Faculty of Agriculture

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://172.16.31.117:4000/handle/123456789/38

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 437

Effects of aflatoxin-inhibiting technologies on productivity of groundnuts in Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo Counties, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025-09) Buba Daffeh
Aflatoxin contamination is a major constraint to Kenya's food safety and market access, causing losses estimated at US$17.28 million annually. Groundnuts are highly susceptible to aflatoxin contamination. Both pre-and post-harvest contaminations are due to favourable conditions for aflatoxin-producing fungi. This leads to low-quality produce, low prices, health risks, and reduced income for smallholder farmers. Although several aflatoxin-inhibiting technologies have been promoted to improve groundnut productivity and quality, existing studies have not adequately documented their use, adoption levels, and impact on productivity, particularly in Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo counties. The study specifically intended to map pre- and post- harvest aflatoxin-inhibiting technologies, identify factors influencing their adoption, assess the extent of these technologies' adoption, and determine their effects on groundnut productivity and quality. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 384 smallholder farmers across the two counties. Primary data were collected using a validated semi-structured questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS and STATA 18. Descriptive statistics were used to examine current practices, while multivariate probit and ordered probit models assessed adoption factors and extent. An ordered probit endogenous switching regression model was applied to estimate the effects on productivity. The results posited that access to education, gender, farming experience, group membership, price of groundnuts, fertiliser use, use of improved varieties, off-farm income, and distance to market significantly influenced the uptake of a majority of aflatoxin-inhibiting technologies. Regarding adoption intensity, the findings revealed a high propensity for adoption among medium adopters as opposed to low and high adopters. Finally, the results denoted increased productivity among the medium (ATT=100kg/acre) and high (ATT=42kg/acre) adopters of aflatoxin-inhibiting technologies. The possible reason may be the selectiveness of the medium adopters when using technologies effectively. Adoption alone is enough, but selecting the most effective and timely application of the technologies is vital. For that reason, medium adopters outperform high adopters, seeing greater yield gains. Prioritise integrated approaches (e.g., resistant seeds + Aflasafe GAPs proper drying) to achieve >95% control, with subsidies for smallholder groundnut farmers. Low adopters were worse off, emphasising the need for optimal uptake to improve outcomes. The study recommends that target extension services delivery, strengthening cooperative groups, reducing the cost of the technologies, and social network programs should be prioritised. This will guide interventions aimed at improving groundnut production and boosting smallholder livelihood in Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo counties, Kenya.
Evaluation of quality properties of eggless mayonnaise analogue prepared from chia mucilage (salvia hispanica ˆ l.) with added gum arabic from acacia senegal var. kerensis
(Egerton University, 2025-09) Odep, Apondi Lydia
Eggless low fat mayonnaise was prepared by substituting portion of the oil with gum Arabic and chia mucilage and the result of their inclusion on the physico-chemical, sensory and shelf life properties was evaluated and equated to control with 75% oil and egg yolk. Physico-chemical properties were analyzes using AOAC methods, both consumer acceptability test and quantitative descriptive analysis were done for sensory evaluation. Peroxide value was used as a spoilage indicator for shelf-life evaluation. Gum Arabic (GA) from Acacia Senegal var kerensis has been approved as an emulsifier and stabilizer in food processing industry associated with higher lipoprotein content and high-water solubility. Chia mucilage on the other hand has been approved to be incorporated as an egg yolk and fat mimetics as it is dense in polysaccharides. In this study, eggless fat reduced mayonnaise analogue was innovatively prepared using chia seeds mucilage and gum Arabic from Acacia senegal var. kerensis. Chia mucilage was used at 15, 30, 45, and 60% levels to partially replace sunflower oil and substitute the egg yolk in the mayonnaise. The findings showed that all fat-reduced eggless mayonnaises had a greater water content of 0.74 but a much lower calorie content of 493 kcal/100g and 20% fat content. The control had 0.39 moisture, 77% fat, and 784 kcal/100g of calories. These variations grew as the amount of chia mucilage substituted increased, affecting protein, pH, and carbohydrates. The amount of ash in RFM and the control did not differ significantly. The results of the sensory evaluation showed that using gum Arabic and chia seed mucilage in place of mayonnaise was acceptable. Overall acceptability showed a positive link with all the measures, with flavor showing the largest correlation (r=0.78). Principal component analysis (PCA) loadings of 16 mayonnaise sensory qualities revealed that the first six principal components accounted for almost 66% of the variances in sensory characteristics. With regards to texture, RFM had desirable texture in terms of firmness, adhesiveness and viscosity. The microbial counts of all samples tested were in the acceptable limits for example the total viable count<50, yeast and molds <15 while salmonella and coliforms were not detected thus rendered safe before organoleptic evaluation. The shelf life (SL) of the samples reduced with increasing temperatures and time ranging 45 to 52 days. The formulated mayonnaise analogue had lower peroxide value (PV) ranging 0.2-11.8 than control with PV 0.5-12.6 thus longer SL. This is the first time an eggless fat-reduced mayonnaise analogue prepared using chia seed and gum Arabic from Acacia senegal var. kerensis has been informed.
