assets in the most recent years. This is likely to increase in future as exposure rises and rain- fall intensifies under climate change. Accordingly, flood risk management is a priority action area in Kenya's national climate change adaptation planning. Here, we outline the opportunities and challenges to improve end-to-end flood early warning systems, considering the scientific, technical and institutional/governance dimensions. We demonstrate improvements in rainfall forecasts, river flow, inundation and baseline flood risk information. Notably, East Africa is a ‘sweetspot’ for rainfall predictability at sub- seasonal to seasonal timescales for extending forecast lead times beyond a few days and for ensemble flood forecasting. Further, we demonstrate coupled ensemble flow forecasting, new flood inundation simulation, vulnerability and exposure data to support Impact based Forecasting (IbF). We illustrate these advances in the case of fluvial and urban flooding and reflect on the potential for improved flood preparedness action. However, we note that, unlike for drought, there remains no national flood risk management framework in Kenya and there is need to enhance institutional capacities and arrangements to take full advantage of these scientific advances.
Answering the interview question
(KASNEB, 2021-05-01) Dallu, Abdhallah Mambo
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant,anti-tyrosinase and phenolic contents off our Podocarpus species used in traditional medicine in South Africa
(Elsevier Ireland, 2010-07-06) Abdillahi, Halima Saado; Finnie, J.F.; Staden, J.Van
Ethnopharmacological relevance: Species of Podocarpus are used traditionally in their native areas for the treatment of fevers,asthma,coughs,cholera,chest complaints,arthritis,rheumatism,venereal diseases and distemper in dogs. Aims of the study: To investigate the antioxidant,anti-inflammatory and anti-tyrosinase activities off our Podocarpus species, Podocarpus elongatus, Podocarpus falcatus, Podocarpus henkelii and Podocarpus lati-folius, used in traditional medicine in South Africa. Phytochemical analysis to determine the phenolic contents was also carried out. Materials and methods: DPPH, FRAPand -carotene-linoleic acid assays were used to determine the antioxidant/radical scavenging activities of these species. Anti-inflammatory activity of these species was assayed against two cyclooxygenase enzymes(COX-1 and COX-2).Tyrosinase inhibition activity was analysed using the modified dopachrome method with l-DOPA as the substrate. Phenolics were quantitatively determined using spectrophotometric methods. Results: Stems of Podocarpus latifolius exhibited thelowestEC50 (0.84 g/ml) inhibition against DPPH.The percentage antioxidant activity based on the bleaching rate of -carotene rangedfrom96%to99%.High ferric reducing power was observed in all the extracts.For COX-1,the lowest EC50 value was exhibited by stem extracts of Podocarpus elongatus (5.02 g/ml) and leaf extract of Podocarpus latifolius showed the lowest EC50 against COX-2(5.13 g/ml). All extracts inhibited tyrosinase activity in a dose-dependent manner with stem extract of Podocarpus elongatus being the most potent with an EC50 value of 0.14mg/ml. The total phenolic content ranged from 2.38 to 6.94 mg of GAE/g dry sample. Conclusion: The significant pharmacological activities observed support the use of these species in traditional medicine and may also be candidates in the search for modern pharmaceuticals in medicine, food and cosmetic industries.
Antimicrobial activity of South African Podocarpus species
(2008-06-28) Abdillahi, H.S.; Stafford, G.I.; Finnie, J.F.; Staden, J. Van
Ethnopharmacological relevance: Several species of Podocarpus (Podocarpaceae) are utilized in treating ailments across the world. In Africa, four species are used traditionally in both animal and human health Aim of the study: To investigate the antimicrobial activity of Podocarpus species against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida albicans. Materials and methods: Six solvents of varying polarity were used for extraction. Antibacterial activity was assessed using the microdilution bioassay and for antifungal activity, the microdilution bioassay and (M27-P) broth dilution were used. Results: All species exhibited antimicrobial activity with MIC values of less than 1 mg/ml. Inhibition against Gram-positive bacteriawas stronger with an MIC value of 98 g/ml while for Gram-negative bacteria, the highest inhibitionwas against Klebsiella pneumoniae with an MIC value of 0.33 mg/ml. All species exhibited strong antifungal activity with the best MIC being 30 g/ml after 48 h. Conclusions: All four species exhibited strong inhibition against all tested microbials, based on Aligiannis et al. [Aligiannis, N., Kalpotzakis, E., Mitaku, S., Chinou, I.B., 2001. Composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oils of two Origanum species. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 40, 4168–4170] classification they can be classified as strong inhibitors.
