MST-Department of Environmental Science
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Item Land Use Effects on Water Quality and Macroinvertebrates of River Sebeya, Western Province, Rwanda(Kenyatta University, 2025-07) Ntungane, Jean PaulSurface runoff from agricultural land has crucial consequential challenge to the quality of water in shallow wells, introducing pollutants such as fecal contaminants, herbicidal and pesticidal residues, and chemical fertilizers. This research focal point is to examine the condition and potability of drinking water sourced from shallow wells in the Kipsonoi Sub-Catchment. The specific objectives included: mapping the spatial arrangement of shallow wells the region, assessing key physical, chemical, and biological water quality indicators, and determining the fitness of these water sources for human utilization. The spatial mapping of wells with depths below 15 meters was conducted using handheld GPS devices, and their coordinates were plotted using ArcGIS software version 10.8. A total of 31 shallow wells were sampled during both the wet season (April) and the dry season (January) to analyze selected parameters. Laboratory analyses were conducted following standard procedures, and the outcomes were benchmarked against water quality guidelines provided by NEMA, USEPA, and WHO. The WQI was computed to evaluate the potability of the sampled water. Findings from the study indicate the existence of roughly 321 shallow wells within the Kipsonoi Sub-Catchment, with 150 (47%) serving as sources of drinking water—96 wells (64%) located in the upper catchment and 54 (36%) in the lower zone. Widespread contamination was noted, with more than 60% of samples exceeding acceptable thresholds for nitrates (61.29%), turbidity (70.97%), and faecal coliforms (80.66%), as outlined by the referenced environmental and health authorities. A student’s t-test performed at a 95% confidence level showed a statistically meaningful difference (p ≤ 0.05) in E. coli concentrations between the dry and rainy seasons. Elevated extends of faecal coliforms during the rainy season pointed to human and livestock waste as principal sources of contamination during periods of heavy rainfall. According to the WQI assessment, over 60% of the sampled wells produced water that met the criteria for potable use, whereas 32.2% were classified as having substandard quality. The analysis highlights extensive contamination, particularly from nitrates, turbidity, and faecal indicators. The assessment recommends that water quality in the Kipsonoi Sub-Catchment is substantially compromised by agricultural runoff, which contributes to the increased concentration of pollutants in shallow groundwater. To mitigate these risks, government entities for instance the Ministry of Water, Water Resources Authority, and Geological Survey should initiate geophysical assessments to identify potential aquifers for deeper well development, even in areas constrained by clay layers. It is imperative that wells are properly sealed to prevent infiltration from surface contaminants. Moreover, water from shallow sources should undergo appropriate treatment before consumption to reduce excessive levels of turbidity, nitrates, and microbial pathogens, thereby aligning with national and international water safety standards.Item Climate Variability on Dodder (Cuscuta spp.) Infestation in Tea Farms in Nandi County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2025-10) Mongo, Faith JepchirchirClimate change and variability continue to significantly impact agricultural production and management worldwide. From the literature, it is reported that there has been an unprecedented emergence of pests and diseases associated with climate change and variability among other factors. In Kenya, crop cultivation and yield are affected primarily by changing climatic conditions, pests, and diseases. Of major concern in counties of Kenya, are the impacts of climate variability and parasitic dodder (Cuscuta spp.) on tea cultivation and production. From the literature, little is reported on the continuing invasion and effects of parasitic dodder on smallholder and large-scale tea farming. The purpose of this study was to assess the extent of dodder infestation on tea cultivation and yield in Nandi County. Specifically, the study sought to examine the trends of climate variability (temperature and rainfall) from 1992 to 2022. To assess tea farmers’ perceptions on the influence of climate variability on the spread of dodder. To assess tea-growing farmers' perceptions of the effects and control of dodder on tea farms. An exploratory survey design was chosen for this study. A designed questionnaire was administered to 354 statistically determined heads of tea farming households that are members of the Kenya Tea Development Agency. Six tea estate managers and two field managers who were purposefully chosen were interviewed. For the set variables, primary data from the administered questionnaire were extracted and analyzed (p≤0.05). Secondary data was sourced from libraries and relevant repositories. Rainfall and temperature data for the period were obtained from the Kenya Meteorological Department, Nandi Station. To assess the extent of dodder infestation on tea farms, GPS coordinates were captured and presented on a map. 205 respondents didn’t have dodder on their tea farms, while 149 reported a case of dodder infestation. In the Multinational tea estates, Siret, Chemomi, and Taito reported cases of dodder infestation in their catchment. Mann-Kendall Trend Analysis showed a significant increase in temperature, denoted by a Sen’s slope= 0.031 and a strong positive correlation of Kendall’s Tau 0.554 indicating an increase at...Item Role of Environment Impact Assessment, in Climate Change Mitigation in Kilifi County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2025-09) Zena, Achieng MohammedEnvironment Impact Assessment (EIA) is an environment management tool whose main objective is to provide decision makers with adequate