Factors influencing use and extent of use of storage systems among smallholder rice farmers” in Kyela District, Tanzania
(Egerton University, 2025-08) Ikupa ,Partson Mwanjabala
Rice is the second staple food and cash crop produced in Tanzania after maize, it contributed to national economic growth, food security and source of employment for millions of populations. However, smallholder farmers lack knowledge of the proper postharvest management; thus, they become unaware and unknowledgeable decisions on the storage technique to use and as a result a lot of their produce are wasted. Therefore, assessment of factors influencing use and extent of use of crop storage system in Kyela district is needed. The specific objectives of this study are: to characterise the smallholder rice farmers based on the storage systems they use, to determine the factors that influence the use of storage systems in Kyela district, and to determine the factors that influence the extent of storage of rice among the smallholder rice farmers in the Kyela district. A survey of a sample of 267 smallholder rice farmer in Kyela district from three wards of Katumba songwe, Makwale, and Mwaya was conducted using semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics analysis (i.e., the double hurdle model and Logit model) were conducted using STATA software. Descriptive statistics indicated that users of the storage system had higher on-farm income, more education, participate more in group membership, had more access to extension service, training and credit than non-users. The Double Hurdle Model (DHM) revealed that the male household head, household size, access to training, access to agricultural extension services, and on-farm income were found to have a positive and significant effect on smallholder farmers’ use of a storage system. In addition, the extent of smallholder farmers' use of storage systems was positively influenced by male household head, access to training, access to agricultural extension services and on-farm income, while negatively influenced by farm size. Finally, the Logit model revealed that the choice of storage system type was significantly and positively influenced by age, marital status (married), access to training, and quantity of rice harvested, while household size, total storage cost, and on-farm income had a negative influence. This study recommends that smallholder farmers need training on how to use storage systems effectively because rice farming predominates in the research area. Also, more effort should be directed to promoting post-harvest storage systems at various levels (home, community, and national), through agricultural extension services by private/international institutions, and government
Multimodal discourse analysis of JK live talk show on Citizen TV in Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Timothy Nyongesa Wamalwa
With technological advancement, multimodal texts have become common. Talk shows exemplify this trend, as their content and communicative purposes are shaped by the sociocultural contexts from which they emerge. This study examined Citizen TV’s JK Live talk show as a multimodal text, based on the premise that social semiotic resources are integral to discourse composition. While previous research has examined talk shows through conversation analysis, genre analysis or audience reception, few studies have analysed TV talk shows as multimodal texts and there is limited research specifically investigating how verbal, non-verbal and visual modes interact in JK Live talk show to construct meaning. The study aimed to explore the modes and their actions in the show, examine their interactions and interrelationships and evaluate the meanings drawn by the modes. The study was anchored on two analytical approaches that are essential in understanding social interactions: Multimodal Discourse Analysis and Frame Analysis. The researcher adopted a descriptive research design with qualitative data collection methods. Four purposively selected episodes were downloaded from Citizen TV’s YouTube channel. Observation and focus group discussions were employed as data collection instruments. The findings of this study led to the conclusion that participants’ interactions influenced modal interactions, which in turn shaped how meanings were constructed in the show. The meanings that emerged from the interaction of the modes contributed to the understanding of JK Live talk show as a social event. This study thus provides insights for academics, media practitioners, educators and the general public in relation to understanding multimodal communication.
Effects of Agroecological Vegetable Cropping Systems on Smallholder Farmers’ Performance in Kiambu and Murang’a Counties, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Essy Chemutai Kirui
Brassica and Traditional African Vegetable (TAV) farming is a source of employment opportunities and income for smallholder farmers in Kenya. However, the production of these vegetables is hindered by various challenges which lead to lower incomes for the smallholder farmers. Agroecological cropping systems present solutions to these production problems, but there is insufficient evidence of their economic advantages. This study, therefore, sought to determine the effect of agroecological vegetable cropping systems on the performance (net income and technical efficiency) of smallholder farmers in Kiambu and Murang’a counties. The specific objectives were to characterize smallholder farmers implementing agroecological vegetable cropping systems; to determine the factors that influence the adoption of agroecological vegetable cropping systems; and to assess the effect of agroecological vegetable cropping systems on the performance of smallholder farmers in Kiambu and Murang’a counties. Multistage purposive sampling was carried out to collect data from 546 households using standardized, semi-structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the smallholder farmers. Multivariate probit model was used to assess the factors that influence adoption of agroecological cropping systems. The multinomial endogenous switching regression model was used to assess the effect of adoption on smallholder farmers’ performance. Study results indicated that most of the smallholder farmers (78%) had adopted crop rotation but the rate of adoption for other cropping systems was low. The findings indicated that the gender and occupation of the household head, gender of the plot owner and manager, gross income from vegetable production, number of trainings attended, availability of market information, income from non-vegetable farming activities, distance to input and output markets, access to extension services and the location of the farm were the major factors influencing adoption. Additionally, adopting crop rotation alone significantly (p<0.05) led to a decrease in smallholder farmers' net incomes, whereas adopting multiple cropping alone led to a significant (p<0.05) increase in the farmers’ net incomes. Regarding technical efficiencies crop rotation alone was associated with a negative and significant (p<0.01) effect, whereas adopting both multiple cropping alone and the combination of multiple cropping and crop rotation contribute significantly and positively to farmers' technical efficiencies at (p<0.01) and (p<0.1) respectively. The study recommended that policies and programs aimed at promoting the adoption of agroecological cropping systems that boost farmers’ net incomes and technical efficiencies should be developed.
