MST-Department of Environmental Education

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An assessment of the incorporation and the teaching of environmental studies in primary schools in Murang'a District
(1987) Mang'uriu, Daniel Gathuru
This study assessed the extent of incorporation and the teaching of Environmental studies in primary schools in Murang'a district. The upper primary syllabuses were examined to ,identify topics on Environmental studies included. Forty primary school teachers, eight from each of the five divisions in the district were selected using stratified random selection. Each teacher filled a questionnaire containing two parts. Part 1 assessed teachers' attitudes towards the environment and Environmental studies. Part II assessed the teaching of Environmental studies in 'primary schools. The findings of the study were quantified and expressed in percentages. The examination of the upper primary syllabuses revealed that, a multi-disciplinary approach is used to teach Environmental studies. The disciplines containing Environmental studies are: Combined course (Geography, History and Civics), Agriculture, Science and Horne Science. The findings of the study showed that teachers in Murang'a district are aware of the state of the Environment and have positive attitudes towards the x environment. The majority of teachers agreed that concern for the environment should be a duty for every' citizen. Most teachers agreed that environmental ed~cation should play the vital role of changing pupils' attitudes, values and behaviour with a view to making pupils respect, appreciate and protect the environment. The study revealed that most teachers in the district frequently used the environment as a teaching resource. No text book on environmental education was being used in primary schools visited. Most teachers had no training on how to incorporate environmental education into their instructional programmes. The problems faced by teachers included shortage of reference books, lack of finance to organize field trips and other problems. Recommendations to ensure that environmental studies are effective in promoting environmental awareness and solving environmental problems inc lude those- t.o:the inspectorate, curriculum developers, suppliers of teaching materials and the school community. Recommendations for further research include an assessment:of pupils attitudes towards the environment, research on whether pupils apply the knowledge acquired on environmental education after they graduate from primary schools and others.
Environmental Implications of Utilization of Rural Domestic Energy: the Case of Sabatia Division, Kakamega District
(Kenyatta University, 1992) Anami, Alumasa Kennedy
Soil fertility technologies for increased food production in Chuka, Meru south district, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2003) Mucheru, Monicah Wanjiku; Mugendi, D.N.; Kung'u, J.B.
The high population pressure in Chuka has led to continuous cultivation with minimal additional of inputs, leading to soil nutrient depletion. Research work has reported positive results from the use of manure and biomass from tithonia, calliandra, leucaena, mucuna and crotalaria for soil fertility replenishment. In relation to this a multidisciplinary farmers participatory trial was established in Chuka Division, Meru District, to offer small-scale resource poor farmers feasible soil nutrient replenishmenttechnologies. The experiment was set up in a randomized complete block design with 14 nutrient replenishment treatments (technologies) replicated thrice. At the beginning and at the end of the study soil was sampled at 0-15 cm depth and the samples analysed for pH, Ca, Mg, K, C, N, and P. At the end of the 2000/2001 short rains season and 2001 long rains season soil samples were taken at 0-30, 30-100 and 100-150 ern, for nitrate and ammonium analysis. All the treatments received an equivalent of 60 kg N ha' except the herbaceous legume treatments where the amount of N was determined by the amount of the biomass harvested and incorporated and the absolute control t~ent that received no inputs. Net benefit and benefit-cost analysiswere conducted using farm gate prices. The results indicate that soil fertility increased slightly in all the treatments (except the control) over the two years of the study period. The average maize grain yield across the treatments was 1.1, 5.4, 3.5 and 4.0 Mg ha-1 during the 2000 long rains, 2000/2001 short rains, 2001 long rains and 2001/2002 short rains seasons respectively. The poor yields in the 2000 long rains and 2001 long rains seasons were attributed to the poor rainfall received in these two seasons. On average tithonia with half recommended rate of inorganic fertilizer recorded the highest (4.8 Mg ha') maize yield followed by sole tithonia (4.7 Mg ha'). VI The highest average concentration (144.8 and 115.5 kg N ha') of mineral N was recorded at the 30-100 em soil depth at the end of both the 2000/2001 short rains and 2001 long rains respectively. The lowest average concentration (67.1 kg N ha') was recorded in the 100-150 em soil depth during the 2000/2001 short rains while during the 2001 long rains the 0-30 cm depth recorded the lowest concentration (52.3 kg N ha"). The residual mineral N in the 100-150 em soil depth doubled at the end of the long rains 2001 compared to what was present at the end of short rains 2000/2001 season in all the treatments. This shows that there is a substantial amount ofmineral-N that is being leached below the rooting systems of maize. Sole tithonia was ranked as the best treatment, while, the control was ranked as the poorest treatment by both the farmers and future farmers (students). The treatment ranking by both groups was closely related to the actual maize grain yields attained later at the end ofthe season. Out of the 171 farmers who attended the 3rd field day, 153 farmers (90%) indicated willingness to take the technologies to their farms. Sole leucaena and calliandra were the most cost effective technologies with a benefit/cost ratio (BCR) of7.3 while sole tithonia followed closely with a (BCR of 6.9) through out the four seasons.
