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Item Sustainable fodder production in South Asia through silvopastoral systems(Current Science, 2024-05-25) Sow, Sumit; Ranjan,Shivani; Kumar, Navnit; Nilanjaya; Gitari, Harun; Daya, Parmeswar; Kumar, SanjaySilvopasture is a farming practice involving the integration of tree and livestock grazing operations on the same land. Intensive management of these systems enables them to generate short and long-term economic returns from forest products and forage. Silvopastoral systems have been considered to increase efficiency while reducing the environmental burden and extreme ranching/animal husbandry systems. Over the past few years, there has been a rapid accumulation of scientific evidence supporting the role of silvopasture in meeting the fundamental needs of not only humans but also the animal population in the era of climate change. In South Asian countries like India, the silvopastoral system can be a viable option to provide balanced food as well as shelter for the livestock. This review aims to provide a critical and systematic evaluation of the scientific literature about the effect of different silvopasture systems on the fodder production, environment and performance of livestock, especially in the context of South Asia. We conducted a search using PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science and Google Scholar to identify the key literature on the theme. A total of 98 manuscripts underwent a four-step PRISMA appraisal process, resulting in the final selection. This process resulted in a final sample of 56 articles, which were used to explore the potential for long-term improvement in fodder quality through expanding the silvopastoral system. One of the key conclusions is that by improving the social acceptability of these silvopastoral systems and also addressing the challenges, their economic and environmental sustainability can be further enhanced.Item Bacillus Amyloliquefaciens D203 Ameliorates Rice Growth and Resistance to Rice Blast Disease(Cogent Food & AgriCulture, 2024-06) Mirara, Francis; Dzidzienyo, Daniel Kwadjo; Mwangi, MainaThis study evaluated the effects of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D203 encapsulated in alginate-bentonite coating enriched with titanium nanoparticles on rice germination and Magnaporthe oryzae infection. Seed coating was achieved using the ionic gelation/extrusion method with modifications. The study investigated various concentrations of strain D203 on biomass and bacterial release from the beads, along with its influence on detached leaves. Results showed that treatment with a strain D203 cell suspension (2 × 107 CFU/ml) significantly enhanced root and shoot lengths, despite a slightly lower germination rate (90%) compared to the control. Treatment with a concentration of 1 × 107 proved to be optimum for growth because it maintained germination at 100% and boosted biomass growth of shoot and root by 49.57% and 16.44%, respectively. Colonization by strain D203, explored through seed coating and subsequent resuspension from roots and media, peaked in roots, indicating preferential root zone inhabitation. In vitro studies demonstrated strain D203’s efficacy against M. oryzae at 21 and 40 days, with the 1 × 107 CFU/ml spray significantly reducing disease symptoms. Strain D203 exhibited a preventive effect, especially in early growth stages. The encapsulated form of strain D203 had a control effect comparable to 40% Hexaconazole but less effective than 75% Tricyclazole. Uncoated and encapsulated B. amyloliquefaciens treatments significantly improved sterile rice plant growth over 21 days, with the encapsulated bead treatment surpassing both controls and free cell treatments by days 14 and 21, despite slower initial growth. Encapsulation presents a promising alternative, potentially matching the effectiveness of chemical fungicides, emphasizing the importance of environmentally friendly alternatives in sustainable disease management strategies.Item Artificial Intelligence for Maximizing Agricultural Input Use Efficiency: Exploring Nutrient, Water and Weed Management Strategies(Tech Science Press, 2024-05-30) Sow, Sumit; Ranjan, Shivani; Seleiman, Mahmoud F.; Alkharabsheh, Hiba M.; Kumar, Mukesh; Kumar, Navnit; Padhan, Smruti Ranjan; Roy, Dhirendra Kumar; Nath, Dibyajyoti; Gitari, Harun; Wasonga, Daniel O.Agriculture plays a crucial role in the economy, and there is an increasing global emphasis on automating agricultural processes. With the tremendous increase in population, the demand for food and employment has also increased significantly. Agricultural methods traditionally used to meet these requirements are no longer adequate, requiring solutions to issues such as excessive herbicide use and the use of chemical fertilizers. Integration of technologies such as the Internet of Things, wireless communication, machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), and deep learning shows promise in addressing these challenges. However, there is a lack of comprehensive documentation on the application and potential of AI in improving agricultural input efficiency. To address