MST-School of Applied Human Sciences

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This collections contains bibliographic information and abstracts of Master theses and dissertation in the School of Applied Human Sciences held in Kenyatta University Library

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Adherence to Dietary Recommendations in the Management of Type 2 Diabetic Patients Attending Diabetic Clinic at Nyahururu County Referral Hospital, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-02) Muketha, Maureen Karimi
Type 2 Diabetes is among the biggest contributors of deaths and morbidity worldwide. It’s also increasing steadily, and if not controlled, it will soon become an epidemic due to an increase in the ageing population and the number of obesity cases worldwide. This aggravates the existing burden on health systems especially in developing nations. Screening and diagnosis are based on clinical guidelines that encompass both clinical and laboratory parameters. There is presently no cure for the disease. However, adherence to dietary recommendations as advised by health care workers has proven to be a game changer in its management. Hence, the current study sets to unravel adherence to dietary recommendations in the management of Type 2 diabetic patients at Nyahururu County Referral Hospital. Blood glucose level was used in order to determine if the patient has adhered to dietary recommendations. The study was conducted between November 2022 and January 2023; and it adopted a cross sectional analytical design using the Perceived Dietary Adherence Questionnaire to collect information on the socio-demographic characteristics, behavioural characteristics, dietary diversity, adherence to dietary recommendations and the level of dietary awareness. The study also utilised Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant interviews (KIIs) to collect complementary qualitative data. Systematic random sampling was applied in the 152 participants; who attended the diabetic clinic at Nyahururu County Referral Hospital. The information and data collected was entered into SPSS Version 21.0 and analysed. Qualitative data was transcribed coded and analysed to bring out the emerging themes. The study found that the social demographic factors, behavioural characteristics and awareness influenced adherence to dietary recommendation among the diabetics’ patients attending Nyahururu diabetic clinic at Nyahururu County Referral Hospital. Analysis of the respondent BMI was classified under 4 categories of underweight, normal, overweight and obese. Most of the respondents had a normal BMI (55.3%), overweight (28.4%), obese (7.4%) while (9.2%) were underweight. It was also observed 91.5% of the respondents had fasting blood glucose of more than 7.0mmol/l or higher glucose levels at the time of this study. This means that most of the respondents had high and uncontrolled blood sugar levels. The mean energy intake per day was 2291.4±125.6 kcal for men and 2193.7±164.3 kcal for female. The patients’ demographic characteristics influenced the level of adherence to dietary recommendation among the diabetics’ patients attending Nyahururu diabetic clinic at Nyahururu County Referral Hospital. There existed a statistically important association between gender, income, level of education, marital status and the level of awareness with the diabetic patients’ adherence to dietary recommendations at α=0.05. On the other side, age was not found to have insignificant influence on the participants’ adherence to dietary recommendations at α=0.05. There also existed a statistically significant association between Physical exercise, smoking as well as presence of other disease and diabetic patients’ adherence to dietary recommendations at α=0.05. Taking alcohol, family diabetics history, duration lived with diabetes and self- care did not significantly influence participants’ adherence to dietary recommendations at α=0.05. The intervention should be based on gender, education status, marital status and income; the average sugar level in mean was higher than the sugar level in women thus implies that men had low observance of recommended dietary than female. The study recommends emphasis on the observations of physical exercise, smoking and presence of other disease. The Ministry of Health and stakeholders should emphasize regular community sensitization of communities on the dietary recommendations for diabetic patients through continuous nutrition advocacy.
Adoption of Sustainable Bamboo Farming to Mitigate the Effects of Soil Degradation and to Improve Livelihood in Kinale, Kiambu County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Maina, Joy Wamahiga; Joyce Mwaniki
Bamboo is a perennial flowering plant with a distinctive life cycle: many bamboo species remain in the vegetative phase for decades, followed by mass synchronous flowering and SUbseql{ent death. Bamboos are grasses (Poaceae) that are widespread In trop ical and Sl,l‘t'troplcal regions with the potential to increase forests cover owing to their 'morphologlcal fast growth. This study aimed at i.) identifying the level of use in sustainable bamboo farming curbing effects of soil degradation, ii.) evaluating the level of COI{HHMI'EY awareness on bamboo farming and its environmental benefits, and iii.) assessing the importance of Bamboo as non-wood plant to sustain and improve community livelihoods. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 192 respondents within Kinale region, Kiambu County during a survey to gather information on bamboo farming and its impacts in curbing soil degradation. The data was analyzed on IBM® Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 21. Results showed that 56.2% of the respondents in Kinale region Kiambu County were involved in bamboo farming whereby the odds were about twice (1.821, 95% CI, Lower limit =1.11; Upper limit=2.997) as great as the odds of their counterparts. Among respondents involved in bamboo farming, the highest variance of 35.8%, 29.4% and 21.33% were from respondents that considered bamboo as a sustainable alternative to trees, aware of deforestation and degradation and bamboo farming for income generation, respectively. A respondent considering bamboo as a suitable alternative to trees was twice more likely to be involved in bamboo farming [Exp (B)= 1.963, 95% CI: 0.179, 7.307, p=0.032] whereas that who considered bamboo for income generation, was thrice [Exp (B)= 3.058, 95% CI: 0.433, 2.005; p=0.025]. Bamboo farming awareness was through Agricultural Extension Officers, Community Based Organizations and Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) as reported by 46.9%, 40.1% and 13%, respectively. Majority of 83.4% practice bamboo farming for monetary benefits compared to 16.6% that is for environmental benefits. Notably, 43.2% of the respondents reported environmental improvement associated with bamboo farming. Among the bamboo farming products, posts, chairs and baskets were reported by the majority of 30.9%, 27.2% and 20.2% of the respondents, respectively. A K-mean analysis revealed two clusters based on variables environmental-related and economic sustainability livelihood-related. In the first cluster, both variables: a sustainable alternative to trees and Land improvement or reclamation had a significant impact on its aggregation. However, in the second cluster, variables: bamboo as a source of income, household size and literacy level had a significant impact on its aggregation whereas variable: main source of income has none. The majority of 77.8% of the respondents involved in bamboo farming were in Ksh. > 2,000 - < 8,000 earning categories. Therefore, the study had shown the potential of bamboo farming in mitigating soil degradation, sustain and improve community livelihoods.
