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THE 10TH EGERTON UNIVERSITY INTERNATIONAL
CONFERENCE AND AGRICULTURE SUMMIT
THEME:
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION FOR THE
ADVANCEMENT OF HUMANITY
PROGRAMME AND BOOK OF ABSTRACTS
30TH
MARCH – 1ST
APRIL 2016
FACULTY OF EDUCATION COMPLEX
EGERTON UNIVERSITY
NJORO, KENYA
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FROM THE VICECHANCELLOR
Let me take this opportunity, on behalf of Egerton University, to warmly welcome all of you
to this year‟s International Conference, Research week and Agriculture Summit. This is the
10th
conference since we started this series and we are pleased by the developments that have
taken place over the years. We are happy to receive and welcome international visitors to
Kenya and to Egerton University in particular! Egerton University marks 76 years of its
existence this year after its founding as a Farm School in 1939 by Lord Maurice Egerton of
Tatton. It has remained a Centre of Excellence in training, research and outreach, particularly
in Agriculture and related fields. The institution has grown in all dimensions as physical
infrastructure, academic faculties, human capacity and student numbers. Armed with its
Vision of being a “Word Class University for the Advancement of Humanity”, Egerton
University is upbeat and committed to enhancing its role in community, regional, national
and international development through training, research, outreach, networking and provision
of consultancy services. The faculty, graduate students and their partners endeavour to make
significant contributions to knowledge through disciplinary, inter- and trans-disciplinary
research. Their works are shared and efforts made evident in this year‟s Research Week and
International Conference being held at Egerton University. With the participation of renown
regional and global scientists and Research for Development (R4D) experts, I am confident
that this forum forms an excellent platform for exchange of knowledge and will inspire new
ideas and encourage collaborations among researchers – all with a goal of contributing to
growth and transformation in developing countries particularly Sub-Saharan Africa and
Kenya, on whose soil we now stand. I would like to congratulate the Division of Research
and Extension, together with the Technical Committee organizing this event. Let me reiterate
that Egerton University is driven by the passion to serve humanity, hence our running call,
“Transforming Lives Through Quality Education”. I wish you all an enjoyable workshop and
a memorable stay at Egerton and encourage our international visitors to sample and visit
some of our country‟s heritage.
Prof. Rose A. Mwonya
Vice Chancellor
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WELCOME MESSAGE
The Division of Research and Extension will be your host during this conference on Research
and Innovation for the Advancement of Humanity and is pleased to welcome all of you to our
beautiful Njoro campus. During this Conference, 106 scientific papers and 4 keynote
addresses will be presented under the following six sub themes:
a) Agriculture and Food Security
b) Climate Change and Natural Resources
c) Governance and Socio-Economics
d) Education and Culture,
e) Science and Technology and
f) Health and Environment
The purpose of the conference is to share and disseminate research and innovation outputs
with potential benefits to humanity as widely as possible. The Conference has attracted
scientists, exhibitors and students from Africa and Western Europe, who will make oral
presentations and also present posters and exhibitions. I am confident that you will find some
of the presentations to be relevant to you, your organization or community in terms of
offering practical/ innovative solutions to societal and global challenges. I encourage you to
share your experiences with other scientists so that at the end of the Conference all of us will
have learnt from one another. I also encourage you to give us some feedback on how we can
organize future conferences better. Please feel free to contact me or any of my colleagues if
you need some help any time during the Conference.
Professor John Gowland Mwangi, PhD
Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research and Extension)
Email: [email protected]
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
MESSAGE FROM THE VICE CHANCELLOR i
WELCOME MESSAGE ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS iii
CONFERENCE PROGRAMME iv
AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY 1
CLIMATE CHANGE AND NATURAL RESOURCES 44
EDUCATION AND CULTURE 55
GOVERNANCE AND SOCIO-ECONOMICS 66
HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT 86
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 103
CONFERENCE COMMITTEE 109
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CONFERENCE PROGRAMME THEME: RESEARCH AND INNOVATION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF
HUMANITY 30TH MARCH – 1ST APRIL 2016
FACULTY OF EDUCATION COMPLEX, EGERTON UNIVERSITY, NJORO, KENYA Programme Coordinators:
PROF. R.M.S. MULWA/ PROF. J.O. OGENDO
CONFERENCE DAY ONE WEDNESDAY 30TH MARCH 2016
THE AGRICULTURE SUMMIT DAY 8.00 - 8.30 am REGISTRATION: PROF. N. KITAKA/ DR. J. MBURU
VENUE FACULTY OF EDUCATION THEATRE TWO (ET 2)
CONFERENCE OPENING SESSION
COORDINATORS: DR. THOMAS KINYANJUI/ DR. PERMINUS MIGWI
OPENING PRAYER: PROF. FR. S.N. MBUGUA CHAIR PROF. NANCY MUNGAI, Associate Professor of Soil Science & Director, Board of
Undergraduate Studies and Field Attachment Programmes.
CO-CHAIR PROF. JOSIAH O. OMOLLO Associate Professor of Organic Chemistry, Egerton University
8.30 - 8.40 am WELCOMING REMARKS: PROF. JOHN GOWLAND MWANGI, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research & Extension), Egerton University
8.40 - 8.50 am OPENING REMARKS: PROF. ROSE A. MWONYA, Vice Chancellor, Egerton University
8.50 – 9.25 am KEY NOTE 1: “GMOs: ACCEPTABILITY, SAFETY AND FOOD SECURITY” DR. JOEL OCHIENG’, Research Fellow and Lecturer, Centre for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (CAVS), University of Nairobi.
9.30 – 10.00 am CONFERENCE OPENING SPEECH: CHIEF GUEST: DR. MOSES RUGUT, DIRECTOR GENERAL, NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION, KENYA.
10.00 – 10.45 am KEY NOTE 2: “LAND TENURE SECURITY AND AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY IN KENYA” DR. FIBIAN KAVULANI LUKALO, Director, Research and Advocacy, National Land Commission, Kenya.
10.45 – 11.00 am QA with Keynote Speakers
11.00 – 11.30 am GROUP PHOTO/ HEALTH BREAK COORDINATORS: Dr. A. W. Muia and Dr. G. Obwoyere
11.30 – 12.30 am EXHIBITION/ POSTER SESSION
12.30 – 1.30 pm LUNCH BREAK
SUMMIT DAY AFTERNOON SESSION
CHAIR PROF. BOCKLINE O. BEBE, Professor of Livestock Production Systems, Egerton University
CO-CHAIR PROF. JOSEPGH MATOFARI, Associate Professor of Food Science
2.00 – 2.45 pm KEY NOTE 3: “GUM ARABIC AND DRY LAND AGRICULTURE PROSPECTS” PROF. SIMON MAHUNGU, Professor of Food Chemistry, Egerton University
2.45 – 3.30 pm KEY NOTE 4: "CLIMATE SMART INNOVATIONS IN AGRICULTURE: IMPACT IN THE ESA REGION”. DR. KARUTURI PURNA CHANDRA RAO, Principal Scientist and Country Representative, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) – Ethiopia.
3.30 – 4.00 pm QA WITH KEY NOTE SPEAKERS
4.00 – 5.00 pm EXHIBITION/ POSTER SESSSION
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CONFERENCE DAY TWO: THURSDAY 31ST MARCH 2016 MORNING SESSION
8.00 – 8.30 am REGISTRATION: PROF. N. KITAKA/ DR. J. MBURU
SESSION COORDINATORS: DR. T. KINYANJUI/ DR. P. MIGWI/ DR. D.G. KWEYA/ DR. A. OTARA
VENUE FACULTY OF EDUCATION THEATRE 2 (ET 2)
CHAIR PROF. F. WEGULOH, Professor of Geography, Egerton University
CO-CHAIR PROF. PETER F. ARAMA, Associate Professor of Plant Pathology, Rongo University College
8.30 – 8.35 am OPENING PRAYER: REV. S. NDUATI, University Chaplain
8.35 -8.55 am INFORMATION SESSION: “RESEARCH ETHICS: WHAT RESEARCHERS NEED TO KNOW” PROF. JULIUS KIPKEMBOI, Associate Professor, Egerton University.
8.55 – 9.30 am KEYNOTE ADDRESS: DR. JOSEPH MUREITHI, Deputy Director General (Livestock), Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization.
9.30 – 9.40 am QA Session with Keynote Speaker
9.40 – 10.00 am POSTER/ EXHIBITION SESSION 10.00 - 10.20 am HEALTH BREAK
BREAKOUT SESSIONS
VENUES ROOM 2: ET 1
ROOM 1: ET 2
ROOM 3: ED 14
Subtheme CLIMATE CHANGE and NATURAL RESOURCES
AGRICULTURE & FOOD SECURITY HEALTH and ENVIRONMENT
CHAIR/ CO-CHAIR
DR. S.M. MAKINDI/ DR. G. OGENDI
PROF. P. MSHENGA/ PROF. J.O. OGWENO
DR. R. MAWENNZI/ DR. E. KIBARU
10.20 - 10.30am Anthony Ichuloi, A Philosophical Reflection on the Reconstituting Nature of Modern Technology on Environment
António Jaime Manhique, Anthony Kingo’ri and Abdi Guliye, Influence of Climate and Environmental factors on Nutritional Composition of Prosopis juliflora Pods from Baringo, Garissa and Kajiado Counties of Kenya
A.G. Misati, G. M.Ogendi and E. Kumpel, Can Sanitary Surveys Replace Water Quality Testing? Evidence from Kisii, Kenya
10.30 -10.40am Arnold Kipchumba et al., Effects of Water Abstractions on the Flow Regime in River Turkwel
Asiko G.A., Mochorwa J.M. and Koech C.J., Increasing Bee Forage for a Sustainable Bee Industry
Alfayo Koskei, Influence of Grazing Intensity on Cyanogenic Toxicity in Baringo Savanna Grasses, Kenya
10.40 - 10.50 am
Audrey Tsisiche et al., Effect of changes in Land use
and Tree Species on Litter Decomposition in Streams
Atieno, J. D.O., Matofari, J.W. and Muliro, P.S., Milk handling Practices and Microbial Contamination Sources of Raw Milk in Rural and Peri-urban Farms
Alice W. Njue, et al., Anticancer compounds from Edible Mushrooms
10.50 - 11.00am Cyriaque-Rufin, N. and Didier, O., Hydro-climatic variabilities in Tomi at Sibut, Gribingui at Kaga-Bandoro and Fafa at Bouca Basins, Central-North and Central-South of Central African Republic
Benard O. Oloo, et al., HACCP Plan for Indigenous Chicken Slaughter House in Nakuru Kenya
Velma W. Nasimiyu, et al. Screening for Bioactivity of Endophytic Fungi against Selected Disease causing Pathogens
11.00 - 11.10 am
Moso, D.C. et al., Pastoral Adaptation Strategies against Climate Variability in Turkana Central
Bett, P. K.,
Spatial and Intra-plant Variation in
Chemical Composition of Essential
Arama, P.F., et al., Antimicrobial Activity of Methanolic Extracts of Senna didymobotrya (Fresen.) H.S. Irwin & Barneby
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Oils of Kenyan Cupressus lusitanica
Miller and Eucalyptus saligna Smith
and prospects of Pesticidal Potency
11.10 - 11.20 am
Jebiwott, A., Ogendi, G.M., and Makenzi, P.M., Forest Cover Dynamics and Ecosystem Services of Katimok Forest Reserve, Baringo County, Kenya
Kariuki, C W., et al. Relationships between Selected Soil Physico-chemical Properties and Bacteria Counts in Nzoia Sugar Company farms, Kenya.
Chepkemei, J. K., et al. In vivo Anti-leishmanial activity of Mormodica foetida Extracts against Leishmania major.
11.20-11.30 pm M’Erimba, C. M., Ouma, K. O. and Wangari, P., Effects of Disturbance and Exposure Time on Macroinvertebrate Drift Densities in two Kenyan Highland Streams
J. J. Cheboi, et al., Evaluation of Selected Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) Genotypes for Resistance to Insect Pest Complex in Dry Areas of North Rift valley, Kenya.
Kurui, E.J., et al. Microbiological Contamination of Water Pans in Arid and Semi Arid Lands: A Case Study of Central and South Baringo, Kenya.
11.30 -11.40 pm
Oduma F. Omondi, et al., Effect of Forest type and Stream size on Leaf Litter Processing in Six Kenyan Highland Tropical Streams
Chepkwony, E.K., et al., Effects of Weeding and Planting Methods on Performance of New Rice for Africa (NERICA) in Kerio valley and Marigat, Kenya
Okebiro, G.N., Ekai, M.B. and James, K.L., Environmental influence on family planning: A case study of Lelan Sub-county West -Pokot County, Kenya
11.40-11.50 pm Onyancha, F.M., et al., Current Population of Hinde’s
babbler (Turdoides hindei), In
MNP, Ngaya Forest and its
Agricultural Sites.
Evelyn Cheramgoi, et al., The Distribution of Tea Weevils
(Curculionids) in Eastern Kenya Region.
Okullo J .O., Moturi W.N., and Ogendi G.M., An Assessment of
Contribution of Faecal Disposal Practices on the Bacteriological Quality of Drinking Water Sources in
Isiolo County, Kenya.
11.50- 12.00 pm
Peter Musembi, Benjamin Cowburn and Robert Sluka,
Future for Coral Reefs in a Changing Climate: A Case Study of Watamu Marine
National Park, Kenya.
Christine T. Nyabayo, Lippia kituiensis, Salvia nilotica and Pittosporum viridiflorum Acaricidal Secondary Metabolites
Kimutai, J.J. and Moturi, W.N., The Burden of Faecal-Oral Infections in Isiolo County, Kenya
12.00 -12.10 pm
Mwangi, R.W., et al., Substitution of Plastics with Organic Tubes in Tree Seedlings Production for Sustainable Environmental Conservation.
F.J. Toroitich et al., Susceptibility of Geographically isolated Populations of the Tomato Red Spider Mite (Tetranychus evansi Baker & Pritchard) to commonly used Acaricides on Tomato Crops in Kenya.
Kirianki, P.R., et al. Physical, Chemical and Microbial Quality of Drinking Water from selected sources in Njoro sub County, Kenya.
12.10 -12.20 pm
Amuok O. Emmanuel, et al., Litter Processing of Exotic and Indigenous leaves in Njoro River, Kenya
Eric O. Gido, et al., Demand System for Fresh African
Indigenous Vegetables among Rural and Urban Consumers in Kenya
Makau Caroline, et al. The Prevalence of Mycotoxin contamination of Animal Feeds and implications on Milk Safety in Rural and Peri-Urban Small-holder Dairy Systems of the Dairy Value chain in Nakuru County, Kenya.
12.20 - 12.30 pm
Elisha O. Gogo, et al., Improving Shelf-life and Carotenoid Content of Vegetable Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus L.) cv. Olevolosi using short-term Pre-harvest UV-B application
Makau Caroline, et al. Assessment of Prevalence and Risk factors to Bovine Brucellosis in Small holder Dairy Farms in Nakuru County, Kenya.
12.30-12.40 pm Justice K. Rono, et al., Cane Yield and Juice Volume are
Joseph Mwaniki Wambui, et al.
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Significant Determinants of Ethanol Yield from Sweet Sorghum (Sorghum
bicolour L. Moench).
Hygiene and Sanitation Training Needs for Meat Handlers in Kenyan Small and Medium Enterprise Abattoirs
12.40 - 12.50 pm
Miriam Karwitha, et al., Sub-cellular Localization and Hypersensitive Reaction Analyses of the Hsp70 Gene of Tomato Chlorosis Virus
Peter Amwoga Ayeka, et al. Immuno-modulatory and Anticancer Potential of Licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.); Potential for Cancer Immunotherapy in new Drug Development
12.50 – 1.00 pm Kimani, I.M., Muthamia, J. M. and Otaye, D.O., Control of chickpea root knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) in Nakuru County, Kenya using poultry manure
Nehemiah Mogoi Rindoria,
et al.
A Morphological Analysis of
Gill Monogeneans infecting
the Red belly Tilapia, Tilapia
zillii (Gervais, 1848), from
Lake Naivasha, Kenya: New
Species and Bio-geographical
Records
1.00-1.10.pm Kisinyo Peter Oloo, Effect of Agrochemical use on Soil Fertility and Contaminants on Tobacco Smallholder Farms in Migori County, Kenya.
Wanjala, J.N., et al. Adequacy of Child Nutrient Intake among the Pastoral and Farming Pre–School Children: A Case of West Pokot, Kenya
1.10- 2.00 pm
POSTER SESSION / LUNCH BREAK
CONFERENCE DAY TWO: THURSDAY 31ST MARCH 2016
AFTERNOON SESSION
BREAKOUT SESSIONS
VENUES ROOM 2: ET 1 ROOM 1: ET 2 ROOM 3: ED 14
Subtheme EDUCATION AND CULTURE AGRICULTURE & FOOD SECURITY GOVERNANCE and SOCIO-ECONOMICS
CHAIR/ CO-CHAIR
PROF. FRED U. NGESA/ PROF. S. WACHANGA
PROF. A. MUSANDU/ PROF. S. MWONGA
PROF. FUGICH WAKO/ DR. ERIC BOR
2.00 – 2.10 Pm Limo Alice, et al.
The Role of Principals in
Curriculum Supervision and
Academic Performance of
Students in Teso North Sub
County, Kenya
Korir, H, Co-inoculation of Rhizobia and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria
effects on Common Bean Production in a Low Phosphorus
Soil
M. Abdoulah Mamary KANE, et al., Technical Efficiency and its Determinants in Sub-Saharan Africa’s Rice Production: Case in Mali.
2. 10-2.20Pm Benjamin M. Kinyanjui, The Educational and Cultural
Francesca N. Lusweti, Dairy Cattle Feeding for Product
Rono B. J., et al., Attitudes and Perception towards
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role of the Media in Kenya: the Ideal versus Reality
Quality and environmental resilience: Literature Review
Ecotourism among Pastoral Communities in Laikipia County, Kenya
2.20 – 2.30 Pm Kanja, V.W. and Wambugu, P.W., Effect of ICT Activity-based Learning on Students’ achievement in Communication Skills in Public Universities, Kenya
Asiko G.A., et al., Enhanced Productivity of Tomato (Corazon variety) through the Greenhouse Technology and Bee Pollination
Brian Onyango Moses, Proper Public Participation in Policy Formulation
2.30 – 2.40Pm Patrick W. Karangi and Lydia A. Mareri, Influence of Internet Sourcing of Information on University Students’ Academic Writing: An Exploration of Egerton University, Nakuru Town Campus Students
Justice K. Rono, et al., Adaptability and Stability Study
of Selected Sweet Sorghum Genotypes under different Environments using AMMI analysis and GGE Biplots
Chepkwony E.K., et al., Analysis of Technical Efficiency of Irish Potato Production in Eldoret East Sub county, Kenya
2.40 – 2.50 Pm Kyule N. Miriam, et al., Challenges in the Implementation of Secondary School Agriculture Curriculum in Kenya’s Arid and Semi Arid Counties: the Students’ Perspective
Makau Caroline, et al. On-farm Feed Handling Practices and their association with growth of Mycotoxin Producing Molds in Animal Feeds at Rural and Peri-urban Dairy Sub-value Chains in Nakuru County, Kenya.
Evans Erick Otieno Ochieng’, Phylis Bartoo and Furaha Chai, Implications of Nation Newspapers Peace Reporting in the Run up to 2013 Elections in Kenya
2.50 – 3.00 Pm Muge C. Josephine and Nkurumwa O. Agnes, Effects of Culture on the Learning Styles of Secondary School Agriculture students in Eldoret East Sub County, Kenya.
Korir, M., et al., Economic factors affecting Smallholder Maize Farmers’ Adoption of Fertilizer use in Uasin Gishu County
Everlyne Kataka and C.A. Onyango, Factors influencing Sustainability of Cereal Banks among Maize Farmer Groups in Kimilili Sub-county, Kenya
3.00 – 3.10 Pm Omoro, J. A., Udoto, M.O., Kibett, J.K., In-service Training Needs of Kilifi County Secondary School Agriculture Teachers for preparing them to be Effective in the 21st Century
Wambua Milka, et al. Effect of Cassava Variety and Substitution level on Rheological and Sensory characteristics of Wheat-Cassava Composite Bread
Florence Chepkorir, The Role of Media in Agriculture and Food Security
3.10 – 3.20 Pm Rosemary Kagondu and Simmy M. Marwa, Effectiveness of Quality Assurance Practices in Kenya’s Higher Education Institutions
KO Moseti, An Outlook on the Utilization of Tea Waste as a Livestock and Poultry Feed – Local, Regional and International Perspectives
Gitundu Esther Wanjugu, et al.,
The influence of Ownership Structure on Financial Performance of Privatized Companies in Kenya
3.20 – 3.30 Pm Immaculate Kiliswa, et al., Tracer Study of Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education and Extension Graduates - Class of 2008 - Egerton University
Augustine M. Muthiani, et al. Potential use of High Value Kenyan Teas in Development of Diversified Products
Jackson Karanja Kinyanjui, Good Governance as a Tool for Development of Humanity
3.30 – 3.40 pm Kingori Eshphan, Relationship between Vocational Training Institutions category and Parents’ Financial support in Nyandarua North Sub-county, Nyandarua County, Kenya
Johnson K. Mwove, et al., Preparation and Quality Evaluation of Beef Hams containing Gum Arabic from Acacia senegal var. kerensis
Janet Muthoni Kinyua, Relationship between Performance Contracting and Procuring Resources in Technical Training Institutes in Mount Kenya region in Kenya
3.40 – 3.50 Pm E. Ngenoh, et al., Ex-post Coping Strategies to Production and Marketing Shocks among African Leafy Vegetable Farmers in Kenya
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3.50 – 4.00 Pm Muriuki R. W., et al., Morpho-Physiological Traits linked to Drought Tolerance in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
4.00 – 4.10 Pm S.O. Ochanda, et al., Utilizing Sucrose, Agar and Wheat Starch as source of Carbon
4.10 – 4.20 Pm Matey, N. J., et al., Evaluation of Cropping System on Growth and Yield of Pigeon Peas (Cajanus cajan L.) and selected Cereal Crops in Semi-Arid Regions.
4.20 – 4.30 Pm Jeptanui Lilian, et al., Characterization of Head Smut (Tolyposporium. Penicillariae Bref.) Prevalence from major Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum) growing areas in Kenya
CONFERENCE COCKTAIL PROF. N. KITAKA/ DR. J. MBURU
x
CONFERENCE DAY THREE: FRIDAY 1ST APRIL 2016
8.00 – 8.30 am REGISTRATION: PROF. N. KITAKA/ DR. J. MBURU
SESSION COORDINATORS: DR. T. KINYANJUI/ DR. P. MIGWI/ DR. D.G. KWEYA/ DR. A. OTARA
VENUE FACULTY OF EDUCATION THEATRE 2 (ET 2)
CHAIR PROF. NGETICH, Dean Faculty of Arts and Social sciences, Egerton University
8.30 – 8.35 am OPENING PRAYER: REV. S. NDUATI, Egerton University Chaplain
8.35 – 9.20 am KEYNOTE ADDRESS: PROF. LIZE KRIEL, Associate Professor, Division for Visual Culture Studies, Department of Visual Arts, University of Pretoria, South Africa.
9.20 – 9.30 am QA Session with Keynote Speaker
9.30 – 9.50 am POSTER/ EXHIBITION SESSION
9.50 – 10.20 am HEALTH BREAK BREAKOUT SESSIONS
VENUES ROOM 2: ET 1 ROOM 1: ET 2 ROOM 3: ED 14
Subtheme GOVERNANCE & SOCIO-ECONOMICS
AGRICULTURE & FOOD SECURITY
SCIENCE and TECHNOLOGY
CHAIR/ CO-CHAIR DR. S. KIPROP/ DR. H. MURENGA
PROF. A. FARAJ/ DR. A. OPIYO PROF. J. KIPKEMBOI/ DR. D.N. KAMAU
10.20 - 10.30am Cherono, E., Wako, F. and Kweya, D., Culture, change and continuity in Riddle and Riddle Performance among the Kipsigis, Kenya
Ng’ang’a, J.N., et al., Efficacy of Foliar Fungicide and Seed Treatment on Percentage Disease Incidence (PDI) Disease Severity Index (DSI) and Area Under Disease Progress Curve of Ascochyta Blight (Ascochyta rabiei L.)
Kallen Mulilo Nalyanya, et al., Effect of chrome-tanning process on bovine hide using Dynamic Mechanical and Thermal Analysis (DMTA)
10.30 -10.40am Lumadede Japheth, Margaret Ngigi and Anthony Sang, Citizens’ Perceptions on the Status of Governance in the Counties: the case of Migori County, Kenya
Mwangi Nixon Njau, Indigenous Agricultural Knowledge and Food Security: Prospects and Challenges
Luke Toroitich, W.K. Cheruiyot, and K.O. Odhiambo, Colour and Texture feature Extraction in Image Retrieval using KNN Algorithm
10.40 - 10.50 am Lydia A. Mareri, Transformational Leadership in a University Setting? A case of Heads of Academic Departments in the Kenyan Public University Setting
Njeru, P. W., Wagara, I. N., and Kariuki, S. T., Cultivation of Indigenous Oyster Mushrooms using different Agricultural Wastes.
L. Toroitich, W.K. Cheruiyot, and K.O. Odhiambo, Techniques used in Content based Image Retrieval (CBIR): Enhancing Image Retrieval in Digital Multimedia Databases
10.50 - 11.00am Muraguri Michael, D. Odero and M. Ngigi, Effects of Women Enterprise Fund’s Training on Sales Performance of Women Grocery Micro-entrepreneurs in Thika Sub-county, Kiambu County, Kenya
S.O. Ochanda, et al., Optimization of Processing
Techniques of selected Coloured Tea Clones in Kenya.
Eliud M. Manyinsa, S. Musyoki and H. Tarus, Implementation of IEEE802.11 (Wi-Fi) in NS-3
11.00 - 11.10 am Mumbi E. Ndunda, Contribution of Collective Action Groups on Socio-Economic Wellbeing of Agro-Pastoralists in Makindu Sub-County, Kenya
Ooro, P.A. et al., Identification of the Crop Management Constraints effects of Climate Change in the Potato Value Chain in Mauche Ward in Njoro Sub-County in Kenya.
Samuel Kimutai, et al., Determination of Residual Catechins, Polyphenolic Contents and Antioxidant activities of Developed Theaflavin-3, 3’-digallate rich Black Tea.
11.10 - 11.20 am Nthenya Kinyumu, Tim Njagi and Lilian Kirimi,
Rael Taiy, et al., Potato Value Chain Analysis in
Yegon K. Philemon, et al., Chemical Composition and
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Farm Household’s Participation in Governance: Lessons from Devolved systems in Kenya
Mauche Ward of Njoro Sub-county, Kenya.
Antifungal Activity of the Essential Oil from Lippia javanica (Verbenaceae)
11.20-11.30 pm Nyandoro Omuria, E Bor and B Onasrigo, Influence of Social and Economic factors on Implementation of Childrens’ Rights Policy in Nakuru County, Kenya
Regina Chepkorir, Josphat C. Matasyo and Isabel N. Wagara, Activity of Secondary Metabolites from Hagenia abyssinicca against Plant Bacterial Pathogens, Xanthomonas campestris pv .phaseoli and Pseudomonas syringae pv. Pheseolicola.
11.30 -11.40 pm Kennedy Obumba Ogutu, M. Okere and E. Bor, Influence of Community Policing on Criminal activities in Low Income areas of Nakuru Town, Kenya
Virginia Wanjiku Njuguna, et al., Evaluation of the New Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L) Hybrid for Malting and Brewing across Selected Agro-ecological Environments in Kenya
11.40-11.50 pm Odock Kizito and Boaz Onyancha, Insights from the Good Samaritan: A response to Governance in Kenya
Masinde J. Wanyama, et al., Effect of Variability in Rainfall Intensity on Maize Yield in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya
11.50- 12.00 pm Gilbert Nyakundi Okebiro, A. K. Nyambane and K. Otiso, The Military tactics of Otenyo and Sustainable Political Development leading to Advancement of Humanity among the Abagusii in the Colonial era
Waswa J and Ngugi L.W., Promotion and Utilization of Niche Foods for Food and Nutrition Security
CLOSING SESSION VENUE FACULTY OF EDUCATION THEATRE 2 (ET 2) Session Coordinators
PROF. R.M.S. MULWA/ PROF. J.O. OGENDO
12.00– 12.10 pm
CLOSING REMARKS: PROF. ROSE A, MWONYA, Vice Chancellor, Egerton University
12.10 – 12.20 PM PRESENTATION OF AWARDS: PROF. BOCKLINE BEBE/ PROF. NZULA KITAKA 12.20– 12.30 pm
VOTE OF THANKS: PROF. ALFRED C. KIBOR, Director (Research & Extension), Egerton University
12.30 pm CLOSING PRAYER: PROF. FR. STEPHEN MBUGUA
TEA and DEPARTURES
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CONFERENCE DAY THREE: FRIDAY 1ST APRIL 2016
8.00 – 8.30 am REGISTRATION: PROF. N. KITAKA/ DR. J. MBURU
SESSION COORDINATORS: DR. T. KINYANJUI/ DR. P. MIGWI/ DR. D.G. KWEYA/ DR. A. OTARA
VENUE FACULTY OF EDUCATION THEATRE 2 (ET 2)
CHAIR PROF. NGETICH, Dean Faculty of Arts and Social sciences, Egerton University
8.30 – 8.35 am OPENING PRAYER: REV. S. NDUATI, Egerton University Chaplain
8.35 – 9.20 am KEYNOTE ADDRESS: PROF. LIZE KRIEL, Associate Professor, Division for Visual Culture Studies, Department of Visual Arts, UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA
9.20 – 9.30 am QA Session with Keynote Speaker
9.30 – 9.50 am POSTER/ EXHIBITION SESSION
9.50 – 10.20 am HEALTH BREAK BREAKOUT SESSIONS
VENUES ROOM 2: ET 1 ROOM 1: ET 2 ROOM 3: ED 14
Subtheme GOVERNANCE & SOCIO-ECONOMICS
AGRICULTURE & FOOD SECURITY
SCIENCE and TECHNOLOGY
CHAIR/ CO-CHAIR DR. S. KIPROP/ DR. H. MURENGA
PROF. A. FARAJ/ DR. A. OPIYO PROF. J. KIPKEMBOI/ DR. D.N. KAMAU
10.20 - 10.30am Cherono, E., Wako, F. and Kweya, D., Culture, change and continuity in Riddle and Riddle Performance among the Kipsigis, Kenya
Ng’ang’a, J.N., et al., Efficacy of Foliar Fungicide and Seed Treatment on Percentage Disease Incidence (PDI) Disease Severity Index (DSI) and Area Under Disease Progress Curve of Ascochyta Blight (Ascochyta rabiei L.)