this gap, a desk research approach was used by utilizing peer-reviewed electronic databases like PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Science Direct for relevant articles. Out of 327 initially identified articles, 180 were deemed pertinent, focusing primarily on AI’s potential in enhancing yield through better management of nutrients, water, and weeds. Taking into account research findings worldwide, we found that AI technologies could assist farmers by providing recommendations on the optimal nutrients to enhance soil quality and determine the best time for irrigation or herbicide application. The present status of AI-driven automation in agriculture holds significant promise for optimizing agricultural input utilization and reducing resource waste, particularly in the context of three pillars of crop management, i.e., nutrient, irrigation, and weed management.Item Sustainable fodder production in South Asia through silvopastoral systems(Indian Academy of Sciences, 2024-05-25) Sow, Sumit; Ranjan, Shivani; Kumar, Navnit; Nilanjaya; Gitari, Harun; Dayal, Parmeswar; Kumar, SanjaySilvopasture is a farming practice involving the integration of tree and livestock grazing operations on the same land. Intensive management of these systems enables them to generate short and long-term economic returns from forest products and forage. Silvopastoral systems have been considered to increase efficiency while reducing the environmental burden and extreme ranching/animal husbandry systems. Over the past few years, there has been a rapid accumulation of scientific evidence supporting the role of silvopasture in meeting the fundamental needs of not only humans but also the animal population in the era of climate change. In South Asian countries like India, the silvopastoral system can be a viable option to provide balanced food as well as shelter for the livestock. This review aims to provide a critical and systematic evaluation of the scientific literature about the effect of different silvopasture systems on the fodder production, environment and performance of livestock, especially in the context of South Asia. We conducted a search using PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science and Google Scholar to identify the key literature on the theme. A total of 98 manuscripts underwent a four-step PRISMA appraisal process, resulting in the final selection. This process resulted in a final sample of 56 articles, which were used to explore the potential for long-term improvement in fodder quality through expanding the silvopastoral system. One of the key conclusions is that by improving the social acceptability of these silvopastoral systems and also addressing the challenges, their economic and environmental sustainability can be further enhancedItem A Review on Nitrogen Flows and Obstacles to Sustainable Nitrogen Management within the Lake Victoria Basin, East Africa(MDPI, 2024-05) Masso, Cargele; Gweyi-Onyango, Joseph; Luoga, Hilda Pius; Yemefack, Martin; Vanlauwe, BernardThe Lake Victoria Basin (LVB) is located in the upper reaches of the Nile River Basin and is shared by five East-African countries. The population in the catchment is growing rapidly and the lake is facing several environmental problems. During the past few decades, numerous efforts have been made across the five countries, with the coordination of the Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC) to reduce the loading of reactive nitrogen (Nr) into the lake and Lake Watershed. However, most of the measures envisaged to ensure long-term sustainable N management are not as easily adopted as planned. This paper reports on a review study on N flows and obstacles in achieving sustainable N management in the LVB, with the objectives of improving the understanding of the N cycle and examining the N management practices and policies that can help reduce the loss of Nr in the region. The scientific literature related to a range of N flows, N management obstacles, and options to overcome obstacles has been analyzed using N prospects developed at the global level for their potential applicability across the LVB. The study showed that an unbalanced use of N input is a serious threat to agricultural productivity leading to extreme soil N mining and degradation, with the majority of LVB farms operating within negative N balances and above the safe operating boundary for N in production systems. From the projections in N input as recommended by various stakeholders, there would likely be changes in both current yield and N use efficiency (NUE) values; however, most small-scale farmers will continue to experience low yields, which remains a challenge for food security in the area. These results suggest that scientists as well as those involved in decisionmaking and policymaking processes should formulate new targets for fertilizer increment to reduce the yield gap for sustainability, focusing on more integrated soil fertility as a package for nutrient management in cropping systems.Item Sustainable fodder production in South Asia through silvopastoral systems(Current science, 