Sustainable Land Management

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A “win-win” scenario: the use of sustainable land management technologies to improve rural livelihoods and combat desertification in semi-arid lands in Kenya
(South Eastern Kenya University, 2014) Mganga, Kevin Z.; Musimba, Nashon K. R.; Nyariki, Dickson M.; Nyangito, Moses; Mwang’ombe, Agnes W.
Dryland ecosystems support over 2 billion people and are major providers of critical ecosystems goods andservices globally. However, desertification continues to pose a serious threat to the sustainability of the drylandsand livelihoods of communities inhabiting them. The desertification problem is well exemplified in the arid andsemi-arid lands (ASALs) in Kenya which cover approximately 80% of the total land area. This study aimedto 1) determine what agropastoralists attribute to be the causes of desertification in a semi-arid land in Kenya,2) document sustainable land management (SLM) technologies being undertaken to improve livelihoods andcombat desertification, and 3) identify the factors that influence the choice of the sustainable land management(SLM) technologies. Results show that agropastoralists inhabiting the semi-arid lands in southeastern Kenyamainly attribute desertification to the recurrent droughts and low amounts of rainfall. Despite the challengesposed by desertification and climate variability, agropastoralists in the study area are using a combination of SLMtechnologies notably dryland agroforestry using drought tolerant species (indigenous and exotic), grass reseedingusing perennial native and drought tolerant grass species (vegetation reestablishment) and in-situ rainwaterharvesting to improve livelihoods and by extension combat desertification. Interestingly, the choice and adoptionof these SLM technologies is influenced more by the additional benefits the agropastoralists can derive fromthem. Therefore, it is rationale to conclude that success in dryland restoration and combating desertification lies inprograms and technologies that offer a “win-win” scenario to the communities inhabiting the drylands.
AN ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF TRAFFIC CONGESTION AND EFFECTIVENESS OF DECONGESTION MEASURES IN NAIROBI, KENYA
(University of Eldoret, 2014) Nzai, Charles Chama
Traffic congestion is a wasteful phenomenon to businesses, society, environment and the economy as a whole. Its effects include delayed travel times, reduced productivity and business opportunities, accidents, frustrations, stress and pollution. This study analyzed the economic impacts of traffic congestion and effectiveness of different decongestion measures in Nairobi city, Kenya. Identification of study variables relied on theories and principles from welfare economics, congestion management; stakeholder participation; measuring impacts of traffic congestion; and, Contingent Valuation Method (CVM). Data was collected through questionnaires administered to the city’s motorists, interviews with key informants, observations and secondary data sources. Descriptive statistics, mathematical computations and counterfactual analysis were used to analyze the data. Regression analysis was used to model the relationship between motorists’ Willingness-to-Pay (WTP) for traffic decongestion program and their socio-economic characteristics. Results showed that the city’s congestion is due to continuously increasing number of vehicles without effective corresponding long-term congestion management strategies. Its related wastages were estimated as Ksh 146.5 billion and Ksh 16.7 billion annually in terms of delays and wasted fuel respectively. CVM results showed an average monthly motorists’ WTP of Ksh 1387 totaling to Ksh 8.3 billion annually interpreted as the total value of some benefits of reducing congestion in the city. Regression results also showed that motorists’ income, cost of running cars, price of cars and their perceptions on Government’s role in infrastructural projects were statistically significant at 5% in explaining their WTP bids. Bypass roads were found to minimally have a 7.5% impact in curbing congestion. The expansion of Thika Road and Syokimau commuter train service was estimated to have saved motorists Ksh 80 billion and Ksh 117.03 billion annually, respectively in terms of delays and wasted fuel. Phasing out of 14-seater PSV per se is ineffective in alleviating congestion and has potential of crippling the city’s public transport. With an effective payment machinery, the WTP values show the potential of funding the expensive decongestion programs using Nairobi city’s own resources. Decongestion programs should entail amongst others redesigning of the city’s land use policy in relation to congestion management strategies and parking management policy; introduction of congestion pricing schemes; development of new and modification of road infrastructure; encouraging use of public transport through introduction of consultative BRT systems; improving traffic operations; and, establishing a single agency that shall manage and coordinate efforts on the problem instead of relying on numerous government institutions with disjointed roles. There is need to cascade such research in other growing towns within the county to share experiences and develop national statistics on the problem.
