MST-Department of Environmental Planning and Management

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Actors and their contributions to solid waste management in Eldoret municipality,Kenya
(2011-08-10) Opinde, Godwin Omondi
Eldoret municipality, like any other principal urban center in Kenya has experienced phenomenal expansion over the last five decades coupled with organizational, fiscal and political problems. This has led to inability to cope up with the rapid rate of urban population growth resulting in excessive strain in service delivery including solid waste management. The inability of the municipality to effectively manage solid waste has resulted in increased pollution, potential public health problems, and ecological as well as socioeconomic impacts. This situation has necessitated a paradigm shift from state-led SWM to involvement of multiplicity of actors which has led to somewhat improvement in solid waste management. However the full potential of the actors has not been harnessed because of lack of clear operational structures and inadequate data on the activities of these actors leading to problems such as escalation of costs and unequal access to SWM services. This study sought to assess the contributions of actors to solid waste management in the municipality by reviewing policies and institutional framework governing multi-stakeholder involvement in solid waste management, assessing the activities of the actors, their capacity and suggesting measures to improve multistakeholder participation in solid waste management. The study sampled the registered Private waste collectors, NGOs and CBOs involved in solid waste management based on the lists obtained from departments of social services and environment in Eldoret municipality and Uasin Gishu district headquarters. Data collection techniques used in the study were observation with field trips, questionnaire and literature review. Eldoret municipal council, private waste collectors and CBOs provide services of solid waste management in Municipality. However they have inadequate capacity to effectively and efficiently provide solid waste management services. The Eldoret municipal council has inadequate refuse collection vehicles, unequal distribution of personnel in designated zones, in adequate personnel, in adequate equipment, poor infrastructure in peri- urban areas and they poorly enforce the laws governing solid waste management. The private waste collectors face problems of expensive and multiple licensing for service provision and poor response to payment for solid waste collection service by the households. The Community Based Organizations in Eldoret Municipality have poor organizational structure, inadequate equipment, inadequate finances for solid waste management and a weak relation with the municipal council. The NGOs have weak participation in solid waste management. The study thus concluded that the actors have positive contribution to Solid waste management in Eldoret Municipality and that the enhancement of their capacities and proper integration of their operations in an elaborate framework will enhance the efficiency and efficacy of solid waste management in Eldoret Municipality.
Assessing water supply and demand management in industries and commercial enterprises in Athi river town, Machakos County
(Kenyatta University, 2014) Odongo, Brian Jaoko; Mireri, C.; Mong’are, C. O
Water is an integral part of many industrial processes and increasing demand for water for industrial uses will result from increasing economic activity. The water resources upon which industrial growth depends are under increasing stress and almost no economy will be spared the negative consequences of unsustainable use of this scarce resource. This study was designed to assess how industries and commercial enterprises in Athi River Town are managing water as a resource. It reviewed the existing policy, legal and institutional framework for water supply and demand management. It also assessed the current water supply and demand situation in industries and commercial enterprises. Further, it examined the current water demand management strategies applied by industries and commercial enterprises to use water efficiently. In carrying out the study, questionnaires and interview schedules were used to collect the data. Data was then analyzed descriptively using SPSS software and the results presented using measures of central tendency. The study found out that the legal, policy and institutional framework governing industrial water supply and demand management is not so effective and therefore needing sectoral review. Some of the problems within the institutional framework include lack of effective collaboration and public private partnerships towards sustainable water management. The study also found out that piped water is the main source of water for industrial and commercial enterprises at 83% followed by borehole at 60%. The application of water demand management was at 80%, this is an indicator of the importance the business community gives to the management of water as a resource. However the study also established that the application of complex and effective water demand management strategies is low. The most applied water demand management strategy was metering and sub-metering at 79% whereas the least applied was use of reclaimed water at 21%.This was attributed to factors such as lack of support, information and technology. The study came up with various recommendations including: proper policy formulations and implementation of water demand strategies, implementing water reuse practices, providing incentives for recycling and reclaiming water and providing preferential water tariffs for key industries.