Climate variability and response strategies among the Gadamoji agro-pastoralists of Marsabit County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2013) Boru, Halkano Jillo; Koske, J. K.A.; Manguriu, Daniel
Climate is perceived to be changing thus calling for livelihood adaptation strategies and integrated understanding at local level to guide in developing climate-resilient livelihoods. The objective of this study was to assess perception of climate variability, impacts and household response strategies among agro-pastoralist in Gadamoji division. Saku District of Marsabit County in the periodI998-2012. Out of 1335 households, one hundred and thirty three (133) were randomly selected from four sub-locations that make up the division. Data was gathered using structured questionnaires and interviews administered to households as well as three Focused Group Discussion. The study data was statistically analyzed and results discussed and presented in graphs and tables. The results revealed that local people have noticed rainfall and temperature variability. The perceived changes include changes in various aspects of rainfall and increase in temperature. Indeed, they were able to link their livelihoods albeit subjectively to climate variability with79.3% of the respondents acknowledging that the changes have adversely and significantly impacted on their households' sources of income. Main impacts identified include repeated crop failure, reduced and/or loss of livestock holdings, increased households' poverty and rampant water shortage. Besides, most respondents anticipate that these effects will worsen in future with majority attributing the variability to destruction of natural forest. The study also found that most households have adjusted their crops farming and animal husbandry practices in response to climate variability effects over the last 15 years preceding the study. Direct nature-based livelihoods (livestock tending and crop cultivation) were reduced and alternative non-farm activities (casual and wage employment, sale of wood products and trade) increased. In fact, only 24 % and 2.1 % of the respondents consider livestock rearing and crop farming respectively as their main sources of income. The study, however, revealed that though climate was a key factor, other social factors also accelerated the changes in livelihoods strategies in the division. The study further revealed a number of innovative response strategies pursued by households. These are: diversification to off-farm incomes, switch to drought-resistant livestock types, saving of assets for lean seasons as well as kitchen gardening practices. These measures are however found inadequate and are manly selfadaptation practices pursued by households in a disorganized ways. In exploring desired livelihoods options to future climate effects, the study found that most households prefer to invest in small scale irrigation, engage in non-farm income activities, diversify herd composition, practice agro-forestry, invest in livestock insurance as well as undertake water harvesting. Further, the study revealed that both current and future strategies are challenged by poverty and lack of capital, climate uncertainty and unreliable climate information and inadequate knowledge on other livelihoods options. These constraints can be alleviated through awareness on climate variability, support to existing livelihoods strategies and assets, improve access to market information, enhance access to credit services and adoption of conflict management strategies. Otherwise, achieving livelihoods resilience and food security in the division will remain delusion for years to come.
Awareness and Sources of Climate Change Information among Secondary Students in Nairobi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2014) Gichuki, Mutahi William
The study investigated the awareness and sources of climate change information among the secondary school students in Nairobi County. The objectives of the study were to find out whether students and teachers are aware of climate change and their sources of information on climate change. It also investigated the extent to which climate change information has been covered in the integrated environmental education. The study applied the descriptive survey design. The target population consisted of secondary schools students and teachers in Nairobi County and curriculum development officer from KIE. The sample consisted of 792 students, 198 teachers from 18 secondary schools and I officer from Kenya institute of education. The sample was drawn using stratified, purposive and simple random sampling techniques .The reliability of instruments was ensured by conducting three pilot surveys. The data was collected through the use of questionnaires for the students and the teachers and an interview schedule for the Kenya institute of education officer. Data was analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). Chi- square Test was used to determine relationship between variables (p
Challenges and opportunities of teaching environmental education in secondary schools in Kenya: the case of Ruiru district
(2014-01-31) Ng'ang'a, Nancy N.; Kerich, Richard Kimutai; Koech, Michael K.
The primary objective of this study was to investigate the challenges faced and opportunities available in the teaching and learning of Environmental Education in secondary schools in Kenya using Ruiru District in Central Province as a case study. This was achieved by analysing the secondary school syllabi for selected environment related subjects, namely biology, chemistry, geography and agriculture to establish the elements of EE infused therein. The methods used to teach these elements, the preparedness of teachers to handle them, availability of teaching and learning resources as well as the attitudes of both teachers and students towards EE were also investigated. The target population was the 15 secondary schools in Ruiru district which was a division at the time of the study. A sample of ISO form three students was taken from five randomly selected schools in the division together with 20 teachers of environment related subjects making a total of 170 subjects. Data were collected using questionnaires, attitude scale tests and content analysis of the secondary school syllabi of the selected EE related subjects. Data from questionnaires and attitude scale tests were coded then scored for analysis while data from content analysis of the selected subject syllabi were summarised in tables to show the particular EE related topic and the EE objectives therein. The results are presented in text and tabular form and analysed by use of percentages, means and frequency tables. The findings of the study established that though EE is adequately incorporated in the secondary school syllabi of subjects studied; various challenges are faced by the teachers in the teaching of EE elements in these subjects. These challenges include, fragmentation of EE themes in the various subjects, inadequate instructional materials, inadequate training of teachers to handle EE related topics in their subject areas and over-reliance on the lecture method of teaching among others. However, attitudes of both teachers and students to EE were found to be highly positive with 90% of teachers and 98% scoring above the mean score in the attitude Scale tests. From the research findings, major recommendations such as adequate provision of instructional materials, a review of pre- and in-service EE programmes for teachers as well as regular monitoring oLEE programmes among others were made. The findings of the study and the accompanying recommendations will no doubt prove invaluable to curriculum developers and policy makers in the country.
Assessing Women Domestic Chores and Vulnerability to Climate Variability in Chepseon Sub location, Nakuru County, Kenya
(2014-02-19) Koskei, Nancy Chebet; Kerich, Richard Kimutai; Koske, James K.A.