Effects of Climate Variability Adaptation Strategies on Kenyan Agro-Pastoralists’ Resilience and Food Security: a Case of Laikipia West Sub-County
(Egerton University, 2025) Cyrille Samson Awuonda
Climate variability is a global phenomenon that negatively affects agricultural production. Kenya is one of the countries with livelihoods, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas, that depend on natural resources sensitive to climate variability. ASAL agro-pastoralists are constantly engaging in adaptation strategies whose effectiveness relies on the extent of adoption to mitigate the negative impacts of climate variability. Generally, the study aimed to contribute towards improved livelihood through enhancing agro-pastoralism adaptation strategies to climate variability in Laikipia West sub-county, Kenya. Specifically, identifying and characterizing dominant adaptation strategies used by agro-pastoralists, analyzing socio-economic and institutional factors influencing the number and choice of adaptation strategies adopted, examining the effects of adaptation strategy packages on resilience to climate variability, and lastly, determining the effects of adaptation strategy combinations on food security. Data from 308 households were analyzed through Factor Analysis, Poisson Regression, Multivariate Probit, Principal Component Analysis, Instrumental Variable Regression, and a generalized ordered probit model using Stata and the R program. Exploratory factor analysis results indicated that seven packages explained 57.4 of % variation in the data. Household dependency ratio, education level, gender of the household head, group memberships, and household wealth positively influenced the intensity of the package used. In contrast, age, interaction between gender and farming experience, years of education, and unmet credit needs negatively affected package use. The marginal effect of Multivariate probit revealed mixed effects of the dependency ratio, education, and distance to extension agents. Group memberships, lack of credit demand, and wealth index for households positively influenced the choice. In contrast, age, gender, farm size, and livestock holdings had negative impacts. Farm risk reduction practices, diversification practices, adult equivalent household size, years of education of the household head, and access to agro weather information were associated with higher resilience. Consumption equivalent household size, farming experience of household head, household education stock, tropical livestock unit, access to agroweather information, and a combination of risk reduction, cultural farm, and sustainable agricultural practices were associated with a higher food security score. The study recommends that interventions intended to manage agroweather shocks in ASAL should account for improved resilience and food security. There is a need for future studies to analyze the role of quality education when integrated with indigenous knowledge on adaptation.
Effectiveness of Selected Quasi-Public Extension Services and Field Practices in Reducing Post-harvest Sugarcane Loss among Small holder Farmers in Awendo Sub-County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Collince Otieno Sagege
Farmers globally experience post-harvest sugarcane losses that reduces their income. Sony Sugar Company in Kenya instituted field practices in 2011 to reduce this post-harvest loss. Such practices included trailer loading limit and proper gleaning. Farmers are trained on gleaning and sensitised to supervise sugarcane loading. However, a gap exists on effectiveness of these selected field practices and quasi-public extension services. As a result, this study sought to examine effectiveness of the selected quasi-public extension services and field practices in reducing post-harvest sugarcane loss among smallholder farmers in Awendo Sub-County. This study employed a descriptive survey design, guided by the Theory of Change. Target and accessible populations were 3,123 and 2,403 contracted smallholder farmers respectively distributed proportionately across the four wards, namely; North-East, Central, South and West Sakwa. Additionally, all other 67 accessible stakeholders responsible for sugarcane harvesting and transport were purposively included. Supervisors checked the questionnaires for face and content validity. The questionnaire was pilot tested using 30 smallholder farmers from Suna East Sub-County. Data was collected using valid and reliable questionnaires. Cronbach’s Alpha reliability coefficients of 0.749 and 0.711 for smallholder farmers’ and other stakeholders’ questionnaires were established. Only 132 smallholder farmers’ questionnaires were valid giving 89.8% response rate. Descriptive statistics and spearman’s correlation were used to analyse data using SPSS version 21. Post-harvest sugarcane loss had positive relationships with training farmers on sugarcane gleaning (r (130) = .142, p > .05.), sugarcane gleaning during loading (r (130) = .199, p < .05.) and trailer loading limit (r (130) = .129, p > .05.) Sensitisation of farmers on supervision of cane loading had statistically insignificant relationship, r (130) = -.027, p > .05. with post-harvest sugarcane loss. Thus, while training farmers on sugarcane gleaning did not effectively reduce post-harvest sugarcane loss, sensitisation of farmers on supervision of sugarcane loading, gleaning during loading and trailer loading limit effectively reduced post-harvest loss. This study recommends that Sony Sugar Company should enhance its quasi-public extension service of training of farmers on sugarcane gleaning during loading to prevent spillage. Farmers or their agents should be present during loading, glean the sugarcane being scattered by grabbers despite the myriad challenges as benefits outweigh the challenges. Sony Sugar Company through her field staff should ensure trailer load limit is maintained to reduce post-harvest sugarcane loss.