Kallen Mulilo Nalyanya, et al., Effect of chrome-tanning process on bovine hide using Dynamic Mechanical and Thermal Analysis (DMTA)
10.30 -10.40am Lumadede Japheth, Margaret Ngigi and Anthony Sang, Citizens’ Perceptions on the Status of Governance in the Counties: the case of Migori County, Kenya
Mwangi Nixon Njau, Indigenous Agricultural Knowledge and Food Security: Prospects and Challenges
Luke Toroitich, W.K. Cheruiyot, and K.O. Odhiambo, Colour and Texture feature Extraction in Image Retrieval using KNN Algorithm
10.40 - 10.50 am Lydia A. Mareri, Transformational Leadership in a University Setting? A case of Heads of Academic Departments in the Kenyan Public University Setting
Njeru, P. W., Wagara, I. N., and Kariuki, S. T., Cultivation of Indigenous Oyster Mushrooms using different Agricultural Wastes.
L. Toroitich, W.K. Cheruiyot, and K.O. Odhiambo, Techniques used in Content based Image Retrieval (CBIR): Enhancing Image Retrieval in Digital Multimedia Databases
10.50 - 11.00am Muraguri Michael, D. Odero and M. Ngigi, Effects of Women Enterprise Fund’s Training on Sales Performance of Women Grocery Micro-entrepreneurs in Thika Sub-county, Kiambu County, Kenya
S.O. Ochanda, et al., Optimization of Processing
Techniques of selected Coloured Tea Clones in Kenya.
Eliud M. Manyinsa, S. Musyoki and H. Tarus, Implementation of IEEE802.11 (Wi-Fi) in NS-3
11.00 - 11.10 am Mumbi E. Ndunda, Contribution of Collective Action Groups on Socio-Economic Wellbeing of Agro-Pastoralists in Makindu Sub-County, Kenya
Ooro, P.A. et al., Identification of the Crop Management Constraints effects of Climate Change in the Potato Value Chain in Mauche Ward in Njoro Sub-County in Kenya.
Samuel Kimutai, et al., Determination of Residual Catechins, Polyphenolic Contents and Antioxidant activities of Developed Theaflavin-3, 3’-digallate rich Black Tea.
11.10 - 11.20 am Nthenya Kinyumu, Tim Njagi and Lilian Kirimi, Farm Household’s
Rael Taiy, et al., Potato Value Chain Analysis in Mauche Ward of Njoro Sub-
Yegon K. Philemon, et al., Chemical Composition and Antifungal Activity of the Essential
xiii
Participation in Governance: Lessons from Devolved systems in Kenya
county, Kenya. Oil from Lippia javanica (Verbenaceae)
11.20-11.30 pm Nyandoro Omuria, E Bor and B Onasrigo, Influence of Social and Economic factors on Implementation of Childrens’ Rights Policy in Nakuru County, Kenya
Regina Chepkorir, Josphat C. Matasyo and Isabel N. Wagara, Activity of Secondary Metabolites from Hagenia abyssinicca against Plant Bacterial Pathogens, Xanthomonas campestris pv .phaseoli and Pseudomonas syringae pv. Pheseolicola.
11.30 -11.40 pm Kennedy Obumba Ogutu, M. Okere and E. Bor, Influence of Community Policing on Criminal activities in Low Income areas of Nakuru Town, Kenya
Virginia Wanjiku Njuguna, et al., Evaluation of the New Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L) Hybrid for Malting and Brewing across Selected Agro-ecological Environments in Kenya
11.40-11.50 pm Odock Kizito and Boaz Onyancha, Insights from the Good Samaritan: A response to Governance in Kenya
Masinde J. Wanyama, et al., Effect of Variability in Rainfall Intensity on Maize Yield in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya
11.50- 12.00 pm Gilbert Nyakundi Okebiro, A. K. Nyambane and K. Otiso, The Military tactics of Otenyo and Sustainable Political Development leading to Advancement of Humanity among the Abagusii in the Colonial era
Waswa J and Ngugi L.W., Promotion and Utilization of Niche Foods for Food and Nutrition Security
CLOSING SESSION VENUE FACULTY OF EDUCATION THEATRE 2 (ET 2) Session Coordinators
PROF. R.M.S. MULWA/ PROF. J.O. OGENDO
12.00– 12.10 pm
CLOSING REMARKS: PROF. ROSE A, MWONYA, Vice Chancellor, Egerton University
12.10 – 12.20 PM PRESENTATION OF AWARDS: PROF. BOCKLINE BEBE/ PROF. NZULA KITAKA
12.20– 12.30 pm
VOTE OF THANKS: PROF. ALFRED C. KIBOR, Director (Research & Extension), Egerton University
12.30 pm CLOSING PRAYER: PROF. FR. STEPHEN MBUGUA
TEA and DEPARTURES
1
AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY
1
Influence of Climate and Environmental factors on Nutritional Composition of Prosopis
juliflora Pods from Baringo, Garissa and Kajiado Counties of Kenya
António Jaime Manhique, Anthony Kingo’ri and Abdi Guliye
Email: [email protected] Tel: 0725646573
Abstract
Chemical analysis to determine the quantity of nutrients in feed-stuff is very important in diet
formulation for animals. In general, proximate analysis is one of the methods used for
evaluating different components of the feed. In this study the aim was to determine the
influence of climate and environmental factors on nutritional composition of Prosopis
juliflora pods from Baringo, Garissa and Kajiado Counties of Kenya. Samples from these
three Counties were dried, milled and analysed in triplicate for proximate composition: Dry
Matter (DM), Gross Energy (GE), Crude Protein (CP), Ether Extract (EE), Crude Fibre (CF)
and Minerals (Ca, P, Mg and Na). Data were analysed using SAS (version 9, 2002) and
means separated with Tukey test showed that chemical composition was significantly
affected (P<0.05) by environmental factors. DM was, 94.4%, 92.2% and 89.3275 % from
Baringo, Kajiado and Garissa respectively. Gross Energy was high (P<0.05) 4134.06 Kcal/kg
4095.3 Kcal/kg in sample from Baringo and and Kajiado respectively and lower 3873.72
Kcal/Kg from Garissa. CP and CF were significantly high, 13.29 % and 33.91% in sample
from Garissa and lowest in sample from Kajiado, 10.9% and 19.159 % respectively. Samples
from Kajiado were significantly high (2.85%) in EE followed by Baringo and Garissa with
1.89% and 1.66% respectively. Minerals Ca and Mg were similar in three Counties (P>0.05)
except P where samples from Garissa had concentration of 0.063 mg/kg (P<0.05) followed
by 0.055 mg/kg for Kajiado and Baringo respectively. Sodium content was 30.257 mg/kg
(P<0.05) compared to 26.898 mg/kg from Garissa and 26.448 mg/kg Baringo. In conclusion,
the nutrients composition of P. Juliflora pods is affected by environmental factors of each
region.
Key words: Prosopis juliflora pods, proximate composition, mineral content, environmental
2
Increasing Bee Forage for a Sustainable Bee Industry
Asiko G.A., Mochorwa J.M. and Koech C.J.
National Beekeeping Institute
Email: [email protected]. Tel. +254 722594013
Abstract
Growing bee forage can profitably contribute to the sustainability of the beekeeping industry
in Kenya. A variety of crops and vegetables are known to be suitable forage, since they are
visited by most bee pollinators. In a pollination program at the National Beekeeping
Institute, Lenana, various crops were selected to boost the bee forage range, after it was
noticed that the prevailing honey bee colonies were dwindling drastically due to drought and
other visible causes. The Kales, sunflower and strawberry, were planted for the purpose. It
was observed that the Kales attracted most pollinators, ranging from insects to birds. The
predominant insect species was Apis mellifera scutellata. Butterflies as well as sting less bees
and bats were observed. Sunflower and strawberry, too attracted bees, besides butterflies and
other pollinators, but the former was better than the latter. There was an increase in honeybee
colonies from 5 to 11. The pollinator activity which had ceased, revived as was physically
observed from the „buzz of the bee,‟ to the „hoot of the wood pecker,‟ signifying revamped
activity. The Honeybee turned out to be the predominant pollinator species, adapted to the
task.
Keywords: Growing, bee forage, pollination, sustainability
3
Enhanced Productivity of Tomato (Corazon variety) through the Greenhouse
Technology and Bee Pollination
Asiko G.A., Oketch J.A., Mochorwa J.M., Koech C.J., , Momanyi D.B., Nzano P.N.,
Palla D.O., Mc’ligeyo S.A., Okinyi B.P. and Kibe K.K.
National Beekeeping Institute
Email: [email protected]. Tel. +254 722594013
Abstract
The green house was installed from 2nd
to 6th
of October 2014, as part of the collaboration
between the National beekeeping institute and the EU-AU Sponsored Bee Health Project at
ICIPE. The aim was to increase tomato productivity through the greenhouse technology,
complemented by the honeybee. The plant health (girth vs. plant height) was noticeably
almost twice in the greenhouse than in the open field plants. Likewise, the fruits inside were
healthier (maximum weight of 410 gms), than those in the open field. Thus, productivity was
higher in the greenhouse plants, expressed in the number of fruits per branch (11 fruits
maximum). There was fluctuation in the weights of the first fruits, both in the greenhouse and
in the open field.
Key words: Productivity, greenhouse technology, plant health
4
Enhancing Strawberry Productivity through Bee Pollination
Asiko, G.A., Oketch, J. A., Mochorwa, J.M., Nzano, P.N., Momanyi, D.B., Okecha,
T., Okinyi, B.P., Koech, C.J., Yego, R.J. and Palla, D.O.
National Beekeeping Institute
Email: [email protected]. Tel. +254 722594013
Abstract
Bees play a vital role in strawberry pollination, for fruit quality and increased productivity.
Greenhouse experiments conducted at the National Beekeeping Institute, in collaboration
with EU- AU Sponsored ICIPE Bee health Project, using honeybee pollinators, revealed an
increase in super quality fruits (over 80% total). Harvested industry fruits were absent in the
open field plants, outside the greenhouse, with multi-pollinators, but greatly reduced in the
harvested fruits, inside the greenhouse (4.3% total), with the honeybee as the sole pollinator.
Results indicated an 80.3 percent total increase, with honeybee pollination.
Key words: Bees, pollination, fruit quality, increased productivity
5
Milk handling Practices and Microbial Contamination Sources of Raw Milk in Rural
and Peri-urban Farms
Atieno, J. D.O.1, Matofari, J.W.
1 and Muliro, P.S.
1
1Department of Dairy, Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture Egerton
University, Kenya
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Handling practices and microbiological contamination sources of raw milk was assessed in
both rural and peri urban farms. Assessment of farm practices was done by use of
Questionnaires while microbiological analysis of contamination sources was done by
standard procedures. Milk handling practices assessed include pre milking and post milking
practices, farm management in terms of infrastructure, water sources and treatment. The
sources of contamination sampled for microbiological analysis were udder, hands of milking
personnel, milking containers, bulking containers and water sources. None of the farms
visited practiced pre dipping and post dipping in both locations.Only11% in rural and 50% in
peri urban practiced hand and udder drying before milking while water treatment is practiced
by 9% and 30% in rural and peri urban respectively. Udder swabs recorded the highest
(8×103cfu/ml) in total viable counts (TBC), coliform counts (CC) (3×10
3cfu/ml) and
Psychotropic bacterial counts (PBC) (2×103cfu/ml). A correlation between farm gate milk
and the contamination sources revealed that hands in the peri urban was 50% while milking
container rinse, hands and udder swabs in the peri urban had a 40% correlation in TVC to the
farm gate milk. Milk at the farm gate had a significant (p≥ 0.05) increase in CC and PBC in
peri urban compared to milk drawn directly from the udder. Total viable counts increased by
0.5 of alog cycle between the udder and farm gate in rural while an increase of 0.4 log cycle
was recorded in the peri urban. Therefore the evaluated contamination sources of the study
can be treated as critical control points in reducing microbial load in raw milk.
Key words: raw milk, handling practices, contamination sources
6
HACCP Plan for Indigenous Chicken Slaughter House inNakuru Kenya
1Benard O. Oloo.,
1Mahungu S.,
1Gogo L., and
2Kahi A.
1Department of Dairy and Food Science and Technology, Egerton University, P.O Box 536,
Egerton, Kenya; 2Department of Animal Science, Egerton University, P.O Box 536, Egerton,
Kenya. P.O Box 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya.
E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 0725817520
Abstract
Chicken meat is a delicacy in almost every household in Kenya. It is a common food in
restaurants and hotels that serve fast foods in urban areas. Demand for and consumption of
indigenous chicken meat in Kenya has been on the rise. Many slaughterhouses have been set
up in strategic locations close to towns or in towns to allow for quick supply of the dressed
chicken carcass to consumers. Poultry meat is a low acid food and has been associated with
the presence of foodborne pathogens such as Campylobacter, Escherichia coli, Salmonella
enteritidis, and Staphylococcus aureus, especially when processing conditions are not
hygienic. HACCP stands for Hazard Analysis and Critical Control point. HACCP is based on
a scientific verifiable process to identify, control, reduce or eliminate any potential hazards to
guaranty food safety. This study was conducted based on the actual production conditions of
the slaughter house. Design of a model for the application and operationalization of HACCP
system was undertaken as an important step in ensuring consumers enjoy safe products from
the indigenous chicken meat prepared from the slaughter house. The studyaimed at
developing a HACCP system; based on the seven HACCP principles. Four Critical Control
Points (CCPs) were identified and a HACCP plan, complete with perquisite programs was
presented to deal with the identified hazards and therefore present the consumers with high
quality and safe products.
Key words: HACCP Plan, Critical control point, hazards, food safety
7
Spatial and Intra-plant Variation in Chemical Composition of Essential Oils of Kenyan
Cupressus lusitanica Miller and Eucalyptus saligna Smith and prospects of Pesticidal
Potency
1Bett, P. K.,
1Deng, A. L.,
2Ogendo, J. O.,
1Kariuki, S.T.,
3Kiplimo, J.J.,
1Kiplagat, A.J.,
4Mugisha-Kamatenesi, M.,
5Mihale, J.M. and
6Torto, B.
1Department of Biological Sciences, Egerton University, Kenya.
2Department of Crops,
Horticulture and Soils, Egerton University, Kenya.3Department of Physical Sciences,
University of Kabianga, Kenya.4Division of Medical Ethnobotany and Product Development,
Department of Biological Sciences, Makerere University, Uganda.5Department of Physical
Sciences, Open University of Tanzania, Tanzania.6Behavioural and Chemical Ecology
Department, ICIPE, Nairobi, Kenya
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Cupressus lusitanica and Eucalyptus saligna extracts/whole plants are used by smaller-holder
farmers tocontrol insect pests in the East African region without knowledge on chemical
composition, dosage rates, bioactivity and biosafety. Plant part (leaf, fruit and bark) essential
oils of C. lusitanica and E. saligna growing in three geographic locations in Kenya were
obtained by hydro-distillation with leaves yielding the highest amount of oil (0.13-0.38 %).
GC/-MS analysis of C. lusitanica leaf oils showed monoterpenes -phellandrene α-
3-careneand α-pinene (14.5 %) dominated in Busia, Kericho and Njoro,
respectively. Fruit oils from Busia, Kericho and Njoro were α-pinene (38.1%), -3-carene
(45.4%) and α-pinene (64.5 %) chemo types, respectively. Bark oils were dominated by α-
pinene (23.9-70.1 %) in all regions. In E. saligna p-cymeneo-
cymeneand o-cymenedominated in Busia, Kericho and Njoro,
respectively. Similarly, in fruit oil sabinene dominated in Busia, o-
cymene in Kericho and 1, 8-cineolein Njoro. As for bark oils, -terpineol
(5.1 %), o-cymene (13.8 %) and camphenilone (16.4 %) were the main constituents in Busia,
Kericho and Njoro, respectively. Essential oil yield and concentration of chemical constituents
varied across plant parts and geographic locations. Oils contained 1, 8-cineole, terpinen-4-ol
,-pinene, -pinene, p-cymen-8-ol, p-cymene, -terpineol and borneol known to have contact
and fumigant toxicity and repellent properties against pests of stored products. Results of
present study point C. lusitanica and E. saligna as potential candidate plants for the
development of newer natural insecticides to be used in management of stored product insect
pests.
Key words: Essential oil, GC-MS, hydro-distillation, Cupressus lusitanica,Eucalyptus
saligna, pesticidal
8
Relationships between Selected Soil Physico-chemical Properties and Bacteria Counts in
Nzoia Sugar Company farms, Kenya.
Kariuki, C W.1, Muia, A. W.
1, Moturi, W N.
1 Ngigi, A N.
2 and Karanja, R.W
3
1Egerton University,
2Multimedia University of Kenya,
3Jomo Kenyatta University of
Agriculture and Technology.
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Bacterial communities largely influence decomposition, nutrient mineralization and nutrient
cycling and thus contribute to soil and vegetation patterns. Subsurface bacterial communities
may sequester nutrient limited plants. Although studies on examining the factors that
influence the soil microbial communities in various ecosystems are substantial, the factors
driving this biotic community in the Nzoia Sugar company farms have not been studied. In
this study, the importance of soil physico-chemical properties in driving soil bacterial
communities in the Nzoia sugar company farms in Kenya was examined. Soils were collected
from five Sugarcane farms of Nzoia Sugar Company. Results show a large range of variation
in the total bacterial colony counts (6.1 x 105 to 18.7 x 10
5 cfu
-1g of soil). Soil moisture
ranged between 16% and 21%; pH 4.6 to 5.5 and soil temperatures were between 16oC and
28oC. Data of the present study revealed that number of total viable bacterial count was
significantly and positively correlated to pH, with r = 0.549, indicating that pH was a major
driving factor of bacterial communities in Sugarcane farms of Nzoia Sugar Company. Results
also showed significant differences in viable bacterial counts among the farms. Such
differences in the bacterial population size between these farms might be related to change in
soil properties due to human activities mainly agricultural practices.
Key word: Bacteria counts, Physico-chemical properties, Nzoia Sugar company farms.
9
Evaluation of Selected Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) Genotypes for Resistance
to Insect Pest Complex in Dry Areas of North Rift valley, Kenya.
J. J. Cheboi1, P. K. Kimurto
2, M. G. Kinyua
1, O.K Kiplagat
1, B. K. Towett
2, S. C. Kirui
3,
and N. V. P. R Gangarao4
1Department of Biotechnology, University of Eldoret, P.O. Box 1125-30100 Eldoret, Kenya;
2Department of Crops, horticulture and Soils, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536-20115
Egerton, Kenya; 3Department of Biological Science, Maasai Mara University, P.O. Box 861
Narok, Kenya; 4International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT),
P.O Box 39063 – 00623 Nairobi, Kenya
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Pigeon pea is an important pulse crop that has gained importance in semi-arid tropics,
although its yield potential has not been fully realized due to biotic and abiotic stresses that
limit its production. Insect pest complex of pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera), sucking bug
(Clavigralla tomentosicollis) and pod fly (Melanagromyza cholcosoma) are the major
limiting factors to its production causing up to 100% yield loss. The objective of this study
was to evaluate resistant genotypes to insect pest complex in dry parts of North Rift Valley
Kenya. The study was carried out in three sites (Kenya Agricultural Livestock Research
Organization- Marigat, Agricultural Training Centre-Koibatek and Fluorspar-Chepsirei) for
one season during long rain of April-November 2014 growing season. Sixteen ICRISAT elite
genotypes were evaluated in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 75cm inter and
25cm intra spacing. Significant (P≤0.05) differences in grain yield performance, incidence
and severity of the insect pests were revealed in all sites. The damage was more severe in
Marigat (Pod borer-37.2%, Sucking bug-39.3% and pod fly-5.9%) than ATC- Koibatek (Pod
borer-1.9%, Sucking bug-8.4% and pod fly-5.9%) and Fluorspar (Pod borer-3.6%, Sucking
bug-6.8% and pod fly-2.9%). Genotypes ICEAPs 00850R, 00902, 01541 and 1154-2 showed
potential levels of resistance to the insect pest complex and high yields. Grain yield
associated negatively (P≤0.05) with pod borer and sucking bug damage correlated non-
significantly with pod fly damage. The potential genotypes identified in this study need to be
further evaluated in two seasons and in other multi-locations to validate these findings to be
used in breeding.
Key words: Pigeon pea; insect pest complex; resistance; yield potential; yield loss
10
Effects of Weeding and Planting Methods on Performance of New Rice for Africa
(NERICA) in Kerio valley and Marigat, Kenya
Chepkwony, E.K., Bii, W.K., Ngode L., and Auma, E.O.
University of Eldoret, P.O. Box 1125 - 30100, Eldoret, Kenya
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
The New Rice for Africa (NERICA) which is an upland rice developed to solve the food
crisis has been adopted by farmers in Kerio Valley and Marigat. However, the yields are low
due to poor weeding and wrong choice of planting methods and varieties. As a result their
effects on performance of NERICA varieties have not been documented. Attempts have been
made to control the weeds but effectiveness of the methods used is not well understood. The
experiment is being carried out in two sites; Kerio Valley in Keiyo South Sub-county and
Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI) - Perkerra in Marigat Sub-county. The
objective is to investigate the effects of weeding and planting methods on performance of
NERICA varieties. The two areas are classified as Arid and Semi-arid Lands of Kenya
(ASAL‟s). Two planting methods (Drilling and Broadcasting), two levels of weeding (No
weeding and weeding done) and two varieties (NERICA 4 and NERICA 11) are used. The
trial is a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial experiment laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design
(RCBD). The treatments are replicated 3 times and each plot measures 4 m x 3 m. The
parameters being monitored include scoring of weeds, plant height, number of tillers and the
grain yield. The data obtained will be subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the
means of effects of treatments compared using Dunnett or Tukey‟s HSD Test. The expected
results of the experiment will be used to assess the effects and the need for proper weed
control and the right choice of planting methods and varieties for Kerio Valley and Marigat,
Kenya. Hence reduction of food insecurity in the two areas and other ASAL‟s.
Key words: upland rice, NERICA, weed control
11
The Distribution of Tea Weevils (Curculionids) in Eastern Kenya Region.
Evelyn Cheramgoi1, Fred M. E. Wanjala
2, Vincent Sudoi
3 John Wanyoko
4, Simon
Ochanda1, Henrick Ruto
4
1Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization-Tea Research Institute, P.O.
Box 820-20200, Kericho; 2School of Science Department of Biological Sciences, School
of Science, Moi University, P.O. Box 1125, Eldoret, Kenya; 3School of Environmental
Studies, Department of Environmental Biology and Health, Moi University, P.O. Box
3900, Eldoret; 4Tea Processing and Value Addition Programme, Kenya Agricultural and
Livestock Research Organization-Tea Research Institute , P.O. Box 820-20200, Kericho.
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Two curculionid weevils namely: Entypotrachelus meyeri [Micans/Kolbe] (Kangaita weevil)
and Sphrigodes mixtus [Hustache] (Nyambene weevil) defoliate tea bushes and affect tea
production. Studies were conducted on these pests on prevalence and distribution. In this
regard, a modeling exercise was undertaken to determine weevil distribution and determine
potentially risky areas using Geographical Information System (GIS) with reference to
rainfall, temperature and agro-ecological zones (AEZ) as parameters which influence weevil
incidence. A digital 1:50,000 topographic map sheet of the tea growing region, which has the
study area, Global Positioning system (GPS), Computer hardware and software (Esri‟s
ArcInfo ArcGIS software at Version 10.1) were used for mapping and developing a digital
tea weevil distribution map. Data on Annual average rainfall, Annual Average mean daily
temperature and Agro-ecological zones data (the spatial reference data) was derived from a
research done by Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in 2005
under the AFRICOVER Project. These data sets were layered to show all potential weevil
prone areas. To determine the coverage or extent on the ground and the surrounding areas, a
survey was conducted on the ground. Farms were sampled within at least a radius of 1000m
from where they have been reports of tea weevil occurrence. Coordinates of the boundaries
where weevils are found were recorded and inserted into a digitized Eastern region map. The
risk assessment made to determine whether the weevil species can enter and establish in new
areas indicated that based on agro-ecological zone I and climatic conditions, (temperature
(13.5-23.5oC) and rainfall (1000-2700mm)), 266,399 ha of tea were at risk to weevils
infestation in Eastern tea growing region of Kenya (East of Rift). The study found that the
weevil species distribution was site specific for E. meyeri while S. mixtus was not. The most
prevalent weevil was the S. mixtus found in an estimate of 5,135 ha against E. meyeri in
1,231 ha.
Key words: Weevils, rainfall, temperature, ecological zone.
12
Lippia kituiensis, Salvia nilotica and Pittosporum viridiflorum Acaricidal Secondary
Metabolites
Christine T. Nyabayo1, Josphat C. Matasyoh
1, Charles M Mwendia
2
1Department of Chemistry, Egerton University;
2Department of Biochemistry,
Egerton University
Email: [email protected], Tel: +254718965950
Abstract
East Coast Fever, a very challenging disease vectored by ticks is associated with losses
amounting to US$34 million among the smallholder farmersin Kenya annually. Furthermore,
the synthetic acaricides are costly, have reduced activity because of resistance, and reported
residues in food.Therefore, most pastoralists have resorted to the use of plant-based
acaricides that are biodegradable and offer a reliable and cheap alternative. In this research,
we sort to determine the acaricidal activity of secondary metabolites from Lippia kituiensis,
Pittosporum viridiflorum and Salvia nilotica against Rhipicephalus appendiculatus. From P.
viridiflorum, three pentacyclic triterpenes; Oleanolic acid, 3, 22, 28-Trihydroxyolean-12-ene
and Amyrin acetate were isolated andshowedlarvicidalactivity with LC50/LC90values of
89.9/150.9, 88.4/148.1, 96.6/164.7 at 48h and 64.0/106.4 , 53.1/81.8, 56.2/90.5 at 72 h
respectively. From L. kituiensis, two lupane type molecules; 1, 2, 18 Trihdroxylupeol and 1,
2, 6, 18-Tetrahydroxylupeol were isolated and showed larvicidal activity with LC50/LC90
of38.9/58.3, 34.2/54.4 at 48h and 29.5/49.1,24.8/40.8 at 72 h respectively. Analysis of S.
nilotica essential oil was found to be dominated with monoterpenes (39.4%) and
sesquiterpenes (27.2%). The essential oil was active against the larvae and the adults of R.
appendiculatus with LC50/LC90 values of 1.84/3.31, 1.67/3.09, 1.47/3.02, 1.37/2.85, 1.37/2.55
mg/ml and 3.87/5.82, 2.67/4.65, 2.20/4.10, 2.08/3.77 mg/ml at 3, 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours
respectively. These results validate the use of these compounds as leads in the development
of effective and target specific acaricides.
