MST-Department of Environmental Studies and Community Development

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Influence of Cultural Practices on the Adoption of Sustainable Agriculture in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2025-11) Njeru, Zachary Njue
The global food security and human wellbeing is seriously threatened by the rise in the global human population and the challenges emanating from climate change. This situation could however be mitigated through the adoption of sustainable agriculture. This calls for the farmers to shift from conventional agricultural practices to agricultural systems that are; environmentally sound whereby issues such as conservation of natural resources are considered, economically viable where farmers are able to meet their financial needs from their agricultural enterprises, socially just where issues of social inclusion such as gender equality are ensured, culturally appropriate where cultural knowledge is leveraged on and based on a rounded scientific approaches that embraces agricultural innovations. The adoption process is however influenced by the culture of the concerned community where the beliefs, practices, norms and values of the community enhance or hamper the process. The objectives of this study was to establish; the extent of adoption of sustainable agriculture by the community in Mitheru division of Tharaka-Nithi County, the influence of cultural practices on willingness to embrace sustainable agricultural practices by this community and the social and economic challenges to the adoption of the sustainable agricultural practices. The study assumed a descriptive survey design where semi-structured questionnaires and interview schedules were used in collecting qualitative and quantitative data. Primary data was collected from the residents of the area and government officials while secondary data was collected from journals articles, reports of various organizations, conference papers and books. Data was organized using SPSS version 24 and descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations were used to analyse the data. Relationship between the variables was established using chi-square and ANOVA tests while the Pearson correlation coefficient was used in establishing the strength of the relationship. From the study it was determined that 86.5% of the farmers in the area of study were familiar with the term sustainable agriculture but could not define its key pillars. It is therefore recommended that there was need for education programs for the farmers so as to create awareness and boost their understanding of sustainable agriculture. 49% of the farmers felt that the cultural practices of the community were a hindrance to the embracing of sustainable agriculture by the community. It was hence recommended that there should be creation of awareness to the farmers on the negative effects of some of the cultural practices on the adoption process so as to prevent them from sticking to them. On the other hand 35% of the farmers felt that some of the cultural practices promoted the adoption sustainable agriculture and should therefore be integrated in sustainable agriculture promotion initiatives. Culture was therefore both a barrier and an enabler to the adoption process. It was also found out that the adoption of sustainable agriculture was influenced by social-economic factors such as; lack of financial capacity, expensive farm inputs, inefficient markets and inadequate labour supply. The study hence recommended that there should be interventions such as; provision of access to financial resources, streamlining of the product markets, and boosting agricultural production through provision of affordable farm inputs to address these challenges. The study established that there was a link between the cultural practices of the community and the adoption of sustainable agriculture. This finding will guide the county and the national governments in the development of more effective policies on how culture can be integrated in the enhancement of the uptake of sustainable agriculture by the rural farmers.
Green Growth Adoption, Practices and Challenges in Selected Textile Industries in Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2025-01) Kawino, Dinah Awino
Green growth practices are crucial for industries as they support the transition to sustainable environmental operations, safeguarding ecological services for future generations. This concept has gained prominence as a strategic framework to integrate sustainability into industrial operations, helping to mitigate pollution and optimize resource utilization. Although environmental sustainability and green growth initiatives have gained significant global attention across various manufacturing sectors limited focus has been directed toward Kenya’s textile industry. The general objective of this study was to examine green growth practices in selected textile manufacturing industry mills in Kenya. The specific objectives were to assess the awareness and implementation of green growth principles in fostering sustainable practices, identify current green initiatives, investigate barriers to their adoption, and evaluate the extent of sustainability reporting within these textile mills. The study adopted the traveling model theory and employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. A sample of 90 respondents was determined using the Nassiuma 2001 sampling formula. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative and quantitative techniques was utilized for data collection. Data analysis, conducted through SPSS version 24, included descriptive statistics such as means, standard deviations, percentages, and frequencies and inferential analysis Chi-square tests, correlation analyses, and regression models to explore relationships between key variables. Findings revealed that although green growth practices are increasingly recognized in the textile industry, sustainability reporting remains largely confined to internal use and is rarely shared publicly. Major challenges to adopting green growth practices include market limitations and the high costs of eco-friendly technologies and products. Overall, green growth practices contributed to 53% of the observed advancements in sustainability within the textile sector. The study concludes that while the adoption of green growth practices in the textile industry is progressing, it remains constrained by inadequate stakeholder support, weak institutional frameworks, and limited policy alignment. The study recommends strengthening strategic partnerships within the textile sector, establishing Environmental Management Systems and Sustainability Departments, enhancing public sustainability reporting, expanding markets for locally produced textiles, and implementing supportive government policies to foster a comprehensive and sustainable transition toward green growth.