Aerobic capacity among the rugby union players in 2005 kenya League
(2011-11-28) Kamenju, Janet Wanjira
The capacity to replenish the energy required for endurance activities is one of the important factors that determine an individual's ability to exercise for a long time without fatigue. For an individual to attain the best performance, V02 max improvement is one aspect of training that should not be ignored (Seiler, 2005). This study assessed the aerobic capacity of selected male players taking part in 2005 Kenya Cup Rugby League. Stratified random sampling was used to obtain a sample of 90 male players from Impala, Harlequins and Nakuru RFC. The selection was based on the 2004 final league standings. Quasi-experimental research design was used. A pre-test using the multistage shuttle run test was administered to estimate the endurance capacity of the subjects at the beginning of the competitive season. A post-test was conducted eight weeks after commencement of competition to assess any changes in V02 max levels. Prediction of players' maximum oxygen uptake was based on their performance on the Multi-stage fitness test validated by Brewer et al (1998). The computer software package (SPSS) was used to process the data. The descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. A t-test was used to assess the differences between pretest and posttest, while ANOVA was used to analyse the differences in V02 max among the three clubs as well as between playing positions. The significant F-ratio was further analysed using Tukey HSD test. The results of the study were presented using graphs and tables. The findings of the study were as follows; there was no significant difference in players' aerobic capacity between pre-test and post-test. Players' V02 max at pre-test was 43.14m1/kg/min and 42.62m1/kg/min at post-test. Similarly, there was no significant difference in aerobic capacity amongst players of different age groups. The findings also indicated that there were significant differences in aerobic capacity among the top (44.5m1/kg/min), middle (40.2ml/kg/min) and the bottom (42.2ml/kg/min) ranked teams. The Tukey HSD test showed significant differences between Impala RFC and Harlequins RFC (5.47*) and also between Nakuru RFC and Harlequins RFC (4.16*) at pre-test. There was also significant difference between Impala and Harlequins (4.23*) at post-test.
Agricultural Commercialization of Staple Foods, Household Food Security and Nutrition Status of Children Aged 6-59 Months in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2022) Gitari, Janice Gatakaa; Peter Chege; Ann Munyaka
Globally, the number of undernourished people rose to above820 million in 2018. Kenya ranked 125th out of 157 countries in progress toward meeting the Sustainable Development Goals in 2017. Among the thirteen counties in the eastern and central regions of Kenya, Tharaka-Nithi County ranked second on stunting levels at 32%. Studies have shown large variations in food security implications caused by commercialization of agriculture hence need for further research to generate conclusive results. Thus, this study sought to assess the effect of agricultural commercialization of staples and household food security on nutrition status of children aged 6-59 months in Tharaka-Nithi County. The study adopted a cross-sectional analytical study design. Purposive sampling was used to select Mukothima ward. Proportionate to sizes sampling was used to select the number of households while systematic sampling was used to select the households with under-fives in each of the sub-locations to generate 374 children-caregiver pairs. Researcher administered structured questionnaires, key informant interview and focus group discussion guides were used to collect data. Data was entered into SPSS version 20.0 for analysis. Nutri-Survey and ENA for SMART were used to analyse 24-hour recall and anthropometric data respectively. Chi-square tests were run to test associations among categorical data variables. Qualitative data was organized into themes for analysis. The mean household size was 4.28 ± 1.404 with 85.2 %, of the households being headed by youthful men. 52.5% of the subjects relied on food crops’ sale as their main income source with65.3% being high level participants of agricultural commercialization. The mean Household Dietary Diversity Score was 5.32± 1.06. Based on Household Food Insecurity Access Score, 35.51% of the households were food secure. The mean number of meals eaten by the households in the day preceding the study was 2.94 ±0.926 with the main food source being purchases. Further, the mean energy and selected nutrient intakes of the under-fives in the study were adequate except for Zinc and Vitamin A. The prevalence of underweight based on WAZ-scores was 17.2 % while the GAM based on WHZ-scores was at 5.4 %. 33.6 % of the under-fives in the study were stunted. Significant positive associations were observed between: agricultural commercialization and income (Chi-square=23; P value =0.021); agricultural commercialization and occupation (Chi-square=23; P value =0.007); Income and HDDS (r=0.71; P value =0.035); agricultural commercialization and HDDS (P value =0.001); agricultural commercialization and nutrition status of the under-fives (P value =0.0041) and HDDS and nutrition status of the under-fives (r=0.78; P value =0.003). This study demonstrated that households which practice Agricultural Commercialization to a larger extent generated income which enabled them to purchase various foods in addition to their own produce thus achieving adequate nutrient intakes resulting to better nutrition outcomes. Thus, Tharaka-Nithi County Government should domesticate the Food Crops Act of 2013 which regulates food crop production activities. The County Government of Tharaka-Nithi and other partners should intensify adoption of sustainable nutrition interventions that will address the high levels of stunting among under-fives as revealed by the study results. A longitudinal study is recommended to further explore the relationships between agricultural commercialization and food security given their multi-dimensional nature.
Analysis of acute injuries incurred by players during the 2001 Moi golden cup soccer tournament in Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2014) Onywera, V.O.
This study involved the analysis of injuries incurred by players during the 2001 Moi Golden Cup Soccer Toumament. A total of twenty- four (24) matches were covered. A modified Soccer Observation Chart from the one developed by Asembo, Njororai and Wekesa (1995) was used to collect data for this study. Three-trained research assistants were used for collection of data. Each one of them collected data independently. An inter observer agreement was set at 90% for the various variables for purposes of inclusion in the analysis. Where there were differences of opinion, consultations with the team dodorlfirst aider was made. The data collected were expressed in terms of frequencies and percentages. Chi-square was used to test the significance of various hypotheses in line with injuries incurred by players in the 2001 Moi Golden Cup Soccer Toumament with the objective of establishing the nature, anatomical distribution, contextual mechanism, aetiology, and time course of injuries in relation to tournament level, part of the field, teams (home/away, winning/losing) and players position among male Soccer players. The significant level for rejection and/or acceptance of the hypotheses was set at 0.05. From this study, it was found that more injuries 44(43.14%) occurred in the preliminary phase of the toumament and first halves (67.6%) of the matches played. Forward players were more vulnerable to injuries compared to other positions. They suffered 35(34.3%) of the total injuries recorded during the study. The opponent caused the highest number 50(49%) of injuries. Most players 28(27.5%) were injured as a result of being kicked by another player. The offensive zone recorded more injuries 37(36.3%) compared to the defensive and construction zones, which recorded 35(34.3%) and 30(29.4%) respectively. Soft tissue injuries accounted for the highest percentage (79%) of injuries during the Toumament. Most players 17(62.96%), were substituted because of injuries in the preliminary phase of the Tournament. Away teams registered more injuries 58(56.9%) than home teams 44(43.1 %) while winning teams incurred more injuries 54(53%) than losing teams 48 (47%). Anatomically, the lower body was the most affected by injuries 67(65.7%) in this study. Therefore, it is recommended that Kenyan Soccer Coaches should emphasize the need for proper physical conditioning and sportsmanship to reduce chances of their players getting unnecessary injuries. The Kenya Football Federation in liaison with the Government and Clubs should strive to improve and maintain Soccer pitches to avoid predisposing players to injuries. Further studies in the same area with female teams, international tournaments, other sports, among others, are recommended.