information on potential environmental and social impacts posed by development project. In the context of climate change, EIA need to identify and evaluate possible greenhouse gases emission from proposed development projects, and incorporate climate change considerations into the project design to minimize project vulnerability. Global warming and climate change are among the serious environmental impacts caused by development projects facing the world today. According to World Meteorological Organization, the global mean surface temperature rose by 1.20 C in the year 2020, with more than 10C of warming taking place in many parts of Africa. Kenya mean surface temperature increased by 10C since 1961 and Kilifi County experienced the highest annual mean temperature in 2022 at 30.310C. Of concern is the ability of EIA in combating emission of greenhouse gases from development projects, which contributes to global warming and climate change. The main objective of this study was to ascertain the role played by EIA in climate change mitigation in Kilifi County, Kenya. To have a better understanding of the research topic, it was necessary to evaluate climate change variation in Kilifi County over a period of more than 30 years. In this case, temperature and precipitation patterns for Kilifi County were analysed from 1991 to 2022. Moreover, the research aimed at establishing the extent to which development projects in Kilifi County contribute to emission of GHG. This was done through EIA reports desktop review, which looked into the nature of development projects and their associated activities contributing to GHG emission. Additionally, the research aimed at assessing the significance of climate change mitigation application in the EIA reports. The research was a descriptive research and stratified random sampling was applied to sample EIA reports. Purposeful sampling was used to sample rainfall and temperature data. The tools used to collect data included EIA review checklist and meteorological data. Data collected was keyed in excel after which it was coded through SSP and presented in form of graphs, tables and pie charts. The study showed decadal rainfall for Kilifi County on general reducing trend from 1, 6060.5mm (1990-2000) to 1, 1509.2 mm in (2011-2020). Analysis on temperature indicated a slight variation in the recorded temperatures with 2020 recording the highest annual average temperature of 30.40 0C. The research also shows that development projects in Kilifi County were majorly of hosing at 32% and manufacturing at 28% while mining was at 12%. These projects had a significant contribution to GHG emission through their activities which included burning of fossil fuels at 88.9%, energy consumption at 4.3% and deforestation at 3.5%. As to whether EIA significantly addresses climate change mitigation, the research established that only 44.2% of EIA reports included climate change mitigation while addressing the social and environment impacts of the projects. On the same note, only 6% of the EIA reports included climate change mitigation in their environment management plan. Among the recommendations made was to incorporate climate change into EIA process, EIA to encourage the use of renewable energy and climate smart construction in development projects and more emphasis to be put on climate change data and GHG inventoryItem Climate Variability and Malaria Prevalence among Children in Elgeyo Marakwet West Sub County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2025-11) Muange, Pamela KalonduMalaria is a leading infectious disease affecting children under five years old, particularly in developing countries where poor sanitation and poverty exacerbate the situation. The World Health Organization has identified malaria as a primary cause of mortality in this demographic. This study investigated climatic variability and malaria prevalence among children in Marakwet West Sub-County, focusing on spatio-temporal distribution, the association between climate variables and malaria prevalence, and the impact of control interventions. The specific objectives of the study included; to analyze spatio-temporal distribution of malaria prevalence among children, to assess the association of climate variables and malaria prevalence among children, to analyze the effect of climate variables on malaria prevalence among children and to assess the impact of malaria control interventions on incidences of malaria among children in Marakwet West Sub-County. The study used descriptive, empirical, and survey research designs. Semi-structured questionnaires for primary data and secondary data were used. Utilizing purposive and systematic random sampling, the research employed R-Studio and SPSS for data analysis, revealing a strong correlation between climate variations and malaria frequency among children. The findings indicate a significant decline in malaria prevalence from 2012 to 2022 (Mann-Kendall test, p < 0.05, Tau = -0.8808), with a notable nonlinear relationship between temperature and malaria transmission peaking at approximately 23°C. Additionally, over 51% of children reported contracting malaria in the three months prior to the survey, with stagnant water bodies near homes contributing to higher incidence rates. An average of 267 cases reported every month (M=266.67) suggests that the OND season has the largest number of malaria cases. The results showed a very weak negative association between time and annual rainfall, as indicated by the tau value of (-0.0926). The Mann-Kendall test findings for maximum temperature show a tau value (-0.141), indicating a slight negative association between time and maximum temperature. Correlation analysis indicated a negative correlation between annual rainfall and malaria prevalence (-0.1694) and a positive correlation between maximum temperature and malaria prevalence (0.3193). These results highlight the complex interplay between climate, environmental factors, and malaria transmission. The study underscores the potential for increased malaria