Factors influencing the rise in insecurity in gudele payam in juba, south sudan
(Egerton University, 2015-08) Manut John ,Wol Deng
This study investigated the factors influencing the rise of insecurity in Gudele Payam Juba City, South Sudan. Gudele Payam has experienced increasing crime levels, threatening residents’ safety and social stability, yet prior research on South Sudan’s security lacks specific analysis of localized drivers, particularly economic and socio-cultural factors in this post-conflict, peri-urban context. This study sought to identify and map insecurity incidents, examine the economic and socio-cultural factors driving their increase, and evaluate residents’ coping mechanisms in Gudele Payam amid rising threats. The study was Conducted in Gudele Payam’s quarter councils selected for their size, mix of formal and informal structures, and high insecurity rates. The research was guided by the broken windows theory, viewing the environment as key to social cohesion and control. Stratified random and purposive sampling selected articipants, with data collected via interviews due to low literacy levels. Quantitative data were processed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software to generate descriptive statistics, including frequency tables illustrating factors driving insecurity. Findings showed Gudele Payam faced high incidents of theft (55%), robbery (52%), assault (43%), and drug-related insecurities (38%), with hotspots mapped in dense, poorly lit areas. Economic factors like unemployment (72%), poverty (68%), and informal markets (61%) significantly contributed to insecurity. Socio-cultural factors, including breakdown of traditional values (59%), influx of non-natives (53%), and weak community cohesion (47%), also fueled the rise. Coping mechanisms included vigilante groups (41%) and eligious/traditional authorities (32%), though 27% felt helpless. Conclusions are: (1) varied insecurity types and hotspots demand targeted policing; (2) economic hardship drives crime, needing job creation; (3) socio-cultural fragmentation worsens insecurity, requiring cohesion efforts; and (4) limited coping strategies highlight the need for enhanced security support. The study provided a comprehensive understanding of insecurity factors in Gudele Payam, informing targeted strategies to reduce it and enhance safety. Recommendations included community-based prevention programs, economic opportunities, strengthened social cohesion, and improved local security capacity, contributing to residents’ well-being
PERFORMANCE OF LACTATING DAIRY GOATS FED ON SWEET SORGHUM (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) SILAGE SUPPLEMENTED WITH FORAGE CHICORY (Cichorium intybus (L.)
(Egerton University, 2025) Christine Kerubo Onkeo
This study investigated the performance of lactating dairy goats fed on sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) silage supplemented with forage chicory (Cichorium intybus (L.). The specific objectives were to determine the nutritional value based on proximate analysis and in vitro digestibility, the effect of supplementing sweet sorghum silage diet with forage chicory on the performance of dairy goats, and to assess income over feed cost of dairy goats fed on sweet sorghum silage supplemented with forage chicory. Results from proximate analysis showed that T4 (30%) recorded the highest amount of ash (121.4 g/kg DM), CP (138.7 g/kg DM), CF (323.8 g/kg DM), EE (30.6 g/kg DM), ADL (51.8 g/kg DM), and CT (0.9 g/kg DM) while T1 recorded the least. In vitro gas production was considerably higher (p<0.05) in T4 indicating highest digestibility than T1. To determine the performance, twelve (12) Toggenburg dairy goats with the same body weight (38.7 ± 9.7 kg), same parity, and mid-stage lactation aged between 18-24 months were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments and replicated three times in a completely randomized design. The dairy goats were fed on sweet sorghum silage ad libitum and supplemented with forage chicory at 0, 10, 20, and 30%. The feeding trial lasted for ten weeks, two weeks for the adaptation period, and eight weeks for the measurement of dry matter intake, average daily gain, milk yield, and milk composition. Data were analysed by the general linear model of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the statistical analysis system SAS version 9.4. The significant differences in means were separated using Tukey's Honestly Significant Difference test at (P˂0.05). Results showed that dry matter intake, average daily gain, and milk yield were significantly different at (p<0.05) with T4 (30%) performing better than T1 (0%). While in milk composition, there was no significant difference in T1, T2 and T3, T4 of fats and protein at (p>0.05). However, there was a significant difference in T3 from T1 and T2. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in lactose and total solids of T2, T3 and T4. To determine income over feed cost, data from feed cost associated with milk production, and income from milk sales was included in the data from the feeding experiment conducted for eight weeks. Data were analysed by the general linear model of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the statistical analysis system SAS version 9.4. The significant differences in means were separated using Tukey's Honestly Significant Difference test at (P˂0.05). Results showed that there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in IOFC of T1 and T2, and T3 and T4 but there was significant difference (p˂0.05) in T3 from T1 and T2. This study concluded that a 30% supplementation level of forage chicory had the highest nutritional value and digestibility that led to the improvement of the performance of dairy goats.
Uptake and Effects of Climate Smart Aquacultural Practices in Productivity among Smallholder Fish Farmers in Kakamega County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Boke Christopher Magesi
Climate change and its negative impacts on livelihoods and ecosystems are a major global concern. The aquaculture segment has also been disfranchised due to climatic variabilities, posing a risk to its sustainability in light of increasing population demands. To tackle this, climate smart aquaculture strategies have been escalated for acceptance and implementation by aquafarmers. Nevertheless, it is unknown whether fish farmers prefer these practices, and little is known about their contribution to productivity. This study aimed to determine fish farmers' preferences for climate smart aquaculture practices, determine the socio-economic and institutional drivers of choice of climate smart aquacultural practices, and determine how these practices affect productivity among farmers in Kakamega county, Kenya. Through multistage sampling approach, 220 fish farmers were selected with data collected applying semi-structured questionnaires. A best worst scaling technique served to identify preferences for CSA interventions. In relation to the factors influencing the choice of CSA practices, the study adopted a multivariate probit model, and the effects of climate smart aquaculture practices on productivity were determined using a multinomial endogenous switching regression. The results posited that most fish farmers highly preferred the use of solar power, water reuse, and water harvesting climate smart aquaculture goals, while the use of wind power, dam liners, and improved feeds were the least preferred. On the second objective age of the respondent, level of education, gender, farmers' experience, household size, land size, extension services, and training pointedly influenced the uptake of climate smart aquaculture practices. Finally, the results demonstrated high productivity among farmers who used CSA practices in combinations (Da_Ta_St at 3665.96 Kgs/Ha) as compared to the single application of these practices (Adjusted stocking 489.99 and Dam lines at 196.63). In conclusion, the uptake of climate smart aquaculture strategies by fish farmers significantly contributed to an upsurge in productivity. The study recommends policies that prioritize the preferences of aqua farmers in the development of climate smart aquaculture interventions, the revitalization of the aquaculture sector through enhanced access to extension and knowledge diffusion aimed at promoting the uptake of these innovations. The findings of this study contribute to the current body of literature on climate-smart aquaculture and will inform policy formulation and the development of strategies intended to promote aquatic farming.