2024-05) Sow, Sumit; Ranjan, Shivani; Kumar, Navnit; Nilanjaya; Gitari, Harun; Dayal, Parmeswar; Kumar, SanjaySilvopasture is a farming practice involving the integration of tree and livestock grazing operations on the same land. Intensive management of these systems enables them to generate short and long-term economic returns from forest products and forage. Silvopastoral systems have been considered to increase efficiency while reducing the environmental burden and extreme ranching/animal husbandry systems. Over the past few years, there has been a rapid accumulation of scientific evidence supporting the role of silvopasture in meeting the fundamental needs of not only humans but also the animal population in the era of climate change. In South Asian countries like India, the silvopastoral system can be a viable option to provide balanced food as well as shelter for the livestock. This review aims to provide a critical and systematic evaluation of the scientific literature about the effect of different silvopasture systems on the fodder production, environment and performance of livestock, especially in the context of South Asia. We conducted a search using PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science and Google Scholar to identify the key literature on the theme. A total of 98 manuscripts underwent a four-step PRISMA appraisal process, resulting in the final selection. This process resulted in a final sample of 56 articles, which were used to explore the potential for long-term improvement in fodder quality through expanding the silvopastoral system. One of the key conclusions is that by improving the social acceptability of these silvopastoral systems and also addressing the challenges, their economic and environmental sustainability can be further enhanced.Item Conservation agriculture and weed management effects on weed community and crop productivity of a rice-maize rotation(Heliyon, 2024-05) Sahoo, Subhra; Seleiman, Mahmoud F.; Roy, Dhirendra Kumar; Ranjan, Shivani; Sow, Sumit; Jat, Raj Kumar; Alhammad, Bushra A.; Gitari, HarunIn recent years, an increase in weed infestation, which is adversely affecting crop growth and productivity has been a major challenge facing the farmers of South Asia. The adoption of a permanent bed in combination with residue retention-based crop management practices may reduce weed abundance and increase crop productivity. In a two-year field study, we evaluated the responses of different organic weed management practices with contrasting tillage and residue (R) management strategies to weed dynamics and crop productivity under rice-maize rotation. The main plot treatments consisted of zero-tillage direct seeded rice and zero-tillage maize (ZTR fb ZTM); ZTDSR and maize both on permanent raised beds with residue (PBDSR+R fb PBDSM+R); PBDSR and PBM without residue (PBDSR-R fb PBDSM-R) and conventional tillage puddled transplanted rice and conventional tillage maize (CTR fb CTM). The subplots comprised unweeded control; vermicompost mulch; P- enriched vermicompost mulch; live mulch with Sesbania spp. in rice and Pisum sativum in maize and weed-free. Total weed density and biomass in rice and maize at 30 days after sowing (DAS) were minimum for PBDSR+R fb PBDSM+R compared to remaining tillage and residue management practices in both years. Apart from weed-free treatment, the highest weed control index was found with live mulch. Yield of rice and maize were found higher in permanent beds along with residue retention-based practices. In rice, the weed-free treatment showed the highest grain yield and live mulch reported 9.8 and 6.8% higher grain yield than vermicompost mulch and P-enriched vermicompost mulch respectively. Our study shows that conservation agriculture practices under rice-maize rotation is one of the ways to reduce weed density and improve crop productivity in South Asia and other similar agro-ecologies.Item Maize-soybeans intercropping increases nutrient uptake, crop yield and modifies soil physio-chemical characteristics and enzymatic activities in a subtropical humid region based in Southwest China(Research square, 2023-12) Nasar, Jamal; Ahmad, Munir; Gitari, Harun; Tang, Li; Chen, Yuan; Zhou, Xun-BoIn China, the high use of nitrogen fertilization for agricultural production and intensive mono-cropping systems have adversely affected the agricultural ecosystem and environment. Therefore, to improve the sustainable agricultural production system, farming systems need to be adjusted within the country. Consequently, a two-year (2021–2022) field experiment was conducted on the maize/soybean intercropping practices with/without nitrogen (N) fertilization (i.e., N0; 0 N kg ha− 1 and N1; 225 N kg ha− 1) to know whether such cropping system can improve the nutrients uptake and crop yields, soil physio-chemical properties, and soil enzymes, which ultimately results in enhanced crop yield. The results revealed that maize intercropping treatments (i.e., N0MI and N1MI) had higher crop yield, biomass dry matter, and 1000-grain weight of maize than mono-cropping treatments (N0MM, and N1MM). Nonetheless, these parameters were optimized in N1MI treatments in both years. For instance, N1MI produced the maximum grain