Determinants of Land Use Conflicts among Farming and Pastoral Communities in Tana Delta, Tana River County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2025-08) Mohamud, Abdullahi Ahmed
Patterns of violent conflict in pastoralist communities have been progressively generated in the last two decades by highly politicized land demands promoted by political elites who frequently use historical "injustices" and current violations to gain symbolic capital with their electorate. Administrative borders, exclusive property access, and initiatives to maintain an ethnically homogeneous electorate have consequently become contentious topics. Decentralization and recent developments in democratic development, which have opened up new avenues for resolving territorial disputes, are inextricably tied to these dynamics. This difficulty has been compounded in northern Kenya, where many pastoralist groups are undergoing fast changes in their land-use relationships. Land conflicts have erupted in the Tana River delta as people seek land for farming and greener pastures. As such, this research was done to find out what causes the persistent land disputes between farmers and herders in the Tana Delta. Three research objectives were devised to guide the study. The research objectives were as follows: first, to explore the political, social, and economic variables fuelling disputes over natural resources in Tana Delta; second, to evaluate the impacts of the legal as well as customary regulatory systems put into effect in Tana Delta on land-use conflict; and third, to investigate Tana Delta community members' perceptions of addressing natural resource conflicts. The research was based on the understanding that despite repeated attempts by the government to put an end to the hostilities between farmers and herders, they have escalated and are now unsustainable from an economic and social standpoint. To obtain data, standard questionnaires and fundamental interview procedures were followed. Tana Delta families were chosen as the study's target demographic. Statistical social science software SPSS version 24 was used to clean and analyse the gathered data. Pie charts, graphs, and tables were used to show the results. The inquiry produced three important conclusions. These are: first, land ownership, a rush for pasture access, and second, water and political provocation, which leads to confrontation between pastoralists and farmers. Third, the study reported that some of the legal measures that have been adopted to manage disputes in the area include demarcating contested sections of the basin, forming a Tana peace committee, and deploying conflict management institutions. First, people in Tana Delta and other dry areas where conflicts between pastoralists and crop growers are widespread should be educated on the value of peace as well as how they ought to refrain from clashes that result in increased losses and harm. Second, the research proposes that the government and other stakeholders, especially county governments, develop policies to hold any individual found to be instigating or fuelling tensions within communities accountable and to ensure that such individuals face the law. Third, the study advocates for community members to be involved in the creation of peace initiatives in order to lessen resistance. Policy makers also ought to schedule meetings with local residents to solicit their feedback on the policies that will be used to reduce land conflicts.
Implications of Community Participation in the National Youth Service Urban Informal Upgrading Initiative in Soweto East, Kibera–Nairobi County
(Kenyatta University, 2025-11) Thiga, Margaret Wangui
Urban settlements are particularly critical due to large rural-urban migration in search of better opportunities against limited affordable housing facilities. This has resulted in sprawling of informal settlements for low income urban populations. As an intervention measure governments and development partners such as the UN habitat have initiated the upgrading of informal settlements through improvements in service delivery, affordable housing and employment policies. Kibera, one of the largest informal settlements in Kenya, has been a target for the upgrading initiatives. However, the initiatives sometimes fundamentally disrupt everyday lives of the populations dwelling in the informal settlements. This study sought to investigate the contribution (or lack thereof) of community participation to upgrading of informal settlements initiatives for affordable housing, relevant infrastructural facilitates, social amenities and secure land tenure in Soweto East Village, Kibera. The focus is on upgrading by the National Youth Service (NYS) upgrading initiative, under the Ministry of Devolution, and Planning.The study was guided by three objectives namely, to analyse the implication of informal settlements on living conditions of residents in Soweto East Village Kibera, to explore how implementation strategies of the National Youth Service (NYS) Upgrading Initiative integrated community participation in Soweto East Village Kibera and To assess the perceptions of Soweto East village residents on participation in the National Youth Service (NYS) Upgrading Initiative.The underpinning theory was participatory approach to development initiatives. This study applied both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Quantitative approach was applied in gathering and analyzing numerical data by the use of statistical techniques and presented them in the measurable units. Quantitative information was complemented by non-numerical information gathered through key informant interviews, Focused Group Discussions and Observations to understand the complex issues relating the NYS upgrading project in Soweto East village. The study used both, probability and Purposive sampling. Data collected through observations and interviews from key informants were analyzed thematically and presented in narrative form analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) for quantitative data and thematically for qualitative data. Findings were presented in themes, graphs, tables and pie charts indicating percentages and frequencies. Findings from objective one revealed squalid living conditions of residents in Soweto East Village Kibera, characterised by poor housing, water inaccessibility, poor sanitation system, inadequate access to electricity, poor roads and lack of health and educational facilities. From objective two, it emerged that the project brought some benefits to the people including infrastructure, improved sanitation, job opportunities, and security. The initiative also involved the community in the undertaking of these activities. However, according findings of objective three, the study revealed that the initiative did not include peoples’ perspectives from its inception. This had implications on prioritization, implementation strategies, environmental sustainability, the question of land tenure, and dislocations of residents and their businesses in Soweto East village in Kibera. The study recommends that government should strive to create job opportunities to raise income level as a lasting strategy in dealing with slums; strive towards affordable provision housing programmes and that slum upgrading initiatives should involve beneficiaries throughout its life cycle.
Drivers of Bushmeat Poaching in Chyulu Hills National Park in Makueni County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2025-10) Mbuthia, James Gichure
Bushmeat poaching through snaring remains one of the most pressing conservation challenges in Kenya, particularly in protected areas like Chyulu Hills National Park in Makueni County. This illegal activity threatens biodiversity, disrupts ecosystems, and undermines conservation efforts. While previous studies have documented poaching trends, there remains a critical knowledge gap regarding the specific community-level factors driving this practice in Chyulu Hills. This study therefore seeks to comprehensively evaluate the socio-economic, cultural, and institutional factors influencing bushmeat poaching in this important ecosystem. The study employs a robust mixed-methods research design to achieve three specific objectives: (1) assessing the current extent of bushmeat poaching, (2) examining the socio-economic factors influencing poaching activities, and (3) analyzing the effectiveness of existing anti-poaching regulations. Using random sampling techniques, the study engaged 100 respondents comprising local community members, conservation practitioners, and park management officials. Data collection incorporated both quantitative methods (semi-structured questionnaires) and qualitative approaches (in-depth interviews with key informants). For data analysis, the study utilized MS Excel and SPSS version 25.0, applying appropriate statistical techniques for each objective: descriptive statistics to quantify poaching prevalence, Multiple Logistic Regression Analysis to identify significant socio-economic predictors, and Chi-Square tests to evaluate regulatory effectiveness. Qualitative data underwent rigorous thematic analysis to extract nuanced insights about cultural dimensions and enforcement challenges. Preliminary findings indicate that bushmeat poaching remains widespread, with particular impacts on medium to large mammal species. The analysis reveals complex interactions between livelihood needs, cultural practices, and governance gaps that collectively sustain poaching activities. The study also identifies critical weaknesses in current enforcement regimes and suggests potential policy interventions. These results make significant contributions to both academic discourse and practical conservation management. The findings will inform the development of targeted, evidence-based strategies to address bushmeat poaching in Chyulu Hills National Park. Moreover, the methodological framework offers a replicable model for similar studies in other protected areas facing comparable challenges. Therefore, through the recommendation of the study, there will be enhanced community engagement, diversified livelihoods, and strengthened enforcement through education, economic alternatives, and collaborative governance to reduce bushmeat poaching in Chyulu Hills sustainably.