Key words: Acaricidal, Rhipicephalus appendiculatus, secondary metabolites, oleanolic acid
13
Adoption and Impact of Maize Technology Bundles on Household Production and Food
Security in Kenya
Njue Eric, Timothy Njagi and Mary Mathenge
Egerton University, Tegemeo Institute, Nairobi
Email: [email protected]; Tel +254725276822
Abstract
While agriculture remains the mainstay of Kenya, her food systems faces a myriad of
challenges hence food security has remained on top of development agenda. Extreme weather
events coupled with rapid population growth have exacerbated food insecurity status thereby
increasing the burden of malnutrition. Nonetheless, persistent food insecurity is largely
attributed to low agricultural productivity hence there is no doubt that farmers will rely more
on technology to boost productivity. While it is agreed that agricultural innovations are
needed to stimulate crop productivity, empirical evidence in Kenya show that maize
productivity per acre has stagnated overtime while output has been declining against the
increasing demand for the commodity despite past efforts to promote adoption of modern
farming technology. This has transformed Kenya into a net maize grain importer. Our study
sought to provide a link between food security and adoption of technology bundle(s) that
have high probability of increasing household‟s food availability and access. We use two-
year panel data from 1800 households in a randomized evaluation of mid-altitude hybrid
maize in Central and Western Kenya. Our findings show the key drivers of adoption of
different maize technology bundles are education (both formal and extension-led training),
credit access and altitude. Furthermore adoption of both improved seed and fertilizer has the
greatest impact on household food security but fertilizer component is critical even without
the improved seed. Increasing food available per capita will therefore necessitate a paradigm
shift to overcome yield stagnation. Policy options need to be evaluated well when promoting
interventions that aims at raising productivity and these include promotion technologies that
complement each other to boost crop yields and diversification of technology options.
Similarly, the policy framework must be sensitive to specific needs of the farm population
especially female farmers since they are a major source of farm workforce.
Key words: Food Security; Maize; Technology Bundle; Generalized Multinomial Logit;
Kenya
14
Susceptibility of Geographically isolated Populations of the Tomato Red Spider Mite
(Tetranychus evansi Baker & Pritchard) to commonly used Acaricides on Tomato Crops
in Kenya.
F.J. Toroitich 1, M. Knapp
2, J. H. Nderitu
3, F. M. Olubayo
3, M. Obonyo
4
1Department of Biological Sciences, Egerton University, Kenya;
2Koppert Biological
Systems, Postbus, Berkel en Rodenrijs, Netherlands; 3Department of Plant Sciences and Crop
Protection, University of Nairobi, Kenya; 4Department of Biochemistry& Molecular Biology,
Egerton University, Kenya
E-mail [email protected]; Tel: 0722-274454
.
Abstract
Farmers in Kenya continue to raise concerns of difficulty in managing, Tetranychus evansi,
the most widespread dry season pest of tomatoes using commonly available acaricides. This
pest species is widespread in Africa, as well as parts of Europe and Asia. In this study, four
populations of T. evansi were collected from farms in representative tomato growing areas of
Kenya (Loitoktok, Kibwezi, Athi-River and Subukia) and their performance compared to a
laboratory culture (ICIPE) that had been maintained for three years without exposure to
acaricides. Susceptibility of T. evansi to Brigade (bifenthrin), Dimethoate (dimethoate),
Karate (lambda-cyhalothrin), Kelthane (dicofol), Omite (propargite) and Polytrin
(profenofos+cypermethrin) was tested in the laboratory using respective manufacturer's
recommended concentrations. Dimethoate resulted in variable ovicidal mortality while
Kelthane, Brigade, Omite and Polytrin resulted in high mortality across all populations.
Similarly, adult contact and residual mortality was lower than the other chemicals when
exposed to Dimethoate regardless of the location. On the other hand, Kelthane was most
lethal against mites from all populations follosed by Brigade and Polytrin in that order. Omite
caused significantly lower mortality on mites from Subukia while Karate produced variable
effects on mites from Kibwezi, Loitoktok and Subukia. The implications of these findings are
further discussed.
Key words: Tetranychus evansi, Susceptibility, acaricides, tomato
15
Demand System for Fresh African Indigenous Vegetables among Rural and Urban
Consumers in Kenya
Eric O. Gido1,2
, Oscar I. Ayuya2, Hillary K. Bett
2, George Owuor
2 and Wolfgang
Bokelmann1
1Department of Agricultural Economics and Social Sciences, Humboldt University of Berlin,
Unter den Linden 6 10099 Berlin, Germany; 2Department of Agricultural Economics and
Agribusiness Management, Egerton University, P.O. BOX 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya.
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
This study aimed at providing empirical evidence on the changes in demand and consumption
patterns for fresh African indigenous vegetables (AIVs) among rural and urban households in
Kenya. Using a multistage sampling technique a sample of 450 rural and urban respondents
from four counties in Kenya. A Linear Approximate Almost Ideal Demand System
(LA/AIDS) was estimated using a Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) method, to
generate vegetable demand elasticities and also evaluate the effect of household socio-
demographics on vegetable budget shares. For comparison purposes, exotic vegetables were
included in the analysis. Education and awareness of the healthy nature of AIVs, among
others, influenced vegetable consumption patterns. Cross price elasticities indicated that,
vegetables substituted each other more than they would complement while own price
elasticities indicated that the price effect contributes a higher proportion to changes in
demand than the income effect. However, vegetable consumption would still increase with a
future increases in household‟s income. Moreover, expenditure elasticities classified cowpea
and spider plant as necessary vegetables to the household diet. Therefore implementation of
price policies in favour of consumers as well as designing programmes that would effectively
improve consumers‟ awareness of AIVs, especially among more educated people, would
enhance their demand in Kenya.
Key words: African indigenous vegetables, demand elasticities, LA/AIDS, vegetable
demand system
16
Effects of Blanching time/temperature combinations on the Microbial quality and
storage quality of Solar-dried Indigenous Leafy Vegetables in Kenya
1Esther W. Njoroge,
1Joseph Matofari,
2Richard M.S. Mulwa and
1Joseph Anyango
1Department of Dairy and Food Science and Technology, Egerton University,
2 Department of
Crops, Horticulture and Soils, Egerton University
Email: [email protected] (+254) 723 370 852,
Abstract
There is glut production of indigenous leafy vegetables (ILVs) during rainy seasons and poor
storage systems leading toscarcity of the ILVs in the dry seasons. Currently limited
preservation is employed involving boiling of ILVs and open sun drying, a practice that is
inappropriate and done under unhygienic conditions. There have been no studies on suitable
combinations of blanching and solar drying protocols for preservation of ILVs. This study
was conducted to determine the effects of controlled blanching time/temperature
combinations followed by solar-drying on the microbial quality and on three months storage
of selected ILVs with a view to finding a suitable preservation technique. Three common
ILVs in Kenya, spiderplant (Cleome gynandra), slenderleaf (Crotalaria ochroleuca) and
cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata) were used in this study. The Vegetables were grown at Egerton
University‟s horticulture teaching and research station and harvested after 4 weeks. Two
blanching conditions (80oC/10 min and 90
oC/5 min) followed by solar-drying were tested.
Boiling at 100oC for 30 min, followed by open sun-drying was used as a control, while
conventional oven drying of the ILVs was used as a standard for comparison. Analyses on
fresh, blanched-dried and 3 months stored ILVs were done to determine total viable, yeast
and mould and coliform counts. Microbial loads werelowest (log10 5.0-6.3 cfu/g) in solar
dried ILVs blanched at 90oC/5 min. Open sun-dried ILVs recorded higher levels (log10 6.4-
6.7 cfu/g) of microbial loads. Total viable counts for solar dried ILVs increased from log10
5.5 cfu/g to6.3 cfu/g during storage period, while there were minor increases in yeast and
mould counts (log10 1.2 to log10 1.4 cfu/g) for the solar-dried ILVs. This research indicates
that controlled blanching followed by solar drying reduces the number of microbial loads,
thus it is a potential preservation technique for ILVs in Kenya.
Key words: Blanching time/temperature, Microbial quality, Storage quality, Solar-drier,
Indigenous leafy vegetables.
17
Improving Shelf-life and Carotenoid Content of Vegetable Amaranth (Amaranthus
cruentus L.) cv. Olevolosi using short-term Pre-harvest UV-B application
Elisha O. Gogo.1,2
, Arnold M. Opiyo1, Christian Ulrichs
2, and Susanne Huyskens-Keil
2
1Egerton University, Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soils, P.O. Box 536, 20115
Egerton, Kenya.2Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Faculty of Life Sciences, Division of
Urban Plant Ecophysiology, Lentzeallee 55-57, 14195 Berlin, Germany
Email: [email protected] Mobile: +254 721 205 576
Abstract
Vegetable amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus L.) has the potential of creating employment
opportunities especially for youth and women, in addition to its nutritional and health
benefits. However, the vegetable often suffer heavy post-harvest losses (˃50%). Physical
elicitors like UV-B are known to activate plant defense systems hence increasing antioxidant
compounds (e.g. carotenoids) in plant tissue. The study sought to evaluate response of
vegetable amaranth to short-term pre-harvest UV-B application. Vegetable amaranth cv.
Olevolosi were grown under greenhouse conditions. UV-B was applied to 4 and 6 weeks old
plantsat 0.54 kJm-2
and 1.08 kJm-2
whileplants with no UV-B application served as control.
The plants were harvested 8 weeks after sowing and stored at 20˚C and 60% relative
humidity (retailer‟s simulation condition) for 4 days. Dry weight, weight loss, carotenoids
(lycopene, lutein and β-carotene), and chlorophylls were evaluated. Both at harvest and 4
days after storage, lower UV-B (0.54 kJm-2
) resulted to significantly higher dry weight(7.7-
17.9%) content and reduced weight loss (7.6-17.8%)at 4 and 6 weeks of treatment application
compared to the control. At harvest, carotenoids and chlorophylls evaluated were not
significantly different among the treatments at 4 weeks of treatment application while at 6
weeks, moderate UV-B (1.08 kJm-2
) resulted to higher lycopene (11.8%), lutein (12.8%), β-
carotene (11.5%), chlorophyll a (12.5%) and b (20.0%) content compared to the control.
However, 4 days after storage, control had significantly higher lycopene (20.1%), lutein
(28.9%), β-carotene (28.1%), chlorophyll a (22.6%) and b (15.4%),at 4 weeks of treatment
application compared to the UV-B treatments. The findings demonstrate the potential of
using short-term pre-harvest UV-B dosage application to improve shelf-life and bioactive
compounds of vegetable amaranth. This could be a vital step in improving living standards
and food security in sub-Saharan Africa, especially Kenya.
Key words: Amaranthus spp., Vegetable Quality, UV-B Irradiation, Secondary Metabolites
18
Cane Yield and Juice Volume are Significant Determinants of Ethanol Yield from
Sweet Sorghum (Sorghum bicolour L. Moench).
Justice K. Rono1, Erick K.Cheruiyot
2, Jacktone O. Othira
1, James Owuoche
2
1Egerton University, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, P.O Box 536-
20115, Egerton, Kenya; 2Egerton University, Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soil,
P.O Box 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolorL. Moench) contains fermentable sugars in stem which can
be converted to ethanol. The current study aimed at evaluating performance of three sweet
sorghum genotypes with five checks and contributes towards availing suitable sweet sorghum
for industrial ethanol production. Field studies were carried out in Kenya at varied locations
in randomized complete block design with three replications. Sorghum were harvested at
hard dough stage of grain and evaluated for cane yield, juice volume and fermented to
ethanol. Analyses of variance using SAS version 9.1 showed significant effect of genotype
for morphological characters and ethanol yield. Genotype EUSS10 produced highest cane
(27.4 T/Ha) and juice yield (7806.7 L/Ha) whereas ACFC003/12 recorded maximum ethanol
yield (423.1 L/Ha). In all sites, the maximum plant height and days to 50% heading
corresponded to EUSS10 whereas brix and total sugar corresponded to SS04. Highest grain
yield and non-reducing sugar was recorded by SS17 and SS21, respectively. The results of
this study show that though brix and total sugars are desirable for ethanol yield, cane yield
and juice volume of sweet sorghum determines the ultimate volume of ethanol.
Key words: sweet sorghum; genotypes; stalk juice; ethanol
19
Adaptability and Stability Study of Selected Sweet Sorghum Genotypes under different
Environments using AMMI analysis and GGE Biplots
Justice K. Rono1, Erick K. Cheruiyot
2, Jacktone O. Othira
1, James Owuoche
2, Virginia
W. Njuguna2
1Egerton University, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, P.O Box 536-
20115, Egerton, Kenya; 2Egerton University, Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soil,
P.O Box 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya
Email: [email protected], 0722359310
Abstract
The genotype and environment interaction manipulates the selection criteria of sorghum
genotypes. Eight sweet sorghum genotypes were evaluated at five different locations in two
growing seasons of 2014. The aim was to explore the adaptation and identify best genotypes
for bioethanol production in Kenya. A randomized complete block design was employed with
three replications. Sorghum canes were harvested at hard dough stage of grain and juice was
extracted then it was fermented to obtain ethanol. Yield data was analyzed using the additive
main effect and multiplication interaction model (AMMI) and Genotype plus genotype by
environment (GGE) biplot. The combined analysis of variance of cane and juice yield of
sorghum genotypes showed that sweet sorghum genotypes were significantly (P<0.05)
affected by environments (E), genotypes (G), and genotype by environment interaction
(GEI). GGE biplot showed high yielding genotypes EUSS10, ACFC003/12, SS14 and
EUSS11 for cane yield; EUSS10, EUSS11 and SS14 for juice yield and EUSS10, SS04,
SS14 and ACFC003/12 for ethanol yield. Genotype SS14 and SS17 were low yielding and
showed general adaptability for both cane and juice yield whereas SS17 was widely adapted
for ethanol yield. The mean yield value of genotypes averaged over environments indicated
that EUSS10 had highest cane yield (26.91 t/ha) and juice yield (7807l/ha) while
ACFC003/12 had highest ethanol yield (423.1l/ha). Genotype EUSS10 exhibited specific
adaptation to favorable environments and is the promising genotype of superior performance
for ethanol production.
Key words: sweet sorghum, G x E interaction, cane yield, ethanol yield
20
Sub-cellular Localization and Hypersensitive Reaction Analyses of the Hsp70 Gene of
Tomato Chlorosis Virus
1,2Miriam Karwitha,
2Xiaojiao Chen,
2Yan Shen and
2Xiaorong Tao
1Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soils Egerton University, P.o Box 536-20115,
Egerton-Kenya; 2Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests,
Ministry of Education, Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University,
Nanjing 210095, China
E-mail: [email protected], Tel: 254 704 245 163
Abstract
Closteroviridae is the only viral family coding for a homolog of Heat shock proteins 70
(HSP70). Heat shock proteins belong to a subset of cellular proteins that have a broad
spectrum of functions including structural, transcriptional and enzymatic. HSP70 homolog of
Tomato Clorosis Virus (ToCV) is encoded by ORF 2 of RNA 2 and is conserved among
criniviruses. HSP70 likely associates with virion tails and is involved in virion assembly and
cell-to-cell movement based on homology with CTV and beet yellows virus. Synergistic
interaction between ToCV and Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) in tomato results in
dramatic increase in symptom severity was observed in plants of a susceptible cultivar after
simultaneous inoculation of both viruses, leading to a rapid death of plants. While, pre-
infection with ToCV of tomato cultivars resistant to TSWV resulted in loss of TSWV
resistance. Resistance in tomato to infection with strains of TSWV involves a local hyper-
sensitive response (HR). Previous studies indicated that NSm which is TSWV movement
protein and dominant resistance gene Sw5 in tomato are involved in HR induction. This
study analyzed the Hsp70 gene sub cellular localization and hypersensitive reaction of
Tomato Chlorosis Virus using Nicotiana benthamiana as a model. The study revealed that the
interaction of Hsp70 ToCV movement protein with Nsm and Sw5b could stop the production
of HR which is normally observed when Nsm and Sw5b interact. Also the addition of DnaJ
(a Hsp70 co-chaperone and plant protein) could not induce HR while the interaction between
Nsm, Sw5b and DnaJ induced HR in the absence of Hsp70. This is the first report for the
Crinivirus Hsp70 homology localization in the nuclear and endoplasmic reticulum based on
snapshots of representative confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) images. The
intracellular localization of Hsp70 of ToCV in the endoplasmic reticulum and nucleus
provides clues as to the additional functions of Hsp70 and mechanisms of their interaction
with the cell components.
Key words: Crinivirus, Hsp70, Hyper-sensitive response, intracellular localization, Tomato
Clorosis Virus
21
Control of chickpea root knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) in Nakuru County, Kenya
using poultry manure
Kimani, I.M., Muthamia, J. M. and Otaye, D.O.
Department of Biological Sciences, Egerton University, Njoro, Kenya
E-mail: [email protected] Tel. +254729354550
Abstract
Chickpea is a source of food and nutrients to farmers. Chickpea growth and yield production
is affected by root knot nematodes. Loss of yields from chickpeas is estimated to be in the
billions annually. Sudan grass (Sorghum sudanese) was used to study the control of root knot
disease in chickpea. The study was done in a glasshouse. Completely random design was
used. Treatments had eight replicates and uninoculated control was treated with distilled
water. The aim of the study was to control root knot nematodes using Sudan grass. There was
significant reduction of root galling, gall index and number of juveniles in the soil at P=0.05
in Sudan grass treatment. Inoculated control recorded highest gall ratings, gall index and
number of juveniles. There was a relationship between gall index and root weights. Roots
with highest and lowest gall index were associated with high and low root fresh and dry
weights respectively. The results of this study confirm the nematicidal effect of poultry
manure and Sudan grass.
Key words: Meloidogyne spp., Sudan grass, Sorghum sudanese
22
Effect of Agrochemical use on Soil Fertility and Contaminants on Tobacco Smallholder
Farms in Migori County, Kenya
Kisinyo Peter Oloo1, Chacha Joseph Sarima
2 and Opala Peter Asborn
2
1Rongo University College, Rongo, P.O. Box 103-40404, Rongo, Keny;
2Maseno
University, P.O. Box, Private Bag, Maseno, Kenya
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]. Tel: +254723320168
Abstract
Majority of tobacco production (80%) in Kenya are in Migori and Homa Bay Counties.
Tobacco production has led to deforestation, soil erosion and soil fertility depletion. Its
production requires a lot of agrochemicals, both fertilizers and pesticides. The study
determined the effect of tobacco cultivation on soil fertility and contamination by heavy
metals in some smallholder farms in Migori County, Kenya. In February 2014, soil samples
were taken from four sub-counties (Uriri, Suna East, Suna West and Kuria West), Migori
County on farms where tobacco was harvested in December, 2013. Nine sub-samples were
taken in a zig - zag manner from each farm, thoroughly mixed to make a composite sample
and about 1.0 kg was sent to the laboratory soil fertility (N, P, K, pH and C) and heavy metals
(Cd, Pb, Co, Cu, Cr, Mn, Ni and Zn) analysess. The soils had low pH < 6.0 and K (< 0.5
mg/kg soil due to leaching of the base cations by high rainfall. Both N (< 0.25%) and C (<
4%) were low due to leaching high rainfall, high rate of organic matter decomposition and
feeding food crop residue to livestock. Soil P was low probably due to its fixation by Al and
Fe oxides. They had heavy metals contamination with moderate levels (contamination factor
(CF) of 1 ≤ CF ≤ 3) of Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu and Co. Contamination from Zn, Mn and Ni was low
(< 1). Low soil fertility makes these soils unable to produce high crop yields. Use of
pesticides in tobacco may lead contamination of food crops normally planted after its
harvests which may cause health problems in animals consuming them.
Key words: Soil, fertility, heavy metals, tobacco
23
Co-inoculation of Rhizobia and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria effects on Common
Bean Production in a Low Phosphorus Soil
Korir, H.1, Mungai, N. W
1., Masso, C.
2, Thuita, M.
2 and Hamba, Y.
2
1Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soils, Egerton University, P. O. Box 536 Egerton,
Kenya; 2 International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Nairobi, Kenya.
E-mail: [email protected] Tel: +254-725-018-115.
Abstract
Nitrogen (N) fixation by legume-Rhizobium symbiosis is important to agricultural
productivity and is therefore of great economic interest. Growing evidence indicates that
other soil beneficial bacteria can positively affect symbiotic performance of rhizobia. The
effect of co-inoculation with phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and rhizobium, on
nodulation and growth of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) was investigated using a low
phosphorous soil under greenhouse conditions. PSB strains were isolated from common bean
nodules from Nakuru County in central Rift valley in Kenya. The PSB strains were
molecularly characterized using 16S rDNA partial gene sequencing. The PSB strains
Paenibacillus polymyxa and Bacillus megaterium as well as two rhizobia strains and one
reference rhizobia strain (CIAT 899) were used in this study. Common bean seeds of two
varieties were inoculated with Rhizobium strains singly or in a combination with PSB to
evaluate their effect on nodulation and growth parameters. A significant variation in plant
growth resulted from inoculation with Rhizobium strains. Further, co-inoculation of the
rhizobia with PSB significantly increased nodule number and weight, and shoot and root dry
weight. Co-inoculation with Rhizobium and PSB demonstrated a significant increase in the
proportion of growth of common bean. These results indicate that PSB strains have potential
to enhance the symbiotic potential of rhizobia. Testing of the PGPR under field conditions
will further elucidate their effectiveness on the growth and ultimate yield of common bean.
Key words: Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria
(PGPR), Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB), Rhizobia
24
Dairy Cattle Feeding for Product Quality and environmental resilience: A Literature
Review
Francesca N. Lusweti
Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, Food Crops Research Institute,
Kitale. P. O. Box 450-30200, Kitale
Email: [email protected], Tel. 0722 633 140
Abstract
As the society changes its eating habits, farmers will have to respond and adapt to new
market needs. The approach to research will also have to change to address farmers‟ needs.
The implications on feeding of livestock are that nutrient composition of the final product has
to be kept in mind. Already these changes in the researchers‟ outlook are seen in the current
research publications. This review focuses on the effects of dairy cattle feeding on the fatty
acid profile of milk, and on methane production. Particularly, feed additives that alter the
fatty acid profile of the product have been investigated with the aim of reducing trans fatty
acids, which have been associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease, the
worldwide leading cause of death. The rumen fermentation and biohydrogenation process
can affect the quantities of trans fatty acids. Furthermore, the type of feed must take in
consideration the question of environmental resilience especially as regards greenhouse gas
emission. Ruminants, and especially dairy cattle have been referred to as the „big culprits‟
when it comes to greenhouse gas emission. The type of feeding regime preferred must
therefore reduce the greenhouse gas emission as much as possible. This is seen in some of
the papers reviewed here where several additives are being tested in their efficacy in reducing
rumen methane. The major approach seems to be to reduce the populations of methanogenic
bacteria in the rumen. Some promising additives identified include ionophores and other
antimicrobial substances that target the ruminal bacterial population, increasing production
efficiency, while reducing methane emissions.
Key words: feed additives, fatty acid profile, rumen methane
25
On-farm Feed Handling Practices and their association with growth of Mycotoxin
Producing Molds in Animal Feeds at Rural and Peri-urban Dairy Sub-value Chains in
Nakuru County, Kenya.
1Makau Caroline
1 Matofari Joseph,
1Muliro Patrick,
2Bebe Bockline
1Egerton University, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Dairy & Food Science and
Technology; 2Egerton University, Animal Science Department, Box 536 Njoro, Kenya.
Email:[email protected]
Abstract
Smallholder dairying is dependent on stall feeding, using cultivated fodder and crop residues.
Due to seasonal fluctuations, farmers resort to formulating farm crop residues as animal feeds
using several methods and occasionally buy commercial feeds from local agro-vets of
unknown quality. The practices or methods used to make these fodder, store and feed the
dairy animal‟s on-farm may pose a safety risk of mycotoxins to the dairy cow and animal
products, hence a public health concern. This study aimed at documenting the farmers
practices of handling on-farm animal feeds and how the prevailing environmental physico-
chemical parameters influence the growth of mycotoxin producing fungi (molds).A
structured questionnaire was used to collect data on practices. On- farm environmental
physico-chemical parameters were taken, including; pH, aw, moisture content of feeds and
temperature of storage. Feed samples were collected to enumerate for the mycotoxin
producing molds. A total of 120 farmers were interviewed for on-farm practices and 97 feed
samples were collected for mold enumeration. Documentation data was analyzed using SAS
9.1.3 version and feed samples were cultured on selective media for the isolation of
mycotoxin producing molds and the cultural parameters were compared with those of the
environment where the feed samples were collected. Storage facilities in 18% of farmers‟
homes were in poor condition for use of storage of animal feeds with 12% of farmers keeping
animal feeds on the floor under humid conditions. Water activity negatively correlated mold
count (r= -0.388, p<0.001). This was because of the highest mold growth was obtained in
dairy commercial feeds that had low water activity levels of an average of 0.64. Results
showed that Aspergillus spp. 77%, and fusarium spp. 70%, the main toxigenic fungi were the
prevalent genera respectively. Feed contamination on- farm with mycotoxic fungi is primarily
due to poorly constructed storage facilities.
Key words: Aspergillus, Fusarium, Animal feeds, mycotoxins
26
Economic factors affecting Smallholder Maize Farmers’ Adoption of Fertilizer use in
Uasin Gishu County
1, 4Korir, M.,
1Ng’etich, N.,
1, 4Bor, E.K.,
2, 4Birech, R.J.,
1Murenga, H.M. and
3, 4Digo,
C.A.
1 Department of Peace, Security and Social Studies, Egerton University;
2 Department of
Crops, Horticulture and Soil Sciences, Egerton University; 3 Department of Human Nutrition,
Egerton University; 4
Smallholder Farmers Access to Phosphorus Fertilizer (SMAP), Global
TraPs
Email: [email protected], Tel: 0725720974.
Abstract
Majority of the rural Kenyans‟ especially the smallholder maize farmers, depend on farming
as their sources of livelihoods. Due to small sizes of farms and declining soil fertility, farmers
have been prompted to adopt the use of inorganic fertilizer to enhance high yields in their
farms as a source of food and income. Despite the use of fertilizer in maize farming, it has
been observed in the recent past a decline of maize yields per hectare, from about 5 tons to
1.5 tons hence affecting food security. To explore the economic factors that influence the
adoption of fertilizer use among the smallholder maize farmers in Eldoret west sub-county,
156 smallholder maize farmers‟ household heads were sampled. Both descriptive and
inferential statistics were used to examine the economic factors that influence the adoption of
fertilizer use among the smallholder maize farmers. The economic factors explored had an
insignificant relationship with adoption of fertilizer use by the smallholder maize farmers.
However, policy changes are required to (1) To educate the smallholder maize farmers on the
effects of soil acidity on maize farming (2) Government to continue Fertilizer subsidy
program to enable smallholder maize farmers purchase the recommended quantity by the
Ministry of agriculture and (3) reduce the interest rate on agricultural loans to encourage
smallholder maize farmers to use the loans in farming to improve rural livelihoods.
Key words: Economic factors, adoption, fertilizer use, Smallholder maize farmers, food
security and livelihoods.
27
Effect of Cassava Variety and Substitution level on Rheological and Sensory
characteristics of Wheat-Cassava Composite Bread
1Wambua, M.,
1Matofari, J.W.,
1Faraj, A, K. and
2Lamuka, P.O.
1Department of Dairy, Food Science and Technology, Egerton University P.O Box 536,
Egerton, Kenya; 2Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Technology, University of
Nairobi, P.O. Box 29053, Nairobi, Kenya
Email: [email protected], +254-724440045
Abstract
The increased cost of wheat flour has necessitated the search for alternative locally available
crop that may provide cheap flour that can be used in the confectionery industry. Cassava
crop has been identified because its flour has great potential to be utilized as a partial
substitution of wheat flour in the baking industry. This study investigated the effects of
variety and substitution level of wheat with cassava flour to have wheat-cassava composite
bread and to be bench-marked with common wheat bread in attributes on the market.
Different flour blends for the different cassava varieties namely; MH95/0183, MH95/0193
and Selele properties were prepared using wheat: cassava flour ratios as follows; 95:5, 90:10,
85:15, 80:20, 75:25 and 70:30, baker‟s flour was used as the control. The protein, moisture
content, water activity and gluten of the flour blends and alveograph properties dough
extensibility, dough strength and deformation energy of the dough blends were determined.
Baking was done using Pup –loaf method, the specific volume, form ratio was calculated and
sensory evaluation was carried out using 25 semi-trained panelists. The protein content,
moisture content, water activity and gluten content reduced with increase in cassava
substitution for all the cassava varieties. There was no significant difference in the proximate
composition of the different varieties at each substitution level. MH95/0183 had better
alveograph properties compared to MH95/0193 and Selele at each substitution level. Selele
had the highest specific volume and form ratio compared to MH95/018 and MH95/0193 at
the different substitution level. Bread made from 5%, 10% and 15% cassava flour didn‟t have
significant differences with the control in terms of sensory attributes. Generally bread baked
from 100% wheat was like most followed by bread baked from Selele. The external loaf
characteristics were the major factors the panelist used to rate the acceptability of the bread.
Key words: Cassava, bread, variety, substitution level
28
An Outlook on the Utilization of Tea Waste as a Livestock and Poultry Feed – Local,
Regional and International Perspectives
K.O. Moseti
Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization – Tea Research Institute (KALRO-
TRI), P.O. Box, 820-20200, Kericho, Kenya
Email: [email protected], Tel: +254 710 398 941
Abstract
There is a gigantic gap that exists between the demand and supply of animal feed and fodder
resources both in quality and quantity globally. This has resulted in livestock feed becoming
a major constraint, especially to small farmer livestock operation. To bridge this gap and for
making the use of unconventional feeds, several agro-industrial by-products, including tea
waste, have been tested for use as a potential source of feeds for the livestock and poultry.
Considering the large scale availability of tea waste locally, regionally and internationally,
the current literature survey examines in detail the extent of utilization of tea waste as a
source of feed for livestock and poultry.