Assessment of Collaboration Dynamics among Civil Society Organizations’ in Environmental Management at Siakago Division, Mbeere District, Kenya
(2013-11-08) Kithumbu, Josphat Muriuki
This study was done at Siakago Division, Mbeere district, Kenya, a typical semi arid agroecosystem, where many civil society organisations have heavy investments in community development, yet land degradation and poverty levels remain high. As such the aim of the study was to assess collaboration dynamics among these civil society organizations in environmental management and suggest ways of maximizing on effective collaborations for sustainable community development. A survey research design was used for this study. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were employed for data collection. Being a survey, indepth content analysis formed a major aspect in data interpretation. Results of the study showed that lack of effective collaboration and partnerships amongst the development actors is a key hindrance to environmental management at Siakago. In particular, unilateral approaches in decision-making and implementation of action plans contrary to the multidimensional nature of environmental degradation and community livelihoods, remains a key obstacle to sustainable development. Siakago Division has a fragmented civil society sector With 403 civil society organizations; each working at cross-purposes besides being handicapped by budgetary constraints. As many as 85% of the sampled CSOs are involved in environmental issues notably agroforestry and soil and water management.As such most collaborations in this division revolved around this areas. Over 66% of these CSOs are involved in some form of collaboration notably tripartite and bilateral collaborations. These collaborations have four distinct characteristics namely: coverage, form, mode and motivation Coveragerefers to the extensiveness of collaboration in terms of its functional competencies and geographical area.Since majority of CSOs are the grassroot organizations, their collaborations are confined to shared activities on single environmental themes,such as agroforestry. The most notable forms of collaborations in Siakago are the tripartite because they gurantee maximum participation. Further, they lack formal specifications and are often initiated by at?-opinion leader targeting a felt need instead of developing spontaneously. When collaborations develop spontaneously,they enhance maximum participation of partners and hence the objectives of a collaboration are met. The effectiveness of collaborations in this area was hindered mainly by both human factors and intra-policy differences such as clannism (83%), high illiteracy levels (91%), unfavourable policies (80%) and weak governance systems (80%). Since Siakago has many grassroot organizatins working at cross purposes,it recommended that tripartite and multi-lateral collaborations be adopted to ensure that as many CSOs as possible participate. Organizations working in different thematic areas need to be encouraged to collaborate. This will enhance exchange of information not only on one another but also on the environment.Since collaborations are influenced by changing variables such as illiteracy and governance systems,stakeholders need to be dynamic and open to explore many potencially viable options.Akey requirement in this endeavour is access to relevant information not only on each other but also on environmental management.Conflict resolution measures need to be adopted to solve the clan conflict in the area.In addition,capacities of the community members need to be built to enable the collaborators cope with the myriad factors that tend to inhibit collaboration initiatives.
Assessment of energy alternative for rural microenterprise and environmental protection in the Agro-Ecological zones of Kilifi district
(2011-07-28) Juma, Khamis Ahmed
Energy, specifically energy services affects social, economic, and environmental aspects of development such as livelihoods, agricultural productivity, health, education, and gender-related issues. Kilifi district in the Coast region of Kenya has very high poverty prevalence (70%). There is dependence on solid biomass for energy and traditional energy end-use technologies. Hence, appropriate energy services for microenterprise development are lacking. This increases the poverty situation and environmental degradation. A household survey, focu group discussions and interviews were used to assess the relative importance of rura l micro-enterprises current energy choices, the influence of agro-ecological factors on current energy choices and the environmental impacts of current energy use. The study also determined sustainable energy alternatives for the agro ecological of Kilifi district The study findings show currently, traditional use of biomass and human energy mainly from women are the main sources of energy for micro-enterprise activities. These findings also show that, agro ecological factors influence both the type and quality of energy sources and microenterprise. Despite this link it appears that, there is no model which uses ecological concepts and principles to assist in designing, developing, and managing sustainable rural renewable energy systems. Rural microenterprise existing energy use impact on the ecological stability and ecosystem services in Kilifi district and beyond which threatens current and future livelihoods. This also undermines human development and well being especially among women. Energ y alternatives exists across all agro ecological zones in the district that can offer energy services for microenterprise development and environmental protectio a but are not being fully utilised. According to this study the district can have between 80.0 billion and 80.1 billion kWh per year of electricity if 10% of its current bioenergy potential is converted to electricity. The study recommends further research on agro ecological approach to sustainable rural communities' renewable energy systems. Development of a Predictive Ecosystem Mapping (PEM) model for Kilifi district so as to improve natural capital (increased soil water retention hence high water table and increased agro-biodiversity).
Assessment of Energy Alternatives for Rural Microenterprise Development and Environmental Protection in the Agro-Ecological Zones of Kilifi District
(2009-10) Ahmed, J.K.
Energy, specifically energy services affects social, economic, and environmental aspects of development such as livelihoods; agricultural productivity, health, education, and gender-related issues. Kilifi district in the Coast region of Kenya has very high poverty. Prevalence (70%).. There is dependence on solid biomass for energy and traditional energy end-use technologies. Hence, appropriate energy services for microenterprise development are lacking. This increases the poverty situation and environmental degradation. A household survey, focus group discussions and interviews were used to assess the relative importance of rural micro-enterprises current energy choices, the influence of agro-ecological factors on current energy choices and the environmental impacts of current energy use. The study also determined sustainable energy alternatives for the agro ecological of Kilifi district. The study findings show currently, traditional use of biomass and human energy mainly from women are the main sources of energy for micro-enterprise activities. These findings also show that, agro ecological factors influence both the type and quality of energy sources and microenterprise. Despite this link it appears that, there is no model which uses ecological concepts and principles-to assist u;. Designing developing and managing sustainable rural renewable energy systems. Rural microenterprise existing energy use impact on the ecological stability and ecosystem services in Kilifi district and beyond which threatens current and future livelihoods. This also undermines human development and wellbeing especially among women. Energy alternatives exists across all agro ecological zones in the district that can offer energy services for microenterprise development and environmental protection but are not being fully utilized. According to this study the district can have between 80.0 billion and 80.1 billion kWh per year of electricity if 10% of its current bioenergy potential is converted to electricity. The study recommends further research on agro ecological approach to sustainable rural communities' renewable energy systems. Development of a Predictive Ecosystem Mapping (PEM) model for Kilifi district so as to improve natural capital (increased soil water retention hence high water table and increased agro-biodiversity).
An assessment of existing e-waste management systems in institutions of learning in Ruiru Subcounty, Kiambu County
(Kenyatta University, 2014) Kaloki, Nicholus N.; Kamau, P. K.; Mong’are, C. O.
