MST-Department of Agricultural Resources Management (ARM)

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Rangeland Pasture Management Strategies during Drought among Pastoralists in Kajiado County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-09) Mikula, Rose Achieng; Leonard M. Mburu; Isaac M. Osuga
Drought is one of the most harmful climate-caused perils influencing lives of many people in the world every year. Pastoral communities have for a long time developed local mechanisms for managing their pasture and water resources to cope with recurrent droughts. Unfortunately, the communities in Kenya continue to suffer from losses caused by the effects of severe recurrent droughts. The purpose of this study was to assess the rangeland pasture management strategies used during drought among pastoralists in Kajiado County, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to: (i) determine the effects of drought on pastoral production systems (ii) evaluate the pasture management strategies of pastoralists during drought and (iii) establish the pastoralists’ livestock management mechanisms during drought. The study employed a cross-sectional research design to gather primary data from 385 households sampled from five wards namely Kaputie North (78), Kitengela (80), Oloosirkon/Sholinke (77), Kenyawa Poka (75) and Imaroro (75). A pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data. Prior to semi-structured questionnaire development, pre-testing and administration, one focused group discussion per ward was conducted to get a preview of productions systems and other overarching issues in the study area. The data was processed, tabulated, and analyzed using SPSS to generate descriptive statistics, Chi-Square and linear regression coefficients. In the study area, 52% of households had herd sizes ranging between 12 – 50 cattle and 12% with above 100 heads. Ownership of 0 - 11 heads of cattle were the least in the region with about 2% of the households. Drought led to low pasture production (22%) and increased incidences of pests’ infestations and disease incidences (18%). Scarcity of water sources was exacerbated by drought where 16% travelled for longer distances to fetch water even for domestic use and 14% of the households felt the pinch due to increased food prices. Pastoralists had adopted numerous pasture management strategies to cope with the effects of drought. At household level, rotational grazing within the community land accounted for 9.9% and herd splitting for 21.8%. In addition, migration of livestock during droughts was practiced by 68.3% of the pastoralists. Chi-square analysis indicated that there was no significant difference (P = 0.166) between understanding pasture management practices and establishment of feed reserves. Linear regression analysis of some socio-economic factors (number of animals owned, land ownership, and understanding pasture management) were significant factors (P < 0.05) in enhancing pastoralists’ uptake of pasture management strategies. In addition, the socio-economic factors explained 61.1% of the variation in pastoralists’ uptake of pasture management strategies. Matching livestock numbers with pasture resources was the most common pasture management strategy used by 81% of the pastoralists. They regarded it as a very effective destocking/restocking strategy in coping with the effects of drought. The second common strategy was breeding their own replacement stock (79%) especially after drought, as they were not likely to have adequate capital to purchase breeding females. The findings indicated that many of the pastoralists did not conserve feed and depended heavily on natural grasslands. In addition, the study found that drought exposes the pastoralists’ socio-economic vices such as conflicts over grazing and water resources. This is further manifested through cattle rustling and at times loss of human life. This could be attributed to the fact that livestock is the mainstay of the pastoralist communities.
Lactation Performance, Profitability and Mastitis Susceptibility of Holstein Friesian Cows Fed Rumen Protected Methionine in Kenya
(kenyatta university, 2023) Owaga, John Owino; Purity Nguhiu; Isaac M. Osuga
The purpose of the research was to determine how rumen-protected methionine (Mepron®) affects milk output, cost efficiency, and mastitis resistance in dairy cows in Kenya. This research also aimed to address the issue of high cost of dairy concentrate feeds that emerges from formulating diets based on crude protein. Majority of diets intended for high-yielding dairy cows, are designed with crude protein of 17 to 18%. To achieve this high crude protein level, additional protein sources are required, resulting in more costly dairy feed. This study was carried out in a commercial dairy farm (Risa Farm) located in Ngecha ward, Limuru sub-county, Kiambu County, Kenya. Twelve Holstein Friesian dairy cows in their transition period (<100 in milk) usually when methionine need is highest, were recruited for this study. The cows chosen ranged in parity from the first to the fourth. Four replicates of each of the three treatments (T1, T2, and T3) were used in a completely randomized design (CRD). The treatment diets comprised dairy meal adjusted for amino acids using Mepron® (T1), commercial dairy meal prepared using crude protein (T2) and farm dairy meal developed using crude protein (T3). Near Infra-Red Reflectance (NIR) technique was used to determine the proximate and amino acid content of the ingredients used to create the treatment diets. AMINOCow software was used to design the rations and feed optimizer (Brill) was used to optimize the treatment rations. Milk production for each cow was recorded every day at 10 am, 5 pm, and 2 am. California mastitis test (CMT) was done on each cow every two days throughout the experimental period. Data was collected for 7 weeks, after one week of acclimatization of the cows to the treatment rations and procedures. The gathered data was submitted to analysis of variance, where means with p< 0.05 were considered significant and Student Newman Keuls (SNK) test used to distinguish the significant means. R software for Windows (Version 4.0.2) was used to run all statistical analyses. In the cow group given treatment T1 (dairy meal balanced for methionine using Mepron®), the findings revealed a numerical increase of milk output of 1.2 liters per day during the course of the trial. Throughout the course of the trial, the milk output of the cows given treatments T2 and T3 decreased by 2.62 and 1.60 liters per day, respectively. In T1, the total performance exhibited an upward trend, which was statistically significant (p = 0.004). Methionine levels in the treatment meals and cow milk output were shown to be positively correlated. Mastitis incidence was significant across the groups. Mepron® group (T1), followed by T3 (Farm dairy meal), and T2 had considerably greater score 0 (-ve Mastitis) and 1 (+ve mastitis in one quarter, respectively) (Commercial dairy meal). A score of 3 and 4 were not found in the Mepron® group (T1), which emphasizes the association between methionine adequacy and the prevalence of mastitis. Dairy ration balancing using Mepron (T1) permitted feed cost decrease of 19.44% compared to T3 and 0.04% compared to T2 rations. This research shows that using rumen protected such as Mepron®) to balance dairy rations lead to increased milk output, decreased mastitis occurrences, and is cost-effective.