Climate change is a major challenge of mankind in the 21st century. While climate change existed even in the pre-industrial era, recent trends exacerbated by human activities have raised global concern that climate change is threatening the achievement of sustainable development. While effects of climate change have been experienced all over the world, developing countries will be hardest hit because this is where millions of the world‟s poorest people are already being forced to cope with its impacts, yet they contributed less to historic GHG emissions. Kenya is vulnerable to climate change because most of her people‟s economic activities are dependent on climate sensitive natural resources. This study was done to assess women domestic chores and vulnerability to climate variability in Chepseon sub location, Nakuru County, Kenya. The objectives of the study were to determine climate variability from 1982-2011, to find out if there was a relationship between climate variability awareness and women‟s level of education and to investigate adaptive strategies that women had in place to cushion them from climate variability in Chepseon Sub location, Nakuru County of Kenya. Descriptive survey was used to solicit data on women‟s domestic chores and their vulnerability to climate variability. A sample size of 90 households was selected through stratified random sampling. Questionnaires were used to collect data. Climate variability data spanning 1982 to 2011 were obtained from Kenya Meteorological Department. Results were discussed and presented as descriptive statistics in tables and graphs. Annual precipitation trend showed a general increase from 1071.5mm in the year 1982 to 1106.5mm in the year 2011. Five year moving averages also showed variability in the amounts of rainfall received, with the first five years rising from 900.54mm to 918.60mm in the next five years then decreasing to 797.96mm in the next five years that followed. Average rainfall then rose to 913.24mm in the next five year. The years 2002-2011 indicated a relative increase in the average annual precipitation from 1018.98mm to 1087.24mm. This trend showed variability of rainfall over the years which were also unpredictable. Temperature analysis also showed variability in both minimum and maximum temperatures. The mean monthly minimum temperature depicted a positive trend from 10.39˚C in the month of January to 10.64˚C in the month of December while the mean monthly maximum temperature depicted a negative trend from 27.3˚C in the month of January to 25.73˚C in the month of December over the 30 year period. Chi-square test results indicated that there was no significant relationship between the level of education and climate variability awareness among the respondents in Chepseon sub location (2 =2.595, df= 4, 89 and p=0.458). Majority (49%) of those that were aware of climate variability had only completed primary school level. The possible explanation for this was that they could not gain access to formal employment and could only carry out domestic chores which involved using natural resources that were at risk of climate variability. Climate variability was experienced in Chepseon sub location and women were not well adapted to changes in climatic conditions. Awareness on the causes and consequences of climate variability should be made in order to sensitize women on its‟ challenges and the possible ways of adapting to it.
Impact of Drought on Primary Schools Learning in Laikipia West District of Laikipia County, Kenya
(2014-02-22) Gitau, David Ndichu; Kerich, Richard Kimutai; Gichuki, Cecilia Muringo
Laikipia West district receives between 500 mm and 950mm of rainfall annually. It is therefore, classified as a semi arid region with harsh and fragile environment. The low and erratic rainfalls govern vegetation dynamics, animals‟ survival and the general human welfare. Frequent drought as a result of climate change has exacerbated and compounded the problem of provision of quality basic education in the district. This study was conducted to investigate drought prevalence and the impact it has on the learning of pupils in the district. The study was carried out between August to December 2011 in two different agro ecological zones; high agricultural potential area in Muhotetu and Sipili in the west as well as dry zones of Ol moran and Rumuruti in the north and eastern parts of the district respectively. Primary data collection was through the use of questionnaires and informal discussions with community members as well as education officers. Questionnaires were administered to both teachers and classes seven and eight pupils in twenty four out of the seventy two public primary schools in the district. Visits to the pastureland where school going children were looking after animals during school days, and interaction with communities in the district also formed part of the study. Rainfall and temperature data from meteorological department were used to reinforce schools attendance data. Indigenous knowledge from the elders of the communities and secondary data were used to corroborate the findings. The secondary data sources included review of published reports, journals, internet and books to identify existing information on the effects of drought on learning. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive qualitative and quantitative statistics such as percentages and frequencies. The results were processed; tabulated and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 11(Students‟ version) to generate descriptive statistics. The findings indicated that, drought cases significantly impacts negatively on the learning of pupils in schools (χ2=16.2761,df = 3, P=0.001). The results indicated that, drought contributed to absenteeism at 33%,truancy at 17%, poor performance at 16% and both transfers and drop out at 21% Data from meteorological department for the period between the year 2000 and 2010 indicate low rainfall annually especially during the months of January to March and June to December. Temperatures range between 10.7oC to 25.25oC at Nanyuki substation weather station and between 7.8oC to 20.41oC in Nyahururu substation. The elders from Laikipia west communities had Indigenous ways to mitigate against the impacts of drought in the area though some negatively affected their environment. Due to the low rainfall in most parts of the district, the results of this study recommend that, policy makers ought to take decisive measures aimed at arresting the perennial suffering of both people and animals in the district by drilling boreholes, water harvesting during rainy seasons into reservoirs and a well sustained feeding programme in all the schools in the district.
Contributions of conservation Education Centres Towards Sustainable Environmental Awareness in Schools, A Case of Giraffe Centre Nairobi County
(2014-02-22) Njagi, Gathuku George; Kerich, Richard Kimutai; Gichuki, Cecilia Muringo
The purpose of the study was to evaluate the contributions of conservation education ncentres in creating awareness to promote sustainable environmental conservation in schools. In this regard, public education is critical in raising levels of awareness in environmental conservation. The results of this study will contribute to future review and improvement of environmental education and awareness programmes offered by other conservation education centres. A descriptive survey design was adopted targeting pupils, administrators and teachers from 26 out of 205 primary schools in Nairobi County. Purposive sampling was used to select 16 schools that have participated in the Giraffe Centre’s environmental education programmes while simple random sampling was used to select 10 schools that had not participated in the same. One hundred and thirty (130) pupils, 26 administrators and 42 teachers from the selected schools were sampled. Questionnaires designed for pupils and teachers/administrators plus a checklist was used as the main tools for data collection. Quantitative data collected was coded and entered into an SPSS programme (version 17) for analysis. Qualitative data was put under themes consistent with the research objectives. Pearson’s coefficient of correlation (r) was also used to analyze data at 0.05 level of significance. Results were presented by use of tables, pie-charts and bar graphs. Results show that the EE and Awareness programmes offered at the Giraffe Centre are relevant to the school curriculum; these programmes help pupils to actualize what they learn in theory. Results further show that the environmental knowledge retained by pupils regardless of age or gender was statistically significant (0.9203 ± 1.28) for trained schools versus (1.4977 ± 1.28) for untrained schools (t (128) = 8.287, P = 0.51). The study further revealed that the schools environmental status regardless of their status and location was statistically significant (-0.6848 ± 0.25) for trained schools versus (1.8148 ± 0.25) for untrained schools t (25) = 0.931, P = 0.133) as simple conservation measures could be taken. By implication, these findings show that the environmental education and awareness programmes offered by the Giraffe Centre impart sustainable environmental conservation skills to pupils and teachers, but there is need for the Giraffe Centre to develop an EE and ESD curriculum and accredit the teachers’ workshops through affiliation with one of the local universities for credibility.