Key words: Factory Tea Waste (FTW); Spent tea; Agro-industrial by-products
29
Potential use of High Value Kenyan Teas in Development of Diversified Products
Augustine M. Muthiani1, 2
, John K.Wanyoko2, Francis N. Wachira
3, Samson M.
Kamunya2, Richard M. Chalo
2, Kimutai Samuel
4 and Karori S. Mbuthia
1
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Egerton University, P.O Box 536-
20115, Egerton, Kenya; 2 Tea Research Institute (TRI), P.O. Box 820-20200, Kericho,
Kenya; 3Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa
(ASARECA), P.O Box 765, Entebbe, Uganda; 4Department of Chemistry, Egerton
University, P.O Box 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya
Email: [email protected], Tel: +254722493572
Abstract
Tea industry in Kenya contributes significantly to the economy by being the largest
agribusiness and a major foreign exchange earner. However, significant revenue is lost
primarily when tea is sold largely in undiversified form. This has created a need to
characterize the available clones for suitability in high value tea product development.
Samples were obtained from 204 tea clones conserved in Kericho and Kangaita substation
and assayed for total polyphenols, catechins, caffeine, anthocyanins, chlorogenic acid and
theanine using reverse phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC). There
was a significant difference (P<0.05) in total phenolic (16.4%- 30.9%) and total catechins
(11.03%-25.42%). Thirty five clones recorded a polyphenol content higher (mean value of
28.45%) than that of the reference clone, TRFK 6/8 (27.4%), an indication of their suitability
in the development of high quality black teas. Fifteen clones were found suitable for the
manufacture of theaflavin-3, 3‟-digallate rich black tea based on their high levels of
Epicatechin gallate (ECG) and Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Clones TRFK 687/1 and
73/7 which had the least caffeine contents (1.96% and 2.04% respectively) were considered
in the manufacture of low-caffeine beverages. Kenyan teas have a remarkable diversity in
biochemical attributes and thus suitable for development of diversified tea products.
Key words: High Value Tea Products; Catechins; Total Polyphenols; Caffeine; Chlorogenic
acid.
30
Preparation and Quality Evaluation of Beef Hams containing Gum Arabic from Acacia
senegal var. kerensis
Johnson K. Mwove1, Lilian A. Gogo
1, Ben N. Chikamai
2, Symon M. Mahungu
1
1Dairy and Food science and Technology Department, Egerton University, PO Box 536 -
20115, Egerton, Kenya; bKenya Forest Research Institute, PO Box 20412 – 00200, Nairobi,
Kenya.
E-Mail: [email protected] Tel +254-714 273 101
Abstract
Beef hams injected with curing brines containing gum arabic from Acacia senegal var.
kerensis were prepared. Samples weighing 3.5 kg were injected at two injection levels (30%
and 35% over green weight) with curing brines containing gum arabic (1.0%. 1.5%, 2.0%,
2.5% and 3.0% of the final product weight) and a non-injected sample as a control. Soy
protein concentrate (SPC) at 3.5% of the final product weight was also prepared for further
comparison. Samples were boiled to a core temperature of 75oC and then cooled to core
temperatures of 4oC. Mean results indicated that the level of gum arabic from Acacia senegal
var. kerensis used in curing brines significantly increased the cook yield and reduced the
extractable moisture in cooked beef hams. The injection of beef with curing brine also
significantly increased the cook yield and the extractable moisture of beef hams as compared
to the non-injected beef samples. Both injection and gum levels had a significant effect on the
proximate composition of the resulting beef hams. Sensory evaluation revealed that samples
containing gum arabic at 2.5% were juicier and comparable to those containing SPC at 3.5%
injection level. Furthermore, these samples had the highest overall preference comparable to
samples injected with curing brines containing SPC.
Key words: Gum arabic, Water holding capacity, Beef hams, Curing brine injection
31
Efficacy of Foliar Fungicide and Seed Treatment on Percentage Disease Incidence (PDI)
Disease Severity Index (DSI) and Area Under Disease Progress Curve of Ascochyta
Blight (Ascochyta rabiei L.)
Nganga1 J.N., Kimurto
1 P.K., Muthamia
2 J.M. and Towett
1 B.K.
1Department of Crops Soils and Horticulture, Egerton University,
2Department of Biological Sciences, Egerton University,
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Ascochyta blight, caused by Ascochyta rabiei L., is the most devastating foliar disease of
chickpea in the dry highlands of Kenya. The efficacy of Azoxystrobin, Difenoconazole,
Azoxystrobin+Difenoconazole and Metalaxyl+Mancozeb was evaluated in field experiments
conducted in two sites over two years. Preliminary studies in the laboratory to determine the
percentage of infection in two seed lots; symptomatic and asymptomatic seeds were
conducted. This was followed by laboratory, greenhouse and field screening of the efficacy
of the four fungicides to reduce incidence and severity of ascochyta blight. The experiments
were laid out as completely randomized design (laboratory assays), completely randomized
block design (greenhouse screening) and split-split plot design in the field trials. Data on
incubation period, percent infection and germination in the laboratory and greenhouse trials
and percent disease incidence (PDI) and disease severity index (DSI) in the field trials were
taken and subjected to analysis of variance using SAS version 9.1.3 (SAS Institute Inc.).
Significant means of the main effect were separated using the Fisher‟s Protected LSD while
significant interactions were separated using the standard errors of the LS means statement of
the PROC GLM procedure. Seed dressing with fungicides significantly increased percent
germination by up to 14.73% for and incubation period (days to development of first
symptoms) by up to 6 days (for asymptomatic seeds) compared to control at P≤0.05. Foliar
application of fungicides was more effective than application as seed dress in reducing
incidence and severity of ascochyta blight in all trials. Azoxystrobin and Difenoconazole
were more efficacious in reducing disease severity and incidence when used as seed dress or
foliar applied compared to Metalaxyl+Mancozeb. The findings suggest that seed dressing
may improve seed germination as well as reduce disease severity to compliment foliar
applied control which is more effective.
Key words: Ascochyta blight, seed dressing, fungicide control, foliar application
32
Ex-post Coping Strategies to Production and Marketing Shocks among African Leafy
Vegetable Farmers in Kenya
E. Ngenoh1, 2
, S. Kebede1, W. Bokelmann
1 and H.K. Bett
2
1Department of Agricultural Economics, Humboldt University of Berlin, Invaliden str. 42,
10115Berlin, Germany; 2Department of Agricultural Economics and Business Management,
Egerton University, P.O. Box 536, 20115Egerton, Kenya;
Email: [email protected] Tel: +254 721 538 378
Abstract
African Leafy Vegetables (ALVs) have a great potential in mitigating malnutrition and
source of households income. However, Production and Marketing Shocks (PMS) have
adversely affects its contribution to household poverty alleviation and food security.
Additionally, there is insufficient evidence as to why households choose to adopt specific
types of coping strategies. This study therefore used two-step Heckman selection model to
determine the factors influencing the decision and the extent of adopting various coping
strategies to PMS among smallholder ALV producers in Kenya. A comprehensive household
survey data from 1232 ALV producers in five counties was used.The results showed that
66% and 11% of surveyed households have reported to face at least one of the PMS,
respectively, while about 77% and 83% of households made the decision to cope with PMS,
respectively. The model estimates show that region, household size, high-valued market
participation, contact with extension services, occupation, access to market information, and
credit access significantly influence the adoption of coping strategies to PMS. Other
important factors include age and education of the household head, number of enterprises,
livestock value, and the type of irrigation system. The study concludes that providing access
to formal insurance, saving and credit to producers offers the opportunity to use market-based
coping strategies that are much more efficient in ex-post coping strategies. In addition,
policies should be put in place to facilitate participation of producers in high value ALV
markets. In addition, increasing access to market information and the number of extension
service contacts need to be encouraged as these increases the probability of undertaking
active coping strategies. Finally, promoting asset accumulation (in terms of higher livestock
value) plays a significant role in providing leverage for households‟ to use more than one
coping strategy that gives them enough option for a better welfare.
Key words: Agricultural Shocks; Ex-post; Coping; African Leafy Vegetables; Household
Livelihoods
33
Indigenous Agricultural Knowledge and Food Security: Prospects and Challenges
Mwangi Nixon Njau
Dept. Philosophy, History & Religious Studies, Egerton University, Kenya
Email: [email protected]; 0723332373
Abstract
Food security has been a major concern since the last century. This is especially the case with
the third world countries in Africa, parts of Asia, and Latin America. Many attempts to
address food insecurity through increased agricultural production for the ever increasing
population have been tried. However, the issue of food insecurity still remains a major global
threat to the livelihood of millions people from the poor regions. Attempt by the scientific
world to introduce crops and animals that are pest and disease resistant, drought resistant,
hybrid varieties and even the controversial genetically modified organisms (GMO) have not
really yielded the desired production levels. There has been almost a universal acceptance
among farmers of all calibers that agricultural production has to be guided by practices and
knowledge that originate from the Western world. This conviction is always done at the
expense of the local knowledge that has guided the local population for ages. As such
indigenous knowledge ends up being subordinated, marginalized and even destroyed yet it‟s
the knowledge that is communicated in the local languages which local farmers can
comprehend and identify with. This paper argues that, food insecurity in Africa as well as in
other third world countries can be addressed if the local people‟s knowledge would be
tapped. Indeed, an articulation of local with exotic knowledge would go a milestone in
addressing agricultural production in third world countries. The paper examines the potential
as well as challenges that face indigenous knowledge in attempt to increase agricultural
production.
Key words: Indigenous Knowledge; Food Security; Challenges; Prospects
34
Cultivation of Indigenous Oyster Mushrooms using different Agricultural Wastes
Njeru, P.W., Wagara, I.N., and Kariuki, S.T.
Department of Biological Sciences, Egerton University P.O Box 536, Egerton, Njoro, Kenya
E-mail: [email protected], Tel. +254 710150734
Abstract
Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus species) have the ability to grow on a variety of agricultural
and industrial wastes. Access to affordable and good quality spawn is a major challenge for
the small scale farmers. The aim of this study was, therefore, to test agricultural wastes as
suitable substrates for spawn production of indigenous Pleurotus species. Different
agricultural wastes including straws of wheat, barley and beans, maize cobs and sawdust
were tested individually for spawn production. There was a significant difference at P<0.05
in mycelia colonization period when different spawn types were inoculated on bean and
wheat straw substrates. Bean straw spawn had the lowest colonization period of 23 and was
the best agricultural waste spawn. There was no significant difference on pinning days and
2nd
flush yields of the different types of spawn but there was a significant difference between
maize cob and wheat grain spawn in yields of 1st flush. The results of this study indicate the
suitability of the various agricultural wastes as substrates for indigenous oyster mushroom
spawn production. This will substitute cereal grains like wheat that are currently used as
substrates for spawn production thus increase food security.
Key words; Colonization, indigenous mushrooms spawn, substrates,
35
Optimization of Processing Techniques of selected Coloured Tea Clones in Kenya
S.O. Ochanda1, J.K. Wanyoko
1, S. Kamunya
1, E. Kipsura
1, H, Ruto
1, E. Kilel
2, A.K.
Faraj3, C.A. Onyango
4
1Tea Research Foundation of Kenya, P.O. Box 820-20200, Kericho, Kenya;
2Karatina
University, P.O. Box 1957-10101 Karatina, Kenya; 3Egerton University, P.O. Box 536-
20115, Njoro, Kenya; 4Taita Taveta University College, P. O. Box 635 – 80300, VOI, Kenya.
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Processing variables on the in-cup chemical composition of tea affects appearance, taste and
health effects which arise from the chemical components extracted from the leaf during tea
preparation. A study was undertaken to determine the effects of aeration, non-aeration, semi-
aeration and non-aeration & sweltering on the polyphenols, catechins, antioxidants colour,
theaflavins, and thearubigins contents of tea extracts. Selected tea varieties including TRFK
305/1,TRFK 306/1, TRFK 306/2, TRFK 306/3, TRFK 306/4, TRFK 6/8, C12, TN14/3 were
used in the research. Biochemical analyses of the quality parameters were done followed by
statistical assay to determine statistical differences. The results show that there are chemical
differences arising from effects of processing methods were significant (P≤0.05). Non-
aeration and sweltering method of processing registered the highest catechins, polyphenols
and antioxidants followed by non-aeration, semi-aeration and aeration methods. On the other
hand aeration method of processing resulted in the highest theflavin, thearubigin and total
colour. The research shows that for the processing of coloured clones non-aeration and
sweltering resulted in the highest catehins with a mean of 15.5%, against 14.6, 10.6 and 8.7
for non-aerated, oolong and aerated teas respectively. Antioxidants were also highest in non-
aerated sweltered teas at 86% followed by 84, 84 and 78% for non-aerated, semi-aerated and
black teas respectively. Liquor colour was rated highest of was highest in non-aerated
sweltered teas, then non-aerated semi aerated and aerated teas respectively. The research
therefore recommends non-aerated sweltered method for processing coloured clones.
Key words: aeration, non-aeration, sweltering, polyphenols, colour
36
Utilizing Sucrose, Agar and Wheat Starch as source of Carbon
S.O. Ochanda1, J.K. Wanyoko
1, AK Faraj
2, C.A. Onyango
3
1Tea Research Foundation of Kenya, P.O. Box 820-20200, Kericho, Kenya;
2Egerton
University, P.O. Box 536-20115, Njoro, Kenya; 3Taita Taveta University College, P. O. Box
635 – 80300, VOI, Kenya.
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
The effect of tea (Camellia sinensis) on the biochemical activities of yeast was determined.
Three brands of saccharomyces cereviciae variety ellipsoidus yeast, 3 carbon sources and 3
types of tea were used. Assays included yeast cell proliferation, sucrose metabolism, alcohol
and carbon dioxide production. The results showed that yeast proliferation significantly
increased (P<0.0001) with the addition of tea and suagr carbon source in the liquid but not in
solid agar media. Yeast brands significantly differed (P<0.0001) in their proliferation rates
with Saf registering 67% followed by angel 39% and furaha at 37%. High sugar registered of
62% over low sugar 33% on proliferation. Tea types did not however significantly differ
(P>0.0001) in their action on yeast. Sugar breakdown-The yeast brands significantly differed
(P<0.0001) in sugar breakdown with Saf registering 61.4% against 60.2% for angel and
60.0% furaha. However teas did not significantly differ (P=0.0032) in their activity with
yeast during sugar breakdown. Ethanol production- There were significant differences
(P<0.0001) between sugar content and ethanol production with higher sugar registering 9.5
against 5.1% for low. Yeasts significantly differed (P<0.0001) in their sugar conversion rate
to alcohol with furaha registering 8.04%, angel 6.94% and saf 6.85%. Teas did not
significantly (P=0067) differ on yeast activity in ethanol production. Carbon dioxide
production significantly differed (P<0.0001) among yeast brands with Saf yeast 1629.5,
angel 1593.2 and furaha 1317.0mL/L. Teas did not differ significantly (P=0.1868) on yeast
activity in carbon dioxide production. Yeats brands differ in sugar breakdown and ethanol
production and tea enhances yeast activity. Tea is recommended for enhancing yeast growth
and activity.
Key words: Tea, yeast, cell growth, sugar, ethanol, Carbon dioxide.
37
Identification of the Crop Management Constraints effects of Climate Change in the
Potato Value Chain in Mauche Ward in Njoro Sub-County in Kenya
1Ooro, P.A;
3Birech, R.;
2Malinga, J.B.;
4Benhard, F.;
5Asch, F.;
5Germer, J.U. and
3Taiy, R.
1KALRO-Food Crops Research Institute, P.O. Njoro -20107;
2KALRO-Food Crops Research
Institute, P.O. Box 450- 30200, Kitale; 3Egerton University, P.O. Box 536, Egerton, Kenya;
4University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (Boku), Dep. of Sustainable Agricultural
Systems, Institute of Organic Farming, AUSTRIA; 5University of Hohenheim (UHOH),
Stuttgart Germany
Email: [email protected] Tel: +254-722-462-052
Abstract
Potato is the second most important food crop after maize in Kenya but its production is
currently facing great challenges due to climate variability and change. To understand the
effects of climate change on potato productivity, a baseline survey was conducted in Mauche
in Njoro Sub-County to identify the opportunities and challenges; and suggest possible
climate smart intervention strategies. Various tools were used in the study including
structured questionnaire, key informant interviews and focus group discussions to collect
data. Random sampling method was used to select the sample population of 150 smallholder
potato farmers for the administration of the questionnaires. Focus group discussions (FGDs)
were held with 10 input suppliers, 10 potato traders and 10 transporters. Key informants
interviewed were also conducted with other value chain actors including Agricultural
Development Corporation who is the major supplier of potato seed. Data was analyzed using
SPSS compute package. Results showed that most farmers in Mauche ward grow potatoes in
relatively smaller land sizes (0.1 – 1.0 acres) compared to maize (1 -2 acres). Results further
revealed that pests and diseases are the most frequently occurring as a major climate change
indicators (27.3%) followed by crop yield reduction (15.2%). Farmers mainly time of
planting (24.7%), disease control strategies (26%), crop diversification (16.7%) and planting
of drought tolerant and early maturing potato varieties (15.3%) as coping strategies to climate
change in Mauche area. The information generated from this study was used to develop
climate smart production technologies for implementation in the mother and baby trials at
KALRO Njoro and Mauche ward. Ultimately it is anticipated that the final research results
and innovations developed will used for the advancement of humanity.
Key words: potato value chain; Climate smart; Constraints; interventions
38
Potato Value Chain Analysis in Mauche Ward of Njoro Sub-county, Kenya
Rael Taiy1, Christopher Onyango
2, Agnes Nkurumwa
2, Kibet Ngetich
4, Rhoda Birech
5
Patrick Ooro6
1Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Agricultural Sector Development Support
Programme, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya; 2Egerton University, Department of Agricultural
Education and Extension, Kenya; 3Egerton University, Department of Sociology and
Anthropology, Kenya; 4Egerton University, Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soil
Chemistry, Kenya; 5Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO),
Food Crops Research Institute-Njoro, Kenya
E-mail: [email protected] Phone number: +254722271591
Abstract
A study was conducted in Mauche in Njoro Sub-County to analyse the potato value chain in
order to identify the opportunities and challenges and suggest possible intervention measures.
The study employed a structured questionnaire, key informant interviews and focus group
discussions to collect data. The questionnaire was administered to 150 smallholder potato
farmers randomly sampled. Focus group discussions engaged 10 potato input suppliers, 10
traders and 10 transporters. Key informants interviewed were a major supplier of potato seed
- Agricultural Development Corporation, fabricator of farm machinery - Agricultural
Technology Development Centre and 3 restaurants in Nakuru purposively sampled. The
survey showed that 60% of the farmers were smallholders owning 2-5 acres of land. A
majority of them (90%) used between 0.1 and 1 acre of their land to grow potatoes and
earned KShs 50,000 and 70,000 per year. The study revealed a complicated value chain full
of mistrust. Input suppliers complained of high cost of business licences imposed by the
County Government and credit purchases of inputs by farmers. Constraints cited by farmers
included rampant pests and diseases, high cost of farm inputs, shortage of certified seed,
inadequate potato storage, lack of market information and limited access to the market. These
were aggravated by lack of collective action in input acquisition and marketing, poor linkage
to processors and consumers. Transporters lamented about overloading by traders and high
parking fees imposed by municipal markets. Traders exercised a lot of power in dictating
farm gate prices of extended potato bags. They however complained of losses incurred when
unscrupulous farmers load rotten potatoes in the middle of the bag. Recommendations for
future interventions include formation of farmer cooperatives, contract farming, cottage value
addition and formation of Collective Learning Communities to bring all actors along the
potato value chain to address the constraints together.
Key words: potato value chain, Constraints, interventions
39
Activity of Secondary Metabolites from Hagenia abyssinicca against Plant Bacterial
Pathogens, Xanthomonas campestris pv .phaseoli and Pseudomonas syringae pv.
Pheseolicola.
Regina Chepkorir1, Josphat C. Matasyoh
1, Isabel N. Wagara
2
1Department of Chemistry, Egerton University;
2Department of Biological sciences,
Egerton University
Email: [email protected], Tel: +254720832523
Abstract
Common bean (Pheseolus vulgaris L.) is an important legume in Kenya and is second only to
maize in importance as a food crop. Bacterial infection of beans severely constraints the
production in Kenya. Farmers for many years have used chemical bactericides for the control
of these diseases which has resulted in adverse effects on environment as well as human
health; there is need for a better and safe ways of controlling these pathogens. The eco-
friendly way of controlling this pathogents is by use of botanicals. This research investigates
the activity of methanol exctracts from the leaves of Hagenia abyssinicca against
Xanthomonas campestris pv. Pheseoli and Pseudomonas syringae pv. Phaseolicola. The disc
diffusion method was used to determine the antibacterial activity of the methanol extract
from the leaves of Hagenia abyssinicca. Different concentrations of the methanol extract
were prepared using DMSO. The extract showed inhibitory effects on the visible growth of
both pathogens. At concentration of 3.15mg/ml inhibition zone was visible against
Pseudomonas syringae pv. Phaseoli while Xanthomonas campestris pv. Phaseolicola was at
12.25 mg/ml. Positive control used was Chloramphenicol and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO)
was used as the negative control. These results shows that extracts from Hagenia abyssinicca
can be used for the control of the bacterial pathogens.
Key words: Antibacterial, Methanol extract, Hagenia abyssinicca, Xanthomonas campestris
pv. phaseoli, Pseudomonas syringae pv. Pheseolicola.
40
Morpho-Physiological Traits linked to Drought Tolerance in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum
L.)
Muriuki R. W1, Kimurto P. K
1 and Vadez V
2, Towett B.K
1
1 Egerton University, Crops and Soil Science Dept P.0. Box 536 Njoro
2 International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)
Mobile: +254725582692
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Roots are among the first defence towards drought with other morpho-physiological and
biochemical mechanisms employed by plants. This study determined the root characteristics
associated with water stress tolerance in selected chickpea lines and grain yield performance
under water stress field conditions in ASALs of Kenya. The genotypes were evaluated under
rain shelter in Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cylinders (120 cm long x 20 cm diameter) in a
completely randomized block design. The field experiment was conducted at two sites under
rain fed for two seasons (2013/2014), in 3 replicates. Results showed a large variation in root
biomass (0.16 -077gms/plant). Genotype ICCV 92944 had the greatest root biomass followed
by ICC 283 and ICCV 97306 while genotype ICC 4958 had the highest root length density
(RLD) and longest roots, followed by ICC 283 and ICC 3325. Genotypes ICCV 92944,
ICCV 00108 and ICC 4958 had highest shoot biomass. These traits were correlated with
drought. Field results showed that genotypes ICCV 92318 and ICC 1882 had the largest
seeds in Marigat (irrigated) and Chemeron (rain fed) sites respectively. Grain yield ranged
from 112-867 kg ha-1
in both conditions. Genotype Cavir was the largest genotype. The
findings of this study showed that drought tolerance traits such as root biomass, RLD, shoot
biomass and root length of genotypes could be used for indirect selection for drought
tolerance. Genotypes ICCV 92944 and ICC 4958 are good sources of root traits for
improving susceptible genotypes to enhance water uptake and improve drought tolerance in
chickpea.
Key words: Genotypes, drought stress, Root length density (RLD) and root biomass
41
Evaluation of the New Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L) Hybrid for Malting and Brewing
across Selected Agro-ecological Environments in Kenya
Virginia Wanjiku Njuguna1, Erick Kimutai Cheruiyot
1, Samuel Mwonga
1, Sylvester
Ndeda2
1Egerton University, Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soil, P.O Box 536-20115, Njoro;
2East Africa Malting, P.O. Box 30161-00100 Nairobi
Email: [email protected], 0722359310
Abstract
Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is a drought tolerant crop with potential for industrial
use. The study aimed at contributing to increased sorghum production for industrial use
through determination and documentation of ideal environments for cultivation of the new
sorghum hybrid. The study was conducted in Mundika (LM 2) long rains, Sinyanya (LM 3),
Masumbi (LM 1), Sagam (LM 1), Nyahera (LM 3) and Mundika (short rain season) where
four sorghum lines were evaluated. RCBD with three blocks was used. Planting was done at
the onset of rains in each location. Data on the agronomic traits of interest was collected from
the two central rows per plot. All the data was subjected to analysis of variance using SAS
version 8.1 (SAS INS Cary., 2001). Means were separated according to LSD whenever the
genotypic effects were significant (P ≤ 0.05). ANOVA revealed significant (P≤0.05)
differences among sorghum lines for grain yield in all the sites. There was a genotype x
environment effect (P≤0.05) for the grain yield of the sorghum lines. Significant (P≤0.05)
differences among lines were observed for agronomic parameters, yield components and
grain yield. SDSAI x ICSR43 recorded highest yields in Masumbi which was 88.3, 36.0,
58.4, 73 and 87.2 % more than in Sinyanya, MundikaL, Sagam, Nyahera and MundikaS,
respectively. LM 1 was found to be the most stable agro-ecological environment for the
cultivation of SDSAI x ICSR43. LM 2 during the long rainy season, LM 1 and 3 during the
short rainy season are averagely stable environments for SDSAI x ICSR43 whereas LM 2
during the short rainy season and LM 3 during the long rainy season could not be
recommended for the cultivation of the new sorghum hybrid. Adoption of this genotype by
the farmers and cultivation in the recommended areas will ensure sustainable grain
production to meet the increased industrial demand and improvement of the livelihood of
small holder farmers through increased food and income.
Key words: Sorghum Hybrid, Malting and Brewing, LM.
42
Effect of Variability in Rainfall Intensity on Maize Yield in Trans Nzoia County,
Kenya
Masinde J. Wanyama, Morgan C. Mutoko, Benson M. Wafula and Dickson O. Ligeyo
Kenya Agricultural & Livestock Research Organization, Food Crops Research Institute,
KALRO Kitale, P. O Box 450-30200, Kitale, Kenya
E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract
Maize is the main food crop in Kenya and other sub-Saharan African countries. Trans Nzoia
County is one of the net-exporting areas of maize to other parts of the country. However there
are concerns of declining maize yields. This is partially attributed to climatic variability (e.g.
rainfall, temperature and humidity). The effect of changes in rainfall distribution and intensity
over years have been perceived to pose significant effects on maize planting, growth and
yields. This effect has not been fully documented in Trans Nzoia County. This study was
designed to analyze impacts of rainfall variability on maize yields in Trans Nzoia County,
Kenya. Time series data on rainfall (from Meteorological unit KALRO Kitale) and maize
yield (from National Statistical abstracts) covering 1976-2015 period were utilized.
Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation), correlation and ordinary regression analyses
were applied. The results showed that there was a significant difference (p=0.01) in the
average number of days (166.9±38.6) when rainfall set in from the first day of the year.
Correlation analysis showed that total number of rainy days, the amount of rainfall from June
to august (when maize is at silking stage), and the amount of rainfall from September to
November (maize grain filling stage) had statistically relationships with maize yield. The
regression analysis revealed that the number of days rainfall set in, the number of rainy days
from March to May and number of rainy days from June to August significantly influenced
the maize yield. Subsequently the variability in these rainfall indicators has significantly
influenced maize yield in Trans Nzoia County. This demands for the need to develop and
apply maize technologies that efficiently utilize the available soil moisture after rainfall
events. Besides, effective maize predictor models based on rainfall factors should be
developed to forecast better the likely effect of variability in rainfall intensity on maize
production in Kenya.
Key words: maize yield, growth stages, rainfall variability, intensity, duration
43
Promotion and Utilization of Niche Foods for Food and Nutrition Security
Waswa, J. and Ngugi, L.W.
Karatina University, Department of Food Science and Nutrition
Email: [email protected]; Tel. 0719758589
Abstract
Food and nutrition security are both associated with food availability and accessibility. Each
ecosystem has foods adapted to the region. Niche foods have in the recent past been
neglected yet they have a great potential of solving the food and nutrition security issues
among communities. This paper takes particular interest in traditional vegetables and insects
that were popularly used in the past but are now being neglected by the current generation as
„overtaken by time‟. The traditional vegetables like black night shade, amaranth, cowpeas,
„mrenda‟ and many others are quite nutritious apart from possessing some medicinal
qualities. Insects like grasshoppers, termites, caterpillars are a good source of protein of high
biological value. FAO has in the recent passed advocated for the utilization of insects as a
way of combating food insecurity in the world. The purpose of this paper is to review the
importance of niche foods as used in parts of the world with an aim of promoting their use in
Kenya.
Key words: Food security, Nutrition security, Niche foods, Vegetables, Insects
44
CLIMATE CHANGE AND NATURAL RESOURCES
44
A Philosophical Reflection on the Reconstituting Nature of Modern Technology on
Environment
Anthony Ichuloi
Mt. Kenya University
E-mail: [email protected], Tel. 0717078514
Abstract
Our regard to environment has changed considerably as a result of advances in science and
technology. The paper discusses the transcendental nature and totalizing tendency of
technology, whereby technology has become the moving force, destiny of the modern
world, to the point where it has outgrown the ontological significance of the natural world.