Impact of Youth Enterprise Development Fund on Performance of Small Scale Improved Indigenous Chicken Enterprises in Siaya County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2022-06) Mango, Sarah Laura; Eric Kiprotich Bett; Newton Nyairo
Microfinance entails providing financial services and the management of money through a range of products and a system of support functions targeting low-income clients. Their primary objective is to provide an opportunity for their clients to access finances for investment in income-generating activities especially micro, small, and medium enterprises, for employment creation. The Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF) is one of the most significant strategies established by the Kenyan Government to provide solutions that help create employment opportunities for young people through enterprise development. Sixty per cent of Kenyan youth are rural-based, meaning their livelihood and employment opportunities are mainly in agriculture. Poultry production, which constitutes 30% of the Agricultural Gross Domestic Product (GDP), is a high potential agribusiness value chain practiced by several youths who are entrepreneurship enthusiasts and have a drive to create employment for themselves and other young people. At the onset of the fund’s services in the study area, 16 % of the beneficiaries invested the YEDF credit in poultry enterprises, but the impacts of the investment on the performance of the enterprise remains unknown. The aim of this research was to map out the impact of YEDF use on small scale improved indigenous chicken (IIC) enterprise performance. The study aimed at determining the factors influencing the use of YEDF credit by small scale farmers in IIC enterprises, to assess the level of use of improved management techniques in the improved indigenous chicken enterprises, and to analyse the impact of YEDF credit use in improved indigenous chicken enterprise income. A systematic sampling technique was employed to obtain study participants from all the wards in Gem Sub-County. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data. Descriptive statistics were used to assess the level of use of management practices in IIC enterprises. The probit regression model was then employed to investigate factors influencing YEDF credit use in IIC enterprises. The impact of YEDF credit use on IIC enterprise income was then analysed using Propensity Score Matching. The outcomes of the analysis revealed that age group; source of income, farm size (hectares), and role in the enterprise had an influence on the use of YEDF in IIC enterprise at a 5% level of significance. It also revealed a significant correlation between use of YEDF and disease control and chick management practices in IIC enterprises. Farmers were found not to implement the full package of improved management practices. However, the use of YEDF credit in IIC enterprise had a statistically significant impact on enterprise income at a 5% level of significance. The study recommends development of innovative agribusiness credit packages that take into account the age and cushions risks for young farmers to enhance agribusiness enterprise development. It also recommends enhanced competence-based skills development to increase uptake of management practices among young agribusiness entrepreneurs. The study concludes that credit access has positive significant effect on agribusiness enterprises in Improved Indigenous chicken value chain
Growth and Yield Responses of Beans, Cowpea and Bambara Nuts to Phosphorus Fertilization in Kakamega County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2022) Makari, Christabel M.; Joseph P. Onyango Gweyi; Sylvia Amondi Henga
Western parts of Kenya are characterized by acid soils with phosphorus deficiency and aluminum toxicity. Reports indicate a declining trend in yields of legumes such as cowpeas and common beans. Though legumes can fix Nitrogen, starter phosphorus need to be supplied for better yields and more often plants develop adaptive strategies for better P acquisition, probably through increased Al tolerance by carboxylates exudation, improved nodulation for enhanced P uptake through better root development. Therefore this study was undertaken in Kakamega County to investigate the effect of low phosphorus rates on development and yields of legume crops. The experimental factors were six legumes: four improved common beans varieties, one cowpea variety, one Bambara nut variety and two phosphorus levels: 0 and 25 Kg/ha P2O5. The experiment was laid out in a Complete Randomized Block Design (RCBD), with three replicates. Data on soil pH plant growth (height, number of leaves and leaf length, growth rate, days to flowering and days to maturity), plant nodulation and yield parameters (number of pods, number of grains per pod, dry weight, and grain yield) were collected for two seasons (long rains- March to August 2019, and the short rains-September to November 2019). Data collected were subjected to a two way-ANOVA using R software version 3.6.0. Significant means were separated by Tukey’s HSD test. To check the relationships between measured growth and yield parameters, the Pearson's correlation was done. All the statistical analysis was done at 95% level of significance. Phosphorus fertilizer (25 Kg/ha P2O5) level did not have an influence on plant stand vigour during early development. There was significant difference in Leaf Area Index (LAI) in both the cowpeas and beans during early development, however, this was only consistent in the 10th week in common beans after germination. Phosphorus fertilizer applications enhanced nodulation in cowpeas and common beans but not in Bambara nuts. Moreover, in all the legumes, the controls corresponded to higher root to shoot ratios, probably a sign that P limited shoot growth. In terms of yields, P fertilizer significantly enhanced grain yields in the majority of common bean varieties, especially in KK13, KK16 and KK33, but there was no significant (p value > 0.05) differences in grain yields between different P rates for KK8, Cowpeas and Bambara nuts. In general, there were significant (p value ≤ 0.05) interactions between the legume crops and phosphorus fertilizer rates on growth and yields, particularly in common beans with exception of Cowpeas and Bambara nuts. Therefore, under limited P inputs, farmers in western Kenya may adopt Bambara nuts and some common bean varieties such as KK8 that have low P demand for better yields.
Assessment of Vertical Price Transmission in Rice Markets in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(kenyatta University, 2020-06) Letting, Irene Cherono; Bernard Njehia; Lucy Ngare
Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) agricultural commodity markets have been liberalised since the 1980s through Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs). The aim was to foster market integration and efficiency. Liberalisation of markets allows free flow of goods and services from areas with excesses to those with a deficit. But most Sub-Saharan countries, Kenya included, has associated liberalisation with failure and unsustainable food markets though agriculture is the mainstay of the economy. Price information is a conduit connecting and integrating different market locations and levels. Thus, this study assessed the degree of market integration and direction of price influence between the wholesale and retail rice market levels in Nairobi City County. Besides, the research examined the role of market structure and conduct in vertical market integration and Granger causality. The Eastern African Grain Council (EAGC) provided the weekly wholesale and retail price data from January to December of the year 2016. Data analysis was done in E-views 9. Primary data were randomly gathered from 80 rice traders in Nyamakima and Toi markets through questionnaires. The data consisted of socioeconomic aspects, market structure, and market conduct of rice wholesalers and retailers. This data was analysed using SPSS 20. Johansen cointegration method revealed the absence of cointegration between the wholesale and retail rice markets. Further, wholesale and retail prices exhibited independent Granger causality. The assessment of socioeconomic characteristics showed the dominance of female retailers. Further, most retailers were in their productive ages while most wholesalers were old. Also, wholesalers were more educated than retailers, and retailers possessed more experience than wholesalers. The assessment of market structure showed a high concentration in the wholesale market (HHI of 0.33) while the retail market had a moderate concentration (HHI 0.21). The examination of market conduct showed a majority of both wholesalers and retailers shared a similar source of rice supplies (brokers). Besides, the word of mouth provided most of the market information. The study concluded the rice market in Nairobi City County were not integrated and inefficient. It links this to the presence of market power at wholesale and retail market levels, minimal price interaction, and unreliable market information. Policies that favour a formal centralised information system can improve market integration. Adoption of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) can also enhance reliability of information and access to formal financial services.