Assessment of land use and land cover change in Makueni County for selected time periods
(South Eastern Kenya University, 2017-03-27) Kebenei, Mercy C.
The surface of the earth is undergoing rapid land use and land cover changes (LULCC) due to various socio-economic activities and natural phenomena. The main aim of this study was to gain a quantitative understanding of LULCC in Makueni County between 2000 and 2016, and analyze the relationship between these changes and their possible underlying drivers in the County. ArcGIS 10.3.1 and ERDAS IMAGINE 2014 were used for the digital image processing and GIS analyses. Image pre-processing and enhancement were done to prepare the images for classification. Supervised classification technique was used to sort and define spectral signatures in the imagery for different land use and land cover (LULC) classes that were identified. Ground truthing was done so as to check the precision of the classified LULC maps. Change detection analysis was performed to assess the class- to- class conversions and change in areal coverage between identified LULC classes between time intervals under study. Accuracy assessment was performed to determine overall, producer’s and user’s classification accuracies. The study area was defined to have seven LULC categories, which were: Built up areas, water bodies, croplands, evergreen forests, bushlands, grasslands and barelands. The results revealed both increase and decrease in the areas of the LULC classes from 2000 through to 2016. Evergreen forest decreased from 3105.8 km2 in 2000 to 1373.0 km2 in 2016 while built up areas increased from 160.7 km2 in 2000 to 644.5 km2 in 2016. Possible drivers of the observed changes ranged from climatic factors such as rainfall and drought to socio-economic factors. Since the results reveal that LULCC has occurred in Makueni County, the study recommends that consistent LULC mapping should be carried out in order to establish trends that will enable resource managers to project realistic change scenarios helpful for natural resource management.
Assessment of the effects of land use methods contributing to watershed degradation in Makueni County
(South Eastern Kenya University, 2016-02-02) Kieti, Raphael N.
Land use changes, rapid population growth, poverty, climate change variability and lack of livelihoods diversification aggravate watershed degradation through inappropriate land use methods resulting to water scarcity, land and water pollution, and governance issues. Soil erosion and siltation has led to land denudation, habitat loss and farm lands losing their soil fertility and compromising food security. The main objective of the study was to find out how land use methods influenced the biophysical, socio-economic and institutional conditions to accelerate watershed degradation and their effects on livelihoods. The study examined the livelihood strategies and options of the people as well as the socio-economic conditions contributing to watershed degradation, investigated the land use methods practiced and how they affect the biophysical conditions influencing watershed degradation in Makueni County and determined the institutional conditions influencing watershed degradation. In order to achieve this ultimate objective, the study used a descriptive survey research approach to obtain data on socio-economic characteristics of the study sites as well as historical trends of land use. Systematic sampling along a vertical transect line was used to identify respondents. Structured and semi- structured questionnaires were used to collect data from the community and key informants. The data collected was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel 2010.The study established that Low food production as reported by the farmers (78%) and reduced income and livelihood by (75%), were consequences of watershed degradation in the study area. Landlessness at 39% (S.E=0.311 z= 1.311 sig.0.190), illegal encroachment at 18% (S.E=0.555 z= -0.604 sig.0.546), and laxity in law enforcement at 27% (S.E=0.481 z=0.227 sig. 0.821) were other factors mentioned by the farmers as contributing to watershed degradation. These conditions predisposed farmers to adopt inappropriate farming methods and unsustainable livelihood strategies which compromised the watershed’s environmental integrity. The study sought to make recommendation for efficient watershed management.
Comparative assessment of landslide susceptibility by logistic regression and first order second moment method: Case study of Bujumbura Peri-Urban Area, Burundi.
(Journal of Engineering Research and Application, 2018-08-24) Shirambere, Gervais; Nyadawa, Maurice O.; Masekanya, Jean pierre; Nyomboi, Timothy
Several landslides incidents in the Bujumbura region are reported regularly by independent sources. However, few studies on the causes in the region have been conducted and no record of susceptibility map at a regional exists. In this study, two different approaches are applied to map landslide susceptibility in the region. The physical approach is based on mohr-coulomb failure criterion and is applied using a probabilistic approach, the first order second moment method. The statistical approach is based on logistic regression. The study has two objectives: (i) to map landslide susceptibility in the region and (ii) to compare the results of the different approaches. Applying the two approaches in a GIS framework, two susceptibility map are produced. The accuracy of the two models is independently assessed using ROC and AUC curves. A comparative analysis of the results is conducted and the results shows a fair spatial correlation. The susceptibility maps are compared using rank differences and ArcSDM and a spatial comparison map of susceptibility levels is produced.