yield (10105 and 11705 kg ha− 1), biomass dry matter (13893 and 14093 kg ha− 1), and 1000-grain weight (420. and 449 g) of maize in the year 2021 and 2022, respectively. Conversely, soybean intercropping treatments (i.e., N0SI and N1SI) reduced such yield parameters for soybean. Also, the land equivalent ratio (LER) and land equivalent ratio for N fertilization (LERN) values were always greater than 1, showing the intercropping system's benefits in terms of yield and improved resource usage. Moreover, maize intercropping treatments (i.e., N0MI and N1MI) and soybean intercropping treatments (i.e., N0SI and N1SI) significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced the nutrient uptake (i.e., N, Fe, P, K, Ca, and Zn) of maize and soybean, however, these nutrients uptakes were more prominent in N1MI and N1SI treatments of maize and soybean, respectively in both years (2021 and 2022) compared with their mono-cropping treatments. Similarly, maize-soybean intercropping treatments (i.e., N0MSI and N1MSI) significantly (p < 0.05) improved the soil-based N, K, P, NH4, NO3, and soil organic matter, but, reduced the soil pH. Such maize-soybean intercropping treatments also improved the soil enzymatic activities such as protease (PT), sucrose (SC), acid phosphatase (AP), urease (UE), and catalase (CT) activities. This indicates that maize-soybean intercropping could potentially contribute to higher and better crop yield, enhanced plant nutrient uptake, improved soil nutrient pool, physio-chemical characteristics, and related soil enzymatic activities. Thus, preferring intercropping to mono-cropping could be a preferable choice for ecological viable agricultural development.Item Morphological, Pedological and Chemical Characterization and Classification of Soils in Morogoro District, Tanzania(National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 2023-12) Nungula, Emmanuely Z.; Mugwe, Jayne; Massawe, Boniface H. J.; Gitari, Harun I.Abstract This study was carried out in Morogoro district, Tanzania to characterize and classify soils using USDA Soil Taxonomy and World Reference Base (WRB) for Soil classification methods. The site characteristics were identified during the reconnaissance survey for the determination of sampling units. Six soil profile pits namely TUG-P1, TUG-P2, TUG-P3, TUG-P4, TUG-P5, and TUG-P6 were excavated, described, and sampled for laboratory physico-chemical analysis. Topsoil bulky densities were determined and ranged from 1.23 to 1.37 g cm-3. The surface soil pH ranged from moderately acidic to slightly acidic (5.69–6.58) and subsoil from strongly acidic to neutral (4.72–7.30). Soil organic carbon (OC) was low for both top (2.93–4.79 g kg-1) and subsoil (2.34–3.51 g kg-1). Total nitrogen was medium (2–4 g kg-1 for the topsoil and 2–3 g kg-1 for the subsoil. Available P rated low with the top soil having 4.81–6.22 cmol kg-1 and subsoil recording 3.12–6.14 cmol kg-1. The cation exchange capacity for topsoil ranged from 5.31 to 8.10 cmol kg-1 whereas for subsoil it was 4.91–8.10 cmol kg-1. Using the USDA Soil Taxonomy, soils were classified as Rhodic Siderudox (TUGP1), Typic Sombrustert (TUG- P2), Typic Eutrustolls (TUG- P3), Psamm Haplustepts (TUG- P4), Typic siderustepts (TUGP5) and Typic Siderudox (TUG- P6). Under WRB, soil was classified as Rhodic Umbric Ferralsols (Eutric, Arenic) (TUGP1), Haplic Vertsols (Aric, Orchric) (TUG- P2), Rhodic Eutric Cambisols (Arenic, Aric) (TUG- P3), Haplic Arenosols (Aric, Orchric) (TUG- P4), Rhodic Umbric Ferralsols (Eutric, Arenic) (TUG- P5) and Umbric Ferralsols (Eutric, Arenic) (TUG- P6). Soils showed a high level of weathering of parent material with deep depth, and fine texture dominated by sesquioxides and kaolinitic clays. To sustain yields, the soil’s nutrient management ought to involve the use of integrated approaches such as the application of inorganic (synthetic fertilizer) and organic nutrient inputs.Item Impact of Specific Leaf Extracts on Soil pH and Beta-Carotene in Amaranthus in Kiambu County, Kenya(AJAHR, 2024-04) Njeru, N; Wa Githendu, Mukiri; Murungi, J.Amaranthus (Amaranthus spp.) leaves are a good source of nutrients including vitamins antioxidants and dietary minerals including calcium, iron, and potassium. Soil pH is a very important chemical property of the soil, as it dictates the availability of plant nutrients. Acidic soils reduce availability of plant nutrients and hinder growth. This is corrected by adding lime which is expensive, does not add nutrients and requires re-application. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of leaf extracts from selected tree leaves on soil acidity and beta-carotene levels of amaranthus. Plant leaves that were tested were Turril (Vitex keniensis) Mexican sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) and Indian nettle (Plectranthus barbatus). The experiment setup was in a 2 x 7 factorial arrangement in a randomized complete block design(RCBDreplicated three timesThe treatments were; the three leaves extracts, lime, farm yard manure, inorganic fertilizer and control.. Leaves were dried,ground and soaked in distilledwater for sixty days as pH was monitored and the resulting extract was added to soil for amanthus grown with plant extracts. Data on plant height, leaf area, number of leaves, fresh weight and dry weight and levels of beta carotene levels were collected. AOAC method was used for analysis of beta carotene. All data was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) at 5% level of significance using SAS and least significant difference (LSD) for means separation. The results showed that leaf extracts significantly reduced soil acidity to above (6) while inorganic fertilizer increased the acidity (pH5.9) to (5.3) on all growing conditions while humus increased acidity during rainy and irrigation conditions. On beta carotene levels, Farmyard Manure had the highest levels(51.1µg) followed by the leaf extracts with extract 3-Plectras barbatus having higher levels. Control had the lowest levels of beta carotene followed by inorganic fertilizer and lime.These results suggest that farmers should be encouraged to grow vegetables using farmyard manure and leaf extracts to increase antioxidant levels and reduce soil acidity.They should also be encouraged to grow more of trees and shrubs studied to increase forest cover.Item Multicriteria Land Suitability Assessment for Cassava and Bean Production using Integration of GIS and AHP(Tylor and Francis, 2024-03) Nungula, Emmanuely Z.; Massawe, Boniface J.; Chappa, Luciana R.; Nhunda, Daniel M.; Seleiman, Mahmoud F.; Ali, Nawab; Gitari, Harun I.Land valuation is essential for developing land use planning and achieving efficient land use, food security, and poverty reduction. This study aimed to assess land suitability for cassava and bean production using the multicriteria decision analysis AHP technique and GIS. Land suitability analysis considers factors affecting crop growth and development, particularly in producing beans and cassava. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) model was used to determine the importance of main and sub-criteria parameters. ArcGIS software was used to create crop suitability distribution maps for bean and cassava production. Each parameter was subjected to pair-wise comparison by employing the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). The study found that the southern region displayed a vastly suitable level of 38% and 46% for beans and cassava, respectively. Farmers can use the comprehensive data to decide whether to plant beans and cassava on their lands, increasing revenue while preserving soil quality management. The GIS-AHP integration approach was suggested to determine optimal decisions based on chosen criteria.Item Climate Smart Agriculture and its Implication on Climate Change Adaptation Measures within Smallholder Farming Systems in Gatundu South, Kenya(UNESCO, 2024) Tei, Jilo Naghea; Waswa, FuchakaThe impacts of climate change and the need for implementing adaptation and mitigation measures continues to dominate global environmental dialogue, with the Africa Climate Summit 2023 and Conference of Parties 28 being the most recent in this series. A hitherto marginalised aspect is the level of adoption of climate-smart agriculture practices in smallholder production systems. This study explored this dimension using Gatundu South as a case study. Rainfall data was obtained from the Climate Hazards Group Infrared Precipitation with Station data. Socio-economic data targeting 384 respondents was collected using questionnaires. Standard procedures were used to analyse these data. Results showed that farmers are generally aware of climatic variability especially as evidenced by changes in rainfall patterns. Farmers adapt and attempt to mitigate effects of climate change and variability by using practices that deliver direct economic benefits and not necessarily the climate-smartness of the practices. Farmers did not associate their adaptation measures with the need to reduce emission of greenhouse gasses. To smallholder farmers, direct economic benefits are the primary incentives for the adoption of climate-smart practices. Further, the link between climate change and the invisible greenhouse gases is a knowledge gap among smallholder farmers. Therefore, adoption of climate smart agriculture practices can be enhanced if the narrative shifts to emphasise the negative contribution of greenhouse gases to farmers’ health and the concomitant medical costs, through their role in exacerbating air pollutionItem Effect of Extreme Drought on Reticulated Giraffe Population in Northeastern, Kenya(ASSOCIATION FOR AGRICULTURE ENVIRONMENT AND BIOTECHNOLOGY, 2023-12) Mohamed, Hussein Ali; Abdullahi, Ali; Nungula, Emmanuely Z.; Gitari, HarunOccurrence of severe drought in northeastern Kenya has emerged as a critical threat to the giraffe population in the region, exacerbating a multitude of pre-existing challenges. The primary concern stems from the drying up of acacia trees, a crucial feed source for giraffes. As these trees wither due to the prolonged drought, the giraffes are confronted with a diminishing feed supply, leading to malnutrition and an alarming decline in their overall population. One immediate consequence of the drought is the migration of giraffes to neighboring