Awareness Levels and Strategies of E-Waste Management in Dandora Nairobi City County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2025-05) Mbutura, Ann Kinya
Globally, the rapidly increasing use of Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) has also increased the demand for electronic equipment such as computers and mobile phones. This increase in consumption has resulted in huge amounts of e-waste being generated from scrapped electronics. E-waste contains chemical substances that have adverse effects on human health and the environment. Consequently, handling of e-waste needs to be organized in ways that minimize these adverse effects. The study was carried out in Nairobi specifically Dandora dumpsite which has the biggest population with majority using electronics for their domestic purposes. The study identified the sources, types and effects of e-waste, assessed awareness levels and strategies of e-waste management, examined the impacts of awareness campaigns to residents on disposal of e-waste, evaluated the effectiveness of rethink, refuse, reduce, reuse, repair, regift, recycle (7R strategy) in disposal of e-waste and also investigated the use of Polluter Pay Principle on e-waste management actions in Dandora area Nairobi County. A descriptive research design was used to explain relationships between dependent and independent variables. The target population was 350,000 living in formal settlements. Simple random sampling was used to obtain 328 respondents from the study area, Clusters were made to capture households with the highest variation in socio-economic status while key informants were purposely chosen for the study. Quantitative and qualitative data was involved in establishing the current management strategies of e-waste. Quantitative methods used questionnaires to obtain numerical data while qualitative methods involved the use of key informants and observation to understand key issues, explore possibilities and understand processes in e-waste management. Quantitative data was analyzed using data analysis methods. Descriptive statistical techniques like mean, mode and median were used to summarize the data while inferential statistical. Qualitative data was coded then arranged in themes, which were presented across datasets to determine their similarity. Results on sources of E-waste indicated ICT and telecommunications equipment emerged as the leading source of e-waste in the study area closely followed by toys, leisure/sports items, and large household appliances. Results on the level of awareness indicated that majority 85% had knowledge of electronic waste, while 15% indicated that they had no idea of electronic waste while majority 85.8% understood that some of the electronic waste has hazardous chemical substances in them while 14.3% said they were not aware. Results on electronic separation show that 63% (N= 172) of the respondents indicated they were aware of separation of electronic waste, while 37% (N=102) said they were not aware while 56 % said they were aware of safe methods of handling electronic waste. There was a strong consensus of the respondents on 7Rs effectiveness with 83. 6% agreeing that the application of recycling can offer a quick and reliable approach to e-waste management. Majority 72.3 % of respondents indicated they were aware of the polluter pay principle. This can be interpreted to mean that the respondents were aware that absolute liability for harm to the environment does not only apply to them but extends to other polluters and not only to compensate the victims of pollution but also the cost of restoring the environmental degradation. The study recommends that the Nairobi County government should install dust bins near residential areas and step-up e-waste awareness campaigns and provide training to the communities regarding human health and the environmental impacts of solid waste this will encourage the effective use of the 7Rs strategy in e-waste management concept. The strategy will focus on minimizing environmental pollution and sustainability work and help the county and the country to shift towards circular economy of zero waste and convert some of the waste into energy production.
Socio-Ecological Impacts of Artisanal Goldmining in Ikolomani, Kakamega County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2025-06) Mosi, Amayi Catherine
The extraction of gold in Ikolomani Sub-county of Kakamega County in Kenya has been taking place for over a century and is an integral part of the economic well-being in that region of Kenya. The study sought to investigate the social and ecological impacts of artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) in the area. The three specific objectives of this study were to; evaluate the quality of soil as a result of ASGM; analyze the status of food security as a consequence of ASGM; and assess the impacts of ASGM on the biological development of children in Ikolomani. The broad hypothesis of the study is that ASGM has negative impacts on these socioecological factors. The study employed a combination of research designs; experimental, correlational, and descriptive. The first objective was primarily tested experimentally by collecting soil samples from the mines, the farms and the forested areas and then testing the physicochemical properties at the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) and the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) laboratories. Maps from Google Earth as well as naturalistic observations, were also used to assess changes in the land use. The second and third objectives were tested using descriptive cross-sectional surveys in the form of two semi-structured questionnaires, child focused essays, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and expert informant interviews. The two sets of questionnaires were distributed randomly to the primary informants, comprising 60 ASGM workers and 50 food vendors after purposively targeting a population of (N=31,134) inhabitants. Furthermore, 10 expert informants were interviewed, and 5 focus groups were conducted. More information was also captured photographically. The expert informants were sampled from the National Environment and Management Authority (NEMA), the local schools, the local hospitals, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, the County Government of Kakamega and the local administrative chiefs. Data was analysed per objective using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. To assess the quality of soils as a result of ASGM, soil sample results, interviews, naturalistic observations and questionnaires were used. To assess food security as a result of ASGM, food security dimensions such as availability, accessibility and utilization were analysed using data from both the food vendors and miners. To assess the biological development of children, the data from the questionnaire, child development score card and key observations were statistically analysed using descriptive statistics and Microsoft excel. Further, ANOVA and Chi-square statistics were used to test the relationship between the soils quality, food security and biological development of children and ASGM. Inferential statistics such as correlation and regression were used to assess the overall strength and direction of the relationship between the variables. The study results indicated that ASGM influenced 42.1 % of these social economic characteristics of the population at Ikolomani. The study established a positive correlation between ASGM and soil quality, food quality and biological development of children. The regression coefficients indicated that a unit increase in ASGM would result in an increase in soil pollution, food insecurity and poor biological development of children by .526, .387 and .216 respectively. The study concluded that despite ASGM having a significant economic impact on the community, it is negatively affecting them. Thus, the study recommends a policy regulated framework where the community can reap the economic benefits of mining with minimal impacts.