DRIVERS OF GULLY EROSION: CASE STUDY, NAROK COUNTY, KENYA
(International Journal of Social Science and Technology, 2017-04) Konana, Charity; Gachene, Charles; Mburu, David; Mureithi, Stephen; Gicheru, Patrick; Khalif, Zeinabu
Soil erosion is a serious issue in Arid and Semi-Arid lands and affects community livelihoods and soil conservation efforts. The objective of this paper is to assess drivers of gully in Narok County, Kenya. The driving forces of soil erosion can lead to gradual loss of the adaptive capacity of the soil and its ecosystem.Agricultural intensity without soil conservation measures is linked to greater water erosion. Overgrazing is one of the main drivers of gully erosion in rangelands. Global warming puts more regions at high risk of gully erosion in the future. The projected scenario (2030) showed an increase in the area under shrubland, cropland and close natural forest and a decrease in grasslands and open natural forest in Narok County. This indicates overgrazing and deforestation will reduce vegetative cover resulting in increased runoff in the County.Further research in land use changes such as change in scale and intensity needs to be done particularly in the arid and semi- arid areas. More soil erosion studies that take into account socioeconomic factors are required. Projected land use and land cover change and climate scenarios are also needed particularly in relation to gully erosion.
Dynamics of Land Use Changes on the Livelihood of Local Communities in Baringo County: Effects of Land Use Changes
(International Journal of Agricultural Economics, 2021-12-29) Edward, Kateiya; Thuo, Aggrey; Ombok, Maurice
This paper examined the effects of land use changes on the livelihood of the local communities in Baringo County. Land is a principal factor of production, a source of life and livelihoods. It provides a means of living and a variety of uses such as agricultural, human settlement, environmental conservation, urban and industrial development purposes among others. These uses compete for space in a fixed area, hence the rising land use conflicts and degradation. The situation has threatened lives and livelihoods, making it difficult to plan for the livelihood activities in Baringo County. This is happening against the backdrop of land use policy changes including; the National Land Policy, the Constitution of Kenya 2010, the Land Act, 2012, the Land Registration Act, 2012, the Community Land Act, 2016 and the National Land Use Policy that confers sanctity on land use. Using non-experimental survey design, 323 households were randomly sampled from Baringo South, Tiaty, Baringo North and Eldama Ravine Constituencies. Cobb-Douglas production model was used to analyze livelihood assets productivity. The study found out that land use changes decreased livelihood assets productivity at varied level of significance; human by 56.1% at 1%, physical by 53.4% at 10% and financial by 65.6% at 5% level. This decrease is related with the unregistered community land in dry areas (pastoral) largely in Tiaty constituency, where livelihood assets productivity decreased by 282.4% at 5%, and in the marginal areas (agro-pastoral) largely in Baringo South, where livelihood assets productivity decreased by 9% at 1% level of significance. In contrast, land use changes increased livelihood assets productivity in the highlands, particularly, in Eldama Ravine constituency, it increased by 139.3% at 10%, and in Baringo North Constituency, it increased by 5.1% at 1% level of significance. This increase in livelihood assets productivity in the highlands was associated with security of land tenure under registered private land use. The study concluded that unregistered community land is the main cause of unstable and uncertain livelihoods in Baringo County particularly in dry areas. The effects led to severe land use conflicts occasioning deaths, displacement and distorted livelihood perpetuating uncertain conditions for future livelihood development. The government, therefore, need to recognize, protect and register the local communities’ interest on community land. This will guarantee land tenure security, enhance livelihood assets productivity and secure future development for the local communities.