Application of Medicinal Plants in Maternal Healthcare and Infertility: A South African Perspective
(2013-04) Abdillahi, Halima S.; Staden, Johannes Van
Plants have played significant roles as medicine during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care in many rural areas of the world. In addition to this, plants have been used for centuries to treat infertility and related reproduction problems. The aim of this paper was to review the current status of plant species used in maternal healthcare, including infertility, in South Africa, in terms of scientific evaluation for efficacy and safety. In addition to this, the role of medicinal plants as a tool in achieving the MDG5 of reducing maternal mortality by 2015 was evaluated. A search was done with the aid of Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, peer-reviewed papers, and books, using keywords such as child birth, labour pain, maternal health, maternal mortality, menstrual pains, and postpartum. The plants listed in the different research articles were classified according to their use and the target effect of a plant extract or compound on reproductive function. Eighty-four plant species were found to be used to treat infertility and related problems. Twenty plant species are used during pregnancy, while 26 plant species are used to ease childbirth. For postpartum healing and any problems after childbirth, nine plant species were recorded. Unhealthy pregnancy and birth complications are among the factors that contribute to the loss of cognitive potential in the developing worldʼs children, condemning them to impoverished lives. The best way to keep a country poor is to rob its children of their full developmental potential. In this respect, medicinal plants play a significant role in reducing maternal mortality and ensuring the birth of healthy children.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE and the future of internal audit
(KASNEB, 201-06-01) Dallu, Abdhallah Mambo
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a broad term that refers to technology that makes machines to be “smart.” Organisations are investing in AI research and applications to automate, augment or replicate human intelligence, human analytics and/or decision making. The internal audit profession must be prepared to fully participate in organisational AI initiatives
Association between the workload of nurses and patients’ safety consequences at Erdogan referral hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia; A cross-sectional Study
(2023-09-01) Abdirahman, Sowda Ibrahim; Hussein, Anisa Abdullahi; Mohammed, Zeynab Ahmed; Osman, Hussein Ali; Elmi, Omar Salad
The nursing workload is a significant public health concern and one of the most persistent themes in health worldwide. The Insufficient nurses staffing or overworked of nurses in hospital-based care could lead severe consequences of patients' safety outcomes, such as mortality, infections, and failure to rescue, as well as decrease quality of care. No previous study has been done in Somalia in this regard. Therefore. This study aimed to determine the association between nurses' workload and patient safety outcomes at Mogadishu, Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia. The study was a cross-sectional study was conducted among registered working nurses and selected patients who were registered and admitted at Mogadishu, Somalia—Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital. The study populations were selected using simple random sampling methods, and data were analysed using multiple logistic regression analysis. A total of 360 participants were analysed. Overwhelmingly, 93 (51.7%) nurses worked between 8 and 12 hours per day in each shift on daily based. Every five nurse respondents, one worked more than 12 hours daily—63 (35%). According to the findings of this study, the majority of nurses (82.88%) were have felt stressed due to their workload. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed the risk factors associated with patients’ safety outcomes were Urinary Trac Infection (UTI) was (AOR = 0.03 95% CI = (0.163-0.571, P = 0.001), Blood Stream Infection (BSI) (OR = 3.909, 95% CI = 2.312-6.610, P = 0.001), and patient monitoring tragedy (AOR = 0.61 95% CI = (0.031-0.199, P = 0.001). The results revealed that most nurses worked between 8 and 12 hours per day and were highly stressed due to the burden of their work. The risk factors associated with nurses' workload and patients' safety were the incidence of UTI, BSI and patient monitoring tragedy. This study emphasised that nurses' workloads directly affected patients' safety consequences. This study reported a lack of the following recommended international Labouré Standardization (ILS) guidelines in Somalia for nurses' rights and work standardisation. Also, immediate action needs to be taken by Somalia's health authorities to protect the nurse's rights.
THE AUDIT ENGAGEMENT
(Kasneb, 2016-10-01) Dallu, Abdhallah Mambo
Wouldn’t it be great if you knew exactly what a hiring manager would be asking you in the next interview? It is unfortunate that we cannot read other peoples’ minds. However the question “describe the audit process for a new engagement” is a very common question for those intending to join the auditing profession. The question seems so simple, yet so many people fail to answer it. In most audit interviews, it is the central point of reference as companies wish to hire people who are passionate about the job
Auditing fraud risk in the corona virus disease "covid-19" period
(KASNEB, 2021-01-01) Dallu, Abdhallah Mambo
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented social and economic paralysis. Most companies have transitioned to an entirely remote workforce and while existing technologies have facilitated connectivity via cloud computing and video and teleconferencing services, working in this new environment still poses numerous challenges.