Factors Influencing Nutritional Awareness, Perceptions and Consumption of Rabbit Meat among Households in Njoro Sub County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Muchira Anthony Munene
Globally, the livestock sector is undergoing a transformation driven by rapid urbanization, population growth and increasing incomes. This has led to the rising demand for sustainable and healthy protein sources. Rabbit meat has been highlighted as a nutritious food option. Its high protein, low cholesterol, and rich mineral content, makes it a potential alternative to conventional meats such as beef, pork, and poultry. Despite its advantages, consumption remains low in Kenya due to limited nutritional awareness, negative consumer perceptions and other socioeconomic and demographic factors. The specific objectives of this study were to identify factors influencing nutritional awareness, perceptions of rabbit meat and determine factors influencing consumption of rabbit meat among households in Njoro Sub-County, Kenya. Data from 186 households in three wards (Njoro, Kihingo, and Mauche) were collected using face-to-face interviews. A multistage approach consisting of purposive, simple and systematic random sampling methods was used to select households. Multivariate probit regression, ordered probit regression analysis and the double hurdle model were employed for analysis using SPSS 16 and STATA 27 software. The results of the study indicated that education, marital status, occupation, and age significantly influence households’ nutritional awareness of rabbit meat. Households perceived rabbit meat favorably regarding taste, smell, nutrition, and preparation time, but noted concerns about its affordability and accessibility. Age, education, awareness, income, and location significantly influenced overall perceptions of rabbit meat. Factors that influenced initial decision by households for rabbit meat consumption were awareness on nutritional value, age, education level, knowing a rabbit keeper, distance to market and taste. Age, household size, distance to market, affordability and location significantly influenced the consumption per capita of rabbit meat by households. The study concluded that rabbit meat was perceived positively for its taste, nutrition and ease of preparation while its consumption was constrained mainly by affordability and accessibility. To boost rabbit meat consumption, the study recommends awareness campaigns with a focus on younger individuals. Regional disparities on rabbit meat perception call for location-specific outreach, while improved distribution networks and pricing incentives can enhance accessibility and affordability. Further research should explore how sensory attributes and preparation methods influence acceptance across demographic groups.
Economic valuation of the environmental management of prosopis juliflora (mathenge) in Baringo South Sub-County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Loveness Gloria Phiri
Prosopisj uliflora is an invasive tree species that has caused signiﬁcant impacts across arid and semi-arid regions across Kenya, including Baringo South Sub-County. Initially introduced as a measure to combat desertiﬁcation, the tree has spread profoundly, contributing to biodiversity loss and undermining agro-pastoral livelihoods. As a result, utilization-based management interventions have emerged as a means to mitigate its adverse effects while simultaneously offering income-generating opportunities to the affected con-rmimities. This study sought to assess the economic value of its management in Baringo South Sub-County. Speciﬁcally, it aimed to characterize management interventions, identify socio-economic and institutional factors inﬂuencing adoption intensity, and assess their net economic beneﬁts. A cross-sectional research design was used, combining data from 270 randomly selected households, 10 key informants, and 2 focus group discussions. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, a generalized Poisson regression model, and probabilistic cost-beneﬁt analysis through Monte Carlo simulations with 10,000 iterations. Qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. From the results, charcoal (84.85%) and ﬁrewood (47.73%) production were the most widely implemented strategies of managing Prosopis juliflora. Adoption intensity was signiﬁcantly associated with factors such as landholding size and proximity to markets (both positively correlated at p < 0.01). All interventions demonstrated a beneﬁt-cost ratio (BCR) greater than 1, indicating proﬁtability under uncertainty. Livestock feed processing (BCR = 7.49), charcoal production (BCR = 4.97), land reclamation (BCR = 4.55), and biochar production (BCR = 3.37) emerged as the most economically viable options. In conclusion, utilization-based management of P|'OSOpiS juliflora enhances rural livelihoods while contributing to ecological restoration. These findings offer policy-relevant insights for developing integrated strategies that balance economic use with sustainable environmental management of Prosopi sj ulifl ora in Kenya’s dryland regions. They also align with the Baringo County Integrated Development Plan (2023-2027), Kenya’s Vision 2030, and the Sustainable Development Goals
Screening of selected wheat (triticum aestivum l.) lines for resistance and stem rust (puccinia graminis f.sp. tritici) race identification in Nakuru County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Achieng, Millicent