Environmental Impacts of Solid Waste Management Practices in Murang'a County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2025-06) Murunga, Phoebe Kalelwa
Waste management is a global concern due to the amount of waste produced. Globally, 2.01 billion tons of solid waste is produced annually with 33 percent of waste not managed safely. By 2050 waste generated is predicted to increase to 3.40 billion tons annually. Despite the weight of these threats on ecological balance, limited research has been conducted regarding the evaluation of the degree of which poor solid waste management practices influence the environment. This research therefore assessed the environmental impact of waste management in Kiharu Sub-County in Murang’a County, Kenya. More specifically, the study sought to identify the types of solid wastes produced in Kiharu Sub-County, investigate the key components of waste management system, to determine the environmental impacts of solid waste management practices and lastly to investigate the challenges of effective waste management practices and their impact on the environment in Kiharu Sub-County. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional quantitative research design and targeted 19,404 households in Kiharu-sub-county. From the population, a sample of 200 was obtained. The data was collected using a questionnaire which was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 27.0. Descriptive statistical analysis was then conducted where statistics such as mean, frequency, standard deviation and percentage were produced. Pearson’s correlation and regression analysis were used under inferential analysis to examine association between waste management and environmental impact. From the findings, the study established that there was significant and positive association between solid waste management practices, application and effectiveness of waste management systems and the environmental impact. The findings indicated that if the wastes generated by humans such as construction wastes (87.5%), food wastes (96.2%), Agricultural waste (94.6%) and Waste tires (92.4%) among others were well managed they would lead to a better environment that is clean and healthy. The study established that the community used open landfills and burning waste management practices although they were not effective as they led to degradation of the environment. However, they had adopted reuse, recycling, avoidance and minimization of waste disposal, composting and energy recovery as effective waste management practices. The study also established that there was significant and positive association between solid waste management practices and the environmental impact (p < 0.05). The findings indicated that if the wastes generated by humans were well managed through practices would lead to a better environment that is clean and healthy. The study recommended adoption of recycling and re-use methods by setting up recycling centers, awareness creation such as public training and campaigns to the community encouraging households and communities to manage their wastes efficiently, and also reduce reliance on burning and landfills. Lastly, the study recommended the use of modern waste handling equipment to enhance the efficiency and safety of waste management operations.
Water Sanitation and Hygiene Program and its Impact nn Public Health Schools in Kisumu County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2022-10) Omwami, Duncan Ondieki
Abstract
Impact of Eco-Cultural Beliefs and Practises in the Conservation of Kivaa Sacred Forest, Machakos County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-03) Ng’ang’a, Jane Wanjiru
Despite the spirited efforts (o conserve forest resources, it is noted worldwide that these finite resources are continually coming under sharp thrents, Forest Resource Assessment reports (hat nearly 1%, approximate 9 million heetares of the world’s lotal forest is lost annually. This loss is mainly duc to deforestation and the transformation of the forest to uses such as commercial agriculture or human settlement. In Kenya, the result of this has been extreme drought and famine leaving millions, most being children, hungry and dependent on food wid for survival. This growing trend in the reduction of forest cover begs for the rethinking of current conservation strategies and the need to come up with inable means to protect our collective future, The use of eco-cultural beliefs and practices may present o more sustainable option, Use of eco-cultural beliefs for conservation has been applied on the Kivaa forest since 2008 and is arguably bearing great suceess. It is against this background that this study was founded. The study aimed to one.explore the eco-cultural beliefs and practices used to conserve Kivaa forest, two, to identify the structure of the committee conserving the forest, three, assess the benefits and challenges associated with this strategy and four suggest on how this strategy can be incorporated into the environmental management at the country level. A qualitative research design was adopted for the study. A sample size of 100 households and ten key informants was used. Data was gathered using household questionnaires, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), document analysis, oral history accounts and key Informants interviews who included, two Kamba custom leaders, Institute for Culture and Ecology staff, two pastors from the local churches (Full Gospel church and African Independent Church, AIC), Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Machakos county staff, Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and Kivaa Location chief and sub-chief. Data analysis of the household questionnaires, interview scripts and field notes were through establishing themes, categories or patterns and conclusions drawn in line with the study objectives. Findings indicated that the use of eco-cultural beliefs and practices has been successful in restoring Kivaa indigenous forest led by a custodian group known as the Kamba Custom Conservation Group (KCCG) who lead ritual performance, setting of the traditional laws and punishing those who degrade the forest. Findings also identified various eco-cultural beliefs and practices that are used for forest conservation, including customary rules and regulations, customs and rituals, taboos and totems, use of shrines and sacred sites. The study concludes that the use of eco-cultural beliefs and practices in forest conservation is astrategy that has great potential and effectiveness in restoring our highly degraded forests. Despite notable challenges, the use of indigenous knowledge (which is the basis of eco- cultural beliefs and practices) presents a strategy that is cost-effective, social-culturally acceptable and having high chances of success. There is need for conservationists, government and other stakeholders to recognize and support the use of eco-cultural beliefs and practices as a strategy towards forest conservation by, among other ways, involve community members in decision-making on the management of natural resources, and to seek ways of standardizing indigenous institutions in natural resource protection. These stakeholders should recognize traditional norms and values as independent institutional frameworks and promote their efficacy and effectiveness particularly in the devolved structures in Kenya and beyond.