Assessing the Status of Crop Farming and Strategies Used to Scaleup Yields for Enhanced Food Security in Turkana County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2020) Mutai, Philip
Despite being a culture-centred livelihood activity, pastoralism alone has not guaranteed food and nutrition security for households in Turkana, Kenya. The frequency of droughts and their negative impact on livestock production in the County translate into reduced purchasing power of the pastoral households; causing perennial food insecurity and consequent human indignity. As a growing response to this perennial situation, rain-fed crop production has been introduced in the County at subsistence level. Most pastoralists however still tend to shy away from crop farming largely due to cultural factors and not their technical feasibility. This study assessed the current status of crop farming and analyzed factors limiting diversification to crop farming. Further it appraised measures towards increased adoption of viable crop production systems within households in five locations purposively selected from two Sub-counties of Turkana Central and Loima. A cross-sectional descriptive survey design targeting 357 respondents was used in this study. In addition data was collected from a few key respondents from sub-County Agricultural Extension Offices. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and interview schedules. On farm experimentation on crop performance under different treatments (drip & bucket irrigation methods) was done in order to demonstrate the potential inherent in crop farming under appropriate crop and land husbandry practices. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Experimental data was subjected to analysis of variance. Results showed that an increasing number of pastoralists are now venturing into crop farming for survival purposes; of which seventy three percent (73%) of the respondents were agro-pastoralists. With a change in attitude away from cultural pastoralism, this percentage can increase with more deliberate and targeted extension service at the County level. Annual average yield of maize in Turkana County was twelve 90kg-bags per acre, while its annual cost of production was Ksh 12,600/acre and the annual revenue was Ksh 32,400/acre. The annual average yield of sorghum in the County was relatively the same as that of maize, and its annual cost of production was Ksh 6,800/acre, while the annual revenue was Ksh 43,200/acre. The study concluded that there is potential and opportunity to improve crop farming under proper land and crop husbandry practices including water use efficiency in Turkana County. Currently, there is a shift from pastoralism to agro-pastoralism. However, this shift is still slow and adoption levels low leading to poor crop yields. The main challenges that constrain crop farming include general lack of knowledge in crop farming and low adoption levels of modern agricultural practices such as use of manure and fertilizer. The study established that drip irrigation had good crop yields, though not used due to high initial costs. Where irrigation is being used, increasing salinity problem was noted. On farm trials with spinach (Spinacia oleracea) as the test crop demonstrated the superiority of water use efficiency under drip irrigation than under bucket method of irrigation. The use of inorganic fertilizers is not common in Turkana County because of the combined reasons of costs and knowledge on fertilizer use under water scarcity conditions. Some farmers use farmyard manure, which readily available from the large herds and flocks kept, but the level of use is low. The study recommended a more deliberate and targeted extension service to introduce improved crop agriculture which can be integrated with the cultural way of life of pastoralists which would ensure improved livelihoods and food security
Pig Management Practices and their Contribution to Ocurrence of Porcine Cysticercosis in Thika Municipality and its Environs, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2019-11) Mwangi, Samuel Njogu
The pork tapeworm (Taenia solium) is an important parasite that causes disease in humans and pigs where humans host the adult worm in the small intestines and the larval stages are found in the muscles, brain and other tissues in humans and pigs (cysticercosis). Neurocysticercosisis (where the larva of Taenia solium is in the brain) is a major cause of epilepsy in humans. Humans can get the infection by consumption of infected pig meat while consumption of food and water contaminated with Taenia solium eggs can cause infection in both pig and human. Porcine cysticercosis causes loss to farmers through condemnation of carcasses during meat inspection and loss of market when pork eaters shy away due to fear of infection. The study was carried out to evaluate the Prevalence and risk factors in pig production management systems that can contribute to the occurrence of porcine cysticercosis in Thika municipality and its environs, Kenya in 2016. Cluster sampling method was used to randomly select farmers from four wards of Kamenu, Gatuanyaga, Township and Kimorori. Among the selected farmers, 81 pig farms were visited and structured questionnaires were administered to the pig farmers to collect data on management practices and awareness on porcine cysticercosis. A study sample of 1-5 pigs per farm was randomly selected based on the available number of pigs and criteria of selection. The study pigs were examined by lingual palpation for presence of cysts which appears as nodules on the ventral side of the tongue. Data was analysed using SPSS version 20 where means and percentages were calculated as well as logic regression to determine the relationship between prevalence of porcine cysticercosis and management practices. The farm and pig prevalence of cysticercosis was 6.2% and 1.8% respectively. Porcine cysticercosis was significantly associated with feed source: swill (P=0.001), neighbour’s leftovers (p=0.001), home mixed feeds (0.006), and the frequency of de-worming pigs (p=0.027). The main risk factor for porcine cysticercosis was the feeding of swill (P=0.001). Majority (55.6%) of the respondents were females, the pig stock sizes were ranging from 1 pig to 78 pigs and with an average of 11. Majority (97.5%) of pig farmers in the study area practiced zero grazing system. In order of preference, the farmers reported to feed their pigs on manufactured feeds (55.6%), home mixed feeds (28.4%), swill from garbage (12.3%), household leftovers or waste (2.5%) and neighbours leftovers (1.2%). The main (71.6) source of water for watering livestock was tap water. Other sources were wells and borehole, reported by 27.2% and 1.2% of the respondents, respectively. On animal health practices, 88.9% of the pig keepers de-wormed their pigs while 97.5% sought veterinary services. There were 69.1% of the respondents who reported that they usually buy replacement pigs. All the respondents kept pigs for commercial purposes. This study showed that cysticercosis was present in Thika with a low prevalence and the main risk factor for the disease was the practice of feeding pigs on swill. The results of this study shows that there is need to create awareness on the occurrence of the disease in the study area, to give advice on improved pig husbandry practices and especially avoid feeding of swill or cook before feeding it to pigs.