Wheat (T riticum aestivum L.) is one of the major cereals in Kenya, yet its production remains below national demand due to the stem rust disease. The evolution of Ug99 race evident with the emergence of aggressive races such as TTKTT has rendered more cultivars susceptible. The studies aimed at identifying spring wheat lines with adult and seedling plant resistance to wheat stem rust and also identify wheat stem rust races in Njoro and Mau-Summit in Nakuru County, Kenya. The ﬁeld experiment was conducted at the Kenya Agriculture and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), Njoro disease screening ﬁeld in a l2>
Status of fodder production and conservation, and effect of grass-legume silage on milk production in Burundi
(Egerton University, 2025) Ahimpera, Francine
As Burundi adopted the zero-grazing policy, fodder scarcity remained prevalent, especially during the dry season. This study assessed fodder production and conservation practices among smallholder dairy farmers and determined effective feeding strategies for improving milk production in the lmbo plain of Burundi. To achieve this, a survey was conducted with 384 smallholders’ dairy farmers beneﬁciaries of the PRDAIGL project. It evaluated fodder production and conservation practices in the lmbo plain region. To identify the best feeding strategy for increasing milk yield, livestock feed was improved using a mixture of grass-legume silages. A feeding experiment was conducted over a period of 28days using nine randomly selected lactating cows at Randa public farm. Survey data were processed using IBM SPSS statistics version 20. Descriptive statistics were applied to analysis numerical data,while cross- tabulation was used for categorical variables. Experimental data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using R software version 4.4.1 to evaluate differences among means. Fresh and ensiled fodder, along with milk samples were examined for their proximate nutrient content. The assessment of the effect of the mixture of Cenchrus purpureus (Napier grass)- Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) silage and Maize stalk -Velvet bean silage on body weight change, milk production, and milk composition was also evaluated. The results showed low adoption of fodder conservation (38.00°/0), with silage making at only 1%. The DM and CP were higher in Cenchrus purpureus- Velvet bean silage than in Maize stalk -Velvet bean silage. However, the Crude ﬁber, Ash, and Crude Fat were higher in Maize stalk -Velvet bean silage compared to Cenchrus purpureus-Velvet bean silage. Milk yield showed signiﬁcant variation between the treatment groups,with cows receiving the Maize stalk- Velvet bean silage producticing more milk(7.53il.52 kg) than those fed the Cenchms purpureus-velvet bean silage(5.36il.07 kg). Signiﬁcante difference(P<0.05) were noted in solid not fat (SNF), lactose, and salt concentration in the milk whereas Fat and Protein content did not differ signiﬁcantly (P>0.05) among the groups. The study concluded that, the low adoption of fodder conservation resulted to the lack of knowledge which was associated with low education level of smallholder dairy farmers, which led to issues adoption of innovations and technology related to animal nutrition The study concluded also thatthe increase in milk production and quality depends on the improvement of the nutritive value of feed, and the incorporation of grasses and legumes (80%-20%) and their conservation in the form of silage increased milk production, affect milk composition, and body weight change for dairy cows
Knowledge, attitude, practices, and willingness of insect-based organic waste management in Nairobi County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Wamwondwe Teresia Gathoni
Organic waste management remains a great challenge, particularly in the rapidly growing urban areas. However, despite insects being a possible solution to the organic waste problem, its adoption rate is low. This study surveyed 485 organic waste producers and collectors in Nairobi County, that were selected using a multi-stage technique, to map and characterize the respondents, assess factors inﬂuencing their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) and the extent of willingness to use insect-based technologies to recycle organic waste into value- added products. Logistic regression, multinomial logit, and Tobit model were used for analysis. Each household produces approximately 1.53 kgs of organic waste daily, with most waste being kitchen waste while other organic waste producers produce higher kgs. A waste collector collected approximately 21.67 tonnes of waste daily. Most respondents (98.6%) knew about insect-based waste management, with 80% showing positive attitudes and 57.4% practicing it. About 71 % of the respondents segregated organic waste. Black soldier flies (33.8%), crickets (10.2%), rnealworrns (5.3%), and cockroaches (3.9%) were the most known insect species. Pig and poultry farmers were the most willing to add value (89%), while 75% of respondents were willing to sell the waste if not in a position to add value. The amount of waste the respondents were willing to recycle was highly inﬂuenced by market availability and cost-effectiveness. Despite most respondents possessing good knowledge, positive attitudes, and willingness to add value using insects, only a few of them recycled organic waste using this approach, with the majority citing ineffectiveness of trainings on organic waste management using insects which is crucial for the enhanced adoption of this innovation. It is recommended that there be collaboration with legislators for incentives and policies that foster market acceptance, and enhance cost-effectiveness through partnerships and subsidies.