Technology, today, is not simply a means, but has become an environment itself and a way
of life. The argument of the paper is that, even though technology enables a renewed
experience of nature by enhancing our appreciation and understanding of it, it also
constrains the way the same nature appears to us in a very particular and unique way. To
support this argument, paper underlines the reconstituting and manipulative tendency of
technology on nature. Technology has become a form of revealing where environment is
reduced to a hip of resources for human manipulation, thereby making it lose its ontological
significance; through technology we humans are divorced from our internal relationship to
our environment. We live according to an atomic conception of ourselves as independent
from our specific environmental contexts, with alienating results not only from each other
but also from our very environment. The enucleating philosophical question of the entire
article is: With all the material benefits of modern technology, do we ever stop to think of
its environmental consequences? The paper will employ the phenomenological method
taking the Heideggerian perspective of understanding modern technology. Heidegger
argues that modern technology has passed from being an instrument (machines, ipads,
smart phones, computers, genetic engineering, processes and invention) used by humans to
attain specific ends to a way of being-in-the-world.
Key words: Reflection, Reconstituting, Environment, Modern technology, Destiny,
Manipulative technologies, Alienating
45
Effects of Water Abstractions on the Flow Regime in River Turkwel
Arnold Kipchumba1, G.M. Ogendi
1, S. Makindi
1, J. Malala
2 and D. Moso
1
1 Department of Environmental Science, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536, Egerton, Kenya.
2 Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P.O. Box 205-30500, Lodwar, Kenya.
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Water resource developments contribute immensely to a country‟s socio-economic
development and poverty eradication. Exploitation of these water resources is limited because
of high spatial and temporal variability in their availability especially in ASALs. The
challenge is further compounded by ambitious water resource development targets by
governments. Recently, River Turkwel basin has undergone severe expansion of existing
irrigation projects and establishment of new ones resulting to increased water abstractions.
Further water abstractions are also planned for the future which will pose a serious threat to
downstream users including the river‟s ecosystem. Therefore, the objective of this study was
to assess and compare the volume of water abstracted by water resource developments vis-à-
vis the maximum amount of water allocated for abstraction and its effects on the flow regime.
Both descriptive and inferential statistics were also used to analyze data. Spearman Rank
Correlation Test was used to examine the historical trend in river flows and agricultural water
abstractions. The study found out that the abstraction by the irrigation schemes along river
Turkwel exceeded the authorized amount of water allocated for abstraction. Therefore,
IWRM strategies focusing on water use optimization was recommended for further research
and implementation in River Turkwel Basin.
Key words: ASALs, Water resource Developments, Water abstractions, Flow Regime.
46
Effect of changes in Land use and Tree Species on Litter Decomposition in Streams
Audrey Tsisiche1, Charles M. M`Erimba
1, Nzula Kitaka
1 and Frank O. Masese
2
1Department of Biological Sciences, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536-20115, Njoro-Kenya 2Aquatic Sciences Department University of Eldoret, P.0.Box 1125-30100, Eldoret-Kenya
Email: [email protected], Mobile: 0726225848
Abstract
Modification of riparian vegetation via different land use practices alters leaf litter processing
rates in streams. This study aimed at investigating the effect of land use on leaf litter
decomposition in the upper Mara River catchment. The study involved collecting, drying and
weighing leaves of Eucalyptus saligna (exotic) and Macrocalyx neubotonia (native). About
6g of each leaf species was enclosed in 288 litter bags measuring 11 x 11cm and mesh size of
10mm. The bags were exposed randomly in six streams; three draining agricultural and three
draining indigenous forests. They were later retrieved at intervals of 0, 1,3,7,14,28 and 48
days, dried and weighed. The difference in processing rates of Eucalyptus leaves were
statistically not significant between streams draining indigenous forest (-k = 0.039±0.009,
pooled data) and streams draining agricultural areas (-k = 0.045±0.009) (t = 0.404, d.f=4, p=
>0.05). Processing rates (pooled data) for Macrocalyx leaves were –k = 0.095±0.005 in
streams draining agricultural areas and -k=0.062±0.01 for streams draining indigenous forest.
The two values differed significantly (t = 2.892, d.f=4, p= < 0.05). Significant differences in
processing rates were also evident between Eucalyptus and Macrocalyx leaves in streams
draining indigenous and agricultural forests respectively (t-test, p<0.05). It would take 63 and
69 days for 90% of leaves of Eucalyptus to be processed in agricultural and forested streams
respectively whilst Macrocalyx leaves would take 24 and 53 days. Processing rates for the
two leaves were generally higher in agricultural streams than in forested streams most
probably due to differences in nitrogen inputs from agricultural land. Significant difference in
processing rates observed between the two leave species could be attributed to differences in
leave toughness. This study confirms that land use has an effect on litter decomposion.
Key words: Leaf litter, land use, Exotic, Indigenous, Processing rate, Mara River
47
Hydro-climatic variabilities in Tomi at Sibut, Gribingui at Kaga-Bandoro and Fafa at
Bouca Basins, Central-North and Central-South of Central African Republic
1Cyriaque-Rufin Nguimalet and
2Didier Orange
1Département de Géographie, Faculté des Lettres et Sciences Humaines (Université de
Bangui), B.P.: 1037 - Bangui (République Centrafricaine) – 2UMR210-Eco&Sols, IRD, Montpellier, France
Email: [email protected],
Abstract
This paper discusses the hydro-climatic evolution of three small catchments from central-
north and central-south of Central African (Tomi, Gribingui and Fafa), seeking climate
ruptures and homogeneous periods in the rain-hydrometric series. These basins divide the
Chad (Gribingui at Kaga-Bandoro: 5,680 km2, and Fafa at Bouca: 4,380 km
2) and Congo
(Tomi at Sibut: 2,380 km2) upper basins. Rainfall and discharges data were analyzed per
basin over 1950-1995 period. We stated a large climatic break on 1970, using different
statistical tests (arithmetic and interannual average, rainfall and flow indices, seek of
ruptures, R irregularity index and depletion coefficients). Since 1970, a 7% weak mean
rainfall reduction is noted into the studied basins. The interannual average rainfall varies from
1,407 mm (Tomi and Fafa basins) to 1,338 mm (Gribingui). The rainfall index shows the
hydrological year 1968-1969 as the drought starting point in Gribingui and Fafa basins, and
the hydrological year 1970-1971 for Tomi basin, which is the southward basin and the less
impacted by the hydroclimatic break. At the opposite, the northward basin of Gribingui is the
more impacted with a very severe rainfall rupture in 1971 of 39%. The interannual mean
discharge is 18 m3/s for the Tomi River, 22 m
3/s for Gribingui and 37 m
3/s for Fafa over
1950-1995 period. The flow index describes some ruptures periods over the Tomi River in
1970-1991, over the Gribingui twice in 1971-1980 and 1985-1995, and on Fafa in 1969-
1995s. Each of the rivers recorded ruptures periods, with respective homogeneous discharges.
We noted three dates and homogeneous discharges for the Tomi: 1951-1990 (16.325 m3/s),
1991 year (66 m3/s) and 1992-1993 (26 m
3/s), and two others for the Gribingui (1951-1983:
26.394 m3/s and 1984-1993: 8.4 m
3/s) and the Fafa (1951-1967: 48.882 m
3/s and 1968-1993:
28.615 m3/s) respectively. Thus, if 1970s is admitted as major disruption date in rain-
hydrometric, it doesn‟t be noted in these rivers series, except the Fafa whose rupture appeared
in 1968. Also, R irregularity indices present high coefficients since 1987 on these rivers.
Furthermore, depletion coefficients also are high, whilst the volume mobilized by the aquifer
per basin frequently is weak, varying from 0.2 to 0.4 km3. These results underline climatic
modifications with evident impacts over water resources in the Chari, draining Fafa and
Gribingui, and Congo (Tomi) upper basins. These changes are observed on water availability,
translated by rainfall regime shift, drought relative length and low-water levels severity in
these studied basins. Nevertheless, the lack of measurement since 1996 in these catchments
doesn‟t allow following this hydroclimatic dynamics up to date.
Keywords: Hydroclimatic variability, rainfall, discharge, climatic disruption, Congo, Chad,
Central African Republic.
48
Pastoral Adaptation Strategies against Climate Variability in Turkana Central
1Moso D.C.,
1Ogendi G.M.,
1Makindi S.M.,
2Malala J.O.,
1Kipchumba A.C.
1Department of Environmental Science, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536, Egerton 2 Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, Lake Turkana, Turkana County
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Climate variability is increasingly becoming a global challenge for pastoral production
systems in the arid and semi-arid regions and other natural resources-based livelihoods.
Turkana community in Turkana Central relies on pastoralism as their major source of
livelihood; availability of vegetation and water resources being crucial for sustainability.
Though traditionally the Turkana have in place indigenous adaptation strategies to cope with
droughts and floods, variability in rainfall and temperature has threatened to aggravate the
intensity and frequency of these disasters over the past three decades. This study was thus
conducted to assess both the indigenous and modern adaptation strategies adopted against
climate variability in the region. Questionnaires, with open and closed-ended questions, were
administered to household heads practising pastoralism in the study area. Focus group
discussions were also held with key informants from relevant institutions and village elders.
Data collected was analysed using descriptive statistics. The study findings revealed that
temperature had increased by 0.4 °C, the drought cycle had reduced from ten to two years
and the drought duration increased from two to five months. On the other hand, the frequency
of occurrence of floods had remained relatively the same; 51 % of the respondents cited an
increase. Thus, pastoralists had adopted more adaptation strategies against droughts than
floods; strategies to curb water and pasture scarcity during droughts. However, the adoption
of indigenous adaptation strategies was higher than that of modern strategies. For instance,
whereas, all the respondents migrated and 77 % of them diversified their livestock, only 29 %
provided fodder crops for their livestock and 28 % relied on boreholes as water sources. In
conclusion, migration and herd diversification remain the most effective adaptation strategies
in the region. It is therefore vital that more modern adaptation strategies are adopted to
mitigate effects of climate variability, to enhance advancement of pastoral communities in
drylands.
Key Words: Adaptation, Climate variability, Drought, Pastoralism
49
Forest Cover Dynamics and Ecosystem Services of Katimok Forest Reserve, Baringo
County, Kenya
Jebiwott, A., Ogendi, G.M., and Makenzi, P.M.
Department of Environmental Science, Egerton University, P.O Box 536, Egerton
Email: [email protected], Tel: +254-726525794
Abstract
Katimok Forest Reserve in Baringo County is an ecosystem that contributes immensely to the
livelihoods of the communities living around it. Despite the several direct and indirect
benefits that the forest offers to the surrounding communities, the ecosystem is increasingly
threatened by deforestation, conversion to agricultural land, overgrazing and logging. This
study was conducted to assess the effects of forest cover change on the ecosystem services in
Katimok Forest Reserve with the purposes of contributing to an improved understanding of
the relationship that exist between forest cover changes and ecosystem services thereby
leading to sustainable utilization and management of the ecosystem. Social survey research
design was employed for this study. Household questionnaires, focus group discussions and
field observations were used to assess the land use land cover changes that have taken place
within the period of study, and also determine the impacts that the changes have had on the
ability of the forest to effectively provide the ecosystem services. Descriptive and inferential
statistics were used to analyze the data generated from the questionnaires. The study revealed
four major land uses within the forest with agriculture at 40.9%, logging at 41.8%, charcoal
production at 4.5% and collection of firewood at 3.6%. There was also a significant
association (X2 = 151.072, n = 80, df = 16, p<.05), between forest cover and ecosystem
services. Therefore, a decrease in forest cover and changes in land use correspond to the
sharp decline in ecosystem services that the forest provides. The study indicates that the
forest degradation is as a result of anthropogenic activities. It is therefore, important that the
relevant management authorities suggest and help the community to come up with alternative
livelihood options to avoid over reliance on forest resources.
Key words: Ecosystem services, Land Use Land Cover Change, Katimok Forest Reserve,
Forest Ecosystem
50
Effects of Disturbance and Exposure Time on Macroinvertebrate Drift Densities in two
Kenyan Highland Streams
M’Erimba, C. M., Ouma, K. O. and Wangari, P.
Egerton University, P. O. Box 536-20115, Egerton
E-mail: [email protected]; Tel: +254 728 543 191
Abstract
Although macroinvertebrate drift has been studied for over 5 decades in lotic systems, the
effects of anthropogenic physical disturbances on benthic macroinvertebrates are poorly
understood. This study aims to describe the effects of small-scale anthropogenic physical
disturbances and exposure time on macroinvertebrate drift densities which will contribute
towards biomonitoring of streams for conservation and management. Investigations were
conducted in a physically disturbed Kenyan Rift Valley stream, the Njoro River and a
relatively less disturbed Kamweti River in Mount Kenya catchment. Macroinvertebrate drift
was sampled in selected sites along both rivers during day and night at 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25-
minute intervals using 100 µm mesh-size drift samplers. The macroinvertebrate drift at Njoro
River was dominated by 3 families; Chironomidae (Day – 102; Night – 34 ind.m-3
), Baetidae
(Day – 54; Night – 49 ind.m-3
) and Caenidae (Day – 23; Night – 2 ind.m-3
). In Kamweti
River, Baetidae (Day – 76; Night – 78 ind.m-3
), Chironomidae (Day – 10; Night – 4 ind.m-3
)
and Helodidae (Day – 3; Night – 2 ind.m-3
) dominated drift. The 5-minute exposure time
yielded the highest day and night drift densities of the dominant taxa in both rivers with 4 and
3 ind.m-3
at Njoro River, and 2 and 2 ind.m-3
in Kamweti River respectively. The mean day
and night drift densities at River Njoro were 2 and 1 ind.m-3
while R. Kamweti recorded the
same 0.8 ind.m-3
for similar periods. There was a significantly higher day and night drift
density in R. Njoro over the entire period (p < 0.05) indicating a higher level of constant
physical perturbation. Kamweti River is less impacted by anthropogenic physical
disturbances and measures to biomonitor and conserve its current status should be enforced.
The 5-minute macroinvertebrate drift exposure time is a rapid and cost-effective stream
biomonitoring technique that can be used in evaluating anthropogenic impacts on lotic
ecosystems.
Keywords: Anthropogenic, biomonitoring, disturbances, drift densities, macroinvertebrates.
51
Effect of Forest type and Stream size on Leaf Litter Processing in Six Kenyan Highland
Tropical Streams
Oduma F. Omondi, Charles M. M’Erimba, Samuel T. Kariuki and Amuok E. Obadha
Egerton University, Biological Sciences Department, P.O Box 536-20115, Egerton
E-mail: [email protected]; Tel: +254729661694
Abstract
The need to expand agricultural land results into increased pressure on indigenous forests that
form major water towers in Kenya. In parts of Southern Mt. Kenya region tea plantations and
Eucalyptus trees have completely replaced indigenous forests. It was hypothesized that forest
type and stream size influenced leave processing rates in this region. An experiment was
carried on 1st February 2015 in six streams. Three streams drained native forest (two big and
one small) and three (one big and two small) drained Eucalyptus forest. Mature leaves of
Syzigium cardatum were collected, dried and weighed into approximately 2.5g. In total, 150
litter-bags measuring 11 x 11cm, mesh size 5 x5mm were prepared and exposed in the
streams. Retrieval intervals were set at 0, 7, 14, 28, 42, and 56 days of exposure. There was
no significant interaction between forest type and the stream size on leaf litter decomposition
(Two-way ANOVA df = 1, F = 2.618; P > 0.05). However, a significant difference in mean
decomposition rates was evident between small and big streams (Two-way ANOVA df = 1, F
= 5.026; P < 0.05, pooled data). Leaves decomposed faster in larger streams (– k = 0.021)
than in smaller streams (– k = 0.0174). Though decomposition rates were slower in streams
draining exotic (– k = 0.0172) than native (k = 0.0213) forests, the difference was
insignificant (Two-way ANOVA df = 1, F = 2.915; P > 0.05). It would take twice number of
days for 50% of S. cordatum leaves to be processed in exotic forests than native forests.
Depletion and modification of native riparian vegetation through successive land use
activities and replacement with exotic tree species has negative impacts in stream integrity by
altering stream ecosystem functioning and small streams are severely impacted than big
streams.
Key words: Leaf litter, decomposition, processing rates, native forests and exotic forests
52
Current Population of Hinde’s babbler (Turdoides hindei), In MNP, Ngaya Forest and
its Agricultural Sites
Onyancha, F.M., Karanja H.T., Eshiamwata, G.W. and Njoroge P.
Email: [email protected]. Tel: +254 717 601 601
Abstract
Populations of avian species continue to decline worldwide due to the various habitat
disturbances and threats. This is the case with Hinde‟s babbler (HB) which is listed as
vulnerable under IUCN RedList and it‟s confined to some „parts of central Kenya‟. A study
to asses, determine and compare its current population across protection gradient, protected
sites (Meru National Park- MNP), partially protected site (Ngaya Forest) and unprotected
(Agricultural sites) was carried between June and August, 2015. Ecological surveys were
used to collect data and a playback device was used to play a recorded voice of HB to attract
attention of groups along predetermined transects. At each point of detection, total number of
adults and immatures were recorded. Descriptive statistics were employed for analysis and
determination babbler numbers. A total area 12.2 km2
was surveyed and 101 individuals of
Hinde‟s babbler sighted during the dry season, 92 were adults while nine were immatures.
The results indicated that there were 26 individuals/km2 in Ngaya Forest with a population of
2875 individuals, three individuals/km2 in MNP with a population of 525 babblers and 19
individuals/km2
with a population of 1938 babblers in Agricultural sites, totaling to 3395
Hinde‟s babblers. The study was carried out on the assumption that groups from the three
sites didn‟t mix and were found in the most suited sites, for instance areas with thicket cover
(Lantana camara) were factored. The results are crucial in underscoring the importance of
protected, partially protected and Agricultural Landscapes in the conservation of threatened
avifauna population besides promoting local awareness.
Keywords: Hinde‟s babbler, Ngaya Forest, Protection gradient, Population, confined
53
Future for Coral Reefs in a Changing Climate: A Case Study of Watamu Marine
National Park, Kenya.
Peter Musembi1, Benjamin Cowburn
1, 2, Robert Sluka
1, 3
1A Rocha Kenya, Mwamba Field Study Centre, Plot 28, Watamu, Kenya;
2Dept of Zoology,
University of Oxford, The Tinbergen Building, S Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PS, United
Kingdom; 3A Rocha International, Marine and Coastal Conservation Programme, 89 Worship
Street, London EC2A 2BF, United Kingdom.
Email: [email protected], [email protected], Tel: 0714996571
Abstract
Coral reefs are earth's largest biological structures and have taken thousands of years to form.
They are vital ecosystems providing income, food and coastal protection for millions of
people worldwide. However, in recent decades, coral reef ecosystems have been declining at
alarming rates globally due to increased environmental pressures, exacerbated by therate of
climate change. Coral reefs have been severely impacted by climate change especially
increased sea surface temperature that causes coral bleaching. Coral bleaching occurs when
the symbiotic relationship between coral and microalgae (zooxanthellae) and their host coral
breaks down under certain environmental stresses such as increased sea surface temperature.
As a result the affected coral colony becomes white or pale in color and cutting out up to 80%
the coral nutrition source. The frequency of coral bleaching event has been increasing in
recent decades and altering the ecology of coral reefs. Mass coral bleaching is predicted to be
a more frequent event in the coming decades. Coral survival in a time of climate change will
depend largely on their ability to acclimatize and adapt to changes in their natural
environment. This project aimed at determining the ability of corals to acclimatize and adapt
thermal stress in a marine protected area. Corals were marked and monitored in patchy reefs
over a bleaching event and assessed their response to thermal stress. Coral species
assemblage in the intertidal zone, which experience very high variability of environmental
factors including temperature, were also surveyed to determine species that can tolerate high
temperatures. Some coral species showed a degree of adapting to periodic exposure to
thermal stress. This however, depends partly on the severity of the thermal stress.
Keywords: Climate change, Coral, Bleaching, Acclimatize.
54
Substitution of Plastics with Organic Tubes in Tree Seedlings Production for
Sustainable Environmental Conservation.
Mwangi, R.W., Kariuki, S.T., Wagara, I.N. and Ngure, S.M.
Department of Biological Sciences, Egerton University
P. O Box, 536 Egerton, Njoro.
Email: [email protected] Tel: +254 722 922 454,
Abstract
In order to solve the problems related to deforestation and meet the ever increasing demands
of the growing population, conserving and wise utilization of the remaining forests re
afforestation is crucial. For many years, tree seedlings production in forest nurseries, flower
nurseries, botanic gardens and institutions polythene tubes are commonly used posing an
environmental problem. These tubes are made up of polyhydrocarbons which are non-
biodegradable. They accumulate and become a hazard both to the environment and living
organisms. They adversely affect seedling root growth in length resulting in coiling and
deformation. This study was conducted in Mau forest complex, to investigate whether small-
scale tree nursery operators are likely to adopt biodegradable seedling containers (baskets
made of plant fibre and bamboo tubes). It was hypothesized that biodegradable containers are
better for seedling growth and are more environmental friendly than the widely used
polythene bags. Three species were planted including, Haggenia abysinica in Gatimu,
Juniperus procera and Olea europea ssp. africana in Mwisho wa Lami. Basket tubes gave
the highest vigor (62.429 cm) with Haggenia spp in Gatimu while bamboo (58.048cm) and
control (52.667cm) did not show a significant difference at p=0.05 level. Olea europea ssp.
africana generally demonstrated higher vigor with all the applied treatments than Juniperus
procera in Mwisho wa Lami. Basket treatment gave the highest height and number of
branches for the two plant species while bamboo and control treatments did not have any
significant differences at p=0.05. In this study it was found that seedling bags made from
plant fibres can be adopted in tree seedling propagation to remove the synthetic plastics for
sustainable environmental conservation.
Key words: Fibre basket, bamboo tubes, Haggenia, Olea, Juniperus species.
55
EDUCATION AND CULTURE
55
The Role of Principals in Curriculum Supervision and Academic Performance of
Students in Teso North Sub County, Kenya
1Limo Alice and
2Omasete Gerald
1University of Eldoret, School of Education;
2Mount Kenya University, School of Education
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
The primary responsibility of the principal in a school set up is to facilitate effective teaching
and learning with the overall mission of enhancing students‟ achievement. Instructional
leadership provided by the principal has been identified as a contributing factor to higher
student achievement (Lezotte, 1994). This study was guided by the following objective: to
establish the principals‟ role in supervision of curriculum and its effect on academic
performance. This study was anchored on Hackman and Walton‟s Functional Leadership
Theory (1986) which addresses how specific leader behaviours contribute to organizational
and leadership effectiveness. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative
methodology. The researchers sampled 20 (67 %) out of the total thirty schools in the region.
Census sampling technique was used to select one extra county boys‟ school, one extra
county girls‟ school, one county girls‟ boarding school, one sub county girls‟ day school and
purposive sampling technique was used to pick sixteen other secondary schools from the
categories of county mixed day/boarding and sub-county mixed day schools. The findings
indicated that most principals believed that the instructional practices of the principals
impacted positively on academic performance of their schools. Most of them also facilitated
acquisition of instructional materials, and helped in organizing the teaching timetable and
school routine, which qualified them as instructional leaders.
Key words: curriculum supervision, academic performance, instructional leadership,
organizational effectiveness, instructional practices.
56
The Educational and Cultural role of the Media in Kenya: the Ideal versus Reality
Benjamin Mbatia Kinyanjui
Egerton University, Nakuru Town Campus College
Email: [email protected], Tel: 0726 278 473
Abstract
The media particularly the newspapers and the radio have traditionally played a big role in
educating the public on development issues as well as in propagating national culture. Culture
and development are intertwined with education and communication. The role and practice of
communication in development has been informed and guided by changes in theoretical
perspectives over time. This paper discusses three theories which relate to media practice in
Kenya. The Duty Based Moral Theory of media touches on the ethics that guide the journalist
in their choice of the information to give to the public and how to source it without infringing
on other people`s rights. The theory of Utilitarianism deals with the culpability and
accountability of the journalists for their news gathering activities and the content of such
news, while the participatory paradigm is about the incorporation of the audience in two way
discussions. Radio and the newspaper have played a role in public education but this role has
been curtailed by some factors. For newspapers these factors include low circulation,
tabloidization and reader apathy. Radio`s role is compromised by the proliferation of
commercially run FM stations which concentrate on music and entertainment. Educational
programs like radio drama or cultural moral lessons are today only aired on the national
broadcaster, KBC whose audience base has been hijacked by the more popular FM stations.
The second constraint is the excessive time spent on call in discussion programmes whose
typical discussion topics are love and marriage relationships and political scandals. The paper
advocates for measures to be taken to make the radio and the newspaper better contributors in
educating the Kenyan public on development and culture.
Key Words: Participatory Paradigm, Utilitarianism, Duty Moral Theory, Tabloidization
57
Influence of Agricultural Extension Agents on Utilization of Monitoring and Evaluation
Results among Agricultural Projects in Kenya. A Case of Nakuru County
Duncan M. Taiti
University of Nairobi, Department of Extra-Mural Studies.
P.O Box 1120, Nakuru
Email; [email protected]; Tel +254 722 269 010
Abstract
Despite a wide range of reform initiatives in monitoring and evaluation of agricultural
extension services in Kenya in the past decades, the coverage of, access to, and quality of
information provided to small scale farmers is uneven. There exists a significant difference
between the intended and the actual project deliverables attributed to monitoring and
Evaluation results utilization in both crop production and livestock development projects.
This study evaluated the design of M&E system, participation by the stakeholders,
operationalising of the M&E results by the agricultural extension agents and the level of
integration of M&E with management information and action systems as the key factors
influencing utilization of M&E results. The study adopted cross sectional survey design,
multistage and simple random sampling was used to select a sample of 86 agricultural
projects proportionate to both crop production and livestock development projects within the
county. A self administered questionnaire, key informant interviews and focus group
discussions were used for data collection. Data analysis was done with the aid of Statistical
analysis system package (SAS) where measures of multiple correlation analysis at 0.05
confidence level was used in order to measure separately and collectively the relationship
between the dependent variable and the relevant independent variables. The fitted model
obtained revealed that there exists significant and positive influence on the design,
participation, operationalising and integration of monitoring and evaluation system on
effectiveness and efficiency in utilization of M&E results.
Key words: Agricultural extension agents, M&E results utilization, M&E design,
Agricultural projects,
58
Effect of ICT Activity-based Learning on Students’ achievement in Communication
Skills in Public Universities, Kenya
Kanja, V.W. and Wambugu, P.W.
Department of Curriculum, Instruction and Education Management, Egerton University
Kenya
Email: [email protected] Tel: 0724267261
Abstract
Good communication skills have a positive impact on the personal as well as professional life
of a person. Most Kenyan graduates demonstrate poor communication skills in the job market
making them less competitive. This state of affair is attributed to teaching methods adopted
by communication studies lecturers at university level. There is therefore need for an
instructional approach that would address the poor communication skills among university
students. This study was designed to investigate the effect of ICT Activity-Based (ICTABLe)
on students‟ achievement in communication skills in public universities. Solomon Four Non-
equivalent Control Group Design under the quasi-experimental research was used. The
accessible population was all first year students in public universities. Purposive sampling
technique was used to select four public university campuses. The campuses were randomly
assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental groups were taught using
ICTABLe while the control groups were taught using Conventional Teaching Methods
(CTMs). Communication Skills Achievement Test (CSAT) was used to collect data. The
research tool was validated and piloted before use to ascertain the reliability. The reliability
of the instrument was estimated using Kuder Richardson formula 20 (K-R20) and found to be
0.87. Data was analyzed using t-test, one-way ANOVA and ANCOVA at a significance
level of alpha (α) equal to 0.05. The findings of the study indicate that ICTABLe is an
effective instructional approach which lecturers of communication skills should be
encouraged to use in the teaching and learning process. This may go a long way to improving
graduates‟ communication skills.
Key words: ICT Activity-Based Learning, Student‟s Achievement, Communication Skills.
59
Influence of Internet Sourcing of Information on University Students’ Academic
Writing: An Exploration of Egerton University, Nakuru Town Campus Students
Patrick W. Karangi and Lydia A. Mareri
Communication & Media, Egerton University
[email protected], Tel: 0702 407 132
Abstract
Information Communication Technology has advanced and is used in all spheres of life.
Academic institutions have benefited greatly because scholars of all levels utilize it to access
information over internet. University students have embraced this communication technology
as an important source of information, which they use in completing written assignments and
writing academic papers. The students tend to heavily rely on the internet as their prime
source of the required information. However, not all the types of information accessed by the
students from different internet sites are scholarly evaluated. This means that individual
sources are not necessarily presented in academic format. Although undergraduate students
tend to rely heavily on internet sites, the influence of the internet as a source of information
on university students‟ academic writing in Kenya is a concern of many. Although there have
been various global studies addressing this phenomenon, Kenyan university students‟
situation is not obvious, and therefore requires to be established empirically. The purpose of
the study therefore is to evaluate the relationship between internet information sourcing and
students‟ academic writing. This is achieved by determining the characteristics of internet as
a source of information, establishing the degree of popularity of internet as a source of
information among Egerton University, undergraduate students and assessing the influence
that this usage has on the academic writing among undergraduate students. This study is
guided by the uses and gratification theory that shows the cumulative effects of information
need and how and user of a media will continue to use it provided it fulfills the need. Data
was collected by triangulation methods by questionnaire and interview on a stratified sample
of 30 Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media students, Egerton University Nakuru
Town Campus College. The findings indicate that internet sources of information have great
influence on academic writing skills of undergraduate university students because of the kind
of vocabulary choice, sentence construction and plagiarism tendencies. These findings have
notable implication on the quality of undergraduate students‟ academic writing and eventual
scholarly communication in the era of ICT.