The contribution of rainwater harvesting from roof catchments in increasing water resources for Nairobi City County residents
(Kenyatta University, 2017-03) Ombuna, Christine
Nairobi City County is faced with acute water scarcity. The daily deficit is currently 170,000 m3/day which accounts for about 23%. This deficit will escalate as population increases. However, streets are often flooded during heavy rains and water harvesting has been neglected. The County relies mainly on surface water sources from Athi River basin, Tana River basin and over 3000 boreholes. The objectives of this study were to assess volumes of rainwater that can be harvested from roof catchments, sizes of storage capacity required, water quality and adoption of rainwater harvesting from roof catchments. Five rainfall Thiessen polygons that covered the entire County were created using ArcGIS version 9.2. Samples of 10 maisonettes and multi-story buildings were obtained from each Polygon. More samples of 25 industries and 25 institutions were collected making a total of 150 samples. Data used included rainfall depths, roof surface area, size of tanks, physical, bacteriological and chemical properties of rainwater from roof catchments. Microsoft Excel, SPSS, descriptive analysis, regression and correlation analysis were appropriately used in the study. The result indicated that Kabete receives highest annual rainfall followed by Dagoretti, Eastleigh Moi Airbase, Wilson and J.K.I.A. Over 90% of buildings would have rainwater supplements of above 23% thus filling the current deficit. The size of storage tanks for maisonettes ranged from 5, 126 to 60, 840 litres while multi story buildings it ranged from 32, 400 to 344, 250 litres. A regression model for storage capacities and their cost were generated. The quality of rainwater from different roofing materials was not suitable for potable purposes but, it would be used for nonpotable purposes. Majority (93%) of residents depended on city council piped water, private boreholes (7%) and only 16% harvested rainwater as supplement to City council or private borehole sources. Institutions are leading in roof catchment rainwater harvesting (44%), followed by maisonettes( 20%), Multi-story buildings 6% and industries have least adopted rainwater harvesting(4%). The result indicates that if roof top rainwater catchment is done, water deficit that has been estimated in Nairobi County will be definitely offset. Industries and institutions will benefit more from roof catchment rainwater harvesting followed by maisonettes and multi-story residential buildings. Residents should be encouraged to adopt roof catchment rainwater harvesting by enforcing policies and by laws for roof catchment rainwater harvesting in Nairobi City County.
Effects of intergrated soil fertility management and ridging on maize-soybeans yields and selected soil properties in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya
(2016-08) Sibomana, Jean Damascene
Constraints to soil productivity include reduction in soil fertility and lack of adequate soil water conservation techniques due to erratic rainfall in central highlands of Kenya. This study evaluated effects of combining integrated soil fertility management options and tied- ridging on maize-soybean yields and selected soil properties during short rains in 2014 and long rains in 2015 seasons. The study was carried out in Kigogo primary school in Tharaka- Nithi County. The experimental layout was a randomized complete block design replicated 4 times. The treatments were: manure+fertilizer, tithonia+fertilizer, inorganic fertilizer, sole and control under tied ridging or conventional tillage. To evaluate effect of rotation on maize grain yield, 2 test crops: maize and soybean were alternated every season except sole maize treatment which was maintained throughout the trial period. Soil was sampled at 0-20 cm and 20-40 cm depths at the start and end of the study, and analyzed for soil pH, total N, available P, organic C and exchangeable bases. The data was subjected to analysis of variance using Genstat program and means were separated using Fishers’ LSD at p=0.05. Integrated soil fertility management technologies under soil water conservation tillage significantly increased both maize and soybean grain yields during short rains in 2014 (p≤0.037 and p≤0.039 respectively) and only maize grain yield during long rains in 2015 (p≤0.005). Further, tithonia+fertilizer and manure+fertilizer treatments under tied ridging significantly increased maize grain yields and soybean grain yields by 34.8% and 43.5% respectively compared to the control in long rains in 2015. Only tithonia+fertilizer under tied ridging increased significantly soybean grain yields by 57.1% over control in short rains in 2014. Maize grain yield also has increased under maize-soybean rotation by 35.5% over sole maize. The results showed significant decrease in soil pH, available P and total N in mineral fertilizer under tied ridging (p0.05). Soil exchangeable K + , Ca 2+ and Mg 2+ generally increased in most treatments. This study recommends use of combination of either tithonia biomass or manure with inorganic fertilizer under conventional tillage as well as crop rotation to enhance soil fertility and maize-soybean yields in the region.
Suitability assessment of effluents from Mwea irrigation scheme for reuse in irrigation for rice production, Kirinyaga County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2016-09) Onderi, Josephine Nyabonyi
Declining quantity and quality of irrigation water are serious challenges facing rice production in Mwea irrigation scheme. As such the aim of this study was to assess the suitability of effluents from the scheme for recycling for the same irrigation purpose within the scheme and areas down stream. Water from River Thiba intake (point 1) and waste water from Kiruara drain (point 2) and Thiba main drain (point 3) were sampled and analyzed for quality parameters thus:- pH, Electrical conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, Bicarbonates and Nitrates. The results were used to compute Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) and further compared to FAO irrigation water quality standards. Also soil samples from three fields adjacent to the water sampling points were analyzed for pH, EC, total organic carbon, total nitrogen, sodium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and calcium. In addition, a survey was conducted to obtain the socio-economic aspects of the rice farmers of the scheme. The results indicated that water and wastewater from all the three study sites were suitable for irrigated rice production based on FAO recommended standards of irrigation water. Wastewater recorded a positive progressive gain in all the parameters tested as point 1< point 2< point 3 for Ca, EC, TDS, TSS, Na, K and HCO3 which were statistically significant (p<0.05). 88.3% of Mwea Irrigation Scheme farmers experienced water shortage during paddy rice production. It was also observed that already 51.5% of Mwea Irrigation Scheme farmers recycled wastewater/effluents from paddy fields and 50% of those who had not used wastewater said it was not available. The highest production was obtained from Karaba section with a mean of 27.9 bags of paddy rice /acre and farmers attributed this to the use of “enriched irrigation water.” Zinc and potassium were found to be too low in all the three soil samples tested but soil samples from the wastewater reuse site recorded gains in nitrogen and phosphorus indicating a deposition via wastewater. Though Nitrate concentrations in the three study sites were not significantly different (p>0.05), they were above 5mg/l which may cause damage to N sensitive plants and eutrophication in the receiving water masses. Also soil phosphorous levels of 30ppm at site 3 implies that farmers using wastewater at and beyond the Prison farm can do one rice season without applying P fertilizers hence a saving for them. Therefore, there is need for alternative disposal of these nutrient rich effluents and the best way is by recycling so as to; save the water masses downstream from eutrophication and growth of aquatic weeds, reduce cost of N fertilizers and obtain more water for expanding rice fields to increase rice outputs and reduce imports.