prevalence due to climate change, particularly affecting vulnerable populations, in this case, children. The study conclusively finds that climatic variability significantly affects malaria prevalence among children in Elgeyo Marakwet West Sub County, with a notable decline in malaria cases from 2012 to 2022 attributed to both climate factors and improved control measures. It is recommended that policymakers integrate climate variability data into malaria control strategies to optimize resource allocation and enhance intervention effectiveness.Item Assessment of Illegal Forest Activities Distribution and Affected Tree Species in the Aberdare Ranges, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2025-05) Nduguta, Redempta NjeriGlobally, forest loss in mountains is rapidly increasing. The main causes of this loss are attributed to agriculture, forest fires and commercialization of forest products. The main objective of this study was do an assessment of illegal forest activities in relation to infrastructure and the species of trees affected in the Aberdare ranges, Kenya. It was guided by four research objectives which were to assess the nature of illegal activities; find out how illegal forest activities are spatially distributed; find out the commonly poached tree species and lastly; determine the correlation between location of illegal activities and infrastructure (roads, ranger posts and fence) in the Aberdare ranges. The study assumed that most of the illegal activities encountered during the surveys were sufficient to represent the status of illegal activities in Aberdare ranges. This study was guided by a conceptual framework that illustrated the interaction between anthropogenic activities, environmental characteristics, and institutional infrastructure in shaping the distribution of illegal activities in the Aberdare Ranges. Methodologically, the total line transect method was adopted as a study design. Data collection was done during routine elephant surveys in 2017 and 2021 led by the Kenya Wildlife and Research Institute and Kenya Wildlife Service. Additional data was obtained from Aberdare Joint Surveillance Unit collected between 2015 and 2021. Data from both sources summed up to one data set of 955 records. The data was analyzed to determine the vulnerable tree species based on the frequency of times a tree species was affected by an illegal activity. The data was further mapped using ArcMap 10.8 to determine location and distribution of illegal activities while R software was used to determine the proximity relationship of illegal activities and different infrastructure (roads, fences, and guard outposts). Firstly, the results showed that illegal logging, snaring, charcoal making, firewood collection and fence damage were the top five most frequent illegal activities posing a serious threat to Aberdare ranges. Other activities recorded were honey harvesting, disposed waste, encroachment, Cannabis sativa cultivation, burnt areas, cut grass, fishing, tobacco farming and one case of abandoned motorbike. Secondly, the overall distribution showed that those illegal activities happened within Forest Reserves as compared to the National Park. Thirdly, among the tree species targeted by illegal logging Juniperus procera, Arundinaria alpina and Podocarpus latifolius/glacilior were the top three vulnerable trees with a frequency of 46%, 17% and 10% respectively. Lastly, the results showed that there was a significant difference between proximity of illegal activities location in relation to different infrastructure where most illegal activities happened close to the roads and fences and farther from KWS and KFS stations. The study concluded that illegal activities in the Aberdare Ranges pose a serious threat to biodiversity and the survival of key tree species. The results underscore the need for enhanced enforcement, strategic planning, and community engagement for sustainable conservation and management. The research recommends that a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach be adopted, integrating advanced technologies, enhanced law enforcement, proactive community engagement, and careful infrastructure planningItem Awareness of Climate Variability and Change among Undergraduate Students of Kenyatta University in Nairobi City County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2025-06) Umwigama, Belha EsavwaChallenges posed by climate change require the public to have an in-depth understanding of climate variability and change in order to address them adequately. Research however shows that awareness levels are still low in most parts of the world, particularly in Africa, a continent which faces higher vulnerability to the impacts of climate change. Therefore, public education is necessary, to raise awareness levels on the subject, since awareness is key to effective climate action. The study assessed awareness levels of climate variability and change among undergraduates of Kenyatta University, in Kenya. The objectives of the research were to find out how students’ knowledge and awareness of climate change varies with study discipline and year of study, and how these variables influence participation in mitigation and adaptation. The research design used was a quasi-experimental, in which course units on environmental education and climate change were considered the treatment variable. Three schools were purposively sampled; the School of Environmental Studies was the experimental group, because of exposure to the treatment variable, while the control group constituted of two schools namely; School of Business and School of Humanities and Social Sciences. Stratified random sampling was then used to select a sample size (n=375) which was distributed proportionally per year of study. Data collection was by use of a questionnaire. The data collected which was mainly quantitative, was statistically analysed using SPSS version 25. Kruskal Wallis one-way analysis of variance was used to test for the difference in medians of the three independent