Factors Affecting Adoption of Organic Food Production System Amongst Smallholder Farmers In Murang’a County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-06) Muriithi, Sarah Nyawira
Astract
Establishment of Traditional Boundaries for Sustainable Forest Management in Loita Forest, Narok County, Kenya.
(Kenyatta University, 2024-08) Kimiri, Kiramba Lestan
In alignment with Kenya's decentralized approach to natural resource governance, various community forests have been placed under the stewardship of local communities, often facilitated by councils of elders. While some Maasai groups near urban areas have opted to subdivide their land, the Loita Maasai have resisted this due to concerns about potential external ownership and the erosion of their cultural heritage. Consequently, the management of the Loita forest has traditionally remained under the council elders' jurisdiction. However, a gradual transition of authority to village elders within the provincial administration has begun. The Kenya Forest Service, established under the Kenya Forest Act of 2005, aims to foster coexistence between communities and forest conservation. The formation of Community Forest Associations (CFAs), such as the Loita Community Forest Association, is crucial for this initiative. This study focuses on the challenges of creating and modifying resource boundaries, examining the alignment between user boundaries and CFA boundaries concerning forest resources. Additionally, it evaluates the adequacy of Kenyan government policies on these boundaries and forest resource management within the community. Conducted in a traditional setting where elders, led by the renowned Oloibon, make most resource decisions, the study area is remote with extensive forest and savanna lands. The Loita Maasai, organized into age sets, utilize their forest for grazing, fuel wood harvesting, water extraction, and religious and cultural purposes. Using purposive sampling, 52 respondents from nine Loita sublocations were interviewed. Data collection methods included semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews, participant observations, focus group engagements, and tape recordings, involving both community members and relevant organizations. The study employed summative content analysis for qualitative data and descriptive statistics for household survey data. It provided insights into the state of traditional resource use boundaries, the sufficiency of government laws and policies in enhancing forest governance, and the assertion of individual indigenous rights in community forest resource use and governance. The study recommends documenting indigenous knowledge and traditional governance systems for sustainable forest management, formally recognizing traditional governance in decision-making, demarcating physical forest boundaries to prevent encroachment, and protecting water sources from degradation.
Mercury Levels in Groundwater Near Artisanal Small-Scale Gold Mines in Migori County, Kenya.
(Kenyatta University, 2024-11) Omondi, George Zachary O.
In Migori County, Artisanal and small scale gold mining (ASGM) is an economic activity that uses mercury during the amalgamation process to obtain gold. The waste generated in form of soil tailings and pan-pond water contains mercury and is located close to community boreholes. The waste from the mines can lead to mercury contamination in groundwater. Boreholes are one of the most used sources of drinking water in Migori County. Ingestion of contaminated water is one of the ways mercury can get into the human body. A research done by Center of Environmental Justice and Development in 2017 showed that mercury is present in human hair from people around Masara mine, Migori County. Therefore, the study sought to establish the mercury levels in groundwater near Artisanal Small-Scale Gold Mines in Migori County. Specifically, the study determined mercury concentration in groundwater from boreholes, soil tailings and pan-pond water located near five mine sites during dry and wet seasons. The five mines were: -Masara, Osiri Matanda, Macalder, Kitere and Kehancha. The study used cross sectional-analytical study design. The research focused on boreholes found within a distance of 6 km from the five mines. Out of the 46 boreholes mapped, 15 (32% of 46) were proportionately sampled to obtain groundwater samples during dry and wet seasons. From the five mines targeted, 20 pan-pond water and soil tailings were collected in both dry and wet season as per respective sampling protocols applied. Mercury level from the samples was determined by use of Inductively Coupled Plasma –Mass Spectroscopy (7900 ICP-MS) at KEPHIS laboratory. Paired t-test was used to compare the means of the levels of mercury in groundwater obtained within the two different seasons. Measures of central tendency was used to describe the sets of data obtained after laboratory analysis of samples. The study established that during the dry season, all of the boreholes had groundwater mercury levels higher than the recommended limit by KEBS of 0.001 mg/L. There was a decrease in the levels of mercury in groundwater as distances from the mine increases. However, during the wet season, all of the boreholes had mercury levels below the limit of detection. The study established a significant difference on the levels of mercury in groundwater between wet and dry seasons at a 95% confidence level. In the mines, the study found that mercury levels in soil tailings and pan-pond water were above the NEMA effluents discharge standards of 0.05 mg/kg and 0.05 mg/L respectively in the dry season. During the wet season, all pan-pond water achieved the recommended mercury level of NEMA effluents discharge limits while the soil tailings had mercury levels above the recommended limit. This study recommends a need to implement mine waste remediation and, the borehole owners, licensed water service providers near the mines to continuously conduct groundwater heavy metal analysis during the dry season to protect their health. The county government to develop water related policies to ensure safe water services to the community.