The usefulness of ICT has led to an overwhelming elastic demand for electronics most computing devices such as mobile phones and computers. Individuals, learning institutions and government institutions worldwide are adopting ICTs at a fast pace. Widespread consumption has resulted into huge amounts of Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) or e-waste generated from non-usable or old electronics. E-waste management in developing countries is one of the least revised environmental topics. In recent times however the subject is getting research limelight from scholars. This study aimed at enhancing the existing e-waste management practice in institutions of learning in Kenya through systematic investigation of the current circulation, usage, handling and management of WEEE. This study evaluated the existing policy, institutional and regulatory framework on E-waste, the type and quantity of e-waste generated by institutions of learning in Ruiru sub county, the methods currently employed in e-waste disposal and recommend strategies that may be used to improve management of e-waste by the institutions. It explored the background to e-waste, and disposal practices in institutions of learning as key producers of e-waste and challenges they face. The study investigated the role of institutions of learning and Kenyan Authorities in combating electronic waste menace. It further looked at the Government’s lack of enforcement of existing laws dealing with e-waste management, the legislative bodies that are concerned in management of e-waste and furthermore account for the chemicals and hazardous substances in e-waste and the impacts they can have on the environment and human health. The Data for this study was collected using questionnaires, interviews, and discussions with key policy officers in government agencies, institutions of learning and collectors in Ruiru sub county. Secondary data was collected from review of literature. Data acquired was analyzed using SPSS and excel programs and illustrated where possible to draw conclusions. A Framework of integrated waste management was used to ensure e-waste is managed in a strategic way that leads to an e-waste management approach that could exist in a sustainable society. Data analysis revealed that institutions of learning are among the largest producers of e-waste such as Computers, typewriters, printers, Power cables, photocopier, TV sets, radios, projectors ,desk phone, audio mixers , binding machines, microphones, UPS, video switcher, video cameras, still cameras, CCTVs; however none of the sampled institutions had an e-waste management policy or a defined method of e-waste management. 40% of them disposed of their waste with general waste without prior separation while 40% simply stored it and 18% gave it to scrap dealers. The level of awareness on e-waste was low especially it’s environmental and health effects at 25 % and 23% respectively. 68% of institutions were willing to give out their e-waste for free. 32% percent who were willing to sell or give it out but with conditions of free pick up at 60%, guarantee of proper disposal at3%, 28% if the law required them to and 10% would give it out if they were sure it was of no value to them. This revealed a high investment potential in E-waste recycling sector. The highly anticipated Governments free laptop program is likely to compound the e-waste steam management in primary schools spread all over Kenya if proper mechanisms of handling the resultant stream of waste are not put in place. Kenya lacks an e-waste specific policies but the government recognizes the challenges posed by e-waste and has already come up with draft regulations on E-waste due for adoption. The study recommends that e-waste specific policies and regulations be developed to govern e-waste from the production, importation, collection, transport, recycling and disposal. A proper National and institutional collection system needs to be developed and consumer sensitization and awareness increased.
Assessment of the contribution of urban agriculture to employment, income and food security in Kenya: A case of Kisumu municipality
(African Journal of Agricultural Research, 2013-06) Mireri, C.
Kenya’s long – term development strategy (Vision 2030) has prioritised agricultural sector to drive the growth, although it does not mention urban agriculture. In 2009, the Kenya government prepared and approved National Land Policy. Prior to the passage of the National Land Policy, urban agriculture was not designated as an urban land use. Therefore, the National Land Policy creates a basis for systematic development of urban agriculture in the country. The main theme of this study is to assess the role of urban agriculture in income, employment and food supply. The study involved a survey of 194 urban farmers in Kisumu municipality. The results of the study show that urban agriculture is a manifestation of urban dualism. Most urban residents (60%) live in the informal settlements lacking basic infrastructure and services. In addition, a similar proportion of the residents live in poverty. Most urban farmers and their employees receive very low income, with a mean monthly income of US$ 135 (US$ 0.64 per person per day), which is below the acceptable one dollar a day per person. Urban agriculture supplements food requirements of the urban poor on the one hand and a source of income for the few commercial urban farmers on the other.
An assessment of the contribution of urban agriculture to households’ livelihoods in Roysambu Ward, Nairobi County.
(Kenyatta University, 2014) Githugunyi, Dickson Kibata; Majale, Christine Liyala; Nyaoro, W.