Impact of nutritional practices on milk loss and wastage in dairy farming: a case study of Bungoma County, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Nyagichuhi, Susan Njuguna
Stakeholders’ assessment of the potential of geotourism in baringo county, Kenya
(Egerton University, 2025) Rerimoi, Jackson Mengich
The low-temperature effect has limited the cultivation of sorghum with desirable traits in the highlands. This project was set up to evaluate and characterize sorghum genotypes for reproductive-stage cold tolerance, determine the lipid fractions associated with cold sensitive and cold tolerant sorghum genotypes, and determine and identify lipid fraction associated with cold tolerance in sorghum. Field experiments were conducted at Egerton University, Njoro (0° 22” S:35° 35"E), and Marigat (0°46’ N:35°98’E) while growth chamber, fatty acid extraction and proﬁling was conducted at Egerton laboratories. Two hundred and ﬁfty (250) genotypes were grown in three replications using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and evaluated for time taken to 50% heading, plant height, panicle length, panicle weight, panicle harvest index and grain weight. Lipid fraction were extracted using n-hexane a by Soxhlet extraction and methylated into individual Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAMES) using Boron triﬂuoride and separated using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Cluster analysis conducted for the two hundred and ﬁfty genotypes placed sorghum genotypes into three clusters. Genotypes in cluster one remained vegetative, cluster two headed and had productive panicles while those in cluster three had sterile panicles at Egerton site. The genotypes took between 125-205 days to attain heading at Egerton while in Marigat the genotypes took between 49-80 days to heading. The number of tillers was increased for Egerton grown genotypes compared to Marigat. Plant height, panicle length, panicle weight and seed Weight Was reduced at Egerton in comparison to Marigat. Sorghum grown at Egerton had a mean post-harvest index (PHI) of 0.688 and with a range from 0.322-0.916 while the mean in Marigat was 0.750 with a range from 0 to 0.907. A total of ﬁfteen fatty acids both saturated and unsaturated were identiﬁed in sorghum genotypes grown under ﬁeld and growth chamber conditions. The saturated fatty acids included; palmitic acid, lauric acid, myristic acid as well as pentadecanoic acid. Unsaturated fatty acids included oleic, linoleic, linolenic, Cis vaccenic acid, methyl linolenate and arachidonic acid. The Genotypes grown at Marigat showed an increase in the number of saturated fatty acid while, the genotypes that were productive at Egerton had predominantly unsaturated fatty acids. Methyl linolenate was proﬁled in cold tolerant genotypes grown in Marigat and Egerton, an indication that this fatty acid can be used as a marker for cold and heat tolerance. Basing on characterization and fatty acid data, further research on GBK 000075 and BM 29 is recommended since they exhibit potential use as breeding materials for cold tolerance genotypes for the highland. Fatty acids if quantiﬁed can help understand the response mechanisms towards cold tolerance.
Performance of common bean (Phaseolus Vulgaris l.) in response to cattle manure and foliar sprays of blackjack (Bidens Pilosa l.) and comfrey (Symphytum Officinale l.) extracts
(Egerton University, 2025) Ingabire, Regine
Common bean (Phaseol us vulgaris L.) is important legume crop for food and nutritional security in Kenya. Low yields are obtained in small holder fanns, and this is majorly because of declining soil fertility. The use of inorganic fertilizer to replenish lost nutrients is limited because of rising costs. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of cattle manure combined with foliar sprays of blackjack (Bi dens pilosa L.) and comfrey (S/n"phytum Ofﬁ Ci naleL.) extracts on nutrient uptake, growth, yield and nutritional quality of common bean. A 4 x 6 factorial experiment in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replicates, was conducted in Egerton university’s research Field 7. There were four fertilizer levels: cattle manure, applied at 0, 5, 10 t ha'l, and NPK (27-27-27) fertilizer applied as a positive control at rate of 148.15 kg ha". Six foliar spray treatments were used: no spray (control), comfrey spray applied once (Cl) or twice weekly (C2), blackjack spray applied once (B1) or twice (B2) weekly and commercial Easy Grow spray (EG) (positive control), applied every 14 days at the rate of 3 kg ha'l. The experiment was repeated two times consecutively, from June 2024 to December 2024. Soil samples were collected before the experiment was set up for analysis texture, moisture content, N, P, K, OC, pH and CEC. Plant tissue were collected at Rl(ﬂowering stage) for analysis of nutrient uptake. Data on growth which included height, number of branches, biomass, pod number, days to ﬂowering and days to pod set were collected. Data on yield parameters, such as harvest index, hundred seed weight, yield per ha'1, and protein content in seeds were collected at harvest. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to ascertain the normality of data. Analysis of variance was performed using Proc GLM in Statistical Analysis Software (SAS). Tukey’s Honestly Signiﬁcant Difference was used to compare the means at p<0.05. Treatment M2 (10 t ha") of manure produced plant tissues with high N content of 24.87% while the control (M0) had the lowest, 19.37%. For foliar spray, F0 (no foliar spray) produced plant tissues with lowest N content, 19.29% but B2 (Black jack twice a week) had the highest N, 23.95%. In addition, M2 produced highest yield (1652.31 kg ha" 1) compared to the control (M0) which had the lowest yield 1016.05 kg/ha’1. For foliar sprays, C2 (comfrey twice a week) produced the highest yield (1669.77kg ha") while no foliar spray (F0) had the lowest yield (1041.04 kg ha”). The combination of M2 and C2 produced the maximum yield (237388 kg ha"), which can be recommended for common bean production.