groups and their distributions. The results showed that there is a statistically significant difference in medians of climate change knowledge level across the schools’ category, (p=0.00, df=2, X2= 41.14). There was also a significant difference in the distribution of climate change knowledge across the schools (p=0.00 df=3, X2=17.97). School of Environmental Studies exhibited a significantly high level of awareness and knowledge of climate change (n=71, Mean=4.09, SD=0.51) and the three groups were statistically different from each other, F (2,372) =18.26, p=0.00. Hypotheses were tested at p≤0.05 and the results were presented using tables and box plots. The observed results underscore the need to review the university curriculum to incorporate adequate content on climate change across disciplines and years of study, in order to scale up awareness and build capacity for climate action. This initiative will ensure that graduates are equipped with adequate knowledge and skills to take part in climate change advocacy programs, hence cascading the same to the general public for meaningful action.Item Environmental and Socio-Economic Influences on the Purchase of Woven Products in Kisumu County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2025-01) Okeyo, Amos AgutuIn spite of the adverse economic and environmental threats from invasive species like water hyacinth, it has provided diverse socio-economic benefits just like papyrus reeds in wetlands and to riparian communities in Weaving Industry (WI). Besides use in WI, they have also helped in treating of agro-industrial wastewater and as fertilizers and fodder in agricultural sector. WI utilizes environmentally friendly materials (water hyacinth and papyrus reeds) which promotes conservation especially when used in making furniture products. However, it still lacks significant efforts in reducing the population of invasive species within the lake and coupled with the few markets for woven products. The study was designed to assess the environmental and socio-economic influences of consumers on the purchase of woven products in Kisumu County, Kenya. Woven products were defined as handicraft products made by interlacing fibrous materials from water hyacinth or papyrus reeds including products like furniture, which incorporate cane or metal frames to create elegant finished products. The objectives of this study were: to identify the sources of raw materials used to weave products in Kisumu County; to assess the socio-demographic and economic characteristics of persons purchasing woven products in Kisumu County; to assess the opinion of consumers on woven products and its environmental impact and to determine the purchasing behaviour of Kisumu residents on woven products. The study adopted a descriptive research design. Kisumu County formed the study area; two Sub-Counties, Kisumu East and Kisumu Central were purposively selected due to their proximity to Lake Victoria, presence of woven products making points and potential market. A total of 384 respondents were selected for the study. Data collection was through administering structured with the assistance of three trained research assistants. From the study findings, 57% of respondents sourced raw materials from Lake Victoria while 43% from swamps and rivers which drained into the Lake. Papyrus reeds (58%) was the most popularly used raw material followed by water hyacinth (22%) and other materials (20%); used as a binder in certain products. Stools were the highest woven products (59%), followed by sofa sets 54.5% and mats 50%. The least made products were beds, Trays and TV stands each at 4.5%. The study established that there was significant influence of socio-demographics and economic characteristics on the purchase of woven products (p< 0.05). Females, the married, those aged 21-39 and those with post-secondary education tend to have higher affinity to purchase woven products. Opinions of consumers on woven products were significantly different (p<0.05), hence we can reject the null hypothesis that people using woven products are not significantly different. Consumers opinion on possibility of woven products reducing overdependence on wooden products, using simple and friendly technology, used only for people of low class and were readily available, were all statistically insignificant (p> 0.05). About 30.7% of those in agreement with reduction in over dependence on wooden products were of high EPB. Implying the probability of reduction in over dependence on wooden products is 30.7% when all other predictors are set to their mean values. Generally, the study revealed a low EPB among consumers in Kisumu County. However, the study found that both environmental awareness and social influence were significant (p< 0.05) in EPB. The study recommends exploiting of water hyacinth in the WI to minimize their adverse ecological and physiological impacts on the environment while considering selective harvesting of papyrus reeds to promote a well-functioning ecosystem.Item Assessment of Methane Emissions from Anaerobic and Facultative Ponds from Domestic and Industrial Sources at Dandora Estate Sewerage Treatment Works, Nairobi City County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2025-03) Mabonga, Michael KiboiMethane gas is odorless and colorless, and causes greenhouse gas effect and is up to 100 times more potent than carbon dioxide in capturing energy at lower atmosphere in the first 5-year duration, and 72 times more in the next 20 years. The goal of this study was to quantify the amount of methane emission from anaerobic and facultative ponds at Dandora Estate Sewerage Treatment Works. Dandora Estate Sewerage Treatment Works is located 30 kilometers to the East of Nairobi City County. The treatment plant receives municipal wastewater of domestic and industrial composition for treatment mainly through wastewater stabilization ponds. This process, however, leads to production of three important greenhouse gases; methane, nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide. Due