| dc.description.abstract | In the Kenyan rail transportation system, emergency preparedness has been an issue of concern since the construction of the modern railway, after the invention of the steam engines. Causes of railroad emergencies are attributed to various factors such as human error, narrow gauge and track defects, mechanical causes and equipment factors, among others. Human error is the primary cause of accidents within the Railways.
The joint handover of Kenya Railways Corporation and Uganda Railways Corporation to Rift Valley Railways in November 2006 marked a unique and important milestone in the region's divesture and reform policies involving two of East Africa's oldest state corporations. The restructuring is expected to end an era characterized by frequent accidents, poor turn around and inefficiency. This study paid particular attention to the extent to which the consortium is prepared for emergencies in terms of equipment, human responses,
human error and the policy or legal framework.
The study applied a case study design. This involved a ·case study on the level of emergency preparedness at RVR. The unit of analysis was the extent of emergency preparedness at RVR. The RVR branch offices are located at Nairobi, Nakuru, Kisumu, Mombasa, and Malaba; while the units of observation were the senior staff and managers in the respective branch offices. This study used purposive sampling method to select respondents. The study applied observing and interviewing as the principal data collection techniques. The data collection instrument for this study was a structured interview schedule.The data was analyzed through content analysis, a qualitative data analysis technique. The qualitative approach helps to fill in the gaps and provide additional information on the emerging patterns in the railroad transport.
The study established that the organizational structure of RVR has incorporated preparedness plans and programmes, stakeholders, outsourcing of emergency services and emergency toolkit. The aspects that are not fully addressed include emergency training programmes and curriculum; budgetary allocations to training on emergency preparedness; regular undertaking of drills and simulations; and regular review of emergency plans.
First, it was evident from the findings that RVR has a very active and effective public relations department headed by public relations manager that acts as the mouth piece through the relevant media groups. They also reach out through public barazas which are organized by the local leaders and provincial administration. There is also extensive use of print and electronic media to propagate RVR agenda affecting local communities. Secondly, the study found out that RVR applies a range of measures to enhance emergency preparedness. They include: community partnerships; collaboration with local stakeholders; equipping the staff with elementary skills; strategic planning; and public . sensitization (extensive publicity). Finally, was evident that the feedback mechanisms within RVR are poor.
The study recommended a range of measures that RVR needs to improve on to enhance the extent of emergency preparedness. The study recommends a need for further research to be conducted to establish some of the approaches that RVR can apply to ensure that the stakeholders are fully incorporated in its emergency preparedness plans. | en_US |