Dynamics of Land Use Changes on The Livelihoods of The Local Communities in Baringo County: Understanding The Drivers
(International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 2021-09-09) Kateiya, Edward Lekaichu Ole; Thuo, Aggrey Daniel Maina; Ombok, Maurice Ochieng
This paper examined the dynamics of land use changes on the livelihood of the local communities in Baringo County. Land is a principal factor of production, a source of life and livelihoods. It provides a means of living and a variety of uses such as agricultural, human settlement, environmental conservation, urban and industrial development purposes among others. These uses compete for space in a fixed area, hence the rising land use conflicts and degradation. The situation has threatened lives and livelihoods, making it difficult to plan for the livelihood activities in the County. This is happening against the backdrop of land use policy changes including; sessional paper no 3 of 2009 on the National Land Policy, the Constitution of Kenya 2010, the Land Act, 2012, the Land Registration Act, 2012, the Community Land Act, 2016 and sessional paper no 1 of 2017 on National Land Use Policy that were intended to alleviate the situation. This situation is now a major threat to the livelihood of the local communities in Baringo County. This study, therefore, sought to examined the dynamics of land use changes on the livelihood of the local communities in Baringo county with specific objective to establish the drivers of the changes. A comprehensive desk review of existing literature was done, and land use changes were descriptively analyzed. The review spanned from pre-colonial (before 1895), colonial (1895 to 1963), independence (1963 to 2010) including the subsequent years of land reforms following the promulgation of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 onwards to 2020. The study found that the key drivers of land use changes originate from the change of land use policies from customary to European-like systems during the colonial era (1895 to 1963). These drivers revolve around the conflicts in the application of land use policies and laws, dual production system (different land use for registered private land in arable areas and the unregistered community land in non-arable areas within the county) occasioning wide productivity gap and economic disparity. Further the knowledge gaps associated with colonial perceptions, ideologies, and attitudinal practices, which led to misconception and wrong policies aggravated the situation. The consequences disorganize the local community land use and social system, broke down the traditional grazing and cropping patterns, depleted soils fertility & degraded the environment. In addition, the study found out that in the unregistered community land, land use conflicts were rampant, and characterized by invaded and claim interest as well as unscrupulous legal manipulation of land ownership records leading to dispossession. These two salient features are the main drivers of land use changes that led to continuous and frequent fatal inter-ethnic land use conflicts among the local communities; causing displacement and destruction of property among other atrocities working against politically weak local community. This scenario destabilized livelihood possibilities making it difficult for local communities to engage in basic livelihood activities and create uncertainty for future development. The study concluded that the security of land tenure perpetrates land use conflicts particularly in the unregistered community land. The government, therefore, need to register the community land to enhance land tenure security in the county.
Ecological restoration of pastoral landscapes in the drylands of East Africa
(Acadamic Journals, 2021) Githae, E. W; Mutiga, I. M.
The East African drylands cover about 47% of the land surface and host about 20 million people. Rural people living in the drylands are mainly pastoralists who depend on livestock for both economic and social well-being. During the dry season, pastoralists apply strategic mobility to access grazing resources efficiently. However, this strategy has experienced change and constraints due to various demographic- and climate-related challenges. Pastoral lands have been cleared for large-scale agriculture while pastoralists have shifted towards agro-pastoralism. This has eroded many dryland trees and forests leading to environmental degradation. This review discusses important indigenous trees that can be utilized in ecological restoration of drylands as well as providing ecosystem goods and services. These include trees for gums and resins (Acacia, Commiphora and Boswellia), indigenous fruit trees (IFTs) (Adansonia digitata, Tamarindus indica and Balanites aegyptiaca), trees for wood (Melia volkensii and Terminalia brownie) and fodder (Acacia tortilis and Faidherbia albida). They are not only drought-tolerant but also have minimal disruption to the ecosystem. Various dryland restoration strategies and constraints are also discussed. For successful establishment, seedling planting should be integrated with other appropriate practices such as natural regeneration, silviculture and enrichment planting for sustainable dryland management.