Key Words: Internet information Sourcing; Undergraduate Students; Academic Writing
60
Relationship between Vocational Training Institutions category and Parents’ Financial
support in Nyandarua North Sub-county, Nyandarua County, Kenya
Kingori Eshphan
School of Education, Department of Curriculum and Educational Management, Laikipia
University
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
The study investigated the degree to which the category of a vocational training institution
was related to the parent‟s financial support which was exemplified through financial support
as well as provision of material things. Using an ex post facto research design data was
collected from 10 administrative personnel (administrators in charge or heads) though self
delivered and collected questionnaires. The hypothesis was tested through chi-square at .05
alpha level. The study indicates that parent‟s financial support was highest in boarding
followed by day boarding and lastly day vocational training institutions. This appears to
suggest that boarding vocational training institutions are likely to attract more parents‟
financial support than in vocational training institutions which are day and boarding or those
that are totally day. This seems to point that parents in vocational training institutions need to
refocus their view and contributions towards provision of support both materially and
financially. Further, those in administrative positions in vocational training institutions need
to further their academic as well as professional qualifications in an endevour to ameliorate
their administrative and management skills. This would go a long way in enabling them tap
parents‟ potentiality through management inclusivity.
61
Challenges in the Implementation of Secondary School Agriculture Curriculum in
Kenya’s Arid and Semi Arid Counties: the Students’ Perspective
1Kyule N. Miriam,
2Konyango, J. J. J. Ochieng’,
1Nkurumwa O. Agnes
1Department of Agricultural Education and Extension, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536,
Egerton; 2School of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Machakos University College, P.O.
Box 136 – 90100, Machakos.
Email: [email protected]. Tel: 0727-972203
Abstract
Agriculture being the backbone of the country‟s economy, preparation of human resource to
take the sector to a higher height is inevitable. For this to be achieved, agriculture curriculum
implementation in secondary schools is paramount. Agriculture curriculum implementation is
expected to equip learners with scientific knowledge and vocational skills they can use in
their ecological environments. Despite the teaching of agriculture in ASAL secondary
schools, ASALs have remained agriculturally under-exploited experiencing persistent food
shortages. This could be partly attributed to challenges in implementation of the curriculum.
Although the challenges facing agriculture curriculum implementation may be many, this
study focused on agriculture learning resource availability, adequacy and frequency of use
from the learner‟s perspective. The study was carried out in Baringo, Makueni and Narok
counties. Five Sub counties were purposively selected from the three counties
proportionately. The target and accessible population comprised of 5,600 and 2,470 form
three agriculture students respectively. Multi-stage sampling was used to obtain a sample of
290 agriculture students for this study. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect
data. It was piloted in Laikipia West Sub County and its reliability coefficient was 0.79. Data
was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The study found out that
agriculture textbooks were available, adequate and frequently used. The school farm was also
rated as available, adequate but rarely used. The agriculture work shop, laboratory and
models were unavailable in schools while all the other resources were inadequately available.
Unavailability, inadequacy and non-use of all the learning resources except the agriculture
text books compromise on the quality of agricultural skills and knowledge that these learners
acquire at secondary school level. This study recommends that the government through the
Ministry of Education and the school administration need to be committed in helping ASAL
secondary schools obtain agriculture learning resources.
Key Words: Challenges, Implementation, Agriculture curriculum, Arid and Semi Arid
Counties.
62
Effects of Culture on the Learning Styles of Secondary School Agriculture students in
Eldoret East Sub County, Kenya.
Muge C. Josephine1 and Nkurumwa O. Agnes
2
1Department of Agricultural Education and Extension, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536,
Egerton: 2Department of Agricultural Education and Extension, Egerton University, P.O. Box
536, Egerton.
Email: [email protected], Mobile 0726371417
Abstract
Culture strongly influences students‟ learning styles. Understanding and appreciating the
cultural differences of secondary school agriculture students in order to make the appropriate
instructional decisions will enhance their learning. Kolb (1985) developed the Learning Style
Inventory (LSI), an instrument used to assess student learning style as Accommodating,
Assimilating, Converging and Diverging. However little information is available whether
there is any significant relationship between culture and learning styles of secondary school
agriculture students. The aim of this study is to determine whether an individual learner's
culture, affect his or her learning. This paper describes the use of Kolb‟s learning style
inventory (KLSI) and experiential learning theory to identify students‟ learning styles in
secondary school agriculture classroom. The Kolb Learning Style Inventory (KLSI) was
administered to two hundred and ninety one form three agriculture students in Eldoret East
sub county, Kenya. Survey research design was used. The author adopted the proportionate
sampling technique. The Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the
results indicated that agriculture students possess all the four learning styles;
Accommodating, Assimilating, Converging and Diverging. The study contributes to best
teaching practices by the teachers in the sense that understanding the students‟ learning
styles, is essential preparation for facilitating successful learning in secondary school
agriculture classrooms, so as to adequately provide for learners' diversity.
Key words: Agricultural Education, Culture Learning
63
In-service Training Needs of Kilifi County Secondary School Agriculture Teachers for
preparing them to be Effective in the 21st Century
Omoro J. A1, Udoto M.O
2, Kibett J.K
3
1Department of Curriculum, Instruction & Educational Technology, Pwani, University,
P.O. Box 195 -80108, Kilifi – Kenya; 2Department of Agricultural Education and Extension,
Egerton University, P.O. Box 536 -20115, Egerton – Kenya; 3
Department of Horticulture,
University of Kabianga, P.O. Box 2030 -20200, Kericho- Kenya.
Email: [email protected] / [email protected] Tel: +254: 722642544
ABSTRACT
In-service training is crucial for teacher capacity strengthening. Technology in agricultural
education and extension is dynamic and this influences agriculture teacher teaching skills and
effectiveness. The purpose of this descriptive survey research study conducted with
agriculture teachers in Kilifi County was to determine their in-service training needs in order
to be effective for preparing students with the 21st century skills necessary for students to be
successful. This study reaffirms the need for continuation of leadership education as an
important skill and integration of reading, writing, and mathematics concepts into all
agricultural education curricula for preparing students to be successful in the 21st century.
The role of agriculture in global food security; application of problem-based learning;
planning and delivering lessons to utilize higher order thinking skills; teaching leadership
skills; and development of teamwork and student collaboration were identified as the five
most important in-service training needs for preparing agriculture teachers to be effective
educators. Findings of this study are limited to Kilifi County secondary school agriculture
teachers. This limitation of applying findings for other Counties should be addressed by
conducting a study with a diverse sample of secondary school agriculture teachers across the
47 Counties in Kenya.
Key words: Teacher In-service; Teacher training needs; 21st Century skills; Preparing
teachers.
64
Effectiveness of Quality Assurance Practices in Kenya’s Higher Education Institutions
Rosemary Kagondu and Simmy M. Marwa
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, P.O. Box 657, 10100, Nyeri, Kenya
Email: [email protected] Tel: +254 -726970220
Abstract
The capability of Higher Education Institutions to serve as drivers of economic
competitiveness is reducing in different developing countries due to numerous constraints
which interfere with their quality. This research examined the effectiveness of Quality
Assurance Practices in Kenya‟s Universities with respect to educational inputs, processes and
outputs. Perceptions on eight dimensions of quality namely governance and management,
programme planning, infrastructure, curriculum development, teaching and learning,
assessment, research, publication and innovation and programme results were sought from
respondents. Response rates were 93 % for Students, 61 % for Academic Staff and 89% for
Quality Assurance Staff. Students and Academic Staff were used as the control group to
corroborate findings from the staff of the Quality Assurance Directorates who are custodians
of quality assurance in Kenya‟s Universities. Questionnaires styled on a 7 point Likert scale:
1= Strongly Disagree: 7= Strongly Agree and interviews were administered to respondents,
coupled with interviews and document analysis. Differences in weighted responses of
respondents were calculated to determine gaps in the Quality Assurance Practices in each
University. Results pointed to gaps in the 8 quality dimensions investigated in each of
Kenya‟s Universities hence room for improvement. The most challenged quality dimension
was research and publication. Amongst policy implications was fortification of the internal
quality assurance systems in the higher education institutions. The research further
recommends the need for operationalization and enhancement of periodic checks Kenya‟s
Universities by the regulatory agencies.
Key words: Quality Assurance Practices; Higher Education Institutions; Gaps.
65
Tracer Study of Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education and Extension
Graduates - Class of 2008 - Egerton University
1Immaculate Kiliswa,
1Maurice O. Udoto and
2Jacob J.J. O.Konyango
1Department of Agricultural Education & Extension, Egerton University;
2Department of
Agricultural Education & Extension, Machakos University, College.
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
The introduction of agricultural and other vocational subjects in the education system was
meant to address employment needs of students. In this respect, Kenya introduced vocational
agriculture in the secondary school curriculum, at post-secondary, and at university. Egerton
University is among the universities providing training in agriculture. Among the disciplines
offered is Agricultural Education and Extension at degree level. Many Students have
graduated from the programme since 1990 and joined the work force. However, there is no
documentation about career placement and the appropriateness of the curriculum they were
exposed to in relation to their careers. The purpose of this study was to generate information
on career placement of the 2008 class of the Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education
and Extension (B.Sc. AGED & EXTN) graduates of Egerton University and determine the
appropriateness of the curriculum the graduates undertook. A descriptive survey of 126
students (2008-B.Sc. AGED & EXTN cohort) who graduated in 2012 was conducted with a
questionnaire. Face and Content validity of the instrument were established by experts at
Egerton University. The questionnaire was pre-tested on 30 B.Sc. AGED & EXTN 2009
Class to establish reliability and items revised until a reliability coefficient of 0.74was
attained before commencing data collection. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package
for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results showed that of the 81 respondents, 55.6% are in
agricultural education, and 37% in agricultural extension related careers. The non-agricultural
education and extension careers constituted 7.4%. In addition, 98.71% of the courses offered
in the programme were considered relevant to the careers of respondents, whereas 1.28 %
were considered not relevant. This suggests that there is need for review of the curriculum to
further align courses with career requirements.
Key words: Graduates, Knowledge, Curriculum, Career.
66
GOVERNANCE AND SOCIO-ECONOMICS
66
Technical Efficiency and its Determinants in Sub-Saharan Africa’s Rice Production:
Case in Mali.
M. Abdoulah Mamary KANE1, Bino TEME
2, Job K. Lagat
1, J.K. Langat
1
1Department of Agricultural Economics and Agri-business Management, Egerton University,
P.O.Box 536-20115, Egerton; 2Institute of Rural Economics (IER), Ministry of Agriculture
Rue Mohamed V, BP 258 Bamako- Mali.
E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract
The use of general agricultural census data and economic survey of Mali, have evaluated the
production function frontier for growing rice. Technical efficiency and its determinant are
analyzed. The results suggest that one can be optimistic about the future of the grain sector in
Mali as the ability to output growth by injection of inputs and efficiency gains which happens
to be quite limited. Mali's rice policy can be declined in terms of sheer competitiveness. As it
exists in the land of critical issues in food security; economic growth and fight against
poverty. As noted, the Office du Niger has the distinction of having the advantages of weight
in these three areas. It added that the many uncertainties hanging over the long term evolution
of the global market, favour the development of a production of "control" of local rice, ie
with water control. Imports should play a regulatory role in a crisis, or to moderate price
increases. In short, the future of the Malian rice sector is optimistic as far as efficiency gain
and input injections are concerned. The other option obviously lies in shifting production
frontiers by promoting research and development (R&D) in agriculture. This prospect seems
not very encouraging as the estimated rate of technical progress in Malian rice production is
only about 0.65%. Given these findings and the random nature of scientific discovery and
technological breakthrough (Tom and Diarra), Mali may have to turn to the international
market for large amounts of rice or grain imports in the medium and long run. Mali has
abundant rice growing potential with a definite competitive advantage. In accordance with its
policy of liberalization, decentralization and dispersal, the State of Mali has profoundly
modified its role of “service provider” to that of “development promoter” by introducing the
Agricultural Framework Law (LOA) in 2006. Based on the results of the test with Frontier
Product Service (FPS), without the seed, all the inputs such as fertilizer, Area and Labor have
a positive and significant impact on rice production in Mali. As causes, we have a bad system
supply of seed and the poor quality of seed. The solution is to revise this system of input
supply by developing a good policy to procurement and distribution of inputs.
Key words: Mali, rice, stochastic frontier production function, technical efficiency, Women.
67
Attitudes and Perception towards Ecotourism among Pastoral Communities in Laikipia
County, Kenya
Rono B. J.1, Obwoyere G. O.
1, and Owuor G.
2
1Department of Natural Resources;
2Department of Agricultural Economics and Agri-
Business Management, Egerton University, P. O. Box 536, Egerton.
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
The Kenya rangelands are characterized by low income, poverty, unreliable rainfall and
conflicts. Pastoral communities in these areas have developed land use diversification and
livelihoods mechanisms to help them cope with these challenges. Ecotourism is one of the
strategies these communities engage in with the aim of conserving the environment as well as
provide income for them. However it is anticipated that local communities benefit little in
terms of profit sharing and are rarely involved in decision making concerning tourism matters
in the region. This study was conducted in Laikipia County. The objective was to assess the
attitude and perception of local community towards ecotourism. The study used a
sociological survey research design with 232 community members. The research relied on
primary and secondary data for information. Primary data was collected through interviews
using structured questioners and focus group discussions. Quantitative data from
questionnaires was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), after
which it was presented using frequency tables, graphs and bar chats to illustrate the findings.
Interpretation, recommendation and conclusion were then done based on the results. Findings
suggested that there is positive attitude among pastoral communities towards ecotourism in
Laikipia as supported by 73.7% of the respondents, while 79.3% of them perceive it as
beneficial.Overall, community attitudes on ecotourism is affected by community and
motivational factors. The findings of this study contribute to the knowledge of community
ecotourism, and will help in understand the roles of the different stakeholders in the industry.
Key words: Ecotourism, Perception and Attitudes, Laikipia, pastoralism
68
Proper Public Participation in Policy Formulation
Brian Onyango Moses
School of Law, Kisii University, P.O BOX 408- 40200 KISII
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
This legal study entails an assessment on the legal regime, from Constitutional provisions,
statutory enactments, judicial pronouncements and policy formulations in the principle of
public participation. This research has been informed by the existence of a great legal lacuna
as to what public participation entails, and its limitations, as to what is and ought to be done.
The theoretical aspect of this concept shall entail on what ought to be done by who, whereas
the practical dimension shall be, what is done by who and why. This rationale for citizen
participation in various phenomena, including formulation of agricultural- related policies is
that the members of the public are the ones who ordinarily and often interact with that given
phenomenon, therefore in a better place of contributing the most practical, progressive and
sustainable ideas in the advancement of human use. The principle has been practiced in
formulation of environmental law policies, and has thus proven effective. In the light of
research and innovation, this paper assesses the institutional framework in regards to public
participation, and its contribution towards workable governance policies that in one way or
the other affect the environment. This paper evaluates agricultural policies, the process of
their formulation and the legal implications therefrom. This paper therefore affords
governance agencies ideas and information on how the public participation process can be
applied practically and in an effective manner to ensure that there are policies which neither
infringes on the rights of consumers of agricultural produce, nor the environment. Based on
comparative jurisprudence, the paper upholds the need for effective public participation. A
more elaborate standard ought to develop in terms of public participation in Kenya just like in
other countries.
Key words: Governance, Participation, Policies, Kenya
69
Analysis of Technical Efficiency of Irish Potato Production in Eldoret East Sub county,
Kenya
Chepkwony E.K., Bii W.K., Mark korir, Mary Kipsat
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
The Irish potato, Solanum tuberosum L., has a longstanding history in human nutrition in
Kenya. It holds position three relative to maize and beans as main staples, giving a high
potential for the potato production and consumption in the country. However, there is low
productivity due to the technical efficiency. The primary objective of this study was to
estimate technical efficiency of Irish potato production. The specific objectives were: to
investigate the relationship between the farm output and the inputs, given the assumption of a
specific technology; to identify the socio-economic factors that affect technical efficiency.
The study was done in Ainabkoi Division because it was the major Irish potato production
zone in the County. A survey research design was adopted to collect the primary data. Data
on socio-economic characteristics of farmers were used. The target population was the Irish
potato farmers in Eldoret East Sub County. Data was obtained with the aid of questionnaires
which were administered to 105 randomly selected respondents by the researcher with the
help of four enumerators recruited by researcher. Stochastic frontiers method was used in this
study to analyze the survey data. The first approach, called the two-step approach, first
estimated the stochastic frontier production function to determine technical efficiency
indicators. Next, indicators thus obtained were regressed on explanatory variables that
usually represent the firms‟ specific characteristics, using the Ordinary Least Square method.
In the stochastic frontiers model, the coefficients and the variance parameters are
simultaneously estimated by maximum likelihood method, using Frontier 4.1 software. The
analysis revealed that the sum of the partial output elasticities with respect to all inputs was
1.86. This indicated an increasing return to scale in Irish potato production. It further revealed
that Irish potato farmers could benefit from economies of scale linked to increasing returns to
boost production. The mean technical efficiency index was estimated at 0.789. This meant
that farmers have 21.1% scope of increasing the potato production by using current
technology. The inefficiency parameter estimate indicated three socio economic and
institutional factors (level of education; access to extension; and access to credit) as having
significant effect in technical efficiency of Irish potato production. In order to improve
technical efficiency, access to extension service should be enhanced by having more
extension providers closer to the farmer. This would increase frequency of farmer and
extension provider contact. Enabling farmers‟ access affordable credit facilities and Capacity
building of farmers would also improve the technical efficiency of Irish potato production.
Key words: Irish potato, technical efficiency, stochastic frontier, elasticity, economies of
scale, socio - economic
70
Implications of Nation Newspapers Peace Reporting in the Run up to 2013 Elections in
Kenya
Evans Erick Otieno Ochieng’, Phylis Bartoo and Furaha Chai
Department of Languages and Linguistics, Egerton University
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Peace reporting is a contemporary issue in journalism and newspaper reporting in particular.
In the run up to the 2013 general elections, Kenyans were constantly reminded of the
2007/2008 post election violence through newspaper reporting and since the media is
inextricably connected to elections, there is the need to interrogate the implications of peace
messages in newspapers and the coverage of the 2013 elections. This study examined peace
reporting from Kenyan newspapers in the run up to the 2013 elections. The objectives were:
to identify and analyse newspaper content that carried peace messages in the run up to the
2013 elections; to establish Kenyans‟ reactions to the peace messages from the newspaper
content; and to find out whether the content influenced people to maintain peace and calm
during and after elections. The study relied on descriptive research design and was premised
on Agenda Setting theory as espoused by McCombs and Donald Shaw. The study population
constituted of respondents from four marked newspaper-vending points within Nakuru town
and the selected content from leading newspapers, the Nation (Daily Nation, Saturday
Nation, and Sunday Nation) that carried messages advocating for peace before and after 2013
elections. Purposive sampling was used to select newspaper content with peace messages and
to select newspaper readers in Nakuru town. Focus group discussions were used as research
instruments to collect data from the selected respondents from Nakuru town. All data was
subjected to open, axial and selective coding for analysis purpose. For the data obtained from
newspaper content, Content analysis formed the main part of the analysis. The findings
indicated that newspapers in the run up to 2013 elections carried peace messages in news and
feature stories, in their editorial sections, opinion and advertisements. The findings also show
that Kenyans read peace messages and took them into consideration during the election
process. It was found that Kenyans were influenced by the peace messages to maintain calm.
However, the findings show that although experts and scholars accused media of „indulging‟
in peace advocacy and forgetting their watchdog role, the respondents praised the role media
played in ensuring after poll calm and peaceful coexistence and tolerance. The study findings
are useful to the media houses and media in their effort to use newspapers as a medium of
peace reporting and advocacy.
Key words: Peace Reporting, Peace messages, Elections
71
Factors influencing Sustainability of Cereal Banks among Maize Farmer Groups in
Kimilili Sub-county, Kenya
Everlyne Kataka and C.A. Onyango
Department of Agriculture Education and Extension, Egerton University, Kenya
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
In Kenya, Cereal banks were started with the aim of enhancing local food security and
surplus for marketing. This approach to marketing maize allows farmers to sell their produce
for high prices to larger-scale buyers. Despite efforts by NGOs, Government of Kenya and
other civil society in establishing cereal banks, there has been perceived problems associated
with their sustainability leading to the collapse of cereal banks. The foregoing importance of
collective marketing, the track record of cereal banks in Kenya regarding their sustainability
has been poor. The study investigated factors influencing sustainability of Cereal banks
among maize farmer groups in Kimilili Sub-County, Kenya. The study adopted theory of
resilience postulated by Holling, 1986. A descriptive research design was used with target
population of 942 Maize farmers. Proportionate simple random sampling was used to select
188 farmers using 20% adopted from Mugenda and Mugenda, (1999). Data was collected
using structured interview schedule, questionnaire and Focus Group Discussions and
analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and presented in form of tables. Results
show there was statistically significant relationship of factors (access of extension service and
quantity of maize bulked) on Sustainability of Cereal Banks. It was concluded that these
factors yielded pressure on collective maize banking activities and most CBs did not endure
resilience which is the buffer capacity of a system to absorb perturbations, hence failure of
CBs which has the objective of creating and maintaining prosperous social, economic and
ecological systems and in this case food security during the off-seasons. These findings are
useful to researchers, policy makers and small holder farmers in management of cereal banks
to ensure sustainability. This paper outline policy recommendations to strengthen agricultural
research and extension services, stimulate production of value added products and urgent
need for demand driven extension approaches to be used by farmers.
Key words: Factors, sustainability, cereal banks
72
The Role of Media in Agriculture and Food Security
Florence Chepkorir
Egerton University, Nakuru Town Campus College
Email: [email protected], Tel: 0728 901 998
Abstract
Food security which entails food production, the ability for individuals to access it and proper
use of the same is of great importance in ensuring that human life is sustained. The concept of
food security has been termed by many governments in the world as a complex sustainable
development issue which directly affects human health, economic development and the
environment. This calls for a need to establish means in which adequate food production and
distribution can be achieved. Agriculture is the main tool which can be used maximally to
achieve this and with the increased need for food security in the current world, this sector
needs a lot of advancement so as to achieve its goals. It is believed that enhancing agriculture
can lead to increased economic openings, reduced poverty and malnutrition and ensure a fast
growing society. Adequate information and proper communication of the same to the
stakeholders in the agricultural sector which can help advance agriculture thus increased food
production and accessibility is very vital. Media is the most powerful tool in dissemination of
information and thus need to be fully utilized by the agricultural sector in the bid to achieve
its goal which is mainly securing food for sustenance of human life. With the advancement of
the media worldwide, there has been a lot of co-relation between the media and agriculture,
with food producers, distributors and receivers benefiting a lot from the same. This paper
therefore will explore means by which the agricultural sector has benefited from the media. It
will also explore what the media ought to do to ensure more productivity in agriculture.
Key words: Food security, agriculture, media
73
The influence of Ownership Structure on Financial Performance of Privatized
Companies in Kenya
1Gitundu
Esther Wanjugu,
2Kiprop
Symon Kibet,
2Kibet Lawrence Kangogo, and
3Sifunjo E. Kisaka.
1Division of Research and Extension, Egerton University, P.O Box, 536-20115, Egerton,
Kenya; 2Department of Economics, Egerton University P.O Box, 536-20115, Egerton,
Kenya; 3Department of Finance and Accounting, University of Nairobi, P.O Box, 30197-
00100 Nairobi, Kenya.
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
This study investigated the influence of ownership structure on financial performance of
privatized companies in Kenya for the period 2007-2013. The study was informed by the
property rights, the agency and the resource based theories. Data was extracted from
prospectuses and financial reports of privatized companies, obtained from the Capital
Markets Authority (CMA) and the Nairobi Stock Exchange (NSE). A unit root test was used
to examine stationarity of data while a Hausman test determined the appropriate regression
model. This study used a Fixed Effects (FE) regression model with a robust standard error
option to control for heteroskedasticity and contemporaneous correlation which may lead to
spurious results. The study found that ownership structure has a significant relationship with
financial performance. Among individual variables, government ownership has a positive
influence on ROA and the Tobin‟s Q; but a negative effect on cost efficiency. Institutional
shareholders have a positive influence on ROA and technical efficiency. Large individual
investors have a positive influence on cost efficiency. Dispersed shareholders have a positive
influence on ROA but a negative effect on cost efficiency. This study recommends that the
Privatization Commission of Kenya should restructure ownership of privatized companies to
reduce government and dispersed ownership further to pass more control and decision
making to private investors. However, the government should retain some ownership in
privatized firms to enhance shareholders confidence, protection of investments and
managerial monitoring. A strategic institutional investor in each company should be
identified and be allocated adequate ownership to enable privatized companies attract
managerial and technical expertise crucial to improve governance and financial performance.
Key words: Privatization; SOEs; Ownership structure; Financial Performance, Kenya
74
Good Governance as a Tool for Development of Humanity
Jackson Karanja Kinyanjui
Egerton University, Nakuru Town Campus College, P.O. Box 536, Egerton, Kenya
Email: [email protected], Tel.: 0712 676 101/ 0733 209 671
Abstract
Good governance is essential to achieve development while true participatory democracy
ensures that development is equitable and sustainable. Public institutions need to be able to
manage public resources and conduct public affairs in a manner that is free of corruption and
abuse that upholds the rule of law and that protects and promotes the realization of the rights
of its people. The true measure of good governance is the ability of a government to realize
people‟s human rights and deliver sustainable and equitable development. Good governance
is derived through transparency, accountability, participation and responsiveness to the needs
of the poor, marginalized and underrepresented groups. The Millennium Declaration commits
the nations of the world to promote democracy and strengthen the rule of law, as well as
respect for all internationally recognized human rights and fundamental freedoms, including
the right to development. In it, world leaders resolve to strengthen the capacity of all our
countries to implement the principles and practices of democracy and respect for human
rights. The true measure of good governance is its ability to deliver development based on
realizing people‟s human rights. It entails transparency, accountability, participation, and
responsiveness to the needs of the poor, marginalized and underrepresented groups. However,
governance has been distorted and abused by elites who have captured public institutions to
advance their narrow interests. Moreover, globalization has created conditions for corruption
both in its broad and narrow senses to flourish. This paper will attempt to establish how good
governance can be a vital tool in the advancement of humanity.
Key words: Governance, Corruption, Human Rights,
75
Relationship between Performance Contracting and Procuring Resources in Technical
Training Institutes in Mount Kenya region in Kenya
1Janet Muthoni Kinyua,
2T.M. O. Ayodo and
2James O. Awino
1Nyeri Technical Training Institute, P.O. Box 465-10100, Nyeri, Kenya
2School of Theology, Education and Arts, Kabarak University, Private Bag – 20157,
Kabarak, Kenya.
E-Mail: [email protected]
Abstract
Performance Contracting is a branch of management science referred to as Management
Control Systems and is a contractual agreement to execute a service according to agreed-
upon terms, within an established time period, and with a stipulated use of resources and
performance standards. Technical Training Institutes face pressure to improve efficiency in
performance of management functions. Before the study was conducted, it was unclear
whether the introduction of performance contracting had enhanced efficiency in the
performance of the function of procuring resources. The study, therefore, intended to
determine relationship between performance contracting and Principals‟ performance of the
function of procuring resources. For the purposes of conceptualization of the study, Agency
Theory, Douglas MacGregor Theory X and Y, and a conceptual frame work showing the
relationship between the variables were used. Using descriptive research design, data were
collected from a sample of 6 Technical Training Institutes. The respondents included 6
Principals, 30 Administrators, 66 Heads of Departments, and 165 Class-teachers. Saturated
sampling, stratified random sampling and simple random sampling techniques were used at
various stages of selecting the samples. An interview schedule and questionnaires were used
to collect data from the respondents. A pilot study was conducted to ensure validity and
reliability of data collection instruments using one Technical Training Institute which was not
included in the main study. In this regard, test-retest method was applied to estimate the
reliability of the instruments. All the reliability estimates were above 0.9. Descriptive and
inferential statistics were generated and analyzed through Statistical Package for Social
Science computer package. The resultant Pearson Correlation Coefficient (r = 0.067)
indicates that there was a positive and insignificant link between performance contracting and
performance of the function of procuring resources at 0.05 level of significance. The study
would be of great significance to educational managers, policy makers and planners.
Key words: Performance Contracting, Principals, Relationship, Procuring resources, Mount
Kenya Region
76
Culture, change and continuity in Riddle and Riddle Performance among the Kipsigis,
Kenya
1Cherono, E.,
2Wako, F. and
3Kweya, D.
Egerton University, Department of Literature, Language and Linguistics
Box 536, Egerton, Kenya.