Physiological mechanism associated with reproductive-phase cold tolerance in sorghum [Sorghum Bicolor (l.) Moench] genotypes
(Egerton University, 2025) Muthoni,Rachael Kamau
The low-temperature effect has limited the cultivation of sorghum with desirable traits in the highlands. This project was set up to evaluate and characterize sorghum genotypes for reproductive-stage cold tolerance, determine the lipid fractions associated with cold sensitive and cold tolerant sorghum genotypes, and determine and identify lipid fraction associated with cold tolerance in sorghum. Field experiments were conducted at Egerton University, Njoro (0° 22” S:35° 35"E), and Marigat (0°46’ N:35°98’E) while growth chamber, fatty acid extraction and proﬁling was conducted at Egerton laboratories. Two hundred and ﬁfty (250) genotypes were grown in three replications using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and evaluated for time taken to 50% heading, plant height, panicle length, panicle weight, panicle harvest index and grain weight. Lipid fraction were extracted using n-hexane a by Soxhlet extraction and methylated into individual Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAMES) using Boron triﬂuoride and separated using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Cluster analysis conducted for the two hundred and ﬁfty genotypes placed sorghum genotypes into three clusters. Genotypes in cluster one remained vegetative, cluster two headed and had productive panicles while those in cluster three had sterile panicles at Egerton site. The genotypes took between 125-205 days to attain heading at Egerton while in Marigat the genotypes took between 49-80 days to heading. The number of tillers was increased for Egerton grown genotypes compared to Marigat. Plant height, panicle length, panicle weight and seed Weight Was reduced at Egerton in comparison to Marigat. Sorghum grown at Egerton had a mean post-harvest index (PHI) of 0.688 and with a range from 0.322-0.916 while the mean in Marigat was 0.750 with a range from 0 to 0.907. A total of ﬁfteen fatty acids both saturated and unsaturated were identiﬁed in sorghum genotypes grown under ﬁeld and growth chamber conditions. The saturated fatty acids included; palmitic acid, lauric acid, myristic acid as well as pentadecanoic acid. Unsaturated fatty acids included oleic, linoleic, linolenic, Cis vaccenic acid, methyl linolenate and arachidonic acid. The Genotypes grown at Marigat showed an increase in the number of saturated fatty acid while, the genotypes that were productive at Egerton had predominantly unsaturated fatty acids. Methyl linolenate was proﬁled in cold tolerant genotypes grown in Marigat and Egerton, an indication that this fatty acid can be used as a marker for cold and heat tolerance. Basing on characterization and fatty acid data, further research on GBK 000075 and BM 29 is recommended since they exhibit potential use as breeding materials for cold tolerance genotypes for the highland. Fatty acids if quantiﬁed can help understand the response mechanisms towards cold tolerance.
Effects of charged biochar and selected organic fertilisers on growth, yield, quality, and profitability of lettuce (lactuca sativa l.)
(Egerton University, 2025) Ousman Saidy
Poor soil fertility due to excessive use of synthetic fertilisers poses challenges to sustainable production of vegetables, including lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in many tropical regions. This research aimed at assessing the agronomic and economic potential of organic fertilisers in enhancing lettuce production. Its speciﬁc objectives were to determine the effects of selected organic fertilisers (nutrient source) on soil properties, productivity, quality, and proﬁtability of lettuce. It was done in a randomized complete block design with six treatments (negative control- soil, positive control-NPK+Urea, charged biochar, compost, poultry and farmyard manures) replicated three times in two production seasons from October, 2024 to January, 2025, and February to May, 2025 in Field-3 at Egerton University, Kenya. Iceberg lettuce variety was used in this experimentation. Data was collected pre- and post-production on soil and organic fertilisers; bi-weekly on lettuce growth components; and in the 9"‘ week on head diameter, biomass yield, nutritional quality, and net economic beneﬁt (NEB). Data was subjected to analysis of variance using JMP Pro 7‘h edition program. Results showed decreased N, P, pH, OC, OM, but increased K, Ca, Mg, CEC, and C: N in soil post-production. All treatments had a pH of 6.1 - 6.5 that was optimal for lettuce growth. In both seasons, results showed a signiﬁcant difference in lettuce leaf diameter (P = 0.023, 0.041), plant height (P = 0.002, 0.004), leaves (P = 0.032, 0.0002), as well as head diameter (P = 0.012, 0.01 1). Similarly, marketable fresh weight yield was signiﬁcantly (P = 0.010; 0.019) different and ranged from 1.4 - 2.6 ton/ha and 1.1 - 2.6 ton/ha. In this regard, poultry manure promoted the highest marketable fresh weight yield of 2.3 and 2.6 ton/ha. In contrast, charged biochar led to intermediate marketable fresh weight yield of 2.0 and 1.8 ton/ha, while negative control had the lowest of 1.4 and l.l ton/ha. Lettuce leaf tissue analysis showed signiﬁcant (P = 0.001; P = 0.048) differences in vitamin C, ranging from 2.0 — 3.2 and 1.0 — 1.4 meg/100 mg. However, there were no signiﬁcant (P> 0.05) differences in nutritional minerals (N, P, K, Mg, Ca). The NEB, ranging from Ksh 217 — 778 and Ksh 224 — 833, was signiﬁcantly (P = 0.001; 0.011) different. Positive control (Ksh 778) and poultry manure (Ksh 833) had the highest NEB, while charged biochar (Ksh 217) and compost (Ksh 224) had the lowest. This study highlights varied effects of charged biochar and organic fertilisers on lettuce production. The amendments approach enhanced productivity and promoted organic lettuce production. It also recommends adoption of poultry manure and long-term (residual) effects of charged biochar on lettuce production enterprises.

Browse

Recent Submissions