EFFECT OF FARM SUCCESSION ON COFFEE PRODUCTION IN KISII COUNTY KENYA
(ESci Journals Publishing, 2014-10) Ngeywo, Javan; A, Shitandi; Basweti, Evans; Aming'a, Nemwel
Coffee is the world's most consumed drink next to water and second most traded commodity to oil. It is fourth GDP earner and employs 600,000 households in Kenya. Coffee production is dependent on various aspects of agronomic practices and farm succession. However, little information exists on the effect of farm succession on coffee production. Coffee farmers are elderly (Average 55 years), and reluctant to release coffee farms to the new generation, leading to reduced adoption of new technologies and reduced coffee production from 130,000 MT in 1989 to 50,000 MT in 2012 despite its profitability and opportunity of expansion. The objective of the research study was to establish the effect of farm succession on coffee production in Kisii County. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were employed to obtain quantitative and qualitative data using structured questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussion and case studies on a sample of 227 respondents from a population of 69,000 coffee farmers. Research data were analyzed using descriptive and Pearson correlation statistics at 5% significance level, with aid of SPSS and Microsoft excel programs and results reported using tables, charts and descriptions. The research findings indicated a weak significant correlation between farm succession and coffee production, P>0.05, average production of 1.77 kilograms of cherry and standard deviation of 3.23. The research findings are aimed at filling policy gaps by encouraging agricultural extension practitioners to encourage the youth to participate in coffee farming and encourage the elderly farmers to mentor the youth to take up farming. The coffee farmers need to be encouraged to widen the choice of farm successors beyond family members and beyond gender imbalance in order to encourage spurring of coffee production, thus increasing production and profitability.
Effects of Land Use/Land Cover Change and Rainfall Variability on Hydrological Characteristics of River Ruiru Watershed, Kiambu County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2021) Waithaka, Ann
Watersheds and their water resources are highly vulnerable to land use/land cover changes and seasonal rainfall variability as they directly influence basin hydrological characteristics in terms of water quantity and quality. This study assessed the effects of land use/land cover change and rainfall variability on hydrological characteristics of River Ruiru watershed in Kiambu County. The study integrated the use of remote sensing, Geographic Information System (GIS), water quality sampling, hydrological modelling and statistical methods to collect and analyse the collected data. Results of land use/land cover change analysis indicated that built-up areas, annual crops and perennial crops (tea and coffee) increased by 3.068%, 35.848% and 11.493% respectively between 1976 and 2017. However, it was observed that perennial crops increased gradually between 1976 and 1995 but declined by 1.94% between 1995 and 2017. Grassland, shrubland and forestland declined by 7.48%, 13.25% and 29.79% respectively between 1976 and 2017. Consequently, Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model simulation results indicated that the land use/land cover changes that occurred in River Ruiru watershed between 1984 and 2017 had effects on the quantity of river discharge and water quality for drinking purposes. Surface runoff (SURQ), lateral flow (LATQ) and groundwater contribution to discharge (GWQ) increased from 30.25mm/yr, 8.48mm/yr and 9.95mm/yr to 181.25mm/yr, 11.44mm/yr and 10.66mm/yr respectively. Moreover, the nitrates in surface runoff (NO3SURQ), nitrates in lateral runoff (NO3LATQ), Organic Nitrogen (N.ORG) and Organic Phosphorus (P.ORG) increased from 0.05kgN/ha/yr, 0.06kgN/ha/yr, 5.77kgN/ha/yr and 0.87kgP/ha/yr to 1.47kgN/ha/yr, 0.19kgN/ha/yr, 70.60kgN/ha/yr and 8.86kgP/ha/yr respectively. In additions, findings from the study indicated that temporal rainfall variability had effects on the quantity of river discharge and water quality of River Ruiru. Based on regression analysis, the correlation between the observed and predicted value of dependent variable indicated an association of R=0.972 between temporal rainfall variability and quantity of river discharge hence showing a strong positive linear relationship. Similarly, Pearson’s correlation analysis results showed that temporal rainfall variability was strongly and positively correlated to NO3, N.ORG and P.ORG with R=.695, p<.001; R=.781, p<.001 and R=-.780, p<.001. Furthermore, results from a paired sample t-test indicated that pH, turbidity, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), electrical conductivity and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) had higher mean during wet season (M=8.40, M=79.00, M=51.20, M=87.00 and M=54.20) than in dry season (M=6.80, M=11.60, M=43.40, M=73.00, and M=45.40). The difference for these water quality parameters between dry and wet seasons was significant (P=0.003, P=0.034, P=0.005, P=0.013 and P=0.014). Moreover, findings from the study indicated that DO, TDS, electrical conductivity, total phosphorus and total nitrogen values were within World Health Organization (WHO) and National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) recommended values. However, the results for the total coliforms and E. coli indicated that River Ruiru was severely polluted with faecal organisms. In conclusion, land use and land cover changes and temporal rainfall variability have affected the quantity of river discharge and water quality in River Ruiru watershed. As such, remedial actions to address the hydrological effects of land use/land cover change and temporal rainfall variability both by national and county governments are required.