countries such as Ethiopia and Somalia in search of sustenance. Unfortunately, the situation in these regions, particularly Somalia, has been aggravated by persistent civil unrest since 1991. The ongoing conflict not only exacerbates the challenges faced by giraffes but also poses additional threats to their survival. The violence and instability in these areas hinder conservation efforts, making it more difficult to implement protective measures and conservation programs. Beyond the drought and migration, giraffes in northeastern Kenya are grappling with a host of other issues. Habitat loss, primarily driven by human activities such as deforestation and land development, further diminishes the available living space for giraffes. The encroachment of agriculture, expanding settlements, and infrastructure development contribute to the shrinking of their natural habitats. HIGHLIGHTS m Reticulated giraffes (Giraffa Camelopardalis. reticulata) are a subspecies of giraffes found in East Africa, primarily in the arid and semi-arid regions of Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia. m Reticulated giraffes are easily recognized by their distinctive coat pattern, which features a network of sharp-edged, polygonal shapes outlined by a network of thin white lines. m They inhabit savannas, open woodlands, and grasslands, where they can find an abundance of acacia trees and other vegetation. m These animals are herbivores and primarily feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of acacia trees. Their long necks and prehensile tongues enable them to reach high branchesItem Evolving Dynamics of Insect Frass Fertilizer for Sustainable Nematode Management and Potato Production(Frontiers in Plant Science, 2024-02) Anedo, Emmanuel O.; Beesigamukama, Dennis; Mochoge, Benson; Korir, Nicholas K.; Haukeland, Solveig; Cheseto, Xavier; Subramanian, Sevgan; Kelemu, Segenet; Tanga, Chrysantus M.Potato production faces major challenges from inadequate soil fertility, and nematode infestation, yet synthetic fertilizers and nematicides are costly and harmful to the environment. This study explored the potential of chitin-fortified black soldier fly-composted organic fertilizer (BSFCOF) as a multipurpose organic fertilizer amendment for enhancing potato yield and suppressing potato cyst nematodes (PCN). The BSFCOF was applied at a rate equivalent to 150 kg N ha-1 and fortified with chitin from black soldier fly pupal exuviae at inclusion rates equivalent to 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5% chitin. Data were collected on potato growth characteristics, PCN population densities, and soil chemical properties for two growing cycles. Results showed that chitin fortified BSFCOF significantly improved potato growth parameters, chlorophyll concentration, marketable tuber yield and number of marketable tubers. The marketable tuber yield achieved using chitin-fortified BSFCOF was 70 – 362%, and 69 – 238% higher than the values achieved using unfertilized soil during the first and second growing cycles, respectively. Soil amendment with chitin-fortified BSFCOF significantly reduced the number of cysts per 200 g soil-1, number of eggs and J2 per cyst-1, eggs g-1 soil and reproduction rate by 32 – 87%, 9 – 92%, 31– 98% and 31 – 98%, respectively. The PCN suppression increased with chitin inclusion rates. There were significantly higher values for soil pH, ammonium nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, available phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and cation exchange capacity in soil amended with BSFCOF compared to unamended soil. This study demonstrates that BSFCOF fortified with 5% chitin is an effective soil enhancer with multiple benefits, including improved soil fertility, potato performance, and effective management of potato cyst nematodes.Item Knowledge and Information Systems on Sorghum Amongst Sorghum Farmers in Nyanza, Eastern and Coastal Regions, Kenya(IISTE, 2023-02) Muui, Catherine; Muasya, Reuben; Kambura, Ann; Nguluu, SimonAs climate change continues to impact negatively on crop productivity, hardy crops such as sorghum could end severe food insecurity due to their potential to withstand adverse conditions. Farmers rely on localized indigenous knowledge passed on by word of mouth, informal training systems and growing practices as farmers interact. Though there are many stakeholders in sorghum production and its value chain, access to information and knowledge by farmers is still limited especially in marginalized regions. To understand information and knowledge management systems in sorghum production and how stakeholders interact a study was conducted in Eastern, Nyanza and Coastal regions of Kenya using structured questionnaires. The results showed most farmers were females. Majority had attained primary and secondary education, while 7.5% had no education. Farmer-tofarmer source of information on where to source seed was highest compared to agricultural extension officers and media advertisement. 