Analysis of infrastructural support and trainer attributes in technical, industrial, vocational and Entrepreneurship Training tivet institutions in Kenya
(2014) Orangi, Ann Kwamboka
The purpose of this study was to analyze infrastructural support and trainer attributes in TIVET institutions in Kenya. Technical, Industrial, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training (TIVET) is acknowledged as a means of transforming and empowering the youth with skills, knowledge and attitudes to enable them become productive members of the society. The objective of the study were: 1) to establish the qualification of staff in selected institutions offering clothing and textile courses, 2) to determine training needs of staff in the selected TIVET institutions offering clothing and textile courses, 3) to establish the status of equipment and physical facilities used for training in clothing and textile courses and 4) to establish methods used in teaching clothing and textile courses in TIVET institutions. Descriptive survey design was used for the study.The samples included 8 technical institutes and 10 institutes of technology in Kenya offering courses in clothing and textile and were examined by Kenya National Examination Council. The respondents were the principals, deputy principals, lecturers, technicians and students in 18 TIVET institutions. A total of 452 respondents participated in the study (consisting of 250 second year students taking a diploma course in clothing and textile, 18 technicians, 148 lecturers and 36 principals and deputy principals). Questionnaireswere 250 for second years, 166 for Lectures and Technicians. Interview scheduleswere 36 for principal and their deputiesand observation check-listswere 250 for students which wereused as instruments for the study. The researcher used Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) tool to analyse the data. Both the qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques were used. Descriptive statistics such as percentages and frequencies were used to reportdata. Data were presented in form of frequency tables, bar graphs, and pie charts. The results showed that the academic staff members were academically qualified; however, there was need for them to upgrade their technical skills. The study also found that there was further training need for the academic staff in the institutions studied as indicated by all the staff. The trainings required was in:entrepreneurship, bachelor degree in Clothing and textiles, use of IT in clothing and textile, machine maintenance, Diploma in clothing technology, technical skills upgrading and masters’ degree in fashion design.On the status of equipment and physical facilities, the study found that 172 (86%) of the respondents indicated that the facilities were inadequate. Ontraining methods used, the study established that practical work, lecture and teachers’ notes, demonstration, questions and answers and class discussion were used often. It was recommended that the Government should provide additional learning and training equipment to replace the out-dated ones. Teachers should go for additional training to upgrade their skills. It was suggested that a study needs to be done to establish the relevance of the curriculum used in TIVET institutions.
An analysis of offensive patterns of play of Kenyan male handball teams in national tournaments
(2012-02-27) Odero, Martin Ngesa; Wamukoya, Edwin K.; Goodwin, Y.
The objective of every handball team in competition is to advance the ball as fast as possible to the opponents' goalmouth and attempt to make a score without opposition. The wish of every handball coach is therefore, to train a team in offensive patterns of play that could be used to advance the ball to the opponent’s goalmouth and make a score. This study analysed and established such offensive patterns of play by Kenyan Male Handball teams during the 1998 National Tournaments. Twenty matches sampled from five tournaments in Kenya were used. At the end of the matches, there were groups of winners and losers. The performances of these groups were analysed under counter attack and positional play patterns of attack. The performances of these groups were analysed under counter attack and positional play patterns of attack. The data was collected by observing pre-recorded videotapes. The collected data was descriptively analysed using tables and charts to obtain the frequencies, percentages, means, variances and standard deviations of the outcomes. Inferentially, the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to analyze the offensive performance between and within the two groups. The results showed significant differences between the successful and unsuccessful rates of counter attack and positional play patterns in winners, losers, between winners and losers and in overall performance in offensive patterns of play. The level of significance was p0.05. The findings revealed that teams used both counter and positional play patterns. However, the use of positional play (82.17%) was more than counter attack (17.83%). Though more goals were scored from positional play (529) compared to counter attack goals (212), the study revealed that the counter attack success rate was higher (37%) compared to positional play (20%). It is therefore recommended that Kenyan Handball Coaches should exploit the counter attack patterns and vary their positional play patterns so as to improve in their scoring ability. Further studies in the same area with female teams, normal duration and larger samples are also necessary. The scientific approach to training and competition should also not be overlooked by coaches and trainers, in order to fully exploit and improve individual and team performance.
Analysis of poverty alleviation initiatives among small scale farming communities in rural Naivasha, Kenya
(2013-08-13) Njuguna, Christine Wambui
Small-scale farmers are the centre of concern about globalization because they are the largest employment and small business group among the world‟s poor. More than 80% of Kenyans live in the rural areas and earn their livelihoods in agricultural-based activities. More than 50% of Kenyans live below the poverty level and struggle to meet their basic needs. Therefore the purpose of this study was to analyze of poverty alleviation initiatives among small-scale farmers in rural Naivasha, Kenya. The objectives of the study were: to identify opportunities and challenges facing small-scale farmers in meeting their basic needs as regards water for irrigation, land and training on modern agricultural practices; to determine household resources through asset mapping and subsequent zonal differences by wealth accumulation and to analyze poverty alleviation initiatives for and by the small scale farmers. The study methodology included Ex-post facto research design through use of participatory rural appraisal tools such as the direct contact questionnaire, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. A sample of 136 respondents were interviewed that comprised of 100 small scale farmers, 6 development agencies and 30 people for focus group discussions. Quantitative data was analyzed with the use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) where descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were computed in order to understand the patterns and nature of relationships. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically, where labels were assigned to various categories and themes. The survey found that the efforts by the small scale farmers to alleviate poverty had been hampered by lack of support in skills acquisition and farm inputs, natural disasters such as drought and dependence on rain fed agriculture. This is in addition to constrained access to markets, lack of technology transfer to farmers coupled with low levels of technology adoption. The role of development agencies was found to be of paramount importance as they provided training and credit, farm inputs, education and health services at subsidized prices and enabled farmers to have better access to markets. However there was lack of synergy and coordination of operations among these development agencies leading to an overlap, competition and conflict. There were significant differences between farmers who received training on modern agricultural practices and those who did not (p<.05). There were also significant differences between farmers who had access to water for irrigation and those who did not have access (p<.05). Findings also showed that there were significant differences among agricultural zones and annual wealth accumulation (p<.05). It was concluded that poverty alleviation initiatives that had made the most contribution to the small scale farmers were: training on modern agricultural practices, improved access to water for irrigation, self help groups and financial assistance. It was recommended that various development agencies should work in a coordinated manner to benefit the local communities; and improved access to water for irrigation and irrigation technology would greatly improve the standard of living of the small scale farmers.