Effects of tillage depth and speed on drawbar power and performance of disc and Mouldborad ploughs in silt loam soil
(Egerton University, 2019-09-25) Alele, Joseph Odero
A research was carried out at the Ngongongeri Farm Kenya to determine effects of tillage depth and speed on drawbar power and performance of disc and mouldboard ploughs so as to develop a mathematical model that would assist farmers, machinery managers and policy makers to properly match implements to tractors and the size of tractors to import based on soil types and conditions. The implements used were a standard 2-bottom mouldboard plough and a 3-bottom disc plough. Tillage depths used were 6.5 cm, 12.5 cm and 22.5 cm while the forward speeds were 1.3 km/h, 2.3 km/h and 3.0 km/h with the width of both implements fixed at 80 cm. Preliminary field studies of soil parameters were conducted and the analysis of parameters showed homogeneity hence a completely randomized design was used. Two tractors were used with a digital pull dynamometer located in between the tractors to take the readings of draught at various depths and speeds of tillage. The measured draught was used to calculate the drawbar power and specific power. The results showed increase in drawbar power with increase in tillage depth and forward speed at all the levels of the parameters tested for both the ploughs used with mouldboard plough having higher values of power requirement at all levels of the parameters investigated. The specific drawbar power increased with increase in forward speed and decreased with tillage depth for the implements used. Mathematical models were developed to predict specific drawbar power given by: Ys  0.27 X1  X 2  0.13X 3 and Ys  0.41X1  3.43X 2  0.15X 3 for disc and mouldboard ploughs respectively based on depth (X1), speed (X2) and width of cut (X3). The predicted values from the models fitted well to the measured values with some minimal residuals, hence can be used in matching of these implements to tractors in silt loam soils. Soil pulverization ratio increased with increase in speed while trench specific resistance decreased with increase in tillage depth. Mouldboard plough had better soil inversion at all levels of interaction between speed and depth of tillage as compared to disc plough. The results of the study showed that the mouldboard plough had better performance in terms of soil slice inversion and pulverization as compared to the disc plough at all levels of the factors tested. Therefore, based on the tillage power and specific power disc ploughs should be encouraged to minimize the cost of tillage. While looking at the field in terms of performance in primary tillage then shallow mouldboard tillage should be encouraged to take advantage of good inversion properties.
Estimation of direct runoff and sediment yield in an AgNPS-GIS link: Case of river Njoro catchment in Kenya
(LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing, 2013-01-01) Otieno, Hesbon
Most catchments in the developing world are ungauged due to the high cost of instrumentation involved and are therefore not monitored. However, lack of data from these catchments can not be an excuse for lack of proper management and hence data from these catchments is still needed for their management as well as design of structures in these areas. This book illustrates how direct runoff and sediment yield can be estimated in an AgNPS model-GIS link. A case study of the river Njoro catchment in Kenya is used and the results show a possibility of using the method in cases where in-situ measurements are lacking, so long as the model input parameters are accurately determined. Professionals in hydrology, environment and engineering fields or anyone else who may be involved in hydrological modelling will find this book useful.
Evaluation of Spatio-Temporal Soil Moisture Variability in Semi-Arid Rangeland Ecosystem, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
(Journal of Engineering Research and Reports, 2021-09-02) Kapkwang, Charles C.; Onyando, Japheth O.; Kundu, Peter M.; Hoedjes, Joost
Aim: To evaluate the spatio-temporal soil moisture storage and retention capacities in semi-arid rangeland ecosystem, Maasai Mara National Reserve (MMNR), Kenya Study Design: Randomized complete block design (RCBD) of reference Cosmic Ray Neutron Sensor (CRNS) station, ten-(10) spatially distributed (soil moisture and temperature capacitance) probes (5TM-ECH20) sites. Place and Duration of Study: Kenya, MMNR, the oldest natural semi-arid rangeland ecosystem and globally unique for the great wildebeest migration, between May 2017 and April 2019. Methodology: Soil moisture (SM) variation data was collected using (CRNS) at spatial and point-scale 5TM-ECH2O probes, and gravimetric water content from (10) spatially distributed stations. Both CRNS and 5TM-ECH2O probes were used to monitor near-real time moisture levels at different soil layers ranging between 0-5cm, 5-10cm, 15-20cm, 35-40cm, and 75-80cm. Soil physical and chemical properties were laboratory analyzed. Calibration and validation datasets were obtained from 5TM-ECH2O probe and gravimetric soil samples extracted from respective layers and sites.