Urban agriculture plays a significant role in national development by contributing towards food security, employment creation and income generation. However, it is associated with diverse negative impacts on public health and the environment. Development of UA has been affected by lack of specific laws and policies geared towards addressing the development this important sub- sector. However, various legislations refer individually to the sub-sector. Some of these legislations indirectly support or hinder the growth and development of the sub sector. Despite these shortcomings UA has continued unabated in most parts of Nairobi. Many households in Nairobi are facing a serious decline in their purchasing power and poverty levels are on the rise. The poorer the household the more they depend on farming to supplement their food requirements. As Nairobi metropolis expands, it encroaches on the hither to agricultural areas in its periphery. These areas are an integral part of the city as they provide the bulk of the food especially vegetables to the city. Their close proximity to the city provides ready market for farm produce and hence encourages peri- urban agriculture. This study examined the contribution of urban agriculture to households’ livelihoods in Nairobi County. It covered various aspects such as legal and policy framework, problems affecting development of UA, trends and patterns of land use in Nairobi and its implications on UA and finally came up with an integrated plan for sustainable urban agriculture in Roysambu Ward. The Sampling frame for the study comprised of farmers in Roysambu Ward, a number of institutions and farmer groups in Roysambu Ward. Primary data was derived from field surveys using questionnaires, key informants interviews and focused group discussions. A sample size of 90 was used for household interviews, 5 institutions interviewed and 3 focused group discussions held. Secondary data was synthesized from books, journals, newsletters, electronic media and Government policy papers. Landsat satellite images were used to obtain the land use trends in Nairobi. Probability and non-probability sampling methods were used in data collection. Quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Scientists whereas qualitative data was analysed either in text, diagrams or photographs. GIS generated maps were analysed to capture land use trends over the last 20 years ie year 1995 to year 2014.Review of legal and policy framework revealed that there is a dire need to harmonize all the conflicting pieces of legislation governing UA in Kenya and this can only be achieved by bringing all stakeholders on board. UA policy is also overdue. The trend of UA in Nairobi County showed a decline of 28% of the area under forests and crops compared to an increase of 35% of the area under built up areas over the last 20 years. This shows that all the hither to agricultural areas in the County will soon be taken up by the built up areas. However UA remains popular especially among the urban poor because of food security and income generation. Some middle and upper income people also prefer growing their own food for food safety reasons. Health and environmental concerns were noted especially in the low income areas of Mathare, Ruaraka and Njathaini which reinforces the fact the UA should be controlled if not outlawed in these areas. It is strongly recommended that agricultural areas in the study area and in Nairobi County should be designated so that they are easily controlled. Investments should be done in the City waste management to allow use of treated liquid and solid waste, while building capacity of farmers on its utilization. This may involve integration of UA in the City land use planning.
An assessment of the impacts of increased land subdivision on water supply infrastucture in Karen-Langata,Nairobi
(2011-08-02) Kiama, P. M.; Kamau, P.; Ndungu, A.
Most governments all over the world adopt land use planning regulations that help protect the urban and natural environment, gear infrastructural investment with development and maintain as well as enhance property values. They use master plans, zoning regulations, subdivision regulations, building codes and other public policies to regulate urban planning and development. The results of unguided growth have made it clear that all too often the private developer fails to consider the interests of the larger community in his attempts to profit from his investments. Numerous community problems have resulted from such actions, including: poor location and siting of buildings, traffic congestion and unbalanced growth (UNCHS, HABITAT, 1996). The Kenyan Government has in place a Local Government, which is mandated to regulate land development. However, regardless of their best efforts, land development continues to be a problem. This is because despite local planning authorities being empowered to control the use and development of land and buildings in the interest of proper and orderly development of their area of jurisdiction, land use in urban areas have witnessed abuse of land use planning regulations. In particular, there have been a lot of illegal subdivisions of land and mushrooming of unplanned settlements causing a severe deficiency in existing limited services. The study aimed at finding out the impacts of increased subdivision on existing water supply infrastructure in Karen-Langata residential areas. The study was based on the assumption that lack of compliance to physical planning regulations and development controls will have a negative impact on the environment. Data was collected through administration of questionnaires and interviewing various stakeholders. Data was analysed under four main themes: identification of the building codes and zoning regulation for the study area; the type of development taking place in study area; the relationship between the planning regulation instruments and development in the study area and an assessment of the impacts of these developments on water infrastructure in the study area. To carry out the study successfully, two types of data; primary and secondary, were used. Data was gathered through observation, oral interviews, questionnaire administration and photography. The study found out that there are various land use planning regulations and instruments which govern land use in Karen Langata. These include zoning regulations, building codes, subdivisions regulations as well as a Local Physical Development Plan specifically for the study area. However, the study revealed that despite the land use planning regulations being in place, subdivision and subsequent development of properties has continued to increase at a rapid rate resulting in negative impacts to the water supply infrastructure. Developments in the study area not only consist of residential properties but also commercial and institutional developments. These have placed pressure on the existing water supply infrastructure. The study also ascertained that boreholes are the main alternative to NWSC water supply in the study area, which compensate for the shortfall in water supply. Nevertheless, the number of boreholes has exceeded the number required by t!,1c WRMA and pose a threat to the ground water resources in the study area. To resolve these problems, this study has given several recommendations such as the augmentation of the NWSC water supply network and the enforcement of regulations concerning ground water use. The study also explores the use of alternative sources of water such as rain water harvesting. The study finally recommends collaboration between the NCC and the residents through KLDA to ensure that the I PDP is strictly adhered to.