Establishment of Boundaries for Sustainable Conservation and Enhanced Livelihoods of Forest Dependent Communities Neighbouring Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve in Kilifi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-04) Lonzi, Zipporah
Forest management in Kenya was initiated in the year 1902, marking the inception of organized efforts to sustainably oversee and regulate the country's forest resources. Before, forests were taken care of by specified area leaders, specifically local chiefs with the typical system of governance, but the introduction of state system of forest administration lowered community-based forest management systems in all forests of in Kenya. Consequently, forest dependent communities were forced away from the forest and lost the resources they used to collect from the forests for their livelihood. Thus, in the 1980s, there were confrontations between the government and communities surrounding forests which led to the need for Participatory Forest Management. The research therefore sought to examine how forest resource users' boundaries can be developed for enhanced sustainable community livelihoods and forest conservation. The specific objectives of the study were, to examine the extent to which participatory forest management boundaries are developed in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve; to examine the effectiveness of the government policies in governing forest resources and resource user's boundaries in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve and; to assess how the income of the forest dependent communities has been increased as a result of forest resources use and resource users' boundaries in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve. The study used a case study approach where qualitative data was collected to address the study objectives. The study employed purposive sampling to select 220 respondents from various groups involved in the co-management of the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve, using Yamane's formula to initially target 396 households from a population of 39,112, but ultimately included a mix of PFM and non-PFM households, government agencies, NGOs, and community leaders to ensure comprehensive representation. To collect data, semi-structured sets of questions were used to both participatory and non-participatory forest management households and all the data collected was analyzed qualitatively by putting similar themes together and using them to answer the study objectives. Based on the first objective, the study found that the development of participatory forest management boundaries in Arabuko-Sokoke has been largely successful, with most communities acknowledging the importance of such boundaries for sustainable resource use and forest conservation, facilitated by government agencies. Based on the second objective, the study found that government policies on forest resource and boundary regulation have been effective, significantly reducing resource destruction, although challenges such as community leader intimidation and insufficient protection for forest scouts highlight areas for policy and enforcement improvement. Concerning the third objective, the study revealed that the implementation of forest management boundaries and resource use regulations have positively impacted community livelihoods, enabling income-generating activities like beekeeping and tourism, which have contributed to educational advancements and a significant reduction in poverty levels. The study therefore recommends that the establishment of the forest resource use boundaries is necessary for sustainable community livelihood and forest conservation.
Examination of the Socio-Economic Factors Influencing Sustainable Food Production in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands of Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya2022
(AJGR, 2022-01-05) KimiteiIsaac Kipchirchir ,Ming’ate Felix Lamech Mogambi
Food insecurity has remained a major challenge to many developing countries. The Food and Agricultural Organization, estimates that 842 million people have suffered from lack of food access, resulting in undernourishment. Kenya’s rural and urban areas, have been suffering from food insecurity since independence. Previous case-studies have shown that, although various governments and donor agencies' have attempted to sponsor food-production programs, execution has remained a challenge. Elgeyo Marakwet has previously been experiencing famine intervention projects from World Vision Kenya, Community Agricultural Development for Semi-Arid Lands, National Agriculture and Livestock Extension Program and Njaa Marufuku Kenya. The aim of this research was to examine the, organizational structure, socio-economic and capacity-building factors that contribute to sustainable food production in semi-arid and arid areas. The study used a descriptive survey research design to guide in the collection of data from a sample of 136 households using structured questionnaire. Data was analysed through cross-tabulation using Chi square, ANOVA and percentages. In conclusion the research has revealed that organizational, demographic and capacity building factors are important in the improvement of food production. It is recommended that sustainable food security depends on developing sustainable local food production policy.
Adoption of Sustainable Bamboo Farming to Mitigate the Effects of Soil Degradation and to Improve Livelihood in Kinale, Kiambu County, Kenya
(kenyatta university, 2023) Maina, Joy Wamahiga; Samuel O. Ochola; Joyce Mwaniki
Bamboo is a perennial flowering plant with a distinctive life cycle: many bamboo species remain in the vegetative phase for decades, followed by mass synchronous flowering and subsequent death. Bamboos are grasses (Poaceae) that are widespread in tropical and subtropical regions with the potential to increase forests cover owing to their morphological fast growth. This study aimed at i.) identifying the level of use in sustainable bamboo farming curbing effects of soil degradation, ii.) evaluating the level of community awareness on bamboo farming and its environmental benefits, and iii.) assessing the importance of Bamboo as non-wood plant to sustain and improve community livelihoods. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 192 respondents within Kinale region, Kiambu County during a survey to gather information on bamboo farming and its impacts in curbing soil degradation. The data was analyzed on IBM® Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 21. Results showed that 56.2% of the respondents in Kinale region Kiambu County were involved in bamboo farming whereby the odds were about twice (1.821, 95% CI, Lower limit =1.11; Upper limit=2.997) as great as the odds of their counterparts. Among respondents involved in bamboo farming, the highest variance of 35.8%, 29.4% and 21.33% were from respondents that considered bamboo as a sustainable alternative to trees, aware of deforestation and degradation and bamboo farming for income generation, respectively. A respondent considering bamboo as a suitable alternative to trees was twice more likely to be involved in bamboo farming [Exp (B)= 1.963, 95% CI: 0.179, 7.307; p=0.032] whereas that who considered bamboo for income generation, was thrice [Exp (B)= 3.058, 95% CI: 0.433, 2.005; p=0.025]. Bamboo farming awareness was through Agricultural Extension Officers, Community Based Organizations and Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) as reported by 46.9%, 40.1% and 13%, respectively. Majority of 83.4% practice bamboo farming for monetary benefits compared to 16.6% that is for environmental benefits. Notably, 43.2% of the respondents reported environmental improvement associated with bamboo farming. Among the bamboo farming products, posts, chairs and baskets were reported by the majority of 30.9%, 27.2% and 20.2% of the respondents, respectively. A K-mean analysis revealed two clusters based on variables environmental-related and economic sustainability livelihood-related. In the first cluster, both variables: a sustainable alternative to trees and Land improvement or reclamation had a significant impact on its aggregation. However, in the second cluster, variables: bamboo as a source of income, household size and literacy level had a significant impact on its aggregation whereas variable: main source of income has none. The majority of 77.8% of the respondents involved in bamboo farming were in Ksh. > 2,000 - < 8,000 earning categories. Therefore, the study had shown the potential of bamboo farming in mitigating soil degradation, sustain and improve community livelihoods.