An analysis of the effectiveness of Kenya's top male Field hockey teams in using selected offensive tactics in competitions
(2012-04-20) Mwisukha, A.
This study involved an analysis of the effectiveness of Kenya's top men's field hockey teams in using offensive tactics of passing and shooting with the drive, push, flick and scoop, corners and penalty corners in competition. The objective of this analysis was to identify the strengths and/or weaknesses of the teams in executing the offensive tactics on the basis of which the teams' coaching programmes may be adjusted to optimize their performance. The study focused on the observation and analysis of pre-recorded matches of Kenya's national hockey league for the year 1995/96. Out of a total of 114 league matches played on the astroturf surface, a sample of 30 (26.7%) matches was randomly selected for the study. Match analysis instruments that have been developed and tested for the observation of play activities in field hockey were used to collect data on the selected offensive tactics. To ensure accuracy in data collection one trained research assistant was used. The winning and losing teams were compared on their execution of the offensive tactics to determine if winning resulted from the teams' effectiveness in executing these play actions. Data collected was analyzed using frequencies, percentages and means. The t-test at 0.05 level of significance was used to determine if there was a significant difference between winning and losing teams in executing the offensive tactics. From the findings, it was noted that the teams that won matches achieved higher numbers and percentages of passes using the drive, push, flick and scoop than the teams that lost. Additionally, the winning teams realised higher proportions of successful shots with drive, push and flick, corners and penalty corners. However, there was no significant difference between the teams that won and those that lost in their effectiveness in shooting with the scoop. These findings indicate that winning in Kenya's national league matches was determined by the teams' effectiveness in executing the offensive tactics of passing using the drive, flick, push and scoop, shooting with the drive, push and flick, corners and penalty corners. From the study, it is recommended that Kenya's top men's hockey teams should boost their chances of winning league matches by polishing more on their passes using the drive, push, flick and scoop and shots with the drive, push and flick. Furthermore, the teams should be made to realise that successful execution of corners and penalty corners in league matches determines a team's successful performance and as such, they need to carry out incessant and appropriate practice of these play situations in a game.
Antioxidant Retention Acceptability in Solar-Dried Mushrooms and Acceptability of Mushroom Millet Porridge Blend among HIV Patients in Nakuru County Referral Hospital, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Masiko, Bosire Miriam; Ann Munyuka; Juliana Kiio
Th_e rolg of mushrooms in preventing and treating illness and promoting quality of life has gained increased awareness especially due to their high antioxidant content. Antioxidants are necessary for body protection against oxidative stress especially among people with lowered immune system, such as People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs). There are limited options ot: nutritional therapeutic foods available for use by PLWHAs. Millet is an Under}mllze.d indigenous crop in Kenya whose nutrient profile can be improved through blt_ndm.g with other foods. The purpose of this study was to establish the antioxidant (Vltamm E, Vitamin C, B-carotene and Total Phenolic Content) concentration and retention in fresh' .and solar-dried oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) and assess the acceptability of finger millet (Eleusine Coracana) porridge enriched with oyster mushroom among PLWHASs. The study adopted an experimental design with fresh mushrooms and pure millet flour as the control samples and mushroom enriched millet flour as the experimental samples. Fresh mushrooms were purchased in Juja sub-county, Kenya, transported using cool boxes and refrigerated at 4°C in the Kenyatta University food chemistry laboratory. Millet samples were purchased from markets within Nairobi County, Kenya and transported and stored in hermetic bags. B-carotene and Total Phenolic Content of mushrooms and millet were analyzed using UV-VIS spectrophotometry at 450nm and 765nm respectively. Vitamin C and Vitamin E content were analyzed using reverse-phase high Pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Sensory acceptability of mushroom-millet porridge was determined using a S-point hedonic scale questionnaire administered to 30 randomly selected participants (PLWHAs) from Nakuru County Referral Hospital. Independent T-tests and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used to analyze nutrient content and sensory scores. The antioxidant nutrient content of fresh and solar dried mushrooms were: B-carotene- 13.73 + 0.02 mg/100g dw, 1.21 + 0.00 mg/100g dw ; Vitamin E- 23.23 + 2.12 mg/100g dw, 0.96 + 1.18 mg/100g dw; Vitamin C 37.25 + 0.32 mg/100g dw, 5.60 + 0.12 mg/100g dw and TPC 36.48 + 1.50 mg/100g dw, 21.55 + 0.24 mg/100g dw respectively. Blanching the mushrooms before solar drying increased the retention rate of the nutrient antioxidants in the solar dried mushrooms. There was a significant difference in the antioxidant content of fresh mushroom and solar dried mushrooms in all the tested nutrients (p < 0.05). Enriching millet flour with mushroom powder significantly increased p-carotene, Vitamin C and TPC concentrations (p < 0.05). There were significant differences between control porridge and mushroom enriched millet porridges on all sensory attributes apart from color (p < 0.05). The unblanched mushroom: millet porridge (60:40) blend was rated the poorest (2.97 + 1.47) in all the sensory attributes. This study’s findings demonstrate that oyster mushrooms are rich in antioxidants. However, solar drying the mushrooms without blanching significantly lowers the levels of the antioxidants. This study established that porridge made from millet flour enriched with mushroom is rich in -carotene, Vitamin C and TPC; and is acceptable among PLWHAs. The consumption of porridge made from millet-mushroom blended flour should be promoted among PLWHAs not only because of protein content but also because of antioxidant content. Findings from this study are relevant to nutritionists, farmers, and policy makers as it shows the potential of mushrooms in enhancing diets, promoting health and income generation.