to the importance in reduction of greenhouse gases, it is critical to understand the processes responsible for these emissions. This study focused on the following objectives: i) to analyze how methane production is affected by typical wastewater quality parameters such as pH, Biological Oxygen Demand, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Total Organics in the Wastewater and temperature; ii) to assess how the performance of Dandora Estate Sewerage Treatment Works ponds affects methane emission; and iii) to assess the trend of methane emission from the anaerobic and facultative ponds at Dandora Estate Sewerage Treatment Works between the years 2007 to 2017. This study used the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) methodology of 2006 in assessment of methane emission. There were two anaerobic ponds, six primary facultative ponds, eight secondary facultative ponds and twenty-two maturation ponds making a total of 38 ponds. A laboratory research design was employed to measure the amount of biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, total solids, temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and wastewater inflow and outflow volumes. It was estimated that anaerobic ponds emitted into the atmosphere 3.2641X107 kg CH4/yr from domestic wastewater sources and 5.5053X104 kg CH4/yr from industrial sources. Facultative ponds emitted into the atmosphere 1.5176X107 kg CH4/yr from domestic wastewater sources and 3.9176X104 kg CH4/yr from industrial sources. Methane emission was significantly affected by typical wastewater parameters. The performance of the ponds in breaking down organic components in the wastewater was significantly proportional to methane emission. The trend of methane emission between the years 2007 and 2017 showed a correlation of 0.915 between anaerobic and facultative ponds methane emission from industrial wastewater sources. Mean methane emission from domestic wastewater from anaerobic and facultative ponds had a correlation of 0.67. Optimization of wastewater parameters such as temperature, pH, total solids, biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand and dissolved oxygen significantly influenced methane emission and is important in effective biogas production system. It is therefore recommended that methane gas be captured for electricity production.Item Effects of Development Interventions on Rangelands and Rangelends Management Strategies in Burder, Wajir County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2025-06) Abdinasir, Mohamed HarretWajir County is an arid and semi-arid area with little and unreliable rainfall. The main livelihood of its people is livestock production through pastoralism, which enables pastoralists to exploit scarce resources by practicing herd mobility, alternating the wet season and dry season grazing areas with the support of the traditional institution. However, development interventions in the last 40 years have disrupted these traditional systems of rangeland exploitation. The study assessed the effect of development intervention on pastures and rangeland management strategies. The study employed a mixed research design method and utilized both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Geographic information systems also determined land use/cover change from 1986 to 2022. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPPS version 25. The study found that 56% of the development interventions that have taken place in Burder Landscape rangelands were settlements, followed by water infrastructure development projects such as dams and boreholes at 44%. As a result, sedentarization has increased, with 77% of pastoralists practicing sedentary pastoralism. This has disrupted traditional range management institutions, affected wet and dry season grazing areas, and made herd mobility less applicable. Consequently, the rangelands have shrunk, and rangeland degradation has occurred due to overgrazing in one place throughout the year. The land use analysis grouped the land uses into four common ones in arid and semi-arid areas. The analysis had a Kappa accuracy of 77% and a user accuracy of 84%. Bare land and shrubland have increased from 101,903 and 104,780 hectares in 1986 to 112,137 and 121,817 hectares in 2022, respectively. The land under herbaceous and grassland vegetation shrubs has decreased from 110180 and 158088 hectares in 1986 to 89,924 and 151,008 hectares in 2022, respectively. Herbaceous Vegetation had the highest reduction in size at -18.38%, mainly because there was increasing pressure from the other succeeding land use conversion. Shrub land increased significantly at 16.26% due to high grazing rate, open clearing grassland, and herbaceous vegetation to create land for settlement and other development interventions. A kernel density assessment on the settlement distances indicated that high-density settlements and a reduced distance between settlements resulted in high land degradation and land cover change. Although traditional range management practices, such as herd mobility, have been slowly eroding, the study found that the best grazing strategy is still herd mobility and migration for optimal use of range resources (68.2%). Therefore, there is a need to revitalize traditional rangeland management institutions and integrate all development interventions with indigenous knowledge-based strategies to sustain pastoralist livelihoods.Item Diffusion of Solar Photovoltaic System in Kisumu County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2025-06) Mwangi, Joyce WambuiThis study investigated the diffusion of solar home systems in Kisumu East-Sub County, Kenya. The primary objectives of this study were to first identify the spatial patterns of solar home systems in Kisumu. Secondly the study sought to understand the socioeconomic factors driving the diffusion of solar home systems in Kisumu, and lastly the study sought to assess the potential of solar home systems for climate mitigation through greenhouse gas reduction. The study employed an empirical interventional design combined with geospatial tools. A cluster sampling procedure was employed. 