Auditing going concern in the covid-19 era and the revised Isa (UK) 570
(KASNEB, 2021-03-01) Dallu, Abdhallah Mambo
The world is now a very different place from what it was at the start of 2020. In a matter of months, COVID-19 has swept across the globe. The pandemic subsequently led to travel restrictions, business closures, cancelled events, and lock downs. Governments responded with a range of financial support in an attempt to support jobs and businesses. The impact of COVID19, is very likely to form part of the directors’ assessment when preparing their strategic reports and financial statements. Auditors will also need to assess the impact of any uncertainties on the audit report
BUILDING BACK-BETTER THROUGH CLIMATE FINANCE AS A TOOL FOR ENVIRONMENTAL DIPLOMACY: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW
(Umma University, 2025-02-06) WANJAU, JACKSON; MAGUTA, ANN
In the recent times, the world has been trying to incorporate Climate Finance as a tool for Environmental Diplomacy in environmental agreements despite the fact that it is usually regarded as the most complex diplomatic process. According to National Geographic Society (2024), diplomacy refers to representatives of different groups discussing such issues as conflict, trade, the environment, technology, or maintaining security. Environmental diplomacy aspect commenced at the 1992 UN Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) in Rio de Janeiro commonly referred to as the “Earth Summit”. This was a major gathering of heads of state where nearly 180 nations participated. As an upshot of UNCED conference, governments could no longer ignore environmental matters in the greater aspects of national policy and further it became clear that everyone has a stake in the condition of the environment.
Case Management of Substance Induced Psychosis Using Peplau’s Theory of Interpersonal Relations
(2017) Ogoncho, Isaac Machuki; Sanga, Philip; Halake, Dabo Galgalo
Substance induced psychosis is a form of psychosis that develops from the use of alcohol or other drugs. The symptoms for this form of psychosis can resolve within days or weeks though tendencies of relapsing occur with persistent use of the drugs. The purpose of this article was to examine Peplau’s theory of interpersonal relations as a framework to assist nurses in understanding and managing patients with substance induced psychosis. The theory involves a therapeutic process that is collaboratively undertaken by both the nurse and the patient towards resolving an identified health problem. The nurse-patient relationship evolves through three phases of orientation, working and termination. The nurse may function as a stranger, leader, teacher, resource person, surrogate and counsellor in helping the patient adopt a healthier behaviour. The nurse-patient relationship allows the patient to freely express their emotions, feelings and thoughts about a given health problem. This enhances understanding of the health problem and guides nurses to helping the patients meet their individual needs. Nursing practice should focus on strengthening interpersonal relationships with patients to improve health outcomes.
Challenges of Sustainable Development in Societies: A Systematic Literature Review
(Umma University, 2025-02-06) Wanjau, Jackson; Maguta, Ann
Sustainable development is a relatively new policy dimension in most countries especially for the developing world. The year 2030 Agenda which was adopted by the 193 member states of the United Nations at the General Assembly held in September, 2015 provides for 17 sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals set out all aspects of trans-formative development from inclusive economic, social and environmental matters. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), further, sets out the benchmark for states to gauge themselves towards the collective sustainable development. The objective of this paper is to examine some of the identified buildings blocks and challenges of sustainable development. Design/methodology/approach In writing this paper, a comprehensive Systematic Literature Review of 10 peer-reviewed scientific journal articles, including a content analysis, was conducted.
DATA ANALYTICS THE KEY TO RISK-BASED AUDITING
(KASNEB, 2019-01-01) Dallu, Abdhallah Mambo
To ensure organisations achieve their objectives, it is imperative that internal audit reviews the controls in place to reduce the risks their companies face. In order to distinguish this process from ‘traditional’ internal auditing, the term ‘risk-based internal auditing’ was coined
DETECTION OF HELICOBACTER PYLORICagAAND VacA GENOTYPES FROM STOOL SPECIMEN AMONG INFECTED AND ASYMPTOMATIC HEALTHY INDIVIDUALS
(East African Medical Journal, 2016-11-09) Osman, H. A.