Effects of Natural Resource based Conflicts on Community Livelihoods in Lake Ol’bolossat Catchment area, Nyandarua County, Kenya
(2014-02-24) Mathenge, Margaret Wambui; Koske, James K.A.; Gichuki, Cecilia Muringo
One of the major challenges to sustainable use of wetlands is lack of awareness by communities on the values of these ecosystems. Wetland resources are important for socio-economic, cultural and ecological supply of goods and services. Despite their importance, wetlands have remained unprotected and they are exploited beyond what they can endure. The main objective of the study was to establish the effects of natural resource based conflicts on community livelihoods in Ol‟Bolossat catchment area in Nyandarua County. The study was conducted in twenty villages, simple random sampling of 252 households and purposive sampling of key institutions such as KARI, KWS and KFS was carried out. Household questionnaires were issued to sampled households, interviews were held with conservation group leaders and FGDs with the local leaders were carried out to establish environmental issues in the study area. Transect walks, direct observation and photography revealed that there was human encroachment, crop and livestock farming in the basin. The results indicated that there was co-relation between human population increase and land use changes r = 0.30, n= 252 and p= 0.01, which have led to wetland degradation and conflicts. The results also indicated that there was a significant difference in the rating of wetland uses for water, fodder, cultivation and apiary, Chi square (6.619), df (2), p (0.037) at 95% level of confidence. It was found out that the people living near the lake (within 1km) depend on wetland resources more than those living further away and the former experiences more conflicts. The FGDs and interviews indicated that the livelihood activities such as crop and livestock farming were based on water, land and biodiversity utilization. The study concludes that the conflicts in Ol‟Bolossat catchment area are natural resource based (NRBC) and they affect the community livelihoods. The human population increase, land fragmentation, access and competition for scarce natural resources between humans, wildlife and livestock have brought about conflicts. The community livelihood is affected when wild animals destroy crops, injure and kill humans, besides transmitting zoonotic diseases to livestock with which they share the same resources. It is recommended that conservation of the natural resources ought to be enhanced through community participation and stakeholder involvement. More trees should be planted to replace those that have been cut. The farmers ought to diversify crop farming and improve on food storage in order to mitigate vulnerability to climatic conditions. The Government should educate the community on methods to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts so that residents utilize the natural resources safely, to improve their livelihoods.
Effects of Climate Variability on Pastoral Livelihoods in Marigat District, Baringo County, Kenya
(2014-03-05) Lelenguyah, Geoffrey Lenyayon; Gichuki, Cecilia Muringo; Koske, James K.A.
The expected global temperature increase, more intense rainfall and more frequent droughts will have devastating effects on pastoral livelihoods. The economy of the affected areas also dwindle in the event of these calamities considering that droughts and diseases resulting from floods affect the health of livestock which is the major source of livelihood for the pastoralists. The aim of this study was to investigate the impacts of climate variability and the resulting vector-borne diseases on pastoral livelihoods from 1971 to 2010 in Marigat district, Baringo County. The study hypothesized that there is no relationship between rainfall patterns and number of cases of selected vector-borne diseases over the study period. The study adopted both descriptive and explanatory research design while data sampling involved stratified random sampling procedure (Stratum 1 being Marigat division and stratum 2 being Mukutani division). This study utilized household structured questionnaires administered through pure random sampling with 136 households participating in the study, institutional questionnaires as well as collection of secondary data from various sources as methods of data collection. A number of bivariate comparisons of variables related to pastoral livelihoods were done. These includes t-test to compare means of variable on pastoralists demographic such as age between the two strata, ANOVA analysis to compare for significant differences in the cases of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) disease between the four sublocations, correlation analysis to test the relationship between rainfall amounts with number of cases of vector-borne diseases, and Chi-square test (X2) to test cross-tabulated data on variables such as perception of pastoralists on trends of climatic variables and socio-economic variables between the 2 strata. The Chi-square test was used to assess for homogeneity or similarity on categorical response variables between the study strata. The correlation results of this study indicated that apart from Heartwater (p=-0.403, sig=O.O12 and N=38), other veterinary diseases had no relationship with the rainfall amount {Trypanosomiasis (p=-0.224, sig=0.189 and N=36), Babesiosis (p=-0.124, sig=0.457 and N=38), Anaplasmosis (p=-0.156, sig=0.351 and N=38) and East Coast Fever (p=-0.224, sig=0.176 and N=38)}. However, graphical plots depict the existence of relationships with disease cases either increasing or decreasing in frequency with a corresponding increase or decrease in rainfall amount. Chi-square results showed a strong statistically significant difference between the responses in strata 1 and 2 on the perceived trend of rainfall and floods towards the future (rainfall: X2= 41.230, df= 3, p= 0.000 and floods: X2= 24.903, df= 3, p= 0.000). Also, there was no statistically significant difference between the perception of the respondents in Strata 1 and 2 on the trend of tsetse flies (X2= 0.115, df= 3, p= 0.990) and Stomoxys (l= 6.677. df= 3, p= 0.83) while significant difference were observed on the trend of Tabanids (X2= 20.240, df= 3, p= 0.000) , Culicoides (X2= 23.863, df=3, p= 0.000) and Sand flies (l= 15.429, df= 3, p= 0.001). Increase in disease cases could be attributed to climate variability. The study recommends the need to put in place contingency measures for reccurrence of diseases, floods and droughts and strengthening local institutions to be able to deal with climatic disasters resulting from climate variability and change. Regular monitoring of weather, vectors and diseases are also recommended.