384 households were sampled. The research identified statistically significant spatial clusters of solar home system diffusion patterns. These clusters exhibited a wave-like pattern radiating from population centres, but with a diminishing trend for the period 2016 to 2021.Using an ordinary least squares model, socioeconomic factors were analysed to understand the drivers of the spatial trends. For population density, the coefficient (-0.116) was negative but statistically insignificant (p-value = 0.531). This suggested that, on average, population density was not associated with a statistically significant change in solar home system diffusion. Regarding income, the coefficient (45.36) was positive and statistically significant at (p-value = 0.037). This indicated a positive relationship between income and solar home system diffusion. Regarding education, the coefficient (0.111) was positive but statistically insignificant at (p-value = 0.735). This suggested that, on average, an increase in education levels was not associated with a statistically significant increase in solar home system diffusion. Lastly, regarding electricity, the coefficient (0.013) was positive and statistically significant at (p-value = 0.000*). This indicated a positive relationship between electricity rates and solar home system diffusion. The study estimated that solar home system usage in Kenya had avoided 5.875 metric tons of CO2 emissions for the period 2016 to 2021, highlighting its potential for greenhouse gas reduction. Although solar home systems diffusion counts declined over time, socioeconomic factors, particularly income and electricity rates, emerged as stronger drivers of diffusion compared to population density and education level. Based on the findings the study suggests the recommendations that targeted interventions for promoting solar home system diffusion in suitable areas. Secondly the research suggests that policy makers could consider leveraging economic incentives for addressing factors related to electricity costs to encourage wider diffusion of solar home systems. Lastly the study recommends that further research is needed to implement a program for ongoing monitoring and evaluation of solar home systems impact.Item Effects of Minjingu Phosphate Rock Fertilizir on Maize, Yield and Soil Chemical Composition in Acidic Soils of Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2022-12) Ndeleko, Mwake EmilyAbstractItem Effects of Landscape Structure and Bioclimatic Variables on Pollination in Avocado Production Systems in Murang’a County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2022-11) King'ori, Eunice WambuiAbstractItem Smallholder Farmers Adaptation Strategies to Climate Chane Effects in the Hiran Region, Somali.(Kenyatta University, 2024-09) Odawa, Abdiwalli AbdulleItem Climate Variability Knowledge and Response Strategies among Orma Pastoralists of Tana River County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-05) Wato, Abdulahi HalakeEnhanced climate variability has been recognized as one of the major 21st century global challenges. Although these challenges are global in nature, the impacts are more pronounced in certain regions of the world, threatening primary livelihood sources. The African continent is experiencing these challenges, manifesting as frequent extreme weather events like floods and droughts, which are significantly threatening agricultural production. Kenya has been contending equally with the effects of enhanced climate variability, with flooding and drought being the most common. Though these effects are common across the country, arid and semi-arid counties are the most severely affected. Tana River County stands out as one of the most affected counties. Despite the global challenges and impacts, knowledge documented and shared, localized knowledge evaluation, and assessment of implications on livelihood support systems have not received much attention. Investigation of awareness and response strategies is particularly scanty in Tana River County, Kenya, and more so among Orma pastoralists, hence the need to conduct this study research. The study was conducted in Assa and Kipao, which are predominantly occupied by Orma pastoralists. It was guided by three objectives, which were to analyze the variability of climate components (temperature and rainfall) in Tana River County from 1988 to 2018, to determine what Orma pastoralists know about enhanced climate variability, and to analyze Orma’s pastoralist indigenous knowledge of climate variation and its application to livestock management practices. A descriptive research design and sampled 400 respondents, who were Orma pastoralists. Various data collection tools were used to collect information on enhanced climate variability knowledge and response strategies. Other data utilized included the vegetation condition index, historical temperatures, and rainfall averages of the county. Statistical analysis was done using the statistical package for social sciences, and the results were presented in the form of graphs, tables, and charts, which were interpreted and discussed. The study found that the level of climate variability awareness was quite high, with 86.34% (n = 278) of male respondents and 76.92% (n = 60) among females. Year-to-year enhanced seasonal variability of rainfall performance was demonstrated by increased spread from the mean seasonal rainfall as σ = 64.45mm. Further, there was a significant association between male respondents’ awareness of enhanced climate variability and change in management practices, as x 2 = 4.003108, df = 1, and p = 0.045416. The study, therefore, rejects the null hypothesis and accepts the alternative hypothesis. The same was true for female respondents, as the association between level of awareness and adaptation of news practice was p = 0.031686, less than 0.05 set as the significance level of the test. Despite