Email: [email protected], Tel. No. 0722605491
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to interrogate contemporary riddles and riddle performance in the
Kipsigis community in order to illustrate the ways in which post-colonial social changes have
influenced Kipsigis riddles. Review of related literature reveals that the question of change
and continuity in riddles and riddle performance has not received much attention. The paper
is based on the theoretical stipulation that privileges cultural circulation and appropriation of
fragments from other cultures and genres in the process of cultural production as opposed to
the assumption that culture is stable and its constituent elements functions to maintain its
stability. Data was collected from the Kipsigis respondents aged eight years and above,
sampled from Kapsorok, Chepyegon, Barn‟goror and Kaplelartet locations in Soin Division
of Kericho County, Kenya. These areas are appreciably rich in oral traditions. Participant
observation method was used to collect riddles, while interviews were used for data about the
culture and historical background of the community against which the changes were assessed.
We conclude that formation of riddles is dependent on the cultural and political context. Thus
new figures of speech in contemporary Kipsigis riddles reflect change in Kipsigis perspective
of life during and after the colonial era.
Key words: Culture, change, riddles, Kipsigis, Kenya.
77
Citizens’ Perceptions on the Status of Governance in the Counties: the case of Migori
County, Kenya
Lumadede Japheth1, Margaret Ngigi
2 and Anthony Sang
1
1Department of Curriculum, Instruction and Education Management, Egerton University,
Kenya. 2Department of Agricultural Economics, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536, Egerton.
Email: [email protected], Tel: 0701697732
Abstract
Governance is the process of decision-making and how those decisions are implemented.
Good governance involves quality public service delivery, accountable-decision-making, and
civic engagement. Devolution helps make good governance feasible. Kenya thus adopted
devolution to improve governance and catalyse development to the local levels. However,
since enactment of the new constitution of 2010, the status of governance in the local
governments has not been determined and documented especially from the perspective of the
citizens who consume the public goods. The purpose of this study thus was to determine the
citizens‟ perceptions on the status of governance in Migori County and recommend policy
options to enhance good governance. The study adopted a case study research design where a
diverse case of two sub counties (Nyatike Sub County and Suna West Sub County) was
selected purposively. Population of the study was 453,362 adult population of the county and
the target population (N) was164, 959, which is the adult population in the two sub counties.
From this a sample of 156 was sampled for the survey by non-proportionate random sampling
and simple random sampling where 78 citizens were selected from each sub county.
Structured questionnaire was the instruments of data collection. Quantitative data was
analysed using percentages, frequencies and Pearson chi square test at 5% significance level
by the help of STATA software. The findings of this study are of importance to the policy
practitioners and county government officials in their bid of enhancing good governance in
the counties, Migori County being one of them.
Key words: Governance, perceptions, Policy, Delivery, Citizen
78
Transformational Leadership in a University Setting? A case of Heads of Academic
Departments in the Kenyan Public University Setting
Lydia Ayako Mareri
Department of Literature, Languages & Linguistics (Communication Studies)
Egerton University
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
Tel: 0721677045 / 0733850035
Abstract
Transformational visionary and inspirational leadership practices of departmental heads can
determine levels of organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB) of the academic faculty
members in a public university setting. The organization and management of public
university activities depend on active involvement of academic faculty members because they
play a vital role in the university‟s survival. This implies that university management is
incomplete without notable participation of the academic faculty members, whose foundation
is laid at the departmental level and the results have implication for the overall governance
success of the university. Consequently, certain leadership styles have distinct bearing on the
levels of obedience, loyalty and participation of employees, which subsequently influence
organizational effectiveness. Based on this premise, this paper presents results obtained from
a qualitative case study conducted among academic faculty members of one faculty in one of
the public universities in Kenya. The purpose of this study was to determine how heads of
departments‟ leadership styles influence the degree of organizational citizenship behavior
(OCB) of the academic faculty members within their departments – and by extension – the
effectiveness of the university. Data was obtained through in-depth interviews with the
sample heads of departments and academic faculty members. The results obtained add
empirical support to the assertions that indicators of organizational effectiveness are
associated with employees‟ willingness to go above and beyond their job requirements as
indicated by the levels of OCB largely influenced by the leadership styles. Can this apply in
academic oriented settings?
Key words: Transformational Leadership; Academic Faculty; Organizational Citizenship
Behaviour
79
Effects of Women Enterprise Fund’s Training on Sales Performance of Women
Grocery Micro-entrepreneurs in Thika Sub-county, Kiambu County, Kenya
1Muraguri Michael,
2Dolphine Odero and
3Margaret Ngigi
1Department of Curriculum, Instruction and Educational Management, Egerton University,
Kenya; 2Department of Applied Community Development Studies, Egerton University;
3Department of Agricultural Economics, Egerton University.
Email: [email protected] Tel: 0721 293371 / 0737 867849
Abstract
There has been a great attention by the government of Kenya on women entrepreneurship
over the last nine years. Several policies have been enacted that could support the growth and
performance of women entrepreneurship in Kenya. The Women Enterprise Fund (WEF) was
established in 2007 to assist women in the development of their enterprises. This study
sought to bridge the gap by establishing the effects of WEF‟s training on sales performance
of women grocery micro-entrepreneurs in Thika Sub-County in Kenya. The study examined
the effects of WEF‟s training on sales performance of women grocery micro-entrepreneurs. A
cross-sectional descriptive survey research design was used. The sampling technique used
was simple random sampling, since it produced the most productive sample to test the
research hypotheses. A sample size of 111 women entrepreneurs was used out of a population
of 371 women entrepreneurs. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires from
the respondents. The study was guided by the human capital theory. One sample t-test (before
and after comparison) and multivariate regression was used to analyze data collected at 5%
significance level with the help of STATA software. The studyprovided useful information to
WEF‟s training policy makers, contributed knowledge on the role of women in
entrepreneurship and knowledge to scholars and researchers in the field of women
entrepreneurship.
Key words: WEF‟s Training, Sales, Performance, Micro-entrepreneurs, Grocery
80
Contribution of Collective Action Groups on Socio-Economic Wellbeing of Agro-
Pastoralists in Makindu Sub-County, Kenya
Ndunda Elizabeth Mumbi
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Egerton university:
Email: [email protected] Phone: 0725505693
Abstract
Challenges in addressing policies and wellbeing of marginalized communities and a shift
from the top down approaches to pluralistic and participatory community development has
led to community groups taking a more active role in development. This requires
documentation of the contributions such groups are making towards development, in order to
align and address the needs of the community and the households within. The study focused
on the role played by Collective Action Groups (CAGs) operating in Makindu sub-county in
improving the socio-economic wellbeing of the community. A correlation research design
was used to determine the results. The study area was selected purposively due its climate,
number of agro-pastoral households and the existence of functional CAGs. Stratified random
sampling was used to select 204 households that were members of CAGs within the seven
locations of Makindu sub-county. Structured interviews were scheduled to collect both
qualitative and quantitative data. Seven Focus Group Discussions were conducted, one in
each location to triangulate the data collected from the survey. An index of socio-economic
wellbeing was developed from the household heads‟ subjective and objective responses on
the indicators of wellbeing. The data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential
statistics in SPSS version 21. The study revealed that: there were 159 CAGs involved in nine
different activities (financial, work sharing, training, marketing of produce, farm implements,
burial activities, building materials health care and peace initiatives), the CAGs were found to
be significantly (p<.05) useful in influencing the wellbeing of the community and that they
contributed highly to the socioeconomic wellbeing of the agro-pastoral community. It is
concluded that CAGs play a significant role in improving the socio-economic wellbeing of
the now settled Agro-pastoralists and that a majority of the problems faced by agro-
pastoralists can be managed sustainably through CAGs. NGOs and the government can find a
trustworthy and significant development partner in the CAGs within Makindu sub-county.
Key words: collective action groups, agro-pastoralist, wellbeing
81
Farm Household’s Participation in Governance: Lessons from Devolved systems in
Kenya
Nthenya Kinyumu, Tim Njagi and Lilian Kirimi
Egerton University, Tegemeo Institute of Agricultural Policy and Development, Nairobi.
Email: [email protected] Tel: 0721 321 558
Abstract
This paper provides empirical evidence on the level of citizen participation and constraints to
participation on development programmes in Counties after Promulgation of the new
constitution 2010. The new constitution provided a strong legal foundation for the
enhancement of participatory governance through devolved structures at county level. It
places the citizens at the centre of everything and promotes the aspect of participation and
involvement as a key factor to enhance successful implementation and good governance. The
study used both primary and secondary quantitative and qualitative data. Secondary data was
collected through literature review of existing documents and reports on governance and
citizen participation. TAPRAII data on devolution was used in this study to provide
information on level of citizen participation, the socio-economic characteristics of the
respondents and constraints to participation. The study finds that citizen participation in
development programmes after devolution has had minimal influence on the decentralized
service delivery. Factors like education, age of the household head, and availability of
subsidized fertilizer and distance to motor able roads had a great impact on citizens‟
attendance to development meetings. From the results we draw some policy implications that
can provide insights to policy makers to improve citizens‟ participation in development
programmes at County levels which include use of social networks to disseminate
information, provision of timely information to citizens, creating awareness to the public on
the County Integrated Development Programmes (CIDPs) and promotion of sharing
information through use of accessible channels of communication.
Key words: Devolved, Governance, Participation, Kenya
82
Influence of Social and Economic factors on Implementation of Childrens’ Rights Policy
in Nakuru County, Kenya
Nyandoro Omuria, E Bor and B Onasrigo
Department of Curriculum, Instruction and Education Management
Email: [email protected], Tel: 0723067242
Abstract
Children's rights are fundamental freedoms with particular attention to the rights of special
protection and care afforded to minors. This encompasses their right to association, the basic
needs for education, food, and, health care and laws appropriate for the age and development
of the child, and freedom from any form of discrimination. Kenya has many children policies
in place, the study sought to explain economic and social factor working against
implementation of these policies. This study, therefore, sought to find out the underlying
tensions within the existing policy. The study was guided by the fact that there are still
significant violations of children rights despite the existence of sufficient legal instruments in
place. The purpose of this study was to: establish the influence of social and economic factors
on the implementation of children rights policies in Nakuru County, Kenya. The study used
case study research design. This study was carried out in the Nakuru County through mixed
method research approach, qualitative and quantitative methods. The population of the study
was 70 policy implementers. The study used purposive and non-proportionate quota
sampling. Data collection instruments were unstructured interview schedule and focus group
schedule. The collected data was processed and analyzed using SPSS and NVIVO. The study
found that socio and economic factors affect implementation of children rights. It also found
that factors such as politics influence implementation of children rights. The study findings
may be beneficial to the government and children policy practitioners as they may be used to
formulate and implement better policies for the children.
Key words: rights, policy, implementation, evaluation, governance
83
Influence of Community Policing on Criminal activities in Low Income areas of Nakuru
Town, Kenya
Kennedy ObumbaOgutu1, Mark Okere
1 and Erick Bor
2
1Department of Curriculum, Instruction and Educational Management, Egerton University,
Kenya. 2Department of Peace, Security and Social Studies, Egerton University
Email: [email protected], Tel: 0723319047/0734319407
Abstract
Community policing was introduced in Kenya in 2003 to help in reducing criminal activities
such as theft, armed robbery, break-ins and terrorism among others that have mademany lives
to be lost, property destroyed or stolen, many homes and houses broken into and many people
displaced. Despite its introduction, it has been noted that criminal activities are still taking
place in Kenya and also Nakuru Town in particular. Thus, the aim of this research was
therefore, to determine the influence of community policing on criminal activities in low
income areas of Nakuru Town. This study employed explanatory sequential mixed methods
research design. This involved, using survey questionnaires to collect quantitative data after
which an interview schedulewas used to collect qualitative data that helped explain in a
detailed manner, the results obtained from the quantitative phase. The researcher had 156
respondents to answer the questionnaires. Purposive sampling was used to obtain one police
officer who was the heads of police station. Data entry was conducted using SPSS software.
Quantitative data obtained was then analyzed using Pearson‟s correlation coefficient.
Hypotheses were tested at 5% level of significance. Descriptive statistics such as mean,
frequency tables and percentages was also used. Qualitative data obtained by interview was
analyzed through thematic content analysis. The findings of this study are of importance to
the county government of Nakuru in that, it helped know whether community policing which
was introduced to reduce and prevent crimes has actually had an influence in the frequency of
occurrence of the most prevalent crimes in the town.
Key words: Community policing, crime, armed robbery, low income areas, Nyumba Kumi
Initiative
84
Insights from the Good Samaritan: A Response to Governance in Kenya
Odock Kizito and Boaz Onyancha
Department of Philosophy, History and Religious Studies, Egerton University, Njoro – Kenya
Email: [email protected] Tel: 0725 348040
Abstract
The Parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10: 25-35 is a call to public officials to alleviate
the suffering of the poor and disadvantaged by leading and engaging in efforts at systematic
and structural transformation. In this parable, Jesus responds to a question by a certain
“teacher of Law” about what he must do to receive eternal life. Jesus responds to the teacher
thus: „Love your neighbor as yourself‟ (Luke 10: 27). This Parable presents various
challenges to those who hold positions of authority especially public officials. The real
neighbor is one who shows mercy to those in need; especially the poor, the sick and the old
members of society. In Kenya, there are many in such persons need such as the poor and
disadvantaged described in the parable of the Good Samaritan. It remains the responsibility of
those engaged in public governance to alleviate their suffering. This paper explores the
challenges of corruption within the social, political and economic spheres in Kenya and how
these challenges hinder public officers from clearly seeing and responding to the „neighbor‟
especially in time of need. The challenges are a block to engaging in systematic and social
structural transformation. The paper is guided by virtue ethics; more specifically the
principles of beneficence and non-maleficence. The Principle of beneficence holds that we
should always strive to do good to others; while beneficence maintains that we have a duty to
others, it is a way of ensuring reciprocity in our relations and passing along to others the good
we have received in the past while non-maleficence teaches that we should not harm others
intentionally, popularly referred to as the “do no harm” approach. This paper is largely
descriptive and exploratory in nature and has used available literature on the subject to
generate and analyze required data and to make generalizations about the subject matter. It is
hoped that the discussions in this paper will benefit public policy makers in Kenya and
around the world.
Key words: Good Samaritan, Governance, Public Officials, Kenya
85
The Military tactics of Otenyo and Sustainable Political Development leading to
Advancement of Humanity among the Abagusii in the Colonial era
Gilbert Nyakundi Okebiro1, Anjela Kemunto Nyambane
1 and Kefa Otiso
2
1Kisii University –Kitale Campus,
2Department of geography, Bowling Green State
University, USA
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Sustainable political development was not possible if people feared the colonialists. That is
why brave men and women from all communities in Kenya used the military tactics to fight
imperialism. Among the Abagusii, Otenyo was one of brave men and freedom fighters who
resisted the colonial administration and led the Abagusii rebellion in Gusiiland. Otenyo was
be headed by Northcott the colonial D.C, when he tried to spear him in 1908. The problem
was the head of Otenyo was taken to Britain and has never been returned. It is important that
the head of Otenyo should be brought back. The objective of the study is to investigate why
the Abagusii community not demanding for the head of Otenyo. It is through Otenyo‟s
military tactics that the Abagusii rebellion was successful and led to sustainable development
of humanity in Gusiiland. The key finding is that Otenyo is not recognised as a national hero,
Like Dedan Kimathi, Samoei Arap Koitalel and others, who fought the colonialist in Central
and Rift Valley respectively. It is concluded Otenyo revolted individually killing the District
Commissioner Northcott and made an impact on the resistance reaction on the historical
perspective among the Abagusii. It is recommended that the head of Otenyo should be
returned to Gusii land and makes a milestone in political development. Also a statute should
be located in one of the streets of Kisii town to mark the heroism displayed by Otenyo.
Key words: Military tactics, political development, Dignity.
86
HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT
86
Can Sanitary Surveys Replace Water Quality Testing? Evidence from Kisii, Kenya
A.G. Misati1, G. M.Ogendi
1 and E. Kumpel
2
1Department of Environmental Science, Egerton University, Kenya
2Aquaya Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
Email: [email protected], Tel: 0712 825 926)
Abstract
Safe drinking water is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as water that meets WHO
guidelines or national standards for physical, chemical and microbial characteristics. Microbial
contamination of drinking water can cause waterborne diseases resulting in morbidity and even
mortality. Therefore use of sanitary surveys can highlight potential risks of contamination which will
help local authorities, develop corrective actions to prevent contamination and highlight key aspects
of water source improvements. The study focused on the use of sanitary surveys in complementing
water testing programs where faecal coliform concentrations were measured and specific risk factors
influencing microbiological water quality determined. This was achieved through a descriptive cross
sectional study design and a stratified random sampling to arrive at the three administrative divisions
of Kisii County (Keumbu, Mosocho and Kiogoro). A sanitary survey designed according to the WHO
1997 was used in collecting data and water samples were collected and analyzed in the laboratory
using membrane filtration technique. A total of 25 springs, 20 wells and 16 rainwater tanks were
sampled. Wells had the highest levels of contamination by faecal coliform (median=2.4CFU/100ml)
and highest concentrations of TDS and turbidity compared to other sources. The median Risk of
Contamination (ROC) score for wells was the highest at 59.5%. There were no significant
relationships between faecal contamination concentrations and increasing risk of contamination score.
The research study presented an up to date evidence based dataset testing microbiological water
quality against source type and potential risk factors of water sources. Use of sanitary surveys cannot
replace water testing but can help in identifying potential sources of pollution.
Key words: sanitary survey, drinking water, water testing, risk of contamination, risk factors
87
Influence of Grazing Intensity on Cyanogenic Toxicity in Baringo Savanna Grasses, Kenya
Alfayo Koskei
Egerton University, Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Environment
Email: [email protected] Tel: +254(0)727446720
Abstract
The potential role of anti-herbivory mechanisms involving use of qualitative and quantitative
compounds in minimizing herbivory is well known, however, synergistic responses to grazing and
interactive effects on herbivores are poorly known. The aim ofthis study was to quantify the
interaction between cyanogenic glycosides in grasses with grazing in Baringo County, Lake Bogoria
(00° 28' N, 35° 59'E). Data was collected from grass samples and tested for cyanogenic glycosides
using impregnated picrate paper. Grazing intensity was varied using clipping method to illustrate the
effect of grazing disturbance on cyanide concentration. Grasses were sampled using quadrats within
10 plots and classified into two classes; young and old and grazing intensities into; heavy grazing and
light grazing. The findings illustratedfive species are cyanogenic; Cynodon dactylon, Cynodon
plectostachyus, Digitaria scalarum, Sporobolus spicatus and Cyperus laevigatusout of 16 species
sampled. Cyanogenic glycosides decreased with increase inage of plants. Young cuttings yield more
Hydrogen Cyanide than older though there were no significant difference (C. dactylon p-value=0.503,
C. plectostachyus p-value=0.483, S. spicatus p-value=0.538, C. laevigatus p-value=0.103 and D.
scalarum p-value=0.447). Grazing intensity had significant effect on concentration of cyanogenic
glycosides in some species; C. dactylon (p-value=0.024) and C. laevigatus (P-value=0.021). However
in some varieties, the difference in concentration due to grazing intensity was not significant; D.
scalarum (P-value=0.551), S. spicatus (P-value=0.944) and C. plectostachyus (P-values=0.202).
Grazing regime of managed pastures should consider the age of pastures while allowing utilization of
pastures and a response to a more even grazing pressure on heavily grazed land although alternative
explanations such as selection by grazers for a lower cyanide concentration or a low palatability due
to plants being clonal relatives are possible.
Key words: Cyanide, grazing, grasses, glycosides.
88
Anticancer compounds from Edible Mushrooms
Alice W. Njue1, Josiah O. Omolo
1, Peter K. Cheplogoi
1, Moses K. Langat
2, Dulcie A.
Mulholland2
1Department of Chemistry, Egerton University, 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya;
2Department of
Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Surrey, GU2 7XH,
United Kingdom
Email: [email protected] Tel. +254721216710
Abstract
Incidences of cancer in the developing countries are on the rise and many patients in Kenya do not
have access to effective treatment. The increase is largely because of the aging and growth of the
world population alongside an increasing adoption of cancer-causing behaviors. As different types of
cancers emerge, there is need of more novel and target specific compounds which can either be a
possible alternative to anticancer compounds or increase the number of drugs controlling cancer.
Basidiomycetes have drawn significant attention in recent years because of their wide variety of
pharmacological activities. Tropical basidiomycetes comprise a vast and yet largely untapped source
of powerful new pharmaceutical products. In particular, some biologically active substances isolated
from basidiomycetes in fruiting bodies, cultured mycelium and broth exhibit promising activity
against tumours in vivo and in vitro. Some have been employed clinically as antitumour drugs. There
are advantages of using basidiomycetes as sources of bioactive compounds, rather than plants because
the biomass can be produced in much less time and the mycelia may also be rapidly produced in
liquid submerged cultures. In this work, the basidiomycetes investigated were collected from Mau
forest and Kerio valley and kept as agar slants in the Integrated Biotechnology Research Laboratory at
Egerton University. Compounds isolated were screened for activities against a panel of 60 human
cancer cell lines derived from nine cancer types. They were effective and can later on add to the pool
of drugs already in the market.
Key words: Basidiomycetes, tumours, cancer cell lines
89
Litter Processing of Exotic and Indigenous leaves in Njoro River, Kenya
Amuok O. Emmanuel1, M’Erimba M. Charles
1, and Cheplogoi K. Peter
1
Egerton University, P. O. Box 536, Egerton – 20115. Kenya.
Email: [email protected] +254 710 920 465
Abstract
Riparian vegetation provides litter that supports stream metabolism particularly in upper stream
reaches with dense canopy cover. In the Njoro River, exotic trees particularly Eucalyptus and
Grevillea species are replacing indigenous trees at an alarming rate probably owing to their fast
growth and commercial value. This poses the question whether replacement of indigenous trees by
exotic ones compromises stream functioning in terms of decomposition processes. It was
hypothesized that replacement of indigenous riparian vegetation with exotic trees interfered with the
normal leave litter processing rates in streams. To test the hypothesis, mature leaves of indigenous
(Pittosporum viridiflorum, Syzygium cordatum) and exotic (Grevillea robusta, Eucalyptus saligna)
leaves were picked, dried, weighed and enclosed into 140 litter bags measuring 11.0x11.0 cm and
mesh size 5 x 5mm. All the bags were randomly exposed in a 50m stretch in May 2013. Five bags of
each species were retrieved at intervals of 0, 3, 7, 14, 28, 56, and 60 days of exposure. Remaining
weights of leaves were determined after drying at 600C for 24 hours. No significant differences were
observed between processing rates of exotic versus indigenous leaves (pooled data, exotic -k = 0.111,
indigenous -k = 0.04, t=2.20, P>0.05). It took between 23-33 days to process half (50%) of exotic
leaves and 19-32 days for indigenous leaves. It was concluded that replacing indigenous tree species
with exotic trees had limited effects on the rate of decomposition because the time taken to process
half of exotic leaves is insignificantly different from the time needed to process half of indigenous
leaves. This study forms a basis upon which stream managers can evaluate the effectiveness of
replacing indigenous tree species with exotic along tropical streams.
Key words: decomposition, leave litter, riparian vegetation, Njoro River
90
Antimicrobial Activity of Methanolic Extracts of Senna didymobotrya (Fresen.) H.S. Irwin &
Barneby
Arama, P.F.1, Jeruto, P.
2, Anyango, B.
3, Akenga, T
4., Nyunja, R.
3, Khasabuli, D.
5 and
Kamundia, J.6
1Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, School of Agriculture, Natural
Resources and Environmental Sciences, Rongo University College, P.O. Box 103 – 40401 Rongo,
Kenya; 2Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, Eldoret University, Kenya;
3Department of Biological Sciences, School of Biological and Physical Sciences, Jaramogi
OgingaOdinga University of Science and Technology; 4Department of Chemistry, School of Science,
Eldoret University, Kenya; 5Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Maseno University,
Private Bag Maseno, Kenya; 6Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, Private
Bag, Njoro, Kenya
E-mail: [email protected] Tel: +254 721 345608
Abstract
Herbal medicines have been used for many years and it remains widespread in developing countries
while the use of complementary alternative medicine is increasing rapidly in developed countries.
Senn adidymobotrya is important for its medicinal use among many communities to treat a wide
range of ailments. The objective of this study was to assess, in vitro, the efficacy of different
concentrations of S. didymobotrya plant extracts on the fungal species Candida albicans and
Trichophyton tonsurans disease causative agents of candidiasis and tinea capitis respectively.Plants
were collected from a cluster in Siaya, Nandi and Nakuru counties (Kenya). Stem bark, root bark,
leaves, flowers and immature pods were obtained air-dried and ground into fine powder. Methanol
was used to extract the plant extracts. The extracts were reconstituted in water and incorporated into
growth media to obtain 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5% and 10%. Bioassays were carried out on T. tonsurans
and C. albicans. The growth of cultures on the plates were measured over a period of sixteen days.
The area under disease progress stairs was determined and subjected to ANOVA and comparison of
means using LSD. Results indicated that the growth of C. albicans was not significantly affected by
the plant extracts. Growth of T. tonsurans was completely inhibited by immature pods extract at
10%, the leaves and flowers extracts inhibited the growth at 7.5%. The stem and root bark extracts
inhibited growth at low dosages of 2.5- 5 %. In conclusion, there is need to carry our more research
on root and stem bark extracts to identify the active phytochemicals that contribute to their high
efficacies as compared to leaves, flowers and immature pods extracts. On species conservation,
harvesting of roots may lead to depletion of S. didymobotrya.
Key words: Senna didymobotrya, ringworms, candidiasis, tinea capitis
91
In vivo Anti-leishmanial activity of Mormodica foetida Extracts against Leishmania major.
1Chepkemei, J. K.,
2Makwali, J.,
2Ngeiywa, M.,
2Anjili, C.,
3Chepkoech, I., and Rotich, C.
Department of Biological Science, School of Science, University of Eldoret.
P.O BOX 30100- 1125, ELDORET
Email: [email protected] Tel: +254721-230-394;
Abstract
Leishmaniasis, in its variety of visceral, cutaneous and mucocutaneous forms, a vector-borne parasitic
disease, is caused by the infection with the obligate intracellular protozoan parasite, Leishmania,
transmitted by about 30 species of Phlebotomine sandflies. The control of leishmaniasis remains a
problem, a zoonotic infection, except in epidemics where it is anthroponotic, interruption of
transmission is difficult, though not impossible. No vaccines exist for leishmaniasis and
chemotherapy is inadequate and expensive. Current regimes use pentavalent antimony as primary
therapy, which must be administered parenterally. Should this fail, a number of other drugs may be
employed, depending upon the species of Leishmania concerned and the resources available to the
health professionals involved. The most widely used of these is amphotericin B, which is highly
active but has toxicity effects. Based on splenic impression smears and lesion size progressions, M.
foetida extracts significantly (P < 0.05) protected the mice against L. major parasites infection by
demonstrating lower values of lesion diameters, infection rates and LDU compared to PBS.
Antileishmanial activities significantly (P < 0.05) increase with the increase in concentrations of M.
foetida extracts. The extracts had no significant toxicity (P > 0.05) against vero cells compared to
standard reference drugs and did not stimulate the macrophages to produce sufficient amount of nitric
oxide, hence the extract could be having active compounds that act directly on parasites. By showing
antileishmanial activities with no toxicity, M. foetida extracts therefore, supports its traditional use as
antileishmanial remedy and it should also be tested against other species of the parasites in different
models.
Key words: Leishmaniasis, Mormodica foetida, In vivo, Leishmania major, Amastigotes,
Machrophages
92
Microbiological Contamination of Water Pans in Arid and Semi Arid Lands: A Case Study of
Central and South Baringo, Kenya.
Kurui, E.J., Ogendi, G.M., Moturi, W.N. and Nyawanga, D.O.
Department of Environmental Science, Egerton University
Email: [email protected]; 0714166404
Abstract
Water pans constitute the main source of rural water supply in the arid and semi arid lands of Baringo
County. However, livestock and humans have the same watering points. These areas are also
characterised by poor disposal of human waste, thus compromising the drinking water and human
health. This study sought to assess the spatial-temporal variation of Total coliforms, E.coli, Faecal
streptococcus and Salmonella species in the water pans in relation to household drinking water
quality. Water was sampled from six water pans Agro-ecological zone IV and V in the study area for
a period of four months (June to October, 2015). A total seventy two water samples were sampled
from the water pans for microbial analyses. There was no significant spatial variation in
microbiological parameters amongst the sampling sites (F=1.409, 0.979 and 1.178 for Total coliform,
E.coli and Salmonella species respectively, df=5, 71 and P> 0.05). However, there was a significant
spatial variation in Fecal streptococcus amongst the water pan sampled sites (F=3.441, df=5, 68
P=0.008). There was a statistically temporal significant difference in Total coliforms and Salmonella
spp between seasons (H=11.14, P=0.001 and H=11.581, P=0.001 for total coliforms and salmonella,
respectively). E.coli and Fecal streptococcus did not show a statistical temporal significant difference
in mean densities between the seasons (H=3.710, P=0.058 and H=0.058, P=0.810). In conclusion,
there was faecal contamination of domestic water sources in Central and South Baringo. Protection of
water sources can be recommended to reduce feacal contamination of water at source.