Biophysical and Environmental Health challenges From Cement Dust in Athi River, Machakos County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-08) Ojango, Kevin Ong'are; Simon M. Onywere
Cement dust from cement processing plants has major impacts on the biological and physical environment as dust spreads towards residential homes, grazing and farmlands, leading to undesirable impacts. Most people in Athi River practice agriculture and pastoralism as their source of livelihood. When livestock feed on grass covered with cement dust, milk production decreases and health deteriorate. Cement dust also has serious impacts on people's health as people in dust risk zones suffer from respiratory complications. There is urgent need to have cement factories located further away from residential homes to reduce these impacts. Objectives of this study involve examining biophysical and environmental health challenges emanating from cement dust in Athi River. Specifically, the study sort to examine the effects of cement dust on vegetation, human and livestock health and assesses the extent to which settlements are impacted. To achieve this, qualitative data from questionnaires was used. Remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems were used to analyse Land Use and Land Cover for the years 2013, 2018, 2019, and 2020. Key Informant Interviews were done with health officials from Shalom Community Hospital whereby data on different respiratory health problems was obtained for the years 2018, 2019,2020,and June 2021. Results of this study indicate that residents in Athi River suffer from eye and skin infections, upper respiratory tract infections, asthma and pneumonia. Since 2018, there have been 5084 reported cases of the upper respiratory tract, 3066 cases of the respiratory system, 2972 skin related, 2821 pneumonia,1985 asthma, 1335 eye infections, and 20 cardio-vascular cases. On livestock health, 62% of interviewed pastoralists complained of poor livestock health attributed to poor quality of feed. In terms of Agriculture, 42% of interviewed respondents complained of dust cover on crops,44% on leaf necrosis whereas 21% mentioned stunted crop growth. This affects income generation due to low sell of produce. Landsat image comparison during dry and wet seasons show huge increase in land under crops and grass after rainfall. In 2019, farmland area increased from 17.34% to 22.86% during the wet season. One possibility could be dust being washed away by rainfall thus easy visibility of vegetation by satellite imagery. Extent of human settlement is therefore very important to determine how far dust spreads while observing wind patterns. Average wind movement is from the western side of Mombasa cement towards the eastern side of residential apartments. No clear regulations exist on the appropriate buffer away from cement factories. However, literature reviewed in this study indicate that dust spreads up to a distance of 3km. This study recommends a buffer of at least 3.5km away from cement factories. This could help improve people's health and also farmers' produce. Cement factories need to improve on or adopt various mitigation measures such as proper monitoring systems to manage these emissions, adopting the principle of circular economy and industrial symbiosis, fogging method to capture cement dust, and also use of alternative fuels. These will reduce impacts on the biophysical environment and improve people's health thus ensuring sustainable livelihood.
Challenges and opportunities for sustainable water supply and demand management in Ruiru municipality
(2011-08-09) Njogu, Wanjiku Jacqueline; Ndungu, A.; Nyaoro, W.
The water resources upon which human life depends are under increasing stress and almost no country will be spared the negative consequences that are likely to be the result of this situation. Over the next 30 years, more than 60% of the world's population will face water related problems; that is, somewhere between four and seven billion people. Ruiru Municipality will not be an exemption. This study was designed to analyze the level of water supply vis-a-vis increasing demand in Ruiru Municipality. It also identified factors contributing to unaccounted-for water in the area. Further, it evaluated the existing Institutional Arrangements for water supply and demand management. In carrying out the study, questionnaires, interview schedules and guide and an observation recording sheets were used to collect the data. Data collected was collated, coded and analyzed. Data was analyzed descriptively using contingency tables that generated frequencies and percentages. The study established that there is acute water shortage in Ruiru Municipality as demand greatly surpasses water supply. This was attributed to many factors including poor infrastructural development, high water turbidity and pollution levels, lack of funds to invest in water supply facilities, low production capacity of the existing water treatments facilities and regular drought occurrence in the area. The study also found out that the level of unaccounted-for water in the Municipality averages 40%. This was caused by illegal water connections, pipe leakages and bursts and the dilapidated distribution system. It was also found out that the Ruiru and Juja Water and Sewerage Company is the one mandated with water service provision as outlined in the current Water Act. The study found several opportunities for sustainable water supply and demand management in Ruiru Municipality. A sustainable water supply and demand management plan was developed to outline the activities to be carried out in order to realize these opportunities. The study also came up with various recommendations including: proper policy formulations, implementation and enforcement of water resource management strategies, restrict and guide use of groundwater, full decentralization of government functions to the lowest levels possible, review water pricing policies, improve coverage of water supply, construction of a new water intake works, reduce the amount of unaccounted-for water and construction of a sewerage treatment facility.
Challenges and prospects for sustainable water supply for Kajiado town, Kajiado County
(Kenyatta University, 2014) Mukindia, Josphat Mutuma; Kamau, P. K.; Mong’are, C. O
Kajiado town, the County headquarters for Kajiado County which is classified as semi-arid area, lacks adequate water supply systems. The town had a projected population of 16,003 in 2013 (KNBS, 2010) but no functional municipal water supply system. There is no permanent river near the town and the town has a formation with poor aquifer such that even bore holes have low water yields. Water is sold at an exorbitant price given that a twenty (20) litre jerry can cost on average K.shs 10 which translates to K.shs 500 per m3 compared to Water Services Regulatory Board tariff of K.shs 35 per m3. The objectives of this study was to review the Policy, Legal and Institutional framework for water supply in Kenya, evaluate the existing water supply systems in the town, establish the water demand and opportunities for a sustainable water supply such as an integrated water supply plan for Kajiado Town. There was an apparent lack of statutory way of prioritizing allocation of water resources as evidenced by diversion of water from Norturesh – Athi River – Kajiado pipeline for irrigation even when domestic demand has not been met. It was established that Olekejuado Water and Sewerage Company has a weak technical and resource capacity to meet the water demand for the town which is estimated to be 1387.76m3/day in 2014 and is projected to be 1460.77m3/day, 1959.96m3/day and 2783.62m3/day in 2016, 2026 and 2036. Both national and county government need to put in place water policies and legislations to guide and accelerate water supply services. A reservoir can be constructed along Olekejuado River to harvest surface run off like the case of Maruba dam in Machakos County. Further exploration of ground water needs to be carried out and establish locations with potential for high yielding bore holes which can be developed to supplement harvesting surface run off.