Rhizobia inoculants combined with organic and inorganic fertilizer amendments effects on nitrogen fixation and yields of beans in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo
(Kenyatta University, 2016-06) Mulinganya, Noel
In South Kivu Eastern of DR.Congo, most soils are highly weathered, leached and have low nutrients content resulting to low agricultural productivity. The objectives of the study was (i)to evaluate the effect of combining rhizobia inoculation and different fertilizer amendment on biomass and grain yields,(ii) to assess the nitrogen fixation efficacy of commercial rhizobia strains and (iii) to assess the effect of combining rhizobia inoculation and different fertilizer amendments on soil biochemical properties. The study sites were Lwiro in Kabare District and Kamanyola in Walungu District, located in South Kivu province, Eastern DR.Congo, respectively.The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with Rhizobia as a main factor and fertilizer amendment type as a subfactor. Rhizobia strains was applied at three levels; (i) without rhizobia, (ii) with CIAT 899 strains and (iii) with USDA 2667. Fertilizers amendments was a sub factor applied at 6 levels (none, manure, full TSP, TSP split; full NPK and NPK split). At planting the plots with full dose received N, P, and K ar a rate of 30 kg ha-1, 30 kg ha-1 and 25 kg ha-1 o respectively and half of the rate for plots with split dose (i.e. 15 kg ha-1, 15 Kg ha-1 and 12.5 Kg ha-1respectively for N, P, and K) and same amount of fertilizer top dressed just before flowering stage. The test crops were biofortified bush and climbing beans; CODMLB001 and MAC 44 varieties with three replications. Data were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using GENSTAT Version 14. Treatment differences were examined using Least Significant Differences (LSD) Test at P=0.05. Results showed that CIAT 899 rhizobium strain showed high competitiveness up to 259.3 % of symbiotic effectiveness. Treatments with full rates of NPK and manure were the best interactions with rhizobia leading to significant (P=0.05) an increase in soil pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen and available phosphorus by the end of the experimental period. The same treatments led to significant (P=0.05) increase in biomass yields (5.3 Mg ha-1 and 7.6 Mg ha-1, respectively), nitrogen fixation (38.5 and 37%, respectively) and grain yield (2.9 and 4.2 Mg ha-1) respectively for bush and climbing varieties. Combination of Rhizobia inoculants with different fertilizer amendements increased the nutrient status of the soil and equally enhanced the nitrogen fixation ability of the legumes. Based on the findings, combining Rhizobia strains with full dose of N, P, and K at planting and/or with manure was recommended for a sustainable legume production and soil fertility management at both Lwiro and Kamanyola.
Influence of environmental clubs on pupils‟ environmental awareness: a study of primary schools in Mwea Division, Embu County, Kenya
(2016) Gakuo, James Mutugi
Environmental awareness is one of the goals of environmental education. Insufficient environmental awareness aggravates the problem of environmental degradation. Environmental clubs in primary schools are voluntary groups that promote participation of learners in learning about and working towards conservation and sustainability of the environment. The study on influence of environmental clubs on environmental awareness of pupils was carried out in Mbeere South Sub-County, Embu County. The study investigated environmental knowledge, environmental attitude and taking action for environmental protection as components of environmental awareness. The study objectives were to establish whether environmental clubs members possessed different environmental knowledge, environmental attitudes and taking action for environmental protection when compared to non-environmental club members. Data were collected from a sample of 250 randomly selected respondents by use of questionnaires. The club patrons were interviewed to give information about how the clubs were organised and the activities learners engaged in their respective schools. The data collected were presented in form of tables and graphs. It was analysed using percentages, t-test and Chi-square. On club affiliation and environmental knowledge difference, the study found a t-value of 3.66 which was higher than t-value at p≥0.05. The study concluded that club members and non-club members had different environmental knowledge abilities. On gender affiliation and environmental knowledge, the t-value obtained was 0.07219 which was below the t-value at p≥0.05. The study concluded that gender had no influence on environmental knowledge of respondents. Respondents were exposed to attitudinal questions which were analysed using Chi-square. The chi-square values obtained were 18.452, 8.755, 8.838, 87.718 and 55.517. More than half of the chi-square values obtained were above 9.488, the chi-square value at p≥0.05. The study concluded that participating in environmental clubs had influence on environmental attitudes of the respondents. The chi-square results obtained when respondents were categorised by gender were 0.071, 10.542, 3.197, 4.125 and 9.077of which four values obtained were below Chi-square value at p≥0.05. The study concluded that gender had no influence on environmental attitude of respondents. Club affiliation was analysed against taking action for environmental protection and the percentages obtained for club members against non-club members respectively were; 63% against 37%, 56 % against 44%, 52% against 48% and 55% against 45% on the four areas tested. Club members had a higher participation than non-club members. On gender and participation the percentages obtained for boys against girls were; 35% against 65%, 39% against 61%, 37% against 63%, and 53% against 47% leading to a conclusion that girls participated in activities geared towards environmental protection more than boys in the study area. The study concluded that environmental clubs are important tools for environmental awareness creation since they offer interactive teaching pedagogies that enhance active teaching and learning of environmental education concepts obtained from class. The study recommends that environmental education be taught both theoretically in class and practically in the field. This will elevate learners‟ role as informed decision-makers and action-takers in an effort to improve environmental awareness and thereby reducing environmental degradation
Effects of conservation agriculture on bean and maize yield, soil properties and water productivity in Bugesera District, Rwanda
(Kenyatta University, 2015-10) Kabirigi, Michel
Land degradation is a major threat to food security and natural resources management in Rwanda as well as in SSA. The major objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of tillage methods, residue management and fertilizer application on bean and maize yield, soil properties and water productivity in Bugesera District, Rwanda. Experiment was established in Bugesera district located in Eastern province of Rwanda. The experimental design was Split Plot with 4 replications. The main plots were conventional tillage (CT) and no tillage (NT), while sub plots were control, Residues applied (RA), RA with inorganic fertilizers and sole inorganic fertilizers (IF). Experiment was carried out for two seasons; A2014 and B 2014.Soil properties assessed were Organic carbon, total Nitrogen, CEC, available P and soil pH. Calibrated parameterized and validated APSIM model was used for scenario analysis to assess the long term effect of Residues application on maize yield, water productivity and organic carbon with a scenario of 10% reduced rainfall. Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using Genstat Dicovery Edition 3. Residues application with inorganic fertilizers had 103% higher bean grain yield than the control, conventional tillage had 23% higher bean grain yield than no tillage. Residues application increased maize grain and biomass yield by 68% in conventional tillage while in no tillage, inorganic fertilizers treatment had higher maize grain and biomass. Residues application resulted in increase of organic carbon Available P was significantly increased in RA and in residues applied with inorganic fertilizers. The increase in soil pH was observed in inorganic fertilizers treatment and in, respectively, for conventional and no tillage. Residues applied with inorganic fertilizers had 103% higher bean water productivity and 78% higher maize water productivity than the control. Conventional tillage had 23% higher beans water productivity compared to no tillage. Long term simulation of the effect of residues and fertilizer shows no significant effect of reduced rainfall on maize productivity. However residues applied with inorganic fertilizers had higher grain yield, higher maize water productivity and 10.6% higher organic carbon than the control. The study concluded that the combination of Residue application and inorganic fertilizers should be considered as the engine for the success of conservation agriculture implementation in Rwanda.