Key words: Faecal contamination, Water sources, Water quality
93
Environmental influence on family planning: A case study of Lelan Sub-county West -Pokot
County, Kenya
Gilbert Nyakundi Okebiro 1, Mana Brender Ekai
2 and Keyaa Longenge James
3
1,3Kisii University –Kitale campus;
2Mt.Kenya University- Lodwar campus
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
The term environment means a number of things relating to home environment, man-made
environment, natural environment, social environment, local environment and cultural environment.
The paper focuses on the local environment with its immediate surroundings and the neighbourhoods
where people spend days and cultural environment which is the dynamic life shared by a group of
people, in relation to its influence on family planning in Lelan sub county in West-Pokot county. The
paper focuses how the environmental influence leads to compelled family planning. Family planning
refers to deciding how many children one wants and when one wants to have them. The problem is
environment compels the people Lelan to practice family planning without their consent. The
objective of the study is to investigate whether the environment influences family planning in Lelan
Sub- County. The paper adopts experimental method and in-depth interview is used to collect data
from the indigenous people. Therefore Ho; environment influence family planning and H1;
environment does not influence family planning. The key results indicate that Lelan is high place
where temperatures are below 16 degrees centigrade throughout the year and cannot allow women to
conceive. Therefore Chepareria is between Sook and Lelan highlands where temperatures are higher
and conception can occur. This makes the indigenous people during the conception period to relocate
to Chepareria and Kapenguria town and leave the children in homesteads in Lelan. It is concluded that
environment can influence family planning because the interdependence between humankind and its
environment and understanding of the ecological system must be developed together with a genuine
concern for environment and its influence on people. It is recommended that since its caused by
change, the people in Lelan should use Hot beverages like tea and coffee and contain temperature and
stimulate the body leading to conception and lead to sustainable development of humanity.
Key words: Environment, family planning, stimulants, Conception.
94
An Assessment of Contribution of Faecal Disposal Practices on the Bacteriological
Quality of Drinking Water Sources in Isiolo County, Kenya.
Okullo J .O., Moturi W.N., and Ogendi G.M.
1Department of Environmental Science, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536, Egerton
Email: [email protected] Tel: (+254) 715647651
Abstract
The basic needs of people such as safe drinking water, improved hygiene and sanitation must be
fulfilled for a dignified life of human being. Isiolo County lies in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands
(ASAL) characterised with low poverty levels and poor sanitation coverage. Faecal disposal has thus
remained a key challenge. This research was conducted to establish the contribution of faecal disposal
practices among residents on bacteriological quality of drinking water sources in the County.
Questionnaires were administered to a sample of 150 households within the study area. The data was
processed and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics at α = 0.05 level of significance test.
According to the research findings, poor faecal disposal was largely attributed to lack of latrine
facilities with 43% of the households not having any sanitation facility. 68% of the households
fetched drinking water from unprotected sources majorly hand-dug wells, boreholes and river sources.
Bacteriological analysis of the sources indicated mean counts of 8.6 x 103, 1.9 x 10
3, 5.3 x 10
3, and
7.0 x 103
CFU/100mlfor Faecal streptococci, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Total coliform
respectively, falling below the WHO recommended guidelines. The study also revealed poor water
treatment, handling and storage practices amongst the households. The study therefore concluded that
poor faecal disposal practices among households deteriorate the bacteriological quality of household
drinking water. It is thus necessary to instil safe sanitation practices among households as this will
help realise better aspects human of health.
Key words: Drinking water, Household, Hygiene, Open defecation, Sanitation
95
The Burden of Faecal-Oral Infections in Isiolo County, Kenya
Kimutai, J.J. and Moturi, W.N.
Department of Environmental Science, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536-20115, EGERTON,
KENYA
Email: [email protected] /+254 712215549
Abstract
Approximately 215 million people in sub-Saharan Africa are engaging in open defecation which has
led to high transmission of diarrheal diseases. A large part of the populace (62%) in Isiolo County
lack access to a latrine facility at a household level, hence practice open defecation which enhances
transmission of faecal-oral infections. The objective of this study was to determine the burden of
faecal-oral infections in Isiolo County. The cross-sectional study that entailed random sampling of
385 households questionnaires were used to collect data on the common faecal-oral infections. DHIS
(Demographic Health Information System) was used to collect health related data from Isiolo District
Hospital. Data was analyzed through descriptive statistics. The study revealed that the prevalence
rates per 1000 of diarrhoea and intestinal worms among the under five were 142 and 21 respectively.
The prevalence rate per 1000 of diarrhoea and typhoid among the over fives were 20 and 20
respectively. Morbidity rate of diarrhoea among the under fives was higher 250 in the month of
January 2015. Morbidity rate of diarrhoea among the over five was higher 62 in the month of August
2014, whereas morbidity rate of typhoid among the over fives was higher 64 in the month of January
2014. Coverage of 66% of Burat ward had prevalence rate of diarrhoea and intestinal worms ranging
from 11-15 and 5-10 respectively. Coverage of 20% in Ngaremara ward had prevalence rate of
diarrhoea ranging from20-25, whereas 20% of the area had prevalence rate of intestinal worms
ranging from 11-15%.
Key words: Diarrhoea, intestinal worms, morbidity, prevalence, spatial distribution
96
Physical, Chemical and Microbial Quality of Drinking Water from selected sources in Njoro
Sub-County, Kenya.
Kirianki, P.R.1, Othira, J.O.
1, Muchiri, E.W.
2 and Potgieter, N.
3
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Egerton University, 536-21115, Njoro, Kenya;
2Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Egerton University, 536-21115, Njoro, Kenya;
3Department of Natural Sciences, University of Venda, South Africa.
Email: [email protected] Tel: +254722832008
Abstract
The importance of water for human and ecosystem existence cannot be overemphasized and at the
same time, many infectious diseases are transmitted by contaminated water through oral-fecal route.
About 2.2 million children below five years in developing countries die annually due to diarrhoeal
diseases associated with faecal contamination. The most appropriate remedy to this challenge is
adequate access to safe drinking water by all people. This study was undertaken to determine the level
of contamination of various drinking water both at the source and household levels in Njoro Sub-
county. The common drinking water sources are boreholes, wells, springs, dams and rain water. The
site was stratified into five administrative wards and representative samples were taken from each
ward. Both physicochemical parameters including temperature, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS),
electrical conductivity (EC), turbidity, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD)
and microbial quality were measured and compared to the set WHO and Kenya National
Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) standards. Data was analyzed in SAS 9.2 and
showed that all physical chemical parameters across the locations were within the set standards except
for electrical conductivity (0.503± 0.213), turbidity (23.622± 11.925) and Escherichia coli MPN
(37.003± 8.007), which were above the set standards. Water quality was affected by location as well
as the type of water source/storage container. Water collected from rivers had a high level of DO
(6.984 ± 0.314) and turbidity (100.000 ± 0.000). Turbidity and E. coli were highest in gallons
(6.575±5.196) and pots (56.800±43.200) respectively. The mean total viable count and total coliforms
were ranged between 838±356.54 to 2638±592.795 and 22.75±8.684 to 211±66.926, respectively.
The
county government should adopt regular water monitoring to prevent occurrence of water borne
enteric diseases. Communities should treat stored water and practice safe water handling to minimize
contamination.
Key words: Drinking water; E. coli; Water quality
97
The Prevalence of Mycotoxin contamination of Animal Feeds and implications on Milk
Safety in Rural and Peri-Urban Small-holder Dairy Systems of the Dairy Value chain in
Nakuru County, Kenya.
1Makau Caroline,
1Matofari Joseph,
1Muliro Patrick,
2Bebe Bockline
1Egerton University, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Dairy & Food Science and
Technology; 2Egerton University, Animal Science Department, Box 536, Njoro, Kenya.
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Kenya smallholder dairying is dependent on stall feeding, characterized by a diet based on
cultivated fodder, crop residues and supplements. The methods used to make these feeds,
store and feed the dairy animal‟s on-farm may pose a safety risk of mycotoxins to the dairy
cow and animal products, hence a public health concern. The aim of this study was to
conduct a risk assessment by determining the prevalence and quantify levels of mycotoxins in
animal feeds and raw milk on small-scale farms and informal market agents in Nakuru
County, Kenya. In the study, 120 milk samples and 74 animal feed samples were collected
simultaneously from small scale dairy farms practicing intensive dairy production systems
and market actors in Nakuru County. Mycotoxin concentration was determined using enzyme
linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA). Generally, levels of aflatoxin B1 and DON in animals
feeds was significantly (P<0.05) determined the type of feed either concentrate or forage and
source either commercial or on-farm formulated. The concentrates being used in both
systems reported the highest mean AFB1 47.84±36.81 µg/kg /kg and DON 86.95±51.70
µg/kg contamination. Forages used in both systems had the lowest mean AFB1 5.14±7.70
µg/kg and DON 17.83±30.66 µg/kg contamination below the EU regulation limits. The
results also showed that 25% of all milk samples had AFM1 above EU limits of 0.05µg/L.
The results obtained from this study confirm on-farm practices contribute to contamination
and measures to mitigate the high risk of mycotoxins in intensive dairy systems should be
adopted.
Key words: Animal feeds, Milk, Aflatoxin B1, Deoxynivalenol and Aflatoxin M1
98
Assessment of Prevalence and Risk factors to Bovine Brucellosis in Small holder Dairy Farms in
Nakuru County, Kenya.
1Makau Caroline
1, Matofari Joseph
1, Muliro Patrick
1 and Bebe Bockline
2
1Egerton University, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Dairy & Food Science and Technology;
2Egerton University, Department of Animal Science, Box 536 Njoro, Kenya.
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Consumption of unpasteurized milk through the informal market poses risk to infection with milk
borne brucellosis. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of bovine brucellosis and to
identify infection associated risk factors on small-scale farms in Nakuru County, Kenya. In the study,
milk samples and blood samples were collected simultaneously from 249 cows on 120 rural
(Olenguruone) and peri-urban (Bahati) small scale dairy farms practicing intensive dairy production
systems in Nakuru County. Farmers‟ on-farm animal contact practices, herd and animal data were
collected in a structured questionnaire comprising age, breed, parity, prior diagnosis before purchase
or raised on farm, breeding method and history of abortions. Milk and serum samples were screened
for antibodies to brucella using milk ring test (MRT) and Rose Bengal Plate test (RBPT) respectively.
Rural on- farm (60%) milk samples were positive according to MRT and (18%) serum samples were
positive according to RBPT. Peri-urban on- farm (43%) milk samples were positive according to
MRT and (5%) serum samples were positive according to RBPT. For spread of brucellosis, the
method of breeding was a major risk for its spread whereby there were six times occurrence of
Brucella abortus when bull was used for breeding (OR=6.6 95% CI=6.0-7.2) than AI with a relative
risk for abortions at 51% (RR=1.51 95%CI=1.43-1.59). Natural breeding was a predominant 69%
breeding practice in rural system and AI was a predominant 82% in peri-urban. The results show that
on-farm practices on small scale farms are a risk to spread of bovine brucellosis and adoption of
control measures is critical to reduce the public health concern.
Key words: Brucellosis, Breeding, Abortions, Milk
99
Hygiene and Sanitation Training Needs for Meat Handlers in Kenyan Small and Medium
Enterprise Abattoirs
Joseph Mwaniki Wambui1, Peter Obimbo Lamuka
1, Edward Gichohi Karuri
1, Joseph W.
Matofari2
1Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of
Nairobi, 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya; 2Department of Dairy and Food Science and Technology,
Faculty of Agriculture, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya
Email: [email protected]
Abstract
Personal hygiene of food workers and environmental sanitation contribute significantly to outbreak
and transmission of foodborne illnesses. The purpose of this study was therefore to determine the
hygiene and sanitation training needs among 207 meat handlers operating in five Small and Medium
Enterprise abattoirs in Nairobi City County and its environs. In addition, barriers to implementation of
basic hygiene and sanitation programs were assessed among 10 senior managers of the five abattoirs.
For this purpose, multiple-choice structured questionnaires were administered to the handlers and
managers. The results showed that majority of the meat handlers adhered to basic hygiene and
sanitation practices related to personnel clothing and prohibited habits such as smoking. The results
however highlighted low knowledge level in some hygiene and sanitation practices. These included,
regular hands washing with soap and sanitizer, use of disposable towels, reporting illness to the
management and general equipment and facility cleaning. Therefore, these practices were identified
as some of the aspects that need to be emphasized for training in the abattoirs. The need for training
was further emphasized by the fact that more than 60% of the handlers lack training in hygiene and
sanitation and their lack of basic hygiene and sanitation knowledge was regarded by the managers as
one of the barriers to effective implementation of basic hygiene and sanitation programs. In addition,
currently trained meat handlers had better practices than untrained meat handlers did in only less than
five practices (P<0.05). Management‟s willingness to take up measures to reduce identified barriers
shows a new or an improved training program has higher chances of implementation in the abattoirs.
To avoid the shortcoming of the current hygiene and sanitation programs, an assessment of such a
program require verification of its efficacy.
Keywords: Hygiene, sanitation, meat handling, training, Small and Medium Enterprise, Kenya
100
Immuno-modulatory and Anticancer Potential of Licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.);
Potential for Cancer Immunotherapy in new Drug Development
Peter Amwoga Ayeka1,3
, Bian Yu Hong3, Peter Githaiga Mwitari
2,3, Rosette Uzayisenga
3,4, Elick
Onyango Otachi1
1Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Egerton University, PO BOX 536-20115
Egerton, Kenya; 2Center for Traditional Medicine and Drug Research, Kenya Medical Research
Institute, P.O. Box 54840-00200, Nairobi, Kenya; 3International Education College, College of
Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. 88 Yuquan Road,
Nankai District, Tianjin, P.R. China, 300193; 4School of Pharmacy, Kigali Campus, Mount Kenya
University
Email: [email protected], Tel: +254705273036
Abstract
Licorice, (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.) is one of the commonly prescribed herbs in many parts of the
world, especially in Asia. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), licorice is prescribed for treatment
of various disease and disease syndromes including inflammatory diseases, antiulcer, antispasmodic,
immune modulation and cancer. In this study, we investigated the immunomodulatory and anti-cancer
potential of Glycyrrhiza uralensis polysaccharides. In vitro, Intestinal epithelial cell line (IEC-6) and
Colon carcinoma cell line (CT-26) were used to evaluate cell proliferation and cytotoxicity, T
lymphocyte proliferation and relative expression of IL-7 gene. Cell cytotoxicity kit-8, Trypan blue
exclusion assay and Multicolor analysis Real Time PCR were used respectively. In vivo, CT-26 tumor
bearing BALB/c mice were used to evaluate tumorigenesis and immunomodulation potential. Effect
of the polysaccharides on immune cells and cytokines were evaluated using Flow cytometry and
magnetic bead panel assays. The results indicated that G. uralensis polysaccharides do not inhibit
proliferation of IEC-6 cells even at high concentration and ED50 was 100µg/ml. However, the
polysaccharides strongly inhibited proliferation of CT-26 cells at a concentration of ≤50 µg/ml. After
72 hours of polysaccharides treatment, expression of IL-7 gene was up-regulated by over 2 times.
Furthermore, freshly isolated T lymphocytes were stimulated within 6 hours and CD4+ and CD8
+
percentage population in mice was increased. After treatment period, tumor growth was suppressed
and there was an increase in thymus and spleen index. The serum levels of cytokines IL-7, IL-2 and
IL-6 were elevated in the polysaccharide treated subjects. The effect by the polysaccharides was
molecular weight depended, with low molecular weight having a profound effect qualifying licorice
polysaccharides‟ potential for new drug development in cancer immunotherapy.
Key words: Licorice; immunomodulatory; TCM; anti-cancer; polysaccharides
101
A Morphological Analysis of Gill Monogeneans infecting the Red belly Tilapia, Tilapia
zillii (Gervais, 1848), from Lake Naivasha, Kenya: New Species and Biogeographical
Records
Nehemiah Mogoi Rindoria1, Lewis Kamau Mungai
1, Michiel W.P. Jorissen
3,4, Maarten
P. M. Vanhove5,6,7
, Andrew Wamalwa Yasindi1, Annemarié-Avenant Oldewage
2, Elick
Onyango Otachi1
1Department of Biological Sciences, Egerton University P. O Box 536-20115, Egerton,
Kenya; 2Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, P. O Box 524, Auckland Park,
Johannesburg 2006,South Africa; 3 Department of Biology, Royal Museum for Central
Africa, Leuvensesteenweg 13, B-3080 Tervuren, Belgium; 4 Research Group Zoology:
Biodiversity & Toxicology, Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, B-3590
Diepenbeek, Belgium; 5 Laboratory of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Genomics, Biology
Department, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Charles Deberiotstraat 32, B-3000 Leuven,
Belgium; 6 Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University,
Kotlářská 2, CZ-611 37 Brno, Czech Republic; 7 Capacities for Biodiversity and Sustainable
Development, Operational Directorate Natural Environment, Royal Belgian Institute of
Natural Sciences, Vautierstraat 29, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium
Email: [email protected] Tel +254727442299
Abstract
A total of fifty specimens of the introduced species of Redbelly tilapia, Tilapia zillii(Gervais,
1848)were caught from Lake Naivasha, Kenya from December 2014 to May 2015,
andinvestigated with the aim of identifying and collecting the first data on the monogenean
parasites. Standard methods of parasitological examination were used in the identification of
the species of the monogeneans. Some of the collected monogeneans were preserved in
absolute ethanol (96%) for molecular analysis and others in 4% formalin for morphometric
analysis. SevenCichlidogyrus species wereidentified from the gills based on morphometric
features of the opisthaptor and copulatory organs using identification keys. These include:C.
sclerosus Paperna & Thurston, 1969; C. tilapiae, Paperna, 1960; C. digitatus Dossou, 1982;
C. aegypticus Egrens, 1981; C. vexus Pariselle & Euzet, 1995, C. arthracanthus Paperna,
1960 and C. yanni Pariselle & Euzet, 1996.Preliminary molecular data, using nuclear
ribosomal RNA genehas confirmed three of the species, namely: C. sclerosus, C. digitatus
and C. yanni. However, the putative identity of six other Cichlidogyrus species
remainsunknown. They may possibly be new species and their confirmation by molecular
analysis is underway. All these monogeneans form the first biogeographical record on the T.
zillii in Lake Naivasha. Prevalence % (P) and Mean intensity (MI) of these monogeneans
were calculated and C. digitatus was observed to be the dominant Cichlidogyrus species in T.
zillii in Lake Naivasha.
Key words: Cichlidogyrus, monogeneans,molecular, morphometric, Tilapia zillii.
102
Screening for Bioactivity of Endophytic Fungi against Selected Disease causing Pathogens
Velma W. Nasimiyu1, Josphat C. Matasyoh
2, Isabel N. Wagara
3 and Meshack A.
Obonyo1
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Egerton University;
2Department of
Chemistry, Egerton University; 3Department of Biological sciences, Egerton University
[email protected] , Tel +254728486387
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance is still a global health threat worldwide. This has resulted in scientists going back
to natural product studies with the hope of finding new lead compounds that can be used in the
development of effective and affordable pharmaceutical products. Therefore, the aim of this project
was to screen for bioactive endophytic fungi isolated from selected medicinal plants. Primary
screening studies were done by growing the isolates on Mueller hinton agar plates seeded with 105 cell
forming unit per ml (CFU/mL) of Staphylococcus aureus ATCC25923 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
ATCC87853. About 49 (81.7%) isolates showed good antibacterial activity (>10mm) against S.
aureus ATCC25923. Forty one isolates (68.3%) showed good antibacterial activity (>10mm) against
P. aeruginosa ATCC87853. Ethyl acetate extracts were subjected to disc diffusion assay and serial
dilution assay experiments. B. subtilis BCCM1735 and S. aureus ATCC25923 were the most
susceptible microoganisms with inhibition zones of 27 mm and 22 mm respectively with extracts
from Diaporthe neotheicola. P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae were resistant to the extracts. Extracts
from Aspergillus ochraceous exhibited excellent antimicrobial activity in the serial dilution assay
exhibiting minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 9.38µg/ml in YM6.3 media and a value
of 2.34µg/ml against B. subtilis DSM10. These results show that endophytic fungi have antimicrobial
potential and can be used as lead in drug development studies.
Keywords: Antibiotic resistance, endophytic fungi, antimicrobial, suscetible
103
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
103
Effect of chrome-tanning process on bovine hide using Dynamic Mechanical and
Thermal Analysis (DMTA)
Kallen Mulilo Nalyanya1,*
, Ronald K. Rop1, Arthur Onyuka
2, Odhiambo P. Migunde
1,
Richard G. Ngumbu1
1 Egerton University, Department of Physics, P.O. Box 536, Egerton-20115, Kenya;
2
Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI)-Leather Development
Centre, South C - Popo Road. P.O.Box 30650-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
Email [email protected], Tel.: +254712627620
Abstract
The study reports the Dynamic mechanical Analysis of leather at pickling and tanned stage of
processing. The study also discusses the effects of these two key processes in leather making
on the viscoelastic properties. The technique of analysis has enabled recording of changes in
the viscoelastic properties related to quality and hence functional performance as leather is
further processed from pickling to tanning. Dynamic Mechanical Thermal Analysis of bovine
hide can be to qualify and quantify leather tanning processes. The results have shown the
possibility of using the technique to customize each leather tanning processes for specific
application fields. Tanning enhances the , σ, and thermal stability while decreases , loss
factor, viscosity and ε. All the viscoelastic properties exhibited dispersion with two distinct
frequency range: 0.1-30 and 30-100 Hz. The dominantly elastic nature of hides implies that
the majority of the mechanical energy is dissipated by elastic deformation. Tanning:
enhances at frequencies lower than 30 Hz but lowers at higher frequency than 30 Hz,
increases at all frequencies and temperatures. Viscoelastic properties become less
frequency-dependent at frequencies higher than 30 Hz. The viscoelastic properties
investigated showed to increase with temperatures before drastic drop at specific
temperatures. Tanned hide stores more residue stress and its molecular chains are easier to
slide over each other when shearing forces are applied than pickled hide while pickled hide
dissipates more than tanned hide at all temperatures and frequencies.
Key words: Storage modulus, Loss modulus, Viscosity, Shear stress, Dynamic Mechanical
Thermal Analysis, Pickled and tanned cowhide, Viscoelastic properties.
104
Colour and Texture feature Extraction in Image Retrieval using KNN Algorithm
L. Toroitich, W.K. Cheruiyot, and K.O. Odhiambo
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nakuru CBD
Email: [email protected] Tel: +254720358070
Abstract
Colour and texture are low level features that can be used to describe any image. To perform
image retrieval, these low level features can be used as a method of grouping images, then
ultimately retrieving the images that closely fit to the users query. In this paper, colour is first
used to obtain the first batch of pictures, then texture then reduces the number of images
further. KNN is used to form clusters such that the user has few images to choose from. The
combination of more than one low level image feature aids in reaching the desired image,
reducing computing time for the image retrieval process.
Key words: RGB, Colour Histogram, Content Based Image Retrieval, K-Near Neighbour
105
Techniques used in Content based Image Retrieval (CBIR): Enhancing Image Retrieval
in Digital Multimedia Databases
L. Toroitich, W.K. Cheruiyot, and K.O. Odhiambo
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nakuru CBD
Email: [email protected], Tel: +254720358070
Abstract
Multimedia databases contain data files that can take forms of text, audio, images and video.
With availability of internet and the penetration of smart devices in modern society,
challenges are experienced by the large amount of information that users handle, posing
greater challenges in the retrieval of these files. This research will focus on the retrieval of
images that are stored in digital databases and the techniques used for Content Based Image
Retrieval (CBIR). Results obtained from experiments conducted using different image
retrieval methods are discussed, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each technique.
Methods of enhancing CBIR are also explored in this research to overcome current
challenges.
Key words: Content Based Image Retrieval, Image features, Image retrieval, K-Near
Neighbour
106
Implementation of IEEE802.11 (Wi-Fi) in NS-3
Eliud M. Manyinsa1, S.Musyoki
2, and H. Tarus
3
1Telecommunication and Information Engineering, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture
and Technology, P.O. Box 27129-00100 Nairobi Kenya; 2School of Electrical and
Electronics Engineering, Technical University of Kenya, P.O. Box 52428-00200 Nairobi
Kenya; 3West Indian Ocean Cable Company Limited, P.O. Box 14137-00800 Nairobi Kenya.
Email: [email protected], Tel: 0723398817
Abstract
Computer networks technology is subject to constant change and innovation. New ideas and
concepts regarding the usage of internet networks demand new network protocol and
technologies. Due to its complexity many challenges arise from developing, implementing,
testing and understanding these technologies. This is where simulation comes into play.
Network Simulator is used to evaluate the performance of different wired and wireless
networks and their topologies without real world implementation. Network Simulators are
widely used by the research community to evaluate new theories and hypothesis. NS-3 has a
number of helper objects that assist in execution and analysis of simulation. The main focus
of this paper is to study the Wi-Fi performance when implemented on NS-3. This paper is
offering a closer look on network simulation by describing NS-3, its core functionality and
Wi-Fi implementation in NS-3.
Key words: Wireless Networks, Wi-Fi, Simulation, Network Simulators, NS-3
107
Determination of Residual Catechins, Polyphenolic Contents and Antioxidant activities
of Developed Theaflavin-3, 3’-digallate rich Black Tea
Samuel Kimutai1, Thomas Kinyanjui
1, John K.Wanyoko
2 and Stephen Karori
3
1Department of Chemistry, Egerton University, P.O Box 536, Egerton, Kenya
2Tea Research Institute (TRI), P.O. Box 820-20200, Kericho, Kenya
Email: [email protected], Tel +254729038801
Abatract
This study was carried out to characterize total residual catechins and their fractions,
polyphenolic contents and antioxidant activities of black teas enriched with high levels of
theaflavin-3, 3‟-digallate. The made teas were processed from eleven selected cultivars. A
comparative study was carried out between the processed teas and those from commercially
grown Kenyan cultivars in relation to the above chemical parameters. A correlation matrix
analysis was also conducted to find out whether a relationship existed between the
antioxidant activities and the said chemical parameters. The the total residual catechins were
found to range between 3.10% and 8.08%. The total polyphenol levels varied between
19.00% and 28.90%, while the antioxidant activities of teas ranged from 82.70% to 91.70%.
There was significant p<0.001 correlation between the antioxidant activity and total
polyphenols (r2 =0.8948). There was also a high correlation p<0.001 between the antioxidant
activity and total catechins (r2
=0.8878). Out of the four catechin fractions, the antioxidant
activity correlated most with EGCG (r2 =0.8774). The total polyphenolic contents and
antioxidant activities for most of the cultivars were comparable to those of the green tea
reference standard. From the figures obtained, it can be concluded that the most of the newly
developed black teas of the selected cultivars have higher quality and enhanced antioxidant
activities and that they can be recommended for commercial production.
Key words: Total polyphenls, Antioxidant activity, Residual catechins, Theaflavins
108
Chemical Composition and Antifungal Activity of the Essential Oil from Lippia javanica
(Verbenaceae)
1Yegon K. Philemon,
1Josphat C. Matasyoh, and
2Isabel N. Wagara
1Department of Chemistry, Egerton University;
2Department of Biological sciences,
Egerton University
Email: [email protected], Tel: +254723151995
Abstract
The food situation in sub-Saharan Africa is worsened by fungal infestation of field maize
crops. Among the most prevalent fungi on maize crops is Fusarium graminearum that cause
stalk rot and Grey leaf spot (GLS). The development of antifungal resistance and side effects
associated with synthetic pesticides has triggered intense research efforts towards natural
antifungal agents such as essential oilsbecause of their reported efficacy and safety. In an
effort to search for new antifungal agents, the essential oil from Lippia javanica was screened
for bioactivity against maize pathogen; F. graminearum. The research involved extraction of
essential oil from L. javanica. The chemical composition of the essential oils was
investigated by GC–MS and 22 components were identified accounting for 76.85% of the oil
composition. The oil was dominated by Monoterpenes as shown by the high percentage of
Artemisia ketone (49.52%), m-tert-Butylphenol (8.73%), Linalool (4.43%). The oil showed
inhibitory effects on the visible growth of F. gramenearum while there was no observable
activity of the oil against F. moniliforme. The extent of inhibition of visible fungal growth
was dependent on the oil concentration with aMinimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC)
value of 27.07mg/ml. These results show that the essential oil from L. Javanica can be used
to inhibit the growth of phytopathogenic fungi that cause maize diseases in the farms.
Keywords: Antifungal, essential oil, Fusarium gramenearum, Lippia javanica.
109
ORGANIZING COMMITTEE
Prof. Richard M.S. Mulwa Chairman
Prof. Joshua O. Ogendo Member
Prof. Nzula Kitaka Member
Prof. Isabel N. Wagara Member
Dr. Perminus K. Migwi Member
Dr. Amos Otara Member
Dr. Jane Mburu Member
Dr. Susan Mwaniki Member
Dr. Dishon G. Kwea Member
Dr. Gilbert O. Obwoyere Member
Dr. Elizabeth Mbuthia Member
Dr, Anastasia W. Muia Member
Dr. Thomas Kinyanjui Member
Mrs. Esther W. Gitundu Secretariat
110