Background: Helicobacter pylori(H. Pylori) is one of the most common pathogens affecting human kind, infecting more than 50% of the world's population. Invasive and non- invasive methods have been used to diagnose H. pylori infection. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has been broadly and successfully used to detect Helicobacter pylori virulence genes in gastric biopsies and stool specimen due to its high sensitivity and specificity. Genotyping using H. pylori genes, the cytotoxin associated gene A (cagA) and voculating cytotoxin gene A (vacA), offers one of the best options. Objective: To determine if genotyping of H. pylori cytotoxin associated gene A (cagA) and voculating cytotoxin gene A (vacA) virulence genes in infected patients as well as healthy individuals can be done from stool specimen. Study selection: A Pubmed/Medline search was carried out using specific key words to retrieve all publications on genotyping of H. pylori cagA and vacA from stool specimen between year 2003 to 2012. Data synthesis:Ten different studies from different locations fulfilled the selection criteria and were included in the study. Results:This review summarises different protocol used to successfully detect H.pylori virulence genes cytotoxin associated gene A (cagA) and voculating cytotoxin gene A (vacA) from faecal specimen by PCR from asymptomatic healthy individuals and infected people with Helicobacter pylori infection. Conclusion: this review highlights the use of stool specimen as an alternative test for genotyping of H. pylori cagA and vacA virulence genes as it is non-invasive an easy to collect.
Determinants of cancer care pathways at Wajir County, Kenya: patient perspectives
(Researchecancer, 2025-02-12) Affey, Fatuma; Halake, Dabo Galgalo; Wainaina, Grace Muira; Osman, Hussein Ali; Ndukui, James G; Abdourahman, Houda; Abdihamid, Omar
Background: Cancer represents a major public health issue with substantial morbidity and mortality in low-resource settings such as Kenya. This study focuses on Wajir County in northern Kenya, a region with limited cancer care infrastructure and high unmet needs. Despite recent efforts to decentralize cancer care in Kenya, including establishing regional cancer centres in Garissa, Nakuru, and Mombasa, access to screening, diagnostics, and treatment remains constrained, particularly in rural areas. The absence of comprehen- sive cancer care pathways and a specialized oncology workforce in Wajir County exac- erbates challenges in early detection, treatment, and palliative care. The study evaluated the availability of cancer care services at Wajir County Referral Hospital (WCRH), includ- ing screening, diagnostic services, treatment modalities, and referral systems. The study further explores the gaps in cancer care, focusing on patient perspectives, and proposes potential solutions to address these challenges. Methods: This study used mixed-methods (qualitative and quantitative) methods to understand cancer care from the perspective of patients at WCRH. It involved adult patients (over 18) with a confirmed cancer diagnosis who were receiving treatment or follow-up care between February and April 2024. Data were gathered through inter- views and surveys, with research assistants helping with language translation and com- munity navigation. The study collected information on demographics, cancer types, and prevalence rates, which were analysed using descriptive statistics. The qualitative data focused on patients' experiences with cancer awareness, treatment, and care gaps, and were analysed for common themes. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was given by all participants. Results: This study involved 25 cancer patients (12 males, 13 females) receiving treat- ment at WCRH. The most common cancers were esophageal (44%), cervical (28%), breast (24%), and prostate (8%). Delays in diagnosis were significant, with 12% of patients wait- ing over 6 years, 24% waiting 4–6 years, and 40% waiting 1–3 years before seeking care. Most diagnoses were made at WCRH (64%), with others diagnosed at the Garissa Can- cer Centre (22%) or in Nairobi (20%). Diagnostic tools available at WCRH included pap smears, mammograms, PSA tests, ultrasound, CT scans, and biopsies. However, access to these tools was limited, with barium swallow (32%) being the most frequently used for esophageal cancer, followed by pap smears, biopsies, and ultrasound (16% each). Patient awareness of cancer screening was higher for cervical (68%) and breast cancer (60%) but lower for prostate cancer (32%) and esophageal cancer (4%). Despite awareness, only 8% had previously undergone screening. Regarding treatment, most patients (80%) were aware of surgical options, while fewer knew about chemo- therapy (28%) or palliative care (12%). When treatment was unavailable at WCRH, most patients preferred the Garissa Cancer Centre (80%) or Nairobi (52%). Financial challenges were the primary barrier to treatment for 88% of patients, and patients suggested improving local cancer care, subsidizing treatment, and enhancing early detection and screening services. Conclusion: The findings indicate a high burden of late-stage cancer diagnoses, insufficient cancer screening and treatment services, and limited access to cancer care pathways and patient navigation systems. These results underscore the urgent need for improved cancer care pathways, enhanced awareness, and increased healthcare capacity to reduce cancer morbidity and mortality in northern Kenya. This study contributes to understanding the cancer care landscape in Wajir County and provides a foundation for future health policy initiatives aimed at bridging existing gaps in cancer care.