Promotion of Environmental Education Through Environmental Committees: a Case of Korr Location, Marsabit County, Kenya.
(2014-03-06) Mamo, Boru Mamo; Koech, Michael K.; Koske, James K.A.
This study was carried out in Korr Location of Marsabit County in Northern Kenya from April, 2009 to December, 2010. Marsabit County is a land of diverse ecological, biogeographical and cultural importance but is currently faced with myriad ecological challenges ranging from land degradation, desertification, increased demands for fuelwood, pasture/fodder for the livestock and scarce water resources, all of which impact on the local environment. Moreover, recent literature indicates that there has been little understanding of the human impact connected with resource degradation in Korr Location of Marsabit County. To address these challenges, environmental actors in Marsabit County established Environmental Committee to educate local communities on the importance of environmental conservation. Korr Location was initially one of the highly degraded locations of Marsabit County. A decade after the formation and activities of these committees in Korr location, there was a marked transformation of Korr location in terms of environmental rehabilitation of the area. This study was carried out to find out if these transformations were attributable to the committees or other factors at the community level and also whether the concept of the environmental committee can be replicated in other arid and semi arid areas as a potentially best practice for adoption. Therefore, the first objective of the study was to explore the influence of the household environmental awareness on the biophysical environmental rehabilitation of Korr location, as influenced by the locally established Environmental Management Committees (EMC). The second objective was to establish the relationship between the type of domestic energy used by the households and the degree of biophysical environmental rehabilitation, and the third objective was to determine the influence of household participation in afforestation activities on the degree of biophysical environmental rehabilitation. In carrying out this study, a descriptive survey research design was adapted. This was carried out using a structured questionnaire that was administered to a sample of 193 randomly selected households. Four (4) focused group discussions and 10 key informants'interviews were conducted to provide information to support the survey results and their findings documented. Quantitative data from the field was entered into an appropriate computer programme, the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to aid in data analysis. Appropriate descriptive statistics of measures of central tendency, variability and correlations were also generated using the spss package while the Chi-square test (X2) and correlation were employed to test the three hypotheses. The results of the study established a significant relationships between adoption of energy saving stoves (0.034), household involvement in afforestation activities «0.05) and the status of environmental rehabilitation «0.05). Positive correlations were also established between environmental awareness and the EMC efforts with the status of environmental rehabilitation (0.093). Major finding was that the creation of environmental awareness is essential especially at the grassroots' levels for a sound environmental management. Tree-planting activities (79.6%,) coupled with active community participation in environmental matters is seen as a means to stop environmental degradation and improve the livelihood of the 'local communities. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the EMC structure be recognised under the EMCA, 1999 and strengthened through policy and legislative framework to develop local capacity to fully participate in environmental management initiatives.
Climate Change Impacts on Water Use Strategies in Mwea Irrigation Scheme, Kirinyaga County, Kenya
(2014-03-10) Muchiri, Leonard Munene; Koske, James K.A.; Manguriu, Daniel
Climate change and variability will severely effect agricultural development in tropical countries where the poor and most vulnerable population resides. Africa in particular, has poor irrigation infrastructure due to limited capital and technological development hence the continent depends mainly on rainfed agriculture. Therefore, it is crucial to adapt to the adverse effects of climate change in Sub-Saharan Africa. In Mwea Irrigation Scheme (MIS), located in central part of Kenya, continuous upstream water development in the Thiba River Basin has resulted to decline in water availability downstream. Upstream water use if is not adjusted to reflect rainfall and temperature fluctuations, downstream farmers will be highly vulnerable to water supply shocks. The three objectives of the study were; evaluation of how farmers in MIS experience climate change and assessed effectiveness of the adaptation strategies adopted by farmers and National Irrigation Board. Finally, the study evaluated factors which contributed to the choice of adaptation strategies by the farmers. Data collection was done by use of structured questionnaires and direct observations of the rice fields. The number of farmers sampled was 141. Stratified random sampling was applied and stratification was based on the volume of water available in upstream and downstream of the main canal network. Data analysis was done by generating themes and categories using codes, which were assigned by use of computer software known as Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results showed that 83% of respondents were in agreement that climate change has taken place. The relationship between rice production in bags per acre per year and location of the land along the main canal was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05). Chi-Square Tests of independence computed to test null hypothesis (Ha2) which stated that "There is no significant difference between effectiveness of the adaptation strategies adopted by upstream and downstream of the main canal network farmers of MIS" revealed values which were insignificant and hence null hypothesis was not rejected (p ~ 0.05). The Pearson correlation coefficient, r, computed to find relationship between paddy production and location of land resulted to value of - 0.348, which was statistically significant (p < 0.0 I) hence, there was a moderate, negative correlation which implied inverse relationship between the two variables. The study recommends implementation of policies that ensure land ownership in MIS, need for robust collaborative climate monitoring system and training farmers to enhance knowledge and skills. Finally, the study recommends extensive exploration of other sources of water and research on rice varieties which requires less amount of water. This study sheds light to all stakeholders on the importance of water scarcity resulting from climate change in optimizing rice production and boosting country's food security and livelihoods of the local community. Climate variability is evident in MIS and it is affecting rice production adversely and farmers are undertaking elaborate adaptation measures.