Compliance to occupational safety and health practices among workers in flowers farms in Embu county,Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-08) Gechembe, Barongo Bevalyne; Peterson Njogu Warutere; Isaac K.Makau
Consumption of commercial energy in the residential sector of Kenya: 1970--1990
(2012-06-06) Gor, Seth
The general objective of this study was to determine the factors which influence residential sector consumption of commercial energy in Kenya. The specific objectives were to first, identify the main determinants and their corresponding elasticities, and to use these to generate policy measures. These objectives have achieved by first identifying the major determinants of consumption of kerosene, Liquified petroleum Gas (LPG) and electricity individually, and secondly by calculating their corresponding elasticities. Using both nominal and constant value time-series data for the period 1970-1990, on a log- linear model, it has been found out that the latter give a better fit at 95 level of confidence. This is an indication that Kenyan households make their commercial energy consumption decisions on the basis of nominal prices and income. Using the nominal value data therefore, it has been found out that the major determinants of Kerosene consumption are wage employment level, population levels, price of LPG, and GDP. The main determinants of LPG on the other hand have been found to be:- population levels, lagged consumption and GDP while for electricity, the main determinants have been found to be wage employment levels and lagged consumption. For Kerosene and LPG it has also been found that there exist other significant determinants which have not been captured by this work hence need further research. The elasticity results indicate elastic coefficients for wage employment levels, Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and population levels in the case of Kerosene and GDP in the case of LPG. The cross price elasticity between kerosene and LPG is found to have an inelastic coefficient and so are population levels and lagged consumption in the case of LPG and wage employment levels and lagged consumption in the case of electricity.
Dynamics of Agricultural Developments Impacting on Biodiversity Conservation in Meru National Park, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2018-09) Nyamweya, Nelly Bosibori
Meru National Park has witnessed a steady immigration of agricultural households from nearby high potential agro-ecological zones into its buffer zones. The situation has subjected natural habitats that formerly served as communal grazing lands and wildlife dispersal areas to fragmentation and alteration. To date, the most affected zones are wetlands of the western and southern buffer zones. These zones are most critical for livestock and wildlife, particularly as dry season grazing areas. The main objective of this study was to determine the impacts of agricultural development on biodiversity conservation in Meru National Park. The specific objectives were to document land fragmentation and subdivision trends and changing crop types, to determine the impacts of land use changes on the approach used for community-based conservation and to determine the size and extent of human-wildlife conflicts. The study applied qualitative, quantitative, descriptive and exploratory research approaches. Primary data was obtained from household questionnaires, key informant interviews, high resolution google earth images and Geographic Information System imagery of the study area. Secondary data was obtained from published and un-published reports. Both qualitative and quantitative techniques were used to analyse the collected data. The quantitative techniques were done through coding the data from questionnaires. This was followed by analysis using the Statistical Package for Social Science. A substantial part of the analysis was based on descriptive statistics such as frequencies and cross-tabulation. Spatial analysis was used to explore the land use and land cover changes of the study area using four time-period data sets (2000, 2005, 2010 and 2016). Photographs were used to document the current situation on the ground. Spatial analysis indicates that the area under rain-fed shrub vegetation reduced significantly by 66.69 km2 between 2000 and 2016. This is majorly attributed to clearing of shrub vegetation to covert these areas into farmland. 76% of farmers in the study area are using irrigation to increase their farm outputs and to farm all year round. The water used for irrigation is abstracted from rivers and streams that drain from the base of the Nyambene Hills and flows into the park. This increased irrigation has resulted in lower water volumes and in some cases leading to no water flowing into the park. Between 2014 to 2016, The total annual number of human-wildlife conflict incidences in 2014, 2015 and 2016 increased from 367, 526, and 540 respectively. These conflicts affected maize and bananas farmers the most with baboons, elephants, buffaloes and monkeys being involved in the conflicts frequently. Whereas traditional land sizes were 20-35 ha in 1990s, the current farm sizes are medium scale ranging between 1 ha and 5 ha, an indication of the rapid land fragmentation in the study area. Meru National Park has increasingly witnessed complex interactions between conservation and socio-economic needs and pursuits of households occupying its buffer zones. This study therefore recommends implementation of sustainable biodiversity conservation strategies that do not hinder socio-economic development. This should be implemented by Kenya Wildlife Service in collaboration with community-based groups and key stakeholders.
Effect of the use of " maendeleo stove" on the livelihood of households in Kamelil Sub-Location, Nandi South district, Kenya
(2014-01-24) Wandera, Faith Hamala Odongo; Onywere, S. M.; Obiero, Samuel V.