Determinants of Household Willingness to Pay for Improved Water Supply: A Case Study of Baringo and Samburu Counties, Kenya
(Researchgate, 2020-09) Kingori, Sarah; Abdillahi, Halima Saado
Background: In Sub-Saharan Africa, the supply of affordable, accessible and safe drinking water particularly in rural areas lags behind global progress. Achieving the universal and equitable access objectives warrants an understanding of household behavior in relation to water services. Purpose of the study: The aim of the study was to investigate the factors that influence willingness to pay for improved water service provision in a rural context in Kenya. Methods: A total of 601 households in Baringo and Samburu Counties were randomly selected using probability proportional to size technique. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and logit regression. Results: The empirical result shows that demographic characteristics of household, water source, quality and quantity, children responsible for fetching water, water access challenges and frequency of diarrhea are significant variables that explain willingness to pay. Conclusion: The findings conclude with important policy recommendations; (i) demand-driven approaches in the design of water supply projects, (ii) enhanced water quality management, and (iii) awareness creation to achieve social and health benefits which can facilitate long-term access and sustainability.
Educational Diversity and Employee Performance in County Governments in Kenya
(EdinBurg Peer Reviewed Journals and Books Publishers, 2023-10-01) Kamweru, R. W.; Were, S.; Muchelule, Y.; Karihe, J.
The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of educational diversity on employee performance in the county governments in Kenya. The study is anchored on Human capital theory. The study adopted a survey research design and the target population was 20,299 employees from 5 purposively selected county governments of Kenya. Stratified random sampling was used to sample 392 employees from the selected county governments. Questionnaires were used to collect data. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Regression analysis results showed that there was a positive and statistically significant relationship between educational diversity and employee performance with the regression coefficient of (β= 0.651, p< 0.05). Policymakers in county governments should set a strong example for diversity in the workplace by having policies that make management accountable for promoting inclusion. In particular, county governments should hire employees based on their accomplishments.
EFFECT OF BUYER-SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIPS ON PROCUREMENT PERFORMANCE: EVIDENCE FROM KENYAN SUPERMARKET
(European Scientific Journal, 2015-12-01) Korir, Loice
The purpose of this paper was to establish the effect of buyer-supplier relations on procurement performance. The study was informed by social exchange theory. This study employed explanatory research design. The target population was 112 procurement and sales managers drawn from thirty-four (34) supermarkets located in Nairobi County. Census technique was used. Data was obtained using structured questionnaires. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, means, and standard deviation. In addition, Pearson correlation and multiple regression models were used to test linear relationship and hypothesis testing respectively. Study results showed that commitment, communication, cooperation and trust has a positive and significant effect on procurement performance. Hence, high levels of commitment, trust, communication and cooperation enhance sustainable competitive advantage hence improving the procurement performance. The study therefore recommends that there is need for firms to have a long term partnership with the major suppliers and aim at giving maximum attention to the relationship with suppliers so as to maintain it and enhance competitive advantage which will lead to improved procurement performance. There is also need for firms to have frequent and timely communication with suppliers and inform them of unforeseen challenges. Suppliers need to keep the promises made to the firm and offer credible information and keep the firm’s best interests in mind. Suppliers need to be responsible for the results of the industrialization and manufacturing process of the supplied part. It is also recommended that this study be replicated in different business sectors within the other regions.
Effect of cadmium uptake and accumulation on growth and antibacterial activity of Merwilla plumbea — An extensively used medicinal plant in South Africa
(Elsevier, 2009-05-21) Street, R.A.; Kulkarni, M.G.; Stirk, W.A.; Southway, C.; Abdillahi, H.S.; Chinsamy, M.; Staden, J. Van
In South Africa, heavy metal contamination of agricultural soils is on the increase primarily due to excessive application of fertilizers, sewage disposal and mining activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cadmium (Cd) on plant growth and biological activity. The medicinal plant Merwilla plumbea [Syn. Merwilla natalensis (Syn. Scilla natalensis)] was selected due to the high demand for its bulbs in the traditional medicine markets. Low levels of Cd (2 mg/L) significantly reduced fresh mass of leaves, bulbs and roots in comparison to the control. Although most of the Cd was stored in the roots, the bulbs, which are used medicinally, accumulated 7.1, 5.9 and 11.6 mg/kg when grown in sand watered weekly with 2, 5 and 10 mg Cd/L respectively. The bulbs of M. plumbea contained 24-fold more Cd than the World Health Organization guideline of 0.3 mg Cd/kg, when irrigated with 2 mg Cd/L. The bulb extracts showed increased antibacterial activity against the Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis at 2 mg Cd/L. The plants treated with 10 mg Cd/L showed an increased antibacterial activity against B. subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus in comparison to non-Cd-treated plants (control). However, there was no change in antibacterial activity of the various extracts against the Gram-negative bacterium Escherichia coli. The ability of M. plumbea to accumulate Cd not only raises concern for consumer safety, but also the quality of medicinal plants sold may be in question.