Effects of Soil and Water Conservation Techniques on Soil Productivity and Bean Grain Yield in Nyamasheke District, Rwanda
(Kenyatta University, 2015-10) Tugizimana, Joas
Erosion due to water runoff is one of the major factors that lead to poor soil productivity in Sub-Saharan Africa. The increase in population has driven the populace to inhabit marginal frontiers; worsening the erosion problem. This study evaluated the effects of some soil and water conservation (SWC) techniques on soil productivity and bean yield in Nyamasheke District; characterized by steep topography, higher precipitation and intensive agricultural activities. The study was conducted at Birembo watershed located in Macuba Sector. The specific objectives were (1) To identify common SWC techniques practiced and adoption challenges, (2) To evaluate the effects of SWC techniques on some soil physio-chemical properties, (3) To determine the effect of SWC techniques on soil loss, (4) To determine the effect of SWC techniques on bean crop yields. Semi-structured questionnaires were randomly administrated to 99 farmers to collect survey data. Field trials and soil analysis were used to record effects of SWC soil properties. Randomized complete block design replicated three times under bush beans production was employed. This was arranged in split plots with three levels of slope aspect: high (> 30%) , Medium (15-30%) and low (<15 %) being the main plot while the sub-plot constituted the four SWC techniques; Bench terracing + Agroforestry (BA), Bench terracing (BT),Contour bund (CB), Strip cropping (SC) and Control (C). The results revealed that all farmers recognized the negative impact of erosion on soil productivity, with 68% of farmers adopting SWC techniques and the majority of them (97%) implemented the techniques under the support of the Government and NGOs. The common SWC techniques used were agroforestry; accounting for about 45%, contour bund 29 and bench terracing 11%. In addition, 26% of the farmers adopted the combination of mechanical and biological measures for soil erosion control. Fallow, strip grass and ditches were used less frequently. Farmers did not implement soil erosion control due to poverty (51%), lack of materials (19%) and limited knowledge (16%). Furthermore soil texture, moisture and soil loss were significantly (p ≤0.001) affected by land slope and the techniques. The highest value of soil moisture of 27%, clay content 59% were recorded at low slope under BA and soil loss was zero under the same treatment at high slope. The BA treatment significantly (p≤0.001) affected soil pH, CEC and OC. However, CB and SC were not significantly different and had the lowest effects on these parameters. Slope and SWC techniques significantly (p≤0.001) affected soil nutrients (NPK) and bean yield. The highest values of N, P, K and yield were recorded in low slope plots and the highest bean yields were observed in BA with about 586kg.ha-1. The study recommends the combination of mechanical (bench terraces) and biological measures (agro-forestry) for improving soil productivity and bean yield.
Effect of rhizobia inoculant on soybean nodulation and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonization under greenhouse and field conditions.
(Kenyatta University, 2015-06) Bahati, Liliane Shukuru
In the highland of South-Kivu, DR.Congo, soybean farming is increasingly practiced by smallholder farmers but it productivity remains low. Both productivity and N2-fixing abilities of legumes can be enhanced not only by Rhizobium spp but also by colonization of their roots by Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF). The objectives of this study were:- to evaluate symbiotic effectiveness of bradyrhizobia isolates for soybean inoculant production, their effect on indigenous AMF root colonization, and the suitability of Walungu peat/DR. Congo for inoculants production. The study was carried out in the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Nigeria. Nine strains of B. Japonicum from IITA collection and two reference strains (USDA110 and USDA532c) used in commercial inoculant, two controls (Urea and un-inoculated, non fertilized plots), Walungu peat from D.R Congo and the commercial standards America Peat Technology (APT) were investigated. Strains effectiveness for soybean nodulation was evaluated in both screenhouse and field conditions. In the field experiment the study also evaluated the effect of each individual strain on indigenous AMF colonization with soybean roots. The experimental design used was a randomized complete block design (RCBD) replicated 4 times giving a total of 52 plots in the experiment. Data were recorded on leave chlorophyll content, nodulation parameters (number and dry weight of nodules) above ground biomass parameters (dry weight, nitrogen and phosphorus content), and AMF colonization (presence or absence of hyphae, arbuscular and vesicular).In the laboratory experiment, the suitability of Walungu peat as carrier material for inoculant production was assessed under sterile and unsterile conditions and at three different temperatures (4°C, 15°C and laboratory temperature), as compared to the standards APT, using plate count method. The results showed that RANI22, RACA6 and IRJ2180A were effective in improving most of the parameters under study (chlorophyll, above ground dry weight, above ground nitrogen and phosphorus content, nodule number and dry weight) in both screenhouse and field experiment. At 8WAP leaf chlorophyll content increased by 27, 25, and 23% for RANI22, RACA6, and IRJ2180A respectively in the screenhouse experiment and 40-47% in the field experiment as compared to the control (uninoculated- no fertilized plots). On another hand, nitrogen fertilizer also showed increase in some of the parameters especially chlorophyll and nitrogen content but not significantly different from one or another of the three strains. In screenhouse conditions for instance, nitrogen fertilizer, RANI22 and RACA6 increased the above ground nitrogen content by 43-51% (p˂.001) as compared to the control, and in the field experiment the same parameter was increased by 69-66% (p˂.001) by RANI22, RACA6, IRJ2180A, and nitrogen fertilizer relative to the control. None of B. japonicum strains used in the current study or nitrogen addition affected significantly the infection rate of indigenous AMF as indicated by 100% (p˃0.05) hyphae in all the treatments. Walungu peat limed and APT were equally effective in increasing the growth and survival of the initial B. japonicum (USDA110) population (5x 108) over a period of 2 months. Higher population density (3.9 x109 and 3.5x 109) (p˂0.05) was recorded in sterile condition at 4°C and 15°C respectively. RANI22, RACA6, IRJ2180A and Walungu peat amended are alternative inputs for high quality inoculant production and soybean performance.