Promotion of the maendeleo stove in Kamelil Sub Location of Tinderet Division, Nandi District started in the year 2001 and is still continuing through the Home Economics Office of the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with Thuiya Enterprises and International Council for Research in Agroforestry. The local community uses fuelwood as their major source of cooking energy. The broad objective of undertaking this study was to establish the effect of the use of the maendeleo stove on the livelihood of the residents of the Sub Location, particularly the energy saving and time saving aspects. The results of the study indicate that the community has benefited from the energy saving potential of the stove because they spend less time collecting fuelwood from the forest. The money saving aspect did not come out clearly mainly because the majority of the residents do not purchase fuelwood. The results of the study also indicate that the residents save time by using the stove particularly for school going children because the stove cooks faster. The time savings realized give the community more opportunities to concentrate on their farms, attend to the children and businesses among other activities. The study established that while the community heavily depends on the forest for fuelwood resources, fuelwood use is not as much a threat to the forest as demand for land for settlement. Crop residues, mainly maize stalks are used by 97% of the residents for starting the fire. The community plants trees but harvests very little fuelwood from them. The study recommends promotion of tree planting programmes with appropriate education on management of trees and proper utilization for fuelwood; increased promotion of the maendeleo stove in Kamelil and surrounding communities; increased awareness creation on the maendeleo stove and promotion of improved charcoal stoves.
The effects of forest loss on precipitation and stream discharge in the upper catchment of Ewaso Ngiro south river
(2011-08-02) Kigomo, Mathew Kiura; Onywere, S. M.; Nyaoro, W.
Forest loss is a direct driver of change to precipitation and stream discharge. These include changes in annual rainfall, temporal and spatial distribution of rainfall and rise and fall in stream discharge. This study focused on assessing the effects of forest loss on precipitation and stream discharge in the upper catchment of the Ewaso Ngiro South River. The destruction of forest in the upper catchment of Ewaso Ngiro South River is threatening hydrological functions, endangering water supplies for people downstream. It is also causing severe siltation, flooding, extreme low flows, disruption of socio-economic activities and ecological alteration downstream. The aim of the study was to assess how forest loss is driving and affecting precipitation and stream discharge in the upper catchment of Ewaso Ngiro South River. This was done by identifying and mapping forest cover; assessing trends in precipitation and stream discharge; and the correlation between forest cover, precipitation and stream discharge between 1975 and 2008. Based on satellite imagery forest cover areas were computed and correlated to precipitation and stream discharge data to establish direction and significance of association. The results revealed a decline i n forest cover and in the number of rainy days and a general increase in the mean annual rainfall between 1975 and 2008. Comparison of the mean annual rainfall for three ten year periods from 1979 to 2008 revealed that there was an increase in the mean annual rainfall from 1979 to 1988 and 1989 to 1998 and a decline from 1999 to 2008. Stream discharge for Ewaso Ngiro, Narok and Siayabei Rivers decreased between 1975 and 2008. Correlation between forest cover and mean annual rainfall revealed a negative association while forest cover versus the number of rainy days revealed a positive association. This implied that as forest cover decreased the mean annual rainfall increased but its distribution over time decreased. Correlation between forest cover and stream discharge revealed a positive association. This implied that forest cover and stream discharge declined in unison. Impacts of forest loss on precipitation and stream discharge have far reaching implications on the social, economic and ecological character of the upper catchment of Ewaso Ngiro South River. The study culminated in the development of an integrated river basin management plan that gives direction on coordinated conservation, management and development of water, land and related resources across sectors within Ewaso Ngiro South River basin.
The Effects of Infrastructural Development and Settlement on the Quality and Integrity of Nairobi National Park
(Kenyatta University, 2023) Nyaga, Doreen Wanjiku; Simon M. Onywere
Protected areas are used as a strategy for conservation and sustainable development. They are a source of foreign exchange and income to a country from tourism. They also contribute to community livelihoods. Kenya’s game parks for example attract nearly two million tourists each year, making wildlife conservation a high priority. However protected areas face challenges from incompatible land use activities and encroachment. With increased urbanisation, conservation efforts have faced challenges from habitat loss due to land degradation and fragmentation. Urbanization also leads to increase in roads, railway lines and buildings that expose wildlife to stress from noise pollution and other forms of pollution. Urban development’s increase the risks of human-wildlife conflicts. The main aim of this study was to find out how infrastructural developments and settlements have affected drainage in the Nairobi National Park area. It also estimated the size of land lost to infrastructural development and determine how this has brought about human-wildlife conflicts and impacts on conservation. The study that was conducted in 2021 used descriptive research design. Collection of primary data was carried out by the use of questionnaires, interview schedules, observation and GIS mapping to determine the developmental changes that have taken place. Secondary data collection method was used in evaluating the trend of the number of animals’ species within the park. Data gathered by use of questionnaire which involved infrastructural development and settlement and human-wildlife conflicts at the fenced part was analysed using statistical methods. The study found that railways and roads within the park adversely affected the life in the park. These effects include displacement of animals, obstruction of animal movement by blocking their migration paths and deaths of animals and birds through collisions with moving cars or trains and reduction of land set for animals. The drainage patterns have also been altered affecting flow of water especially along SGR. The size of park had also reduced by approximately 10,000 Ha due to constructions of a railway, roads and setting up of hotels. The study recommends the policy makers to enforce laws to protect the governments agencies from encroaching into areas reserved for wildlife and forest. It was recommended introduction of basic environmental conservation education at all levels of learning to help Kenyans appreciate importance of environmental conservation.