Energy Efficient Technologies for Climate Change Mitigation: Fuel Briquettes in the Ruiru Municipality, Kiambu County, Kenya.
(2014-03-10) Mugo, Paul Wanjohi; Koech, Michael K.; Mireri, C.
Energy is essential for development. It is needed for cooking, providing light, refrigerating food and medicine, supplying fresh water, eliminating household wastes, heating and cooling buildings. Annual total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions arising from the global energy supply sector continue to increase. Currently, energy-related GHG emissions, mainly from fossil fuel combustion for heat supply, electricity generation and transport, account for around 70% of total emissions including carbon dioxide, methane and some traces of nitrous oxide responsible for climate change. The broad objective of this study was to assess the efficiency of fuel briquettes as an alternative source of fuel in Ruiru Municipality of Kiambu County, Kenya, towards improved energy efficiency. Specifically, the study first sort to determine the levels of adoption of fuel briquettes as an alternative source of energy, secondly it examined the obstacles to adoption of fuel briquettes as an alternative source of energy and finally sort to identify components of municipal solid wastes that can be used in the manufacture of fuel briquettes. The study was guided by the diffusion of innovations theory which is used to understand uptake of new technologies such as the briquettes. The research was conducted using descriptive survey design to gather information from respondents. Quantitative research was used to quantify data and generalize results from the sample to the whole population while qualitative research was used to gain an understanding of underlying reasons and motivations. The sample size was composed of 70 respondents and 4 key respondents. Respondents were sampled from local households in the municipality. Data was analyzed and was presented in graphs, charts, frequency tables and pie-charts. Observations and conclusions drawn from the findings indicated that 30% of the respondents were aware of fuel briquettes as an alternative source of energy. Only 6% of the respondents always used them for cooking and heating in their households. The main obstacles to their adoption are the low awareness levels and unavailability in the market compared to other energy sources prevalently used in the area especially Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG). Information from the briquette manufacturer indicated the types of municipal solid wastes that can be used in the manufacture of briquettes as charcoal dust, waste paper, sawdust and dried organic waste. The study provided a case for community based energy efficient technologies that can be widely deployed and be of immense benefit in terms of climate change mitigation. The study findings indicated that choice of energy source was determined by levels of income, availability of energy source and cost of energy source. Majority of respondents interviewed did not know about briquettes or their advantages and thus the level of adoption of fuel briquettes in Ruiru was very low. The beneficiaries of the study included the local briquette manufacturer, the government and other policy makers since it provided an understanding of the fuel briquette industry and made recommendations including formulation of policies that encourage uptake and provision of incentives for briquette manufacturers.
Rooftop Rainwater Harvesting as Adaptation to Climate Change: the Case of Murang'a East District Primary Schools in Murang'a County, Kenya
(2014-03-10) Wahogo, Purity Mumbi; Koske, James K.A.; Gichuki, Cecilia Muringo
Climate Change has a wide range of impacts and exacerbate existing poverty related problems such as availability of fresh water in developing countries. Kenya is onesuch country that experiences ramifications of climate change which heavily impact on the populace. This research was conducted in Murang'a East district in Murang'a County in Kenya. The study was primarily to establish the level of awareness on climate change and Rooftop Rainwater Harvesting (RRwH) in public primary schools. The main objective was to find out factors affecting the adoption of RRwH with a focus on level of awareness on climate change issues, awareness of RRwH among decision makers, sources of water supply and the constraints against adoption of RRwH. Using a descriptive survey design, a sample of 384 respondents was randomly selected. Data obtained from constructed questionnaires was collated and statistically analysed by use of SPSS. Results showed that there was a correlation between level of climate change awareness, economic activities, at (rs = -.181, P = .000), and leadership the calculated statistic l = 7.890 was found to be less than the tabled critical value of,l = 8.132 at a 0.080. Sources of water were significant to the assurance of supply i ;,45;.48;1; df= 44.916, p= 2.6t'. The study found out that, lack of funds-was-the major hindrance to the adoption ofRRwH in all the education zones. Lack of awareness and low education were other major factors contributing to non adoption of RRwH. The study concluded that the media was the leading medium of climate change effect information dissemination Climate change effect has been felt on the ground with the respondents confirming that they had been affected. Climate change had affected water supply to schools leading to disruption of supply leading to increased waterbeme.diseases, lower standards of hygiene-and reduced learning time. This study recommends that a multi-prolonged approach which entailed incorporation of climate change awareness into the education curriculum, greater sensitization, exploitation of church and the involvementof community leaders would serve the purpose of awareness creation. There is also a need to develop and to legislate for a framework for buildings to include provisions for RRwH.
Institutional Synergies towards Mitigating Climate Change through Decentralization of Forest Resources: A Case Study of Kakamega Forest in Kenya
(2014-08-21) Kanyiri, Lawrence Njuguna; Koske, J. K.A.; Mang’uriu, D. G.