Risk and benefit analysis of investments in conservation technologies under varying climate in Eastern Kenya.
(2014-08) Ngugi, Lucy Wangui
Soil degradation and moisture stress remain the major constraints and environmental threat to agricultural productivity in the semi-arids of Kenya, which account for more than 80% of the total land mass. Government development partners and donor institutions have been promoting soil and water conservation technologies aimed at reducing soil erosion and in making more water available for agricultural production. Investments in soil and water conservation technologies can be undertaken when sufficient returns are guaranteed and the risks thereof are known. This study assessed soil and water conservation technology investment by farmers, examined factors that influence investment into soil and water conservation technologies, quantified the costs and the benefits of short term investments in soil and water conservation technologies and finally, it identified the potential opportunities to reduce risks of investments in soil and water conservation technologies under variable climatic conditions. The study was carried out in Mwania and Kalii watersheds in Machakos and Makueni Counties of Eastern Kenya. Two stage sampling method was used to obtain the sample size of farmers used for the household surveys. First the watersheds were delineated, and the number of HHs picked from sub locations depending on the sampling frame of that sub location to obtain a sample size of 380 households. Purposive sampling method was later used to obtain total of 120 households based on the SWC technologies invested by the farmers. Descriptive statistics were conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The crop simulation model APSIM was used to generate yield data under irrigation, tied ridges and terraces which were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOV A) using R-statistical software. Results indicated that terraces were the most used SWC technology in both sites while tied ridges and mulching the least invested technology in Mwania and Kalii respectively. High cost and input unavailability locally were the key factors constraining investments in SWC technologies. On the other hand, benefit accrued after investing in SWC technologies was the significant factor promoting the investments. Benefit-cost analysis (BCA) during 2010/2011 SR season indicated that irrigation and tied ridges yielded the highest benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 1.3 and 2.5 in Mwania and Kalii respectively in maize production. Terraces gave the highest BCR (1.5) in Kalii under bean production. ANOV A results indicated that the technology used, fertilizer rate applied and the season type were significant in both maize and bean production. Modeling results indicated that investing during above normal seasons was risky in all technologies but beneficial during normal seasons. Model simulations further indicated that fertilizer application led to up to 73% and 61% yield gains in maize and beans production when up to 30kg Nlha fertilizer was applied. The study recommends development of strategies that will ensure reduction of prices of farm inputs and their availability in the study area, farmers' economic empowerment to enhance investment in irrigation and tied ridges to ensure food security in semi-arid Eastern Kenya.
Characterization of soils using infrared scanning in South kivu province, Democratic Republic of Congo
(Kenyatta University, 2014) Bigabwa, Janvier Bashagaluke
Understanding soil properties is an essential pre-requisite for sustainable land management. Assessment of soil properties has long been done through conventional laboratory analysis, which is costly and time consuming. Therefore, there is a need to develop alternative cheaper and faster techniques for soil analysis. In recent years, special attention has been given to Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy and chemometrics. ear Infrared Reflectance (NIR) and mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy techniques are rapid, convenient and simple non-destructive techniques for quantifying several soil properties. This study aims to characterized soil based on based on infrared spectroscopy. This method were to predict soil pH, soil organic C, total N, exchangeable AI, Ca, Mg, and K, CEC and soil texture for soil samples collected in Sud-Kivu province, Democratic Republic of Congo. A total of 530 composite soil samples were taken from two locations (Burhale and Luhihi) at two depths (0-20 and 20-40 ern) using a spatially-stratified random sampling design within an area of 100 km2. After minimal sample preparation, the MIR spectrum of a soil takes about two minutes for the analyses. Ddifferences in characteristics were evaluated between the two locations, land use (cultivated vs. non-agricultural land) and soil depth. A random subset of the samples (10%) were analyzed using standard wet chemistry methods, and calibration models developed using MIR data to estimate soil properties for the full soil sample set. Partial least squares regression (PLS) method gave acceptable coefficients of determination between 0.71 and 0.93 for all parameters hence good prediction. Soil organic matter levels were higher in cultivated plots in Luhihi (3.9% C) than in Burhale (3.0% C), suggesting lower levels of soil fertility in the latter area. For both sites, soil pH (water) was generally very low (less than 4.8) This indicates high levels of acidity, which is likely to limit crop production in the area. Phosphorus deficiency was acute for both locations but more for Burhale (2.4 mg P kg') than Luhihi (5.4 mg P kg"). Aluminium toxicity was prevalent in both sites which is attributed to low pH values. The recommended soil management strategies therefore involve liming with dolomite material since Ca/Mg > 4. In both locations, low levels. of Ca and Mg indicate that soils may be susceptible to " deficiencies of both elements. No risk ofK deficiency was observed in the area. These findings suggest new opportunities for monitoring soil quality in the region which can benefit multiple actors in the agricultural and environmental sectors. More efforts are needed to improve the use of these new technologies of monitoring soil and land degradation across developing countries.