FACTORS INFLUENCING ADOPTION OF AGROFORESTRY PRACTICES AMONG RURAL HOUSEHOLDS IN NAMBALE DIVISION, BUSIA COUNTY, KENYA
(University of Eldoret, 2013) Mugure, Agnes Sorre
The Kenyan government has throughout its history come up with ambitious agricultural policies and strategies seeking to enhance agricultural production and performance as a tool to improve the livelihood of majority of its citizens that are rural-based. After nearly 20 years of agroforestry research in the country, smallholder farmers that are often faced with low crop production, soil erosion, scarcity of fuel wood and fodder, would be expected to adopt agroforestry practices. However, there seems to be low rate of adoption. The main objective of the study was to examine factors that influence the adoption of agroforestry practices in Nambale Division, Busia County. More specifically, the study sought to examine the types of agroforestry practices that exist in the area, to assess farmer-oriented factors that influence adoption of agroforestry practices, to examine technical factors (biophysical conditions, tree varieties, skills, knowledge) that influence adoption of agroforestry, to assess community oriented factors (socio-cultural) that influence the adoption of agroforestry practices, and to evaluate the benefits of agroforestry farming practices to households in Nambale Division, Busia County. This study was guided by the Agroforestry Decision Making Theory by Rene Koppelman and James H. French (1996). According to the theory, adoption of agroforestry by farmers at the household level is a decision making process that is influenced by various sets of factors: on-farm and off-farm factors. The target population was the farmers while households were the units of analysis. Purposive sampling was used to select the study area and the key informants, while simple random sampling technique was used to select the 200 respondents that participated in the study. A semi-structured questionnaire, key informant interviews, informal discussions and direct observation were used for data collection. Data was analyzed both qualitatively (through descriptions and narratives) and quantitatively (through descriptive statistics). Results indicated that agrisilviculture, boundary planting and trees in homesteads were the common agroforestry practices; level of education, land ownership, land size, gender and household headship influenced the decision to adopt agroforestry practices; lack of technical information on agroforestry and/or contradicting information, land limit, limited sources of information including low extension services, and lack of seeds also influenced adoption of agroforestry practices at the household level. Results also indicated that belief and use of specific agroforestry species influenced their adoption. Results further showed that most household engaged agroforestry practices for environmental, medicinal, economic and livelihood benefits. The study concluded that although agroforestry benefitted farmers, they would gain more if they improved on the current agronomic practices. The study recommends provision of various information sources to farmers and training on agroforestry practices that would optimize benefits for the households.
Impact of human activities on land degradation IN Lugari sub- county, Kakamega county, Kenya
(E3 Journals, 2016-10-27) Wanjala, Wanyonyi; Kinyanjui, Mwangi
This study investigated the impact of human activities on land degradation in Lugari Sub-County, Kakamega County in Kenya. The study sought to analyze the extent of land degradation; identify the causative factors for land degradation and analyze the effect of implemented land conservation measures and propose sustainable land use options in Lugari Sub-County. The study used four Landsat satellite images; A Multi Spectral Scanner (MSS) of 1973, Landsat Thematic Mapper, TM of 1988, Enhanced Thematic Mapper, ETM of 2003 and Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus, ETM+ of 2010 to develop time series land use and land use change maps of Lugari Sub-County. Data was confirmed by historical data and ongoing human activities from a socio economic survey and secondary sources. Soil erosion, soil fertility loss and pollution of the environment were associated with land use change. Correlations and regression were used to identify the human activities that have significant contribution to land cover change. Findings revealed that poor cultivation methods and traditional livestock grazing methods are the major factors contributing to land degradation. The study proposes the adoption of modern agricultural technologies to