60% do not consult where to get seed, instead use on farm saved seeds. Majority use traditional knowledge through experience compared to sources such as ministry of Agriculture, trainings and fellow farmers. Farmer-to-farmer information network and market analysis was commonly used on where to sell the grain. On-farm saved seed was selected based on size and color and about 60% conduct germination test on the seed from whichever source before planting. Majority (82.5%) use on-farm saved seeds, manure/compost and cultural methods to control pests. Of the respondents, 15% (eastern) and 7.5% (coastal) reported they have no measures to respond to climate change. Majority use grain for human consumption and about 73.1% are not members of any farmer group. Therefore, sensitization on benefits of sorghum crop, formation of more active farmer groups, involvement of agricultural related stakeholders, provision of more support and capacity building could enable them attain optimum agricultural productivityItem Root Development Does Not Antagonizeregeneration of Double Node Vegetatively Propagated Tea(Camellia sinensis) Cultivar Propagation(ajhs, 2021-06) Mwangi, Simon M; Korir, Nicholas K; Mose, Richard; Osei-Kwarteng, Mildred; Akuja, Thomas E; Gweyi-Onyango, Joseph PGaps in tea farms and plantations resulting from poor planting material, storms, accidental mechanical operations and pests lead to monumental yield losses. Conventionally, single node cuttings have been used for infilling of such gaps in the past; however they take very long to regenerate and to eventually cover the gaps and are also expensive compared to normal seedlings. Therefore, double node cuttings can offer a faster and robust alternative for production of the infilling material. However, the fear has been that it poses greater demand for photosynthates for recovery and regeneration of shoots from more nodes and this may lead to competition between roots and shoots for assimilates and hence premature death instead. The current work was set to test the hypothesis that more nodes/ plus leaves lead to more demand of substrates from source to the nodes with little going to the roots, hence low chance of root initiation and thus not suitable for production of tea seedlings. A study to evaluate potential of different types of tea node cuttings (Single Node cutting SNC – and Two Node cutting TNC) as planting material was therefore conducted at Kangaita farm at the Kenya Tea Development Agency in Kirinyaga, Kenya. The experiment was laid as Complete Block Design with split plot arrangement in net shades. The regeneration of single node and double node cuttings from three popular commercial tea clones (TRFK 31/8, TRFK 6/8 and AHP S15/10) was assessed in relation to their root and shoot development in the nursery until transplanting at 8 months in screen house with polythene papers. Variables such as root length, root biomass, leaf size, shoot count, shoot length and survival were evaluated as a measure of root and shoot development. The results revealed that double node cuttings were more vigorous in generation of new shoots, which triggered early root development, with clear variation observable among the test clones. Clone TRFK 31/8 was more superior in root development while clone AHP S15/10 showed superior ability to produce two shoots. There results also revealed lack in difference in seedling survival from two types of regenerations. The study confirms that indeed there was no adverse competition between root and shoots for assimilates and demonstrates the potential of that double node tea cuttings to be used to generate robust planting material both for new fields and infilling. It is therefore recommended that this technique be adopted and more studies be done using cuttings with more nodes to optimize rooting and growth conditions during propagation.Item Growth and Nutritional Status of Sweet Pepper (Capsicum Annum L.) Are Co-Influenced by Nitrogen Application and Meloidogyne Spp. Infection(ajh, 2019-06) Munyasi, T; Gweyi-Onyango, Joseph.PSole ammonium is known to negatively affect plant growth and also reduce rhizophere pH. Interestingly low pH negatively affects nematode growth. On the other hand, nitrates enhance plant growth but increase plant exudates that attract nematodes. A greenhouse experiment was set up at Kenyatta University to evaluate the effect of nitrate (NO3--N) and ammonium (NH4+-N) concentrations with and without nitrification inhibitor applied at 50,100 and 200 parts per million (ppm) nitrogen (N) on sweet pepper (Capsicum annum L.) infected with root-knot nematode Meloidogyne spp on growth and nutrient composition. The plant height, leave area, plant weight, and the concentration of N, phosphorous (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) in the leaves were determined at 60 days after nematode inoculation. NH4+-N increased the tissue concentration of total N, P, K, and Mn. Meloidogyne spp. caused reduced dry weight of shoots and roots, with decrease in P, Mn and Fe and increase in leaf tissue Mg and Ca in highly infected plant compared to the less infected. Sweet pepper plants fertilized with lower rates of nitrogen treatments (50 ppm N and 100 ppm N) had higher Fe and Zn but with much low Mn than the treatment with more nitrogen (200 ppm N). There was high P uptake