Mega-Projects, Land Tenure and Local Institutions Changes in Nakuprat-Gotu Community Conservancy in Isiolo County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023) Changwony, Winnie; Eric M.Kioko; Peter Wangai
Community-Based Conservation (CBC) in Northern Kenya occur in diverse socio-ecological and socio-political contexts, which often influence their success and changes. Recently, the region was proposed for implementation of the Lamu Port South-Sudan Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor; a large-scale infrastructural development associated with resort cities, highways, pipelines, railway lines, among others. If fully implemented, these mega projects will massively encroach on land formerly under the Nakuprat-Gotu conservancy in Isiolo. This study utilized the perspectives of ‘economies of anticipation’ to explore emerging land tenure changes as the LAPSSET corridor and other ancillary projects take shape. It further examined the dynamics facing local institutions used to conserve and govern natural resources in the context of emerging issues, and its implication to the CBC system. The conservancy under study is an important ecosystem for wildlife and pastoralism and is owned by previously warring Turkana and Borana pastoralist communities, brought together under a common conservancy unit to harmoniously share resources. The study adopted a descriptive research design and a mixed method approach. Primary data was collected from a sample size of 110 members of the conservancy, the management committee, conservation actors as well as government agencies. Respondents were engaged through semi-structured interviews, key information interviews (KIIs) and focused group discussions (FGDs). Additionally, secondary sources including journals, relevant reports, and library materials were used. Quantitative data was organized and analyzed using the statistical packages for social sciences (SPSS) and further complimented the qualitative results which were analyzed and presented using thematic coding analysis. The findings of the study revealed that Nakuprat-Gotu’s CBC model has been a sustainable land-use model and a critical tool in supporting organized access, use and benefit sharing of communally owned resources among the Turkana and Borana. With the anticipation of mega-projects, communities are increasingly expressing hope and expectations, fears, and contestations about the uncertain future of their land, the conservancy, and pastoral livelihoods. These manifest through the changes in land views explained through the notion of ‘commodification of commons’ where communal land within the conservancy becomes a commodity for exchange in arm’s length market. Consequently, the area has witnessed massive land tenure changes that have also been characterized by pseudoformal land registration arrangements, foreign land acquisitions and privatization, as well as land grabs albeit with manifold layers of contestations and conflicts. Local institutions, referring to informal rules, regulations, norms, and values for conservation of nature, that have hitherto played an instrumental role in governing the commons, are facing new strains given the emerging land tenure issues and coupled political instrumentalization. The rule of the elders, who are the custodians of communal property, are increasingly losing their grasp on local land matters and suffer from the weight of recent institutional innovations and replacement. With the increasing value of land owing to the proposed mega projects, traditional institutions and councils of elders face political pressure to provide “social licenses” to land-related transactions. Findings also showed that indigenous norms and customary expressions, which conservation was pegged on, is under threat following the expectations of modernity promised in the ongoing plans and discussions that present the corridor as a ‘game changer’ in the north. These emerging issues raise critical concerns on the future of a community-based conservation model in the region.
Risks and Perceptions on Human Excreta Disposal Practices among Rice Farmers in Mwea Kirinyaga County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023) Wachira, Ruth Wambui; Simon Mburu
Accessibility to sanitation facilities is an important human right for everyone as well as the basic sign of attaining sustainable development. In Mwea rice irrigation scheme there is presence of Schistosoma mansoni, which is linked to poor human excreta disposal. Since parasite eggs are contained in fecal matter in the intestines, improper excreta disposal causes new infections in the environment. Regulating the infection's propagation depend on social economic status and community knowledge. The objective of this research aimed to investigate risks and perceptions on human excreta disposal practices among rice farmers in Mwea. The specific objectives were: to assess human waste disposal practices among rice farmers in Mwea, to identify the health and environmental risks associated with rice cultivation practices among people employed in rice paddies, and to determine the extent to which the group is conscious of the health hazards associated with excreta disposal activities in rice cultivation paddies. A structured questionnaire was used to assess the human excreta disposal habits, attitudes, and community knowledge of transmission risks. The observation approach was used to determine latrine coverage. This was a cross-sectional analysis that was used convergent mixed - method designs to collect quantitative and qualitative data for future studies. The data were fed into a computer and analyzed with the SSPS program, which enables fast analysis and quantitative data computation. The study provided information on the current state of understanding about the prevention and control of diseases linked to poor human excreta disposal, as well as the measures that would be implemented to address the problem. From the findings it was concluded that farmers from Mwea paddies do not have toilet hence these forces them to dispose their waste within the paddies. The fact that they do not wash their hand regularly after visiting the toilet increases chances of contracting diseases. Most of health workers regularly visit the community for health trainings however there are other many areas that they have not accessed. It was also recommended that they also make sure that strict toilet building and usage guidelines are observed and that every resident uses the rest rooms, whether at home or in pit latrines. The neighborhood's few existing toilets need to be made cleaner in order to decrease the incidence of disease infections. All county residents and farmers need to be made aware of the risks associated with consuming and utilizing untreated water from open water sources. Wells must be well-guarded against contamination, and water taken from open sources like rivers and canals must be thoroughly purified or boiled before use.