Antioxidant Retention in Solar-Dried Mushrooms and Acceptability of Mushroom Millet Porridge Blend among HIV Patients in Nakuru County Referral Hospital, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023) Bosire, Miriam Masiko; Ann Munyaka; Juliana Kiio
The role of mushrooms in preventing and treating illness and promoting quality of life has gained increased awareness especially due to their high antioxidant content. Antioxidants are necessary for body protection against oxidative stress especially among people with lowered immune system, such as People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs). There are limited options of nutritional therapeutic foods available for use by PLWHAs. Millet is an underutilized indigenous crop in Kenya whose nutrient profile can be improved through blending with other foods. The purpose of this study was to establish the antioxidant (Vitamin E, Vitamin C, β-carotene and Total Phenolic Content) concentration and retention in fresh and solar-dried oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) and assess the acceptability of finger millet (Eleusine Coracana) porridge enriched with oyster mushroom among PLWHAs. The study adopted an experimental design with fresh mushrooms and pure millet flour as the control samples and mushroom enriched millet flour as the experimental samples. Fresh mushrooms were purchased in Juja sub-county, Kenya, transported using cool boxes and refrigerated at 4ºC in the Kenyatta University food chemistry laboratory. Millet samples were purchased from markets within Nairobi County, Kenya and transported and stored in hermetic bags. β-carotene and Total Phenolic Content of mushrooms and millet were analyzed using UV-VIS spectrophotometry at 450nm and 765nm respectively. Vitamin C and Vitamin E content were analyzed using reverse-phase high Pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Sensory acceptability of mushroom-millet porridge was determined using a 5-point hedonic scale questionnaire administered to 30 randomly selected participants (PLWHAs) from Nakuru County Referral Hospital. Independent T-tests and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used to analyze nutrient content and sensory scores. The antioxidant nutrient content of fresh and solar dried mushrooms were: β-carotene- 13.73 ± 0.02 mg/100g dw, 1.21 ± 0.00 mg/100g dw ; Vitamin E- 23.23 ± 2.12 mg/100g dw, 0.96 ± 1.18 mg/100g dw; Vitamin C 37.25 ± 0.32 mg/100g dw, 5.60 ± 0.12 mg/100g dw and TPC 36.48 ± 1.50 mg/100g dw, 21.55 ± 0.24 mg/100g dw respectively. Blanching the mushrooms before solar drying increased the retention rate of the nutrient antioxidants in the solar dried mushrooms. There was a significant difference in the antioxidant content of fresh mushroom and solar dried mushrooms in all the tested nutrients (p ≤ 0.05). Enriching millet flour with mushroom powder significantly increased β-carotene, Vitamin C and TPC concentrations (p ≤ 0.05). There were significant differences between control porridge and mushroom enriched millet porridges on all sensory attributes apart from color (p ≤ 0.05). The unblanched mushroom: millet porridge (60:40) blend was rated the poorest (2.97 ± 1.47) in all the sensory attributes. This study’s findings demonstrate that oyster mushrooms are rich in antioxidants. However, solar drying the mushrooms without blanching significantly lowers the levels of the antioxidants. This study established that porridge made from millet flour enriched with mushroom is rich in β-carotene, Vitamin C and TPC; and is acceptable among PLWHAs. The consumption of porridge made from millet-mushroom blended flour should be promoted among PLWHAs not only because of protein content but also because of antioxidant content. Findings from this study are relevant to nutritionists, farmers, and policy makers as it shows the potential of mushrooms in enhancing diets, promoting health and income generation.
Arm-span/height correlation in the Luo community-a tool to improve admission criteria based on BMI for Nutritional Rehabilitation HIV Programs
(2012-11-07) Ngetich, Kiprono Weldon; Wagah, Margaret; Rombo, G. O.; Wagah, Akinyi Margaret
Body mass index (BMI) is one of the main criteria used during targeting for therapeutic feeding. For bed ridden HIV-positive people, height cannot be accurately taken because they cannot stand straight due to gross muscle weakness resulting in inaccurate BMl calculation. Arm span has been shown to correlate with height and is not affected by sickness or aging but varies with ethnicity. This study was to explore the correlation between arm span/demi span and height among the Luo community so as to come up with a correlation equation that can be used to approximate the height of bedridden Hl V positive people. A cross sectional study was done and the main objective was to determine the correlation between arm span and height among the Luo community. The study location was Homabay MSF HIV clinic with the sample size of 500 Luo adults between the age IS and 60 years. At the study site, anthropometric measurements were taken using the standard techniques. Partial correlation between arm span/demi arm span and height with control of sex was done. Stepwise forward analysis was done to enable construction of a correlation equation that best estimate height from arm span. Bland-Altman assessment of agreement was done to check the difference in the use of either predicted height from arm span or demi arm span to calculate BMI. Scatter plot diagrams were used to show the correlation between arm span/demi span and height. Tables showing anthropometric characteristics of the sample, arm span! demi span and height correlation by sex, prediction models, partial correlation between MUAC and BMl, sex specific regression equation relating arm span/demi span and height and BMI-as cut offs equivalent to BMI-height cut offs for classifying nutritional status among adults were used to present data. The study found that there were differences in all variables between males and females from the Luo community. There was a high arm span/demi span with height correlation (0.S6) in both sexes among the Luo community. Arm span alone accounted for 83.6% of the variability in height with sex and age having no impact on the variability. The prediction equations for estimating height are: H eight=O. 71 (arm span)+40.S6 and Height=I.44(demi arm span)+43.2S. Partial correlation between BMl-asIBMI-ht with MUAC (controlled by sex) showed the lowest (0.57) and the highest (0.65) correlations respectively. In conclusion, the height estimated from arm span can be used to calculate BMI as a way of improving admission criteria for therapeutic feeding programs for the HIV positive adults in the Luo community. More research is recommended to determine the trend in other communities in Kenya and other African countries where there is high HIV prevalence.