in treatments comprising of ammonium-N with the nitrification inhibitor. Although ammonium with nitrification inhibitor (NH4+-N+NI) at 200 ppm N exhibited the lowest nematode reproduction and root galling, the same treatment also had reduced shoot growth and dry weights. NH4+-N+NI at 100 ppm N had higher tissue nutrient contents with reduced nematode population and higher total dry weight. The study therefore demonstrates that NH4+-N fertilization with an inhibitor can reduce nematode population when plants are grown in a soil infested with the root-knot nematodes. The study also demonstrated that NH4+-N+NI showed reduction of Meloidogyne spp, better nitrogen utilization with concomitant increased plant growth and plant nutrient concentration under 100 ppm N.Item Use of Satellite Data to Extract pH Values for Crop Planning and Management of Sorghum and Green Gram in Tharaka Nithi and Machakos Counties, Keny(AJAAR, 2023-10-06) K. H., Manzi; Ngene, Shadrack; Gweyi-Onyango, Joseph P.Soil pH is one of the most important soil properties influencing plant growth and productivity. The pH of the soil affects nutrient availability, microbial activity, and soil structure. As a result, accurate soil pH measurement is critical for effective soil management, plant growth, and sustainable agriculture practices. This study was conducted by analyzing the Landsat 8 satellite images, soil data of field surveys, laboratory analyses and statistical computations. The research combined and integrated the soil data from survey and laboratory with Landsat 8 satellite images to build two multiple regression equations model to enable the comparison of the two datasets i.e., field data and satellite data. The field and satellite data depicted the soil pH to range between 6.4 -7.8 for...Item The Complementary Role of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Landslide Uganda Disaster Management in Kanungu District(Nova geodesia, 2023-11) Turyasingura, Benson; Ayiga, Natal; Benzougagh, Brahim; Singh, Sudhir Kumar; Gweyi-Onyango, Joseph P.; Bojago, EliasThis study aimed to investigate the use and effectiveness of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in managing landslides in Kanungu District, Uganda. The study used the Likert scale and the multivariate probit (MVP) model and found that marginalization was a significant challenge facing local interventions in landslide disaster management. Factors such as farm size, credit availability, social group membership, access to extension services, farming experience, accessibility of weather and climatic information, and perception of climatic changes influenced the adoption of IKS, both positively and negatively. The study concludes that education programs should focus on farmer capacity building to mitigate landslide risks and emphasizes the application of IKS in landslide hazard managementItem Nitrogen Fertilization and Liming Increased CO2 and N2O Emissions from Tropical Ferralsols, but Not from a Vertisol(wiley, 2023-06) Ntinyari, Winnie; Rüdiger, Reichel; Gweyi-Onyango, Joseph P.; Giweta, Mekonnen; Wissel, Holger; Masso, Cargele; Bol, Roland; Brüggemann, NicolasThe application of nitrogen (N) fertilizers and liming (CaCO3) to improve soil quality and crop productivity are regarded as effective and important agricultural practices. However, they may increase greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. There is limited information on the GHG emissions of tropical soils, specifically when liming is combined with N fertilization. We therefore conducted a full factorial laboratory incubation experiment to investigate how N fertilizer (0kgNha−1, 12.5kgNha−1 and 50kgNha−1) and liming (target pH=6.5) affect GHG emissions and soil N availability. We focussed on three common acidic soils (two ferralsols and one vertisol) from Lake Victoria (Kenya). After 8weeks, the most significant increase in cumulative carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) fluxes compared with the unfertilized control was found for the two ferralsols in the N+lime treatment, with five to six times higher CO2 fluxes than the control. The δ13C signature of soil-emitted CO2 revealed that for the ferralsols, liming (i.e. the addition of CaCO3) was the dominant source of CO2, followed by urea (N fertilization), whereas no significant effect of liming or of N fertilization on CO2 flux was found for the vertisol. In addition, the N2O fluxes were most significantly increased by the high N+lime treatment in the two ferralsols, with four times and 13 times greater N2O flux than that of the control. No treatment effects on N2O fluxes were observed for the vertisol. Liming in combination with N fertilization significantly increased the final nitrate content by 14.5%–39% compared with N fertilization alone in all treatment combinations and soils. We conclude that consideration should be given to the GHG budgets of agricultural ferralsols since liming is associated with high liming-induced CO2 and N2O emissions. Therefore, nature-based and sustainable sources should be explored as an alternative to liming in order to manage the pH and the associated fertility of acidic tropical soils.