Climate change impacts have been exacerbated by extreme weather events among others and have led to disappearance of certain species of both food crops and trees. The adaptive capacity of the local community has mainly been on mitigation by basic methods that are mostly traditional in practice and knowledge. An investigation on how different institutions work together towards mitigating climate change through decentralization of forest resources was conducted among communities living adjacent to Kakamega forest; Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, several Community Forest Associations among others. The study used descriptive design. The data collected (both institutional and biophysical) were used to address the research problem and meet the study objectives. The objectives were; to evaluate policies that were affecting adaptive outcomes in relation to adapting to climate change, to analyze roles played by KFS and KWS in mitigating climate change and to determine if decentralization of forest resources meets the goals of sustainability of Kakamega forest. Primary data were obtained from both Kakamega natural forest and Kakamega community forest Associations. Secondary data were collected and analyzed from all institutions that are responsible for the conservation and management of the forest. Stratified random sampling inside the forest arrived at the number of plots that were used for this study. They were used to determine the condition of the forest. The social economic and dependence on the forest by the communities adjacent to the forest was attained by cautiously guided interviews that ensured that all members were represented. The sample size was 50. The number of respondents interviewed was determined by KFS, KWS and a number of Community Forest Associations working around Kakamega Forest within a radius of five kilometers from the forest edge. There were no significant association on evaluating institutional policies that influence outcome in adapting to climate change (Chi-square=3.574; df=4; p≤0.05 (0.467). Chi square distribution reveal that there were no significant association on gender and policy legislation in Kakamega forest (Chi- square test=4.277; df=6; p=0.639), rules that govern Kakamega forest to ensure decentralization (Chi-square test=1.416; df=4; p≤0.05 (0.841), adaptation to climate change (Chi-square=9.135; df=8; p≤0.05 (0.331), mitigation (Chi test = 0.683; DF = 1; p = 0.409) and conflicts (Chi-square test= 1.895; df=2; p=0.388). The study concluded that government and research institutions should enhance local community adaptation strategies to add value to diversification and communal pooling. Obstacles like social resistance, weak governance, inadequate information and ineffective institutional arrangements remains a challenge in mitigating climate change. The study recommended that Institutional coordination across scales, for better planning and implementation must be improved, use of proper crop management and also climate change adaptation and mitigation measures to be put in place. The study also gave suggestions that more research should be carried out on the same issues, new technologies to be added, institutions should be linked under one umbrella and further research done on introduction of new technologies to help community members benefit from forest products without depleting the forest.
Climate change awareness and policy implications among primary school teachers in Kisumu City, Kenya
(2014-08-28) Ochieng, Millicent
Climate change awareness is much needed for public support in its mitigation and adaptation. In this regard, public education is critical in raising levels of awareness on the subject. This research was designed to assess the level of climate change awareness among primary school teachers in Kisumu City. Objectives of the study were to: describe climate variability in Kisumu area during the period 1972-2011, assess teachers’ level of climate change awareness, identify factors influencing teachers’ level of awareness, determine teachers’ perception of climate change as a threat, and assess teachers’ opinion on inclusion of climate change knowledge into Kenya’s primary school curriculum. Descriptive survey design was adopted in which some 100 randomly selected respondents were drawn from 20 primary schools within Kisumu City. A structured questionnaire was administered to obtain data on teachers’ knowledge and perception as well as opinion on inclusion of climate change into Kenya’s primary school curriculum. Climate variability was described using meteorological data on temperature and precipitation from Kenya Meteorological Department (Kisumu Weather Station No. 9034025). Data was statistically analysed and results displayed in tables, graphs and charts. Results show that Kisumu area recorded significant temperature (t = 8.475, df = 38, p = 0.0001) and precipitation (t = 9.806, df = 38, p = 0.0001) variability during the period 1972-2011. Monthly average temperature increased by 0.66 ± 0.24 °C while annual precipitation amounts increased by 111.82 ± 20.8 mm during that period. Results also show that the level of climate change awareness among primary school teachers in Kisumu City is not significantly low (χ2 = 62.818, n = 89, df = 2, p = 0.0001). Teachers registered a medium level of awareness albeit gaps in their knowledge. Factors such as age (r = 0.108, p = 0.318, n = 88), gender (r = -0.110, p = 0.308, n = 88), level of education (r = 0.149, p = 0.168, n = 87) and school location (r = 0.138, p = 0.201, n = 88) emerged influential on teachers’ level of awareness though their influence remained statistically weak and insignificant. Results further show that primary school teachers in Kisumu City perceive climate change as a threat (χ2 = 63.202, n = 89, df = 1, p = 0.0001) and support its inclusion into Kenya’s primary school curriculum (χ2 = 176.25, n = 96, df = 3, p = 0.0001). Key recommendations included: the Ministry of Education should undertake climate change capacity building among teachers through organising climate change workshops for teachers and circulating materials on climate change to primary school; and curriculum developers should work with teachers during revision of the primary school syllabus to ensure that climate change knowledge developed for primary schools is not only simple but is also one that teachers can comfortably deliver
Environmental awareness, attitude and participation among secondary school students: a comparative study of Kasarani and Kibera Divisions, Nairobi County, Kenya
(2014-09-03) Kiprotich, Victor Boiyo
Environmental degradation poses a major threat to the existence of humanity today both in rural and urban settlements. In such a scenario, the importance and need for environmental education as a tool for environmental management and conservation cannot be overemphasized. To raise environmental literacy level among Kenyans, Environmental Education is taught using both interdisciplinary and multi-disciplinary approaches. Research has shown that students in urban centers are more environmentally informed compared to those in rural areas. While rural-urban differences in Kenyan household characteristics are still a significant determinant of differences in school participation patterns, there is now a growing urban-urban divide following rapid urbanization. This has come with different characteristics from those of earlier phases used in previous studies to model rural versus urban student level of awareness, attitudes and participation. This calls into question the notion that urban settlements in Africa are always advantaged. Kibera and Kasarani represent different settlements of Nairobi. The aim of this study was to establish the level of awareness, attitude and participation of secondary school students in environmental activities in these two different settlements. The study involved a sample of three hundred and twenty secondary school students randomly selected from secondary schools in Kasarani and Kibera Divisions. Data was primarily collected using researcher developed questionnaires. Analysis of the data was done by first coding them in SPSS version 2010. The study has achieved its objective by drawing a comparison between students in different sections of an urban divide. By calculating an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and a group statistic using P=0.05, the hypotheses postulated were tested and it was established that there is no significant difference in the level of awareness, attitude and level of participation in environmental activities of secondary school students in Kasarani and Kibera Divisions. It was also found out that there is need to refocus the approach of EE in order to ensure that it does not only make learners aware but also create a sense of personal responsibility which is fundamental in ensuring sustainable environmental behavior. The findings of the study may be used by authorities in making priorities in terms of environmental education for various settlements in urban set up. It will also help in tailoring EE approach to make it relevant and responsive to the immediate concerns and responsibilities of students and the entire community by putting into perspective emergent environmental concerns.
