The Effects of Cattle Rustling on Pupils’ Access to Education: A case Study of Kabichibich Sub-Location, West Pokot County, Kenya
Keywords:
Cattle Rustling, Education, Academic PerformanceAbstract
The current study explores the effects of cattle rustling on pupils’ access to education: a case study of Kabichibich Sub-Location, West Pokot County, Kenya. Residents in Kabichbich Sub-location in West Pokot County, had observed how livestock rustling has affected education in the area. Though it has deep cultural roots, cattle rustling threatens people's ability to make a living and their children's future opportunities. The following research questions served as the basis for this investigation: What are the causes of cattle rustling in Kabichbich Sub- location, West Pokot County Kenya? In what way does cattle rustle influence pupil’s access to quality education in Kabichbich Sub- location, West Pokot County Kenya? and What are the possible ways to control cattle rustling in Kabichbich Sub-location, West Pokot County Kenya? The study used Melville Herskovits' "Complex Theory" (1926), which states that pastoralists have an unquenchable, irrational, and compelling attachment to cattle which undermines education as transformative tool. The study used both qualitative and quantitative approach. For the quantitative approach, the study used a descriptive survey approach, however, for the qualitative approach, the study used purposive sampling. The total number of respondents were 67, which consists of 42 students, 8 teachers, 2 principles and 7 community members from 2 nearby schools. The sample size was derived at using Yamane’s method. Members of the community, including religious leaders, city authorities, and educational officers, as well as students, instructors, and principals, were interviewed, and they were also asked to fill out a structured questionnaire. In order to ensure confidentiality, the respondents were asked not to reveal their identities. The reliability of the research instruments was assessed via the use of the test-retest method. The researcher wanted to make sure the instruments were accurate for the study. The SPSS program was used to analyse the information, while thematic description was used to analyse qualitative data. percentages and frequencies were used to study quantitative data. Bar charts was used to display the findings. The study concluded that, cattle rustling was a major challenge to education. Academic performance reflects the quality of education that was not provided due to high rates of student and teacher absenteeism and school dropouts, inadequate school facilities, and pervasive insecurity. Among the recommendations, included, building more boarding schools, to protect children to provide safety for the students.
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Published on: 24-12-2025
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