Assesment of Slum Tourism Product:The case of Kibera in Nairobi,Kenya
(2013-03-20) Chege, penina wanjiku
Thestudy was conducted in Kibera slum in Nairobi. It focused on assessing slum tourism as a viable tourism option. The objectives were to: determine the main tourism attraction in Kibera slum, establish the perceptions of Kibera's slum dwellers, Kenya Tourism Boardand Victoria Safaris towards slum tourism, determine the benefits of slum tourism to Kibera slum dwellers, establish measures to be taken to promote slum tourism in Kibera and to determine the viability of slum tourism as a tourism product. The exploratoryand descriptive survey research design was used. The target population of the study was 800,000 residents of Kibera slum who live in a total of 12 villages, 160 employeesof Kenya 1:d.urism Board (KTB) and 38 employees of Victoria Safaris. The samplesize was 472 respondents, 384 from Kibera, 50 from KTB and 38 from Victoria Safaris.Simple random sampling was used to select 6 (50%) villages in Kibera. Snowball samplingmethod was then used to select respondents in those six villages. The initial subjectswere identified using purposive technique. The subjects from the KTB were selected using convenient sampling method while all subjects from Victoria Safaris participated.Data was collected by the use of questionnaire. A pilot study was run in KisumuNdogo slum village. Reliability of the instrument was determined during the pilot study using test re-test technique. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS)was used to analyze data. Data was then presented in tables and figures. The resultsof the study showed that slum tourism is a viable tourism product as majority of the respondents, 435 (92.2%), affirmed this. There was a strong liking for slum tourism acrossall categories as majority, 396 (83.9%), view it as beneficial to the slum residents in improving their living conditions. Poor understanding of slum tourism concept and lackof involvement of residents was the major challenge while lack of policy was the secondmajor challenge. Observing=residents' life style and taking photographs were identifiedas major tourist activities" in Kibera slum while improvement of security and involvementof residents in tourism activities were identified as key ways for promoting slum tourism. The 'study recommends that there should be a deeper participation of residents in running and making decisions on slum tours to increase benefits to the residents.There is also need for government to develop a policy whose aim is to guide on waysof conducting slum tours. There is also need for Ministry of Tourism to educate the residentson how to take advantage of the venture and open up businesses like tour firms andhowto provide other services in order to reap the benefits of slum tourism.
Assessment of complementary feeding practices and nutritional status among children in Athi-River, Machakos District, Kenya
(2011-11-03) Chelimo, Florence L.; Kuria, E. N.; Rombo, G. O.
Complementary feeding involves feeding infants and young children with semi-solid and solid foods in addition to breast milk to ensure adequate nutrition Mother's or principal caregiver's practices however determine the success of complementary feeding. This is affected by many socio-economic and socio cultural factors among others. A descriptive survey study on the complementary feeding practices and the nutritional status of children aged 6 to 24 months was carried out in Athi-river Division of Machakos District, a district that has continually reported high cases of childhood malnutrition. Athi-river is an industrial town in the district and therefore mothers move from other areas to Athiriver in search of employment. The major objective was to assess the complementary feeding practices and the nutritional status of children. A sample of 132 mothers and their children were randomly selected to form the study sample. Data were collected using an interview schedule, anthropometry, focus group discussions, observations and laboratory analysis. The data were analyzed using SPSS, Nutri-survey, Epi-info computer packages and expressed in descriptive and inferential statistics. A P- value of <0.05 was considered significant. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) was used to determine the magnitude and direction of the relationship between complementary feeding practices and the nutritional status of the children. Multiple regression was used to determine whether the various complementary feeding practices predict the nutritional status. About half of the respondents (49.2%) were aged between 19 - 25 years while 61.4% and 69.7% of them had primary school education and were casual labourers respectively. Slightly less than half of the respondents (41.7%) left their children with neighbours when they went to work. Although, majority of the study children (77.7%) were being breastfed at the time of the study, exclusive breastfeeding was only done for at most 2 months of life, hence complementary foods were introduced at an early age than the recommended. Slightly more than two thirds (69.2%) of the mothers did not use commercial foods, which are fortified. Majority of the respondents (78.8%) used feeding bottles instead of the recommended cup or bowl and spoon. All the mothers did not sterilize the feeding equipment. Slightly more than half (51.5%) of the mothers did not treat the water they use to prepare the child's food. Majority of the children did not consume adequate amounts of nutrients such as vitamin A (77.2%), vitamin 132 (85.6%), B3 (85.7%), 136 (60.6%), B12 (73.5%), Magnesium (98.4%), zinc (79.6%) and selenium (73.5%). More than half of the children did not also consume vegetables (82.6%), fruits (64.5%) and animal products (59.1%) regularly as recommended. Financial constraints limited the complementary feeding of the children. The proportion of the 6 to 24 months old children that was stunted, wasted and underweight was 25.0%, 24.9% and 19.7% respectively. Majority of the children (72.8%) had been ill for the past two weeks. The number of meals consumed and amount of kilocalories taken were found to affect the nutritional status of children significantly. The number of meals consumed per day, amount of kilocalories and income earned were found to contribute to 21.0% of the children's nutritional status. It was recommended that mothers be empowered and educated on complementary feeding practices.
Assessment of crowd management strategies used for football events in government-owned sports Stadia in Nairobi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2016-02) Mandu, Agnes Wanjiku
Spectator violence in stadiums is part of a larger set of problems related to misbehaviour in football and it has resulted into deaths and injuries during football events, especially where rival football clubs are playing. This is especially exacerbated where fans seating arrangement is not properly demarcated. The purpose of this study was therefore to assess crowd management strategies applied by the management of government-owned sports stadia in Nairobi County, Kenya. The management strategies the study sought to assess were mainly on security arrangements in terms of the pre-event, event and post-event preparations and arrangements. The target population for the study comprised of 64 staff working at Moi International Sports Centre (MISC) and Nyayo National Stadium (NNS), 24 Football Kenya Federation (FKF) officials at National and Nairobi County levels, 304 police officers stationed at Kasarani Police division, Ngomongo Police Post, Langata Police division and Nyayo National Stadium Police Post. Sample size for football fans was calculated at 384 using Fishers’ formula since the total population for both MISC (60,000) and NNS (30,000) was estimated at 90,000. Stratified random sampling technique was used to select the respondents, to ensure a fair representation of all the target groups. Self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. The data collected was summarized into descriptive statistics of frequencies and percentages. Data presentation was carried out using graphs, barcharts, tables and pie-charts. The null hypotheses were tested using chi-square at p < 0.05 level of association/agreement using SPSS version 20. Findings revealed there was a level of agreement between the security/safety service personnel and football fans on the adequacy of stadia safety features where a higher proportion of both were of the opinion that the safety features were partially adequate. On pre-event strategies the findings revealed that the strategies used were viewed by a high proportion of the respondents as partially effective, with a departure on facility maintenance which was viewed as effective and advertising of penalties for misbehaviour while in the stadium which was indicated as ineffective. The stadia security/safety service personnel and the football fans generally agreed that the strategies used to manage crowds during football matches in the two sports stadia were partially effective. For the post-event strategies security/safety personnel and football fans were of the opinion that the strategies used to control crowds after a football match were generally partially effective. Based on the findings, it is recommended that the management of the two sports stadia should improve on all the strategies used to manage crowds during football matches. Further studies on crowd management strategies for football events need to be carried out in other government- owned and non-government owned sports stadia in Kenya.