The performance of local generic allometries in estimating biomass carbon of trees in agriculturally dominated landscapes of Nyando basin, Kenya
(2014-09-08) Okore, Luther King Martin
Climate change is a real phenomenon whose effects ought to be mitigated, based on assessments that are informed by scientific evidence. Trees in agricultural landscapes play a significant role in mitigating climate change hence a robust inventory of tree biomass in these landscapes is essential for the accurate estimation of their potential in sequestering carbon. Therefore, applicable allometric equations that yield accurate biomass estimates of trees in agricultural landscapes are essential. This study sought to develop and test the performance of local generic allometries (multi-species equations) for estimating biomass carbon. The study was undertaken in the Nyando Basin and it involved obtaining non-destructive measurements of trees (e.g., DBH, tree height, crown diameter) and destructive measurements (trunk, branch, leaf and root biomass). Regression analysis was then run on various predictive parameters (e.g., DBH, height and crown diameter) to derive allometric equations and to test their accuracy. The obtained biomass was used to determine the biomass carbon by an adequate conversion factor of 0.47.The performance of local generic allometries and globally recommended equations for tropical trees was tested on 33 destructively sampled trees from two sites in the Nyando Basin whose diameters at breast height ranged from 7.1 cm to 70.6 cm. Eighteen trees of several species were sampled on the site in the lower block of the basin. The site sampled in the upper block of the basin was a plantation with pure stand of Eucalyptus grandis. Local equations estimated aboveground biomass (AGB) with lower error compared to published global equations for tropical ecosystems, which overly estimated or underestimated AGB. The local equation by Kuyah et al. (2012a) conservatively estimated AGBwith a relative error (RE) of -2.7% while the site-generated equation had a RE of 5.5%. The local equationsalso underestimate biomass for the smaller trees while overestimating the biomass of the larger trees but within an acceptable range of error. Both the local and global equationsperformed with varying accuracies in estimating belowground biomass (BGB) and their resultant RE were quite high. The RE of Kuyah 2 equation and the site-generated equation (Equation 3) were 53.0% and 8.9% respectively while the RE for the global equations by Mokany et al. (2006) and Cairns et al. (1997) were 64.9%and 13.0%respectively. The study concludes that local generic allometries developed in a specific agricultural landscape perform better than global ones in estimating biomass in the sampled agricultural landscapes. The study therefore recommends the use of local allometries in biomass carbon assessment for agricultural landscapes.
Evaluation of beach hotels capacity to cope with climate variability in Mombasa county, Kenya
(2014-09-08) Mumini, Ndenge Dzoga
Climate change has been a worrying issue all over the world. The variability in rainfall, wind, sunshine and temperature has impacted various ecosystems and economic activities. Mombasa County is an important tourist destination due to the availability of outstanding features such as corals, warm beaches, Marine Park, cultural diversity and beach hotel facilities which promote tourism activities. The County is vulnerable from the climate variability and associated effects. An increase in the sea level will result to negative effects on the tourism economy among others in the county. There is need to embrace appropriate measures to cope with climate variability so as to sustain tourism economy in the county. The Government of Kenya has already addressed adaptation measures that focused in conservation of marine resources and their sustainable utilization. However, it did not address the adaptation of beach hotels on climate variability. This research, therefore, was carried out to assess the coping capacity of beach hotels with climate variability in Mombasa County, Kenya. It also assessed the relevance on the awareness of climate variability in embracing proper adaptation measures. The research adopted descriptive research design to analyze and to descri be various adaptation measures in beach hotels. The study used close-ended questionnaires, photographs, and observation instruments to collect data. Fourteen beach hotels were purposely sampled from the total number of 28 beach hotels. The data was then collected from the sampled beach hotels. The collected data was statistically analyzed, discussed and presented in tables and graphs. Results findings showed ineffective adaptation of beach hotels to climate variability. Chi-square results indicated no significant difference on relevant measures to cope with climate variability which include on-shore vegetation cover (X2 = 8.244, P = 0.410), seawall barriers (X2 = 7.467, p = 0.487), and rainwater harvesting (X2 = 1.283, p = 0.864). Accordingly, the beach hotels are vulnerable to climate variability. This threatens the sustenance of the tourism economy. Correlation analysis showed strong relationship on awareness of climate variability and the adaptation measures adopted. There was significant difference between awareness of rainfall variability and rainwater harvesting (r = 0.669, p = 0.009), ocean currents and seawall barriers (r = 0.620, p = 0.018), and ocean currents and on-shore vegetation cover (r = 0.836, p = 0.000). Consequently, awareness on climate variability is crucial in triggering appropriate response to adaptation measures. There is need, therefore, to enhance awareness on climate variability to the beach hotels. Research findings are useful in enhancing adaptation measures, enhancing awareness on climate variability, and sustaining tourism through conservation and protection of coastal marine environment.

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