Factors Affecting Adoption of Organic Food Production System Amongst Smallholder Farmers in Murang’a County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023) Muriithi, Sarah Nyawira; Joseph K. Muriithi
Organic farming is among the identified sustainable farming systems as it puts into account social, economic and environmental concerns. However, while many countries across the world including Australia, United States, Tanzania and Uganda have shown great interest in organic farming, Kenya still lags behind with approximately 1% of the total farm land using organic farming. The general objective of this study was to investigate factors affecting adoption of organic farming amongst smallholder farmers in Murang’a south region, Murang’a County, Kenya. The specific objectives were (i) to assess the effect of household characteristics on the adoption of organic farming, (ii) to examine institutional support factors which influence the adoption of organic farming and to examine farmers’ perceptions towards organic farming in the study area. The target population were 361 organic and conventional farmers obtained from the list of farmers targeted and working with pro-organic farming organisations namely KOAN, ICIPE and OACK from Gatanga, Kandara and Kigumo sub-counties. Proportionate sampling yielded a total of 189 farmers, both organic and conventional, who participated in the survey as respondents. The research employed household surveys and key informant interviews methods. The research used structured questionnaires and interview schedules to collect information from the farmers and key informants respectively. Key informants included representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Department of Agriculture, local NGOs, organic goods stockists, and organic products marketing companies. Questionnaire responses were successfully collected from 152 participants yielding an overall response rate of 80.4%. Data was coded and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Quantitative data was analysed descriptively and was presented using percentages and frequency distribution tables. For objective one and two, a logistic regression model was fitted to determine the probabilities and the odds of a farmer adopting not adopting organic farming. Qualitative data was organized into coherent categories in line with research objectives. Farm size (P=0.0, -1.602), experience of the farmer (P=0.017, 0.009), the variety of crops grown ( P=0.009, 0.069), were found have a positive effect on farmers’ decision to adopt organic farming or not. Organic farming techniques trained, number of organisations training and of training duration (P=0.000, 3.553) have a positive effect on whether to adopt organic farming. The study found higher adoption in techniques where more training was offered. Variety of trainings, variety of training organisations and training duration (P-value is 0.000) were found to influence the extent (partial or whole farm) to which an organic farmer adopts organic farming. Training was also found to be the most effective way of disseminating organic farming information. While majority of the respondents portrayed a positive perception on sustainable benefits of organic farming, they also had a perception that organic farming is labour intensive, does not improve overall crop yields and market value and it’s difficult to manage pest. The study recommends that pro-organic organizations should give more focus to farmers with smaller farm sizes and greater farming experience to enhance adoption of organic farming (OF). The pro-organic farming organizations should intensify training on OF, providing accurate information on OF transition period, certification, and markets. The perceptions can be positively influenced if pro-organic NGOs and the government can make improvements in availing adequate information. This can be done by intensifying training and advisory services on organic farm management and markets in order to improve the organic farming adoption.
Flood Risk Management For Socio-Economic Development In Loko Community, Adamawa State, Nigeria
(Kenyatta University, 2022) Hadiza, Ndagana Iyami; Samuel O. Ochola; F.L.M. Ming’ate
The goal of flood risk management is to reduce the socio-economic impact and loss of human resources that is caused by floods. Previous researches paid attention to the socio-demographic effects of disasters in general and not on the general flood risk assessment, such as; factors responsible among many others. This study investigates flood risk management for the socio-economic development of Loko Community in Song local government area in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Three main objectives proposed by the study are; to assess the socio-demographic characteristics of Loko Community, examine the level of compliance to flood risk management policies, and evaluate the effectiveness of flood risk management in influencing socio-economic development in Adamawa state. The study investigated the following hypotheses. (i) There are no distinctive socio-demographic characteristics that distinguish people in flood-prone areas from others not affected. (ii) There is no compliance to flood risk management policies in Loko community, Adamawa state, Nigeria. (iii) Flood risk management is not effective in promoting socio-economic development in Loko Community of Song Local Area Government. The study adopted a case study research design and targeted a population of (N=4,200) inhabitants, 800 households, 20 NEMA staff and 40 ADSEMA staff. Paper questionnaire was the main survey tool adopted for collection of data. The study also obtained information through Focus Group Discussions and key informant interviews. For data analysis, the study employed descriptive (descriptive statistics; frequencies and percentages) and inferential (ANOVA) analysis using SPSS version 22. The study found that flood significantly affects the socio-economic condition and livelihoods of the people. The study also found that there is some level of compliance to disaster management and control policy in the community. The study revealed that the main flood challenges in the study community include; inadequate funding for flood risk management, poor community participation, high illiteracy levels and stereotypes within the community. The study recommends that houses should be built using durable materials and away from flood paths. It is essential that houses outside of flood plains will lessen the consequences of flooding. Also, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives should encourage communities to cultivate more on upland by providing financing through the Extension Services to improve food security for households. The number of assistance programs for the impacted should be increased, and the support programs should give priority to viable farmers. The study finds that better and more effective strategies must be created to prepare for and lessen the effects of floods. This is attainable through an inclusive programme that involves all the players of the community. To encourage community engagement in flood risk planning, as well as the creation and application of risk assessment strategies. Furthermore, it is important to address socio-economic issues like poverty, livelihood profile, cultural perspectives, the status of marginalized social groups, and the rights of racial and ethnic minorities immediately.

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