Journal of Innovation, Technology and Sustainability

Technocracy and Democracy in African Governance: Media Influence and Accountability in Kenya

2025-07-13

This study analyzes the paradox of technocracy in African democratic settings, specifically investigating the Kenyan experience to determine if technocratic governance acts as a democratic alternative or subverts democratic norms. As African nations increasingly utilize experts for enhanced governance efficiency, apprehensions emerge over the implications for public accountability and citizen participation. Technocracy, based on the principle of expert governance, has the potential for enhanced policy outcomes but frequently alienates voters from the decision-making process. Historical and contemporary instances, such as Kenya’s "Dream Team" project, exemplify the intricacies of executing technocracy inside democratic systems, highlighting issues such as elite capture, politicization, and diminished public trust. The research utilizes theoretical frameworks examining the conflict between technocracy and democracy. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews of 100 participants, comprising media professionals and scholars. Quantitative data underwent analysis through descriptive and inferential statistics, whereas thematic analysis was employed for qualitative replies to elucidate perspectives of the media's role in ensuring technocrat accountability. The findings suggest that although technocracy is esteemed for its efficacy, it frequently estranges the populace, engendering doubt regarding its legitimacy. Participants emphasized the media's contradictory function, which both promotes technocratic objectives and inadequately examines them, primarily due to budget limitations and political influences. The study indicates that for technocratic government to align with democratic norms, improvements in governance structures and media functions are needed. A paradigm that combines technocratic knowledge with democratic accountability may improve transparency and public trust, promoting a governance structure that is both efficient and democratically legitimate.

Prevalence, etiology and risk of lymphedema among residents of Mt. Elgon region in Kenya

Salome Wanyonyi — 2025-07-13

Cases of lymphedema have been observed in the Mt. Elgon region, but its prevalence, etiology, and risk factors are unknown. A cross-sectional field survey was conducted to determine the prevalence, etiology and risk of lymphedema in the region. Human cases and mosquito sample specimens were examined for filarial worm infection, while soil samples were analysed for elements potentially linked to the condition. The study recorded a lymphedema prevalence of 17.4 per 100,000, with 38 cases identified across the study sites. The distribution of cases varied significantly (χ² = 15.76, d.f. = 3, p = 0.0013), with a significantly higher occurrence among females (71.05%, n = 27) compared to males (28.95%, n = 11) (χ² = 17.64, d.f. = 1, p < 0.0001). All human and mosquito samples tested negative for filarial worm infection. Most affected individuals did not regularly wear shoes, and both cases and controls were largely unaware of the condition’s cause, often attributing it to witchcraft. The use of mosquito nets differed significantly based on socioeconomic status (χ² = 45.83, d.f. = 1, p < 0.0001). None of the affected individuals or controls were aware of treatment options. Additionally, most residents lived in poor housing conditions with inadequate hygiene. Soil analysis revealed that iron and potassium concentrations correlated positively with lymphedema prevalence (R = 0.867 and R = 0.897, respectively). Based on these findings, the study concludes that lymphedema in the region is podoconiosis-related, caused by exposure to high levels of iron and potassium in the soil. Women in low-income households face the highest risk. Targeted interventions should prioritize the most vulnerable residents, with a particular focus on women.

Ecological distribution and commercial exploitation of Tamarindus Indica in Kenya: A review

Rahab Wangui Wanjau — 2025-07-13

Tamarindus indica L., commonly known as the tamarind tree, is a high-priority fruit species for crop diversification and development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite its nutritional, medicinal, and industrial value, limited documentation exists on its processing, utilization, and commercialization in Kenya. This knowledge gap hinders efforts to promote its domestication and conservation. This review paper examines the ecological distribution, morphological characteristics, and commercial potential of Tamarindus indica in Kenya. A desk-based literature review from books, journals, and published reports was conducted. Findings indicate that tamarind is widely utilized, especially in Kenya’s coastal region, where its pulp is used to prepare Ukwanju juice and food sauces. However, inefficiencies within the tamarind value chain, including limited value addition, inadequate seedling systems, and weak market linkages, constrain its commercialization. To boost tamarind production and commercialization, coordinated efforts are needed among governments, investors, and researchers. Key priorities include policy support, private sector investment, and research on improved varieties and genetic conservation. Strengthening the value chain through better seedling systems, farmer hubs, processing, and efficient distribution is essential. Additionally, documenting indigenous knowledge will aid its domestication and sustainability.

Influence of media on technocracy and democracy in Kenya

Daniel Robert Aswani — 2025-07-13

This study examines the interplay between technocracy and democracy in Kenya’s governance. It investigates whether technocratic leadership complements or undermines democratic principles. Grounded in normative theory, the research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. A sample of 100 media and communication lecturers was selected. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data was analysed thematically. Findings reveal that while technocracy is valued for its efficiency, it often alienates the public, raising concerns about its legitimacy. Additionally, the media plays a dual role by both advancing technocratic ideals and failing to critically scrutinize them due to financial constraints and political influences. The study concludes that integrating technocratic expertise with democratic accountability is essential for fostering transparency, public trust, and a governance model that is both effective and democratically legitimate.