Assessment of Health Related Physical Fitness and Motor Skill Ability of 9-11 Year Old School Children in Nairobi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2016) Odindo, Francis Okinda
Physical activity (PA) is recognized as an important determinant for chronic lifestyle diseases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) PA is one of the major underlying causes of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) leading to significant global burden of death, disease and disability among children and adults. There are many factors that influence PA among school children, including physical fitness and motor skill development. Health-related physical fitness includes cardio-respiratory fitness, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility and body composition. Motor skills include elements of locomotor and object-control movements. The aim of the study was to assess health-related physical fitness components and motor skill ability among 9-11 year old school children in Nairobi County, Kenya. A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was used. A total of 199 (106 female and 93 male) school children were tested. The following variables were measured using standardized procedures, children’s height and weight, low back flexibility, muscular strength, static abdominal muscular endurance, aerobic fitness and motor skill ability. These factors are thought to influence the quantity and quality of PA thus justifying their inclusion. The study targeted school children in both public (n=104) and private schools (n=95). Ethical clearance was obtained from the Kenyatta University Ethics Review Board. Research permits were obtained from the Ministry of Education and Nairobi City Council. Consent was sought from the parents of children who took part in the study, the children also provided assent to participate. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics using SPSS version 17.0. Independent T-tests were used to compare differences in the means of variables. Chi-square tests were used to establish the relationship between categorical variables. BMI cut-offs were based on the recommended 2010 WHO international cut-offs. The results have been presented in tables. A p-value of 0.05 was considered significant. The average age was 9.9 years. Aerobic endurance was significantly associated with sex (p=0.004 [χ 2 = 13.396]) with boys performing better than girls. Flexibility was significantly associated with sex p<0.0001 (χ 2 = 25.33), girls were more flexible than boys. Children with good motor skill ability were the more physically fit compared to their counterparts. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 24.2%. Males showed a better motor performance than females. Regarding motor skills, 28.6% of the children were at the beginning level, 55.3% progressing, only 4% and 3% were achieving and excelling respectively. 38.2% had very low cardiovascular fitness, 31.7% progressing, 11.6% were achieving and 9.5% excelled, 46.2% had low torso muscular endurance while only 2.5% were excelling. Overall, the children had average scores in motor skill ability, aerobic endurance, muscle strength, muscle endurance, and body composition. Their performance in flexibility was above average. Improving children's motor skill ability may be a good target for increasing PA in youth. A longitudinal study exploring the relationship between changes in health-related fitness and motor skill ability should be carried out so as to establish the effect of time on the variables. Also, a similar study targeting rural children and peri-urban kids could also be interesting.
Assessment of Infant and Young Child Feeding and Nutritional Status of Children 0-23 Months among Ilchamus Pastoralists in Baringo County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-04) Rotich, Joyline J.
World Health Organization defines feeding practices of infants and young children as breastfeeding instantly after delivery and continuing exclusively for six months. Complementary feeding gradually from seven months with breastmilk till two years. Caregivers adhere to adequate infant and young child feeding practices to minimize child undernutrition. However, this is not always the case among the Ilchamus pastoralist community who live in the arid and semi-arid regions of Baringo County, facing challenges such as food insecurity and cattle theft. High prevalence of stunting (28.1%) and underweight (4.7%) have been reported among the community despite efforts to alleviate malnutrition in the area. Unfortunately, there is limited research on the feeding practices of children aged zero to twenty-three months in this community, resulting in a scarcity of information. Consequently, this study investigated the feeding patterns and nutritional status of children zero to twenty-three months among the Ilchamus pastoralists of Baringo County, Kenya. The researcher involved 206 caregivers with children zero to twenty-three months. A cross-sectional analytical study design was adopted. A multi-stage selection strategy was used to arrive at the study sample. Wards and locations were purposively selected. While proportionate selection for villages and households. The study was accomplished in Mukutani and Ilchamus Wards, Baringo County, Kenya. A structured questionnaire was utilized to gather descriptive data. The Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 aided in data analysis. Nutritional status was determined by the mid-upper arm circumference, Weight-for-height, and Weight-for-age Z-score based on World Health Organization cut-offs. Descriptive statistics of infant and childcare characteristics were done using percentages and frequencies while association shown by chi-square and spearman’s correlation significant at p<0.05. Most caregivers had a primary level of education, 154(60.2%), and only seven (2.7%) had tertiary training. About 150(58.6%) were unemployed, and the majority, 142(55.5%), had an income of Ksh 5000- 10,000. About 207(80.9%) were married while 46(16.0%) were single. The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding was 180 (70.3%), with 181(70.7%) initiating breasting within an hour after birth. About 35(13.7%) introduced other foods before age six. Minimum dietary diversity was at 3.8% for ages 6-8 months, 4.9% for 9-11 months, 8.2% for ages 12-17 months, and 9.2% among ages 18-23 months, and minimum meal frequency was three times a day. Prevalence of Wasting was at 35.6%, stunting (41.6%), and underweight (35.2%). The number of household members and household income are significantly associated with wasting (p<0.05). IYCF practices indicated a significant association with wasting (p<0.05). Stunting also showed a significant link between household members showed a significant association with stunting (p<0.05). In addition, household head, number of people in the household, and occupation of the household head showed a significant statistical association with underweight (p<0.05). Low uptake of optimal children's feeding practices contributes to their poor health and Nutritional status. The findings provide evidence of the importance of ensuring adequate feeding practices among Infants and young children to alleviate malnutrition. Thus, Baringo County and the National Government Ministry of Health in Kenya should enhance programs to improve nutrition education to advance maternal and child health.
