Journal of Innovation, Technology and Sustainability

Modernising legacy enterprise resource planning systems using the microservices architecture: A review

Antony Irungu Njina, Samson Wanjala Munialo — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are centralised data management software, tools, and technologies that enhance collaboration and communication between departments while reducing duplication, errors, and inconsistencies, leading to better accuracy and productivity. However, over time, legacy ERP systems have become cumbersome and difficult to maintain and adapt to new technologies. This paper presents a review of microservices architecture (MSA) as a strategy for modernizing legacy ERP systems. It synthesises literature to highlight the core principles, design patterns, challenges, and best practices associated with MSA. The analysis reveals that MSA significantly enhances scalability, flexibility, and maintainability by decomposing monolithic ERP systems into modular, independent services. Key findings include the benefits of service autonomy, decentralised data management, and API-driven communication in overcoming the limitations of traditional ERP architectures. The paper concludes by highlighting the advantages of MSA in ERP modernisation.

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

Salome Wanyonyi , Moses Ngeiywa , Samuel Kariuki, Job Mulonga — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

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, Albert Luvanda, Michael Okeyo, Joshua Cheboiwo — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

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, Sylvia Ndanu Mutua, Regina Gachari — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

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.