The effects of unauthorised house extensions on management of BuruBuru neighbourhood, Nairobi
(2011-08-01) Kanja, Kiguongo David
Since the early times, man has made relentless efforts to obtain food and shelter. The struggle for these basic needs has increased progressively as the human race advances in numbers and cultural diversity. The universal declaration of human rights of 1948 recognizes the right to adequate housing as an important component of the right to adequate standard of living. This has been further reaffirmed by subsequent various international instruments including the international covenant on economic, social and cultural rights of 1966, the Istanbul declaration and Habitat Agenda of 1996, and the declaration on cities and other human settlements in the new millennium of 2001. In all these instruments, housing is understood in the broader context of the shelter fabric together with the living environment. This study, carried out in Nairobi was aimed at identifying the problems and challenges of housing management in relation to construction of informal extensions. This has been necessitated by improvement of housing for Kenyan population as a major concern by the government and all other stakeholders in building industry. This concern has been influenced by the fact that the improvement in housing stock is a strategically important social and economic investment. In addition, well-planned housing and infrastructure of acceptable standards and affordable cost when combined with essential services affords dignity, security and privacy to the individual, the family and the community as a whole. The study was conducted in Buru Buru neighbourhood which was constructed for middle-income group, but issue of informal extensions has changed the face of Buru Buru and management of housing has become a problem. According to the research findings, management of housing stock is of paramount importance for the houses to cater for increase number of population as other houses continue to be built. The purpose of the study was to identify the effects of unauthorised housing extensions in Buru Buru in management of housing stock together with environment. The specific objectives were to examine the policy and institutional framework governing management of residential houses, the nature of houses and infrastructure development, causes, trends and impacts of unauthorised house extensions on environment management of Buru buru neighbourhood. This was to help in suggesting recommendation on integrated action plan for enhancement of sustainable neighbourhoods. The methodology applied for the study was based on visual environmental inspection, discussions with various stakeholders and literature review to try and establish the in depth causes of urban degeneration/decay. The field survey employed various techniques in collection of data such as questionnaires, interviews, observation and focused group discussions. The sampling frame was all residents of Buru buru neighbourhood and the sample size was the reduced to 245 houses, identified through systematic random sampling. The study identified that the problem of housing management are due to laxity of urban authorities and other stakeholders in enforcing of building regulations and lack of public private partnership. The study observed that the neighbourhood is supposed to have ground cover of 50% and a plot ratio of 75 of each allocated plot. There was also space for parking lot of 2 cars within the plot. This has greatly been violated and the ground cover for most houses has gone even up to 80% living no space for children to play and parking of vehicles. The study also revealed that there is no single organization within the neighbourhood dealing with management of the houses. The infrastructure service provided initially has not been adjusted to absorb the increase population and this has resulted to overstretch of these amenities. The study concluded that there is need for proper management groups to be involved in the management of houses in the neighbourhoods. Local authority to involve all need to decentralize the local authority powers to the grass root level. The study further recommends various short and long term measures ranging from educative, legislative, financial and public awareness campaigns and involvement to be instituted to the housing stock management.
Effects of Water Levelrise on Riparian Areas of Lake Naivasha, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2022) Karanja, Joseph Mwaura; Simon M. Onywere
Globally, lakes levels fluctuate naturally but when the rise is unprecedented the impact is far reaching. Kenya’s central rift valley lakes have swollen to the highest level in recorded recent history. The rise has severely affected livelihoods, destroyed infrastructure, inundated vegetation, caused human and wildlife displacement as well as destroyed ecosystem at large. One of the central Rift-Valley lakes that has experienced this rise is Lake Naivasha. Flooding of the lake has caused destruction of development infrastructures including homes, schools, churches, hotels, greenhouses, pump houses, roads, among many others. Also, a lot of vegetation has been lost which means loss of terrestrial habitat for wildlife and reduced protective riparian vegetation. The study used a combination of methods in analyzing quantitative and qualitative data collected using Google Earth historical imageries of December 2008 to October 2020, field observations and interviews among others. Geographic Information System (GIS) was used in the analysis, mapping and computing the amount of land and vegetation lost to water, and also to determine the number of structures and the length of road affected. Content analysis and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze qualitative data. Results from this research found that 34.42 km² of the terrestrial land has been lost to the lake especially on the northern side towards Gilgil River and Kihoto village. A lot of vegetation covering 29.01km² has vanished to the lake’s water, which includes 4.33 km² of farmland, beside 362 trees toppled and 2112 trees drying. Yellow fever acacia (Acacia xanthophloea) was the most affected vegetation. Infrastructures were found to have been destroyed or rendered unusable by the flooding water, whereby 409 block buildings were identified and 35.936 kilometers of either tarmacked, loose surface roads or tracks were found to be no longer usable since they were water pooled or impassable. Seventy-five water intakes and canals were submerged and had to be relocated to higher grounds. The rise of the lake waters has affected the wellbeing of low income earners especially 500 Kihoto settlement homeowners, which has occasioned to some falling sick, being stressed, confused, uncertain of the future and culminated to 3 deaths. The flooding has caused wildlife-human conflict as a result of destruction of dry land wildlife habitat and also water borne diseases as a result of waste mixing with the flooding lake water. Information from this project is useful in planning and management to avoid further occurrences of such effects. It also informs physical planning and infrastructure development that will not be especially in vulnerable settlements and resources to avoid such disasters in view of future water rise of the lake.

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