adapting some new practices, Orma pastoralists’ changes in livestock management practices are not adequate for coping with the enhanced climate. It is therefore recommended that the government of Kenya and the county government of Tana River continue to create awareness of enhanced climate variability and support the diversification of livelihood sources. As climate change impacts men and women differently, deliberate efforts should be made by development actors to support projects that empower women.Item Influence of Organic and Conventional Farming Practices on Weeds In Murang’a and Tharaka-Nithi Counties, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-03) Maina, Obadiah MwangiDeveloping nations along the equator are facing problems with amplified food requirements due to rapid population growth. Population in African is estimated to be 2.5 billion by 2050. Despite 60% of its population engaging in agriculture, production of sufficient food is still a problem as a result of deprived soil nutrient, low seed quality, infestation by pests and diseases and poor weed management practices. The goals of the research were to; i) evaluate the influence of varying N and P fertilizer application rates on weed density and diversity in conventional and organic farming systems, ii) identify species of weeds that dominate in conventional and organic farming systems and, iii) assess how weed density, dominance, and diversity are influenced by crop rotation in conventional and organic farming systems. To address these objectives, soil samples were taken between July 2017 and December 2019 in long term trial established since 2007. Trials were set in a randomized complete block design comparing conventional and organic farming at high and low inputs in Thika and Chuka sites in Kenya. For high inputs, 225kg N ha-1and 125kg P ha-1were used, and for low inputs 45kg N ha-1 and 26kg P ha-1 were used in six-cropping season. The influence of farming systems on weeds was determined in a greenhouse experiment using soil samples taken. Weed seedling emergency method was used for weed data collection. The samples were sieved using a 3mm sieve and treated with gibberellic acid to break weed seeds dormancy then placed in germination trays and placed randomly inside the greenhouse. Watering was done at moderate soil moisture to ensure weed seeds germinate. Germinated weed seedlings were counted and their species identified. The data obtained were analyzed using analysis of variance on GenStat 14th edition and means separated using least significant difference (P≤0.05). The outcomes indicated that farm inputs, cropping sequence and weed management practice were the key factors significantly (P≤0.05) influencing weed density, dominance and diversity. Chuka and Thika recorded 13 and 12 weed species, respectively. Fertilizer application rates of 225kgNha-1 and 125kgPha-1 resulted to a significant (P<0.05) high density of Bidens pilosa, Amaranthus hybridus, Stellaria media and Galinsoga parviflora. In the two trial sites, organic high resulted to a significant (P<0.05) high weed density. Dominant weed species were Bidens pilosa (17.8%), Galinsoga parviflora (17.7%), Schkuhria pinnata (13.9%) and Setaria verticillate (13.1%) in Chuka and Stellaria media (23.5%), Bidens pilosa (23%), Eleusine indica (20%), and Amaranthus hybridus (11.9%) in Thika. Their densities were reduced under the 3-years crop rotation. Maize-cabbage rotation decreased weed density except for Eleusine indica and Sonchus oleraceus while maize-beans rotation increased density of Eleusine indica. Shannon diversity (H’) index was high in organic farming. Shannon evenness ratio in Thika and Chuka for organic high to conventional high and organic low to conventional low were (2:1 and 2:1.4), and (2:1.8 and 2:1.6), respectively. From the study result, fertility input leads to increase in weed density while integration of intercrop in a crop rotation, helped in controlling weed density.Item Indoor Air Quality among Residential Buildings of Kilifi County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-08) Mmata, Caroline Adema VulimuItem Solar Photovoltaic Technology Uptake in Climate Change Mitigation by Households in Embu County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-07) Njeru, Pamella CamuGlobally, adoption and diffusion of solar energy technology is being promoted as a source of sustainable energy for climate change mitigation. However, the take-up of solar photovoltaic technology in Embu County remains low. The study sought to assess the uptake of solar photovoltaic technology by households for climate change mitigation and identify the determinants of uptake of the solar Photovoltaic technology. Cross sectional data was collected from households in Mbeere- North Sub County in Embu County to carry out this study. A sample size of 395 respondents was employed, and purposive and simple random sampling was employed to choose the respondents for inclusion of the study. For data collection, some of the tools that were used include questionnaires, interviews, and observations. After data collection qualitative and quantitative data analysis methods were used to analyze the data including SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences). The results indicate an overall increasing temperature and overall decreasing rainfall in Embu County. Income demonstrated a greater influence compared to other factors in determining the decision to adopt solar appliances at P =0.397. A significant proportion of respondents (36.9%) reported having limited awareness of climate change and its impact and social and mass media were main sources of climate information. There was a positive significant correlation between respondents who displayed awareness of climate change and its impacts and the adoption of solar energy and awareness on solar energy adoption as a solution to climate change at P values of 0.348 and 0.140. The study recommends for first the Kenyan government through its relevant ministries including