Assessment of knowledge and attitudes of adolescents towards reproductive health education : Acase study of Nairobi
(2012-02-10) Mugambi, Ruth Njoki
Research has shown that by the age of 16 years, many adolescents are sexually active. Consequently many girls drop out of school due to pregnancy. Few of the girls seek medical attention during pregnancy and those who do, would normally do so later in gestation. Yet, pregnant adolescent girls are more likely to face hazards at childbirth than older women. Research has also shown that the girl's partners are mainly their age mates. It is clear that young people can and do make important decisions on matters pertaining to their own lives, and need information that concerns their welfare. This study sought to find out the information available to the adolescents on reproductive health matters prior to entering the teenage cycle. The study further sought to determine where adolescents got their information on reproductive health from and the impact this information had on their attitudes and perceptions on reproductive health issues. This study was carried out in Nairobi. Data were collected through a descriptive survey, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and content analysis. Purposive sampling was used to select participants from six different types of schools in Nairobi. A total of 285 students were randomly selected to fill the questionnaire and six FGDs were organized. The study targeted adolescents, 13-16 years who were in secondary school. The findings from this research show that adolescents are exposed to information on areas of reproductive health both at school and at home. However, this information does not seem adequate for them in understanding their physical and emotional changes. On boy/girl relationships, the respondents saw these relationships as healthy and a phenomenon that comes naturally during adolescence. Clearly, the respondents did not approve of sexual relationships at their age and many feel that sex should only take place in marriage. The respondents viewed becoming pregnant as punitive enough in itself and further punishment like discontinued schooling, social and family ostracism should not be given to those who become pregnant. Mothers and Home Science teachers were the main source of information for the respondents on various aspects of reproductive health. However, the type of information each group offered was quite different. Teachers mentioned mainly by the boys offer information on the physical changes at puberty, the reproductive system and some information on STIs. Mother's discussions with their daughters are mainly on menstruation, what to do during menstruation and the consequences of engaging in pre-marital sex. The mass media, mainly books/magazines and TV also contributed in educating the respondents on almost all aspects of reproductive health.
Assessment of Participation of Secondary School Female Teachers in Leisure and Recreation in Nairobi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2015) Muthoni, M. J.
The study evaluated the extent of participation in leisure and recreation by female teachers in Nairobi. The study assessed the influence of demographic characteristics; age, marital status, number of children, and level of education of the female teachers in Nairobi County on their leisure and recreation participation. It also assessed the influence of other social factors like; teaching workload, domestic chores, availability and access to facilities, cost of leisure gender discrimination, time spent in commuting and type of class taught in leisure and recreation participation of the female teachers in Nairobi County. The study also sought to determine the most preferred choice of leisure and recreation activities of female teachers in Nairobi County. In addition, the study also sought to find out if the type of school had any significant influence in leisure and recreation participation. Data were gathered from 291 respondents who included teachers from public and private schools from Nairobi. Questionnaires were used to gather data. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics while hypotheses were tested using chi-square and One Sample T- test. The results indicated that most of the female teachers were aged between 36 -45 years, married and had children. The largest proportion of teachers was bachelor degree holders. The most popular leisure and recreation activity was watching television. Amongst the teachers, teaching work load was rated as the most important factor in influencing leisure and recreation participation while gender discrimination emerged as extremely unimportant factor. A larger proportion of teachers rated their participation in leisure and recreation as frequent, enjoyable and fun. This is despite the various factors that influenced their leisure and recreation participation. Age yielded X2 = 18.36 (P<0.05), an indication that age had a significant influence on leisure and recreation participation by the female teachers in Nairobi County. Marital status yielded X2 =3.6 (P< 0.05), an indication that it also had a significant influence on leisure and recreation participation. Number of children, level of education and school taught did not have significant influence on leisure and recreation. It was, therefore, recommended that leisure and recreation providers to increase opportunities for all teachers by providing variety of activities, facilities and also have friendlier programmes and facilities for the aged in order to cater for the aging teachers. The proprietors and managers of schools need to provide crèche facilities and programmes to cater for the female teachers with young children. The government should employ more teachers to minimize teachers‟ workload.
Assessment of rural household energy access, utilization and sustainability: a case of Mbuyu sub-location of Nyandarua District, Kenya
(2012-11-07) Wambui, Rose Nyakwea; Ngige, L.W.; Msangi, G. N.
The purpose of this study was to assess the rural household energy access, utilization and sustainability in Mbuyu sub-location of Nyandarua District, Kenya The objectives of the study included: to identify the type of household energy sources used in the study area; to establish the challenges faced in accessing household energy sources; determine various energy efficient technologies utilized by the rural households; determine the constraints towards energy sustainability and to establish interventions for energy sustainability. The study was based on the family system theory by Deacon and Firebaugh (1988). Systematic random sampling technique was used to select a sample of 136 households from the accessible population of 1,367 households from which data was collected. Data collection instruments included interview schedules and observation checklist. Descriptive statistics and cross tabulations were used to analyze quantitative data. Inferential statistics such as Pearson correlation and chi-square were used to test the hypotheses. Data was presented using graphs, charts, means and percentages. Results showed that firewood was the most common source of energy, (95.6%) for cooking. Charcoal was predominant in space heating (71.3%) while kerosene was used by 94.9% of the respondents for lighting. Other sources included solar, biogas and agricultural residues. Challenges in access to energy sources included: frequent price hikes, shortage in market supply especially for the gas (LPG) and kerosene and fear of wildlife attacks and rapes in the forest during firewood collection. Results from Pearson product moment correlation test revealed significant correlation between household income and the expenses of energy used(r=0.371, p=O.OOl). Chi-square test results showed a statistically significant relationship in energy efficiency awareness between the male and female respondents (i=5.013, df=l; p=0.025). The study concluded that access to household energy sources demanded valuable time, money and physical energy. Adoption of energy efficient technologies like solar, biogas and raised hearth was very low with 4.4%,0.7% and 33.1 % respectively. This was due to installation costs and lack of awareness of the new technologies. It was established that limited interventions for energy sustainability existed. The study recommended the creation of awareness of energy efficient technologies to improve energy saving, time and labour in rural households, use of alternative sources of energy like briquettes for space heating instead of charcoal, and activities such as agro-forestry and afforestation should be encouraged and supported to provide fuel wood, to conserve the environment and to mitigate the effects of global warming.

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