Improving sorghum grain yield through use of mineral fertilizers and farm yard manure for smallholder farmers in Makueni and Machakos Counties
(2014) Mwadalu, Riziki Umazi
Reduced food productivity in smallholder farms is the principal cause of food insecurity in semi-arid parts of Kenya. This is mainly attributed to decline in soil fertility, low and unreliable rainfall, land degradation and adverse effects of climate change. The solution lies in the efficient use of nutrients and planting of drought tolerant crop varieties that can cope with the low rainfall in the ASALs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of FYM, mineral fertilizers and their integration on the production of Gadam sorghum and change in soil properties in Makueni and Machakos counties. The experimental design was a factorial arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design. The study consisted of two experiments in each site. The first experiment was a pure mineral fertilizer experiment with two factors (nitrogen and phosphorus) each at four levels (0, 25, 50, 75 kg/ha). The second experiment tested a combination of FYM (0, 5 & 10 tons/ha) and NP fertilizer in form of CAN and TSP, respectively, at 0 and 50kg/ha each. The first experiment involved 16 treatments while the second experiment involved 6 treatments. The results of grain yields in the first experiment were significantly different in the various treatments (p=0.02) at Kampi ya Mawe and (p=0.04) at Katumani. Nitrogen increased sorghum yields more than phosphorus, but not significantly. However, combining N at 75 kg/ha and P at 50 kg/ha gave the highest yields of 4859.1 kg/ha at Kampi ya Mawe, which was an increase of 135% above the control. At Katumani, combining 50kg/ha N and 25 kg/ha P gave the highest grain yield of 2485.1 kg/ha which was 68.3% above the control. In the second experiment, combining FYM with NP fertilizer at 50kg/ha NP and 10 tons/ha FYM gave the highest yield of 5393kg/ha compared to the control treatment (4233.1 kg/ha) at Kampi ya Mawe, which was 13.7% more. At Katumani, however, combining FYM and NP fertilizer had less yields as compared to the control. FYM at 10ton/ha and NP 50 kg/ha gave 1566.4 kg/ha which was not significantly different compared to 1669.4 kg/ha for the control. The amount of available N in the soil increased proportionately with N application and declined gradually throughout the growing season. Nitrogen uptake by sorghum also increased with increased N application while soil microbial population was increased with the application of FYM. Nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) was optimal at 50 kg/ha N and declined with increased application of N while Phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) was highest at 50 kg/ha P. Sorghum was more efficient in utilizing nitrogen than phosphorus. Based on the results, a combination of FYM and NP fertilizer can be recommended for sorghum production both at Kampi ya Mawe and Katumani. The findings of this study will be valuable in extension efforts towards increasing sorghum productivity and awareness by farmers of best ISFM practises in semi-arid eastern Kenya
Effects of Rhizobial Inoculation and Phosphatic Fertilizer on Soil Chemical Properties, Growth and Yield of Sorghum -Cowpea Intercrop in Eastern Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2015-01-22) Musyoka, Damaris Kambua
Agriculture is the dominant source of livelihood in rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa. However, in semi-arid eastern Kenya, smallholder farm productivity has been diminishing due to declining soil fertility and frequent droughts. Nitrogen (N) is the principal nutrient element limiting crop productivity in the region, followed by phosphorus (P). The use of N fixing legumes in intercrop with cereal crops is among the cheaper-viable options available for the resource-constraint farmers to enhance soil fertility and improve grain yield. A one-season study was carried out in 2 sites during the short rain season of 2012, to determine the effects of Rhizobial inoculation and inorganic P on soil chemical properties and productivity of sorghum-cowpea intercrop in Kitui and Makueni Counties, Kenya. The treatments were inoculation with Rhizobium (with and without inoculation), two rates of inorganic P fertilizer (0 kilogramme P ha-1 and 30 kilogramme P ha-1) and three cropping systems (sorghum - cowpea intercrop, and two controls of sorghum sole crop and cowpea sole crop). The treatments were laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Inoculation and inorganic P markedly enhanced residual soil N and P after harvest. The combined use of Rhizobial inoculants and inorganic P significantly (P < 0.05) improved nodule production, N and P uptake, growth and yield. Performance of the studied treatments were in the order of inoculation + inorganic P > inorganic P > inoculation > control. For instance, I-C-P plants had 1055% and 3277% nodules per plant higher than the control (C) in Mbuvo and SEKU, respectively. On the other hand, I-C-P recorded 157% and 356% in Mbuvo, and 599% and 812% in SEKU, grain and straw P uptake, respectively higher than C. Moreover, sorghum in I-SC-P treatment in Mbuvo gave 124% and 106% grain and straw N uptake, respectively above SC treatment while in SEKU, I-SC-P sorghum plants registered 149% and 328% grain and straw N uptake, respectively above SC sorghum plants. I-C-P cowpeas in Mbuvo gave 244% and 354% grain and straw yield increment, respectively while in SEKU I-C-P resulted in 184% and 224% grain and straw increase above C, respectively. In Mbuvo, sorghum plants in I-SC-P treatment gave 183% and 74% grain and stover yield increase, respectively above SC sorghum plants. On the other hand, in SEKU, I-SC-P sorghum plants gave 170% grain yields increment while stover yields improved by 101%. Intercropping significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced grain yield potential of sorghum while cowpea grain yield reduced significantly (P < 0.05) in both sites. The Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) values were > 1, indicating that intercropping was more beneficial than sole cropping in the study areas. Based on the findings of this study, the use of commercial Rhizobial inoculants and inorganic P was recommended to enhance soil fertility and sorghum-cowpea productivity in eastern Kenya. Intercropping of cereals with legume crops is also recommended to improve the productivity of smallholder farm lands in the region. Further work should investigate the persistence of the introduced commercial Rhizobial strain in the soil, the possibility of enhancing yields with other rates of P application, and the economic viability of the system under smallholder farming systems‟ situation.
Effects of maize (zea mays l.) – soybean (glycine max (l.) merrill) intercropping patterns on yields and soil properties in two contrasting sites of Embu and Meru counties, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2015-01) Matusso, Jossias Mateus Materusse; Mugwe, J. N.; Mucheru-Muna, M.
In the central highlands of Kenya, the adoption of integrated soil fertility management technologies such as maize-soybean intercropping system is being promoted as one of the options to address low crop productivity and soil fertility depletion among the farmers of this region. This study aimed to: (i) determine the effects of maize-soybean intercropping patterns on yields, N uptake, and soil properties; (ii) determine the effects of different maize-soybean intercropping patterns on light interception and leaf area index; (iii) quantify the land equivalent ratio of various maize soybean intercropping patterns. The study areas were Embu – Agriculture Training Centre in Embu district (Embu County) and Kamujine in Tigania East district (Meru County). The main treatments were four maize – soybean intercropping patterns (conventional-1maize:1soya; MBILI-2maize:2soya; 2maize:4soya; 2maize:6soya) and two sole crops of maize and soybean, respectively. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with four replications, and plot size of 7.0 m by 4.5 m. The study was carried out in two seasons (long rain 2012 and short rain 2012). The soil was sampled at 15 cm depth. All biophysical data were subjected to Analysis of Variance and means separated using Least Significant Difference of mean at 95% (p ≤ 0.05). The results showed that, the maize-soybean intercropping patterns had significant effect on maize stover and grain yields during both seasons at Embu site. During the long rain 2012, the soybean yields were reduced by 60 and 81% due to the intercropping with maize, at Embu and Kamujine, respectively; whereas during the 2012 SR, the yields were reduced by 52 and 78% as effect of intercropping with maize at Embu and Kamujine sites, respectively. In general, the soil nitrate-N was reduced due to intercropping patterns. The soil organic matter was significantly (p≤0.05) affected by the treatments at Kamujine site. The intercropping patterns affected significantly (p≤0.0001) the photosynthetically active radiation intercepted and the leaf area index at both sites. During both seasons at both localities, the total land equivalent ratio values greater than unit. From the results of this study, the use of MBILI maize-soybean intercropping pattern can be recommended to the farmers of central highlands of Kenya because of more efficient resources use and higher yields

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