the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Environment needs to provide targeted capacity building initiatives to increase the level of knowledge and awareness on climate change and the use of solar energy. Secondly, a portion of the respondents indicated that climate variability had no influence in their uptake of solar energy, to gain a deeper understanding of these findings, further analysis is necessary. Finally, the respondents indicated utilizing other sources of energy, mainly biomass based. The county needs to get involved to provide energy solutions regardless of the availability of alternative/substitute of other sources of energy. Solar power will eventually help the county achieve better forest cover as individuals will turn to solar and depend less on wood-based fuel. The community should be encouraged to harness solar energy as it is cheaper and more easily accessible than the other sources of energy given that the community comes from an area where the sun is abundant. The results helped in assessing the uptake of solar photovoltaic in climate change mitigation in Embu County and show the determinants driving households on the uptake of solar photovoltaic technologyItem Livelihoods and Sustainable Conservation Nexus amongst the Ogiek Community Living in Mau Forest, Nakuru County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-05) Alusiola, Rowan AlumasaForests play a crucial role in alleviating poverty among rural, forest-dependent communities. However, a dilemma emerges as these communities seek to sustain their livelihoods while the governmental bodies and stakeholders for conservation endeavor to safeguard and preserve forests. Balancing the dual objectives of livelihood sustainability and conservation poses a challenge for all parties involved. This study assessed the link between livelihoods, sustainable conservation, and the Ogiek indigenous community of Molo Sub County. Three main objectives addressed by the study are: (1) to assess the socio-economic and environmental challenges facing the Ogiek community, (2) to analyze the sustainability of the main forest resources supporting the Ogiek community, and (3) to examine the challenges of collaboration between the Ogiek community and other stakeholders in fostering sustainable livelihood safeguarding Mau Forest. Applying a landscape approach framework, the study incorporated strategies that intersect and harmonize to facilitate the integration of agricultural and forestry issues. The target population of the study was 300 Ogiek community households and 12 representatives from Chiefs, HRG, CFA, and KFS, representatives. The study employed a purposive and stratified random sampling techniques. The primary survey tool used for data collection was questionnaires. The study gathered information through Focus Group Discussions and in-depth interviews with key informants. In conducting data analysis, the study utilized descriptive statistics, specifically focusing on frequencies and percentages, through the application of SPSS version 22. Our results indicate that the Ogiek community almost entirely relies on the forest for their livelihood. Moreover, the consequences of forest eviction on household livelihoods varied, with both adverse and beneficial impacts depending on the economic capacity of different households. We propose prioritizing the Ogiek community in all conservation programs, emphasizing their complete involvement across all levels of such initiatives. Additionally, it is recommended to diversify integrated sustainable forest livelihood programs to meet Ogiek’s varied needs. To mitigate existing conflicts, tenure reforms should explicitly define property rights, including the legal acknowledgment of customary claims.Item Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae meal in Layer Chicken Diets: effect on growth Performance, egg Production and Profitability(Kenyatta University, 2024-03) Wamai, Linus KiriungiItem Assessing Health and Environmental Impacts of Quarrying In Embu County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024) Kinyua, Maureen MuthoniQuarrying has been studied extensively throughout the world and has been shown to have an effect on the natural environment and human health. Positively, stone extraction has led to job creation and development of areas. On the negative side, quarrying leads to land degradation, noise pollution, production of dust and formation of cracks in nearby buildings due to vibration during the quarrying process. The situation is not different in Kenya since there’s increase in stone use as a result of growth of construction industry and the industry is faced with challenges of poor working conditions, poverty, inadequate occupational safety knowledge, and the absence of laws. The study sought a deeper understanding of these issues and used qualitative and quantitative data descriptive research design. Questionnaires were utilized to collect information from members of the local community, site management, and quarry employees. The impacts of quarrying on the environment, including the landscape, have been studied and documented. It was decided to employ stratified random sample to gather data from the area citizens, while purposive sampling was used to gather data from quarry laborers. It was necessary to evaluate the information acquired with the assistance of statistical package for the social sciences SPSS, which was used for cross tabulation, as well as for the creation of frequencies and statistical graphs for the purpose of data interpretation. It was decided whether there is a link between quarrying activities and the well-being of both quarry workers and residents of the immediate neighborhood using the Chi square test. In this study, a sample size of 100 respondents was used, and findings were obtained from 92 percent of those who responded. Findings from the studyagree with other studies done that quarrying activities cause harm to the environment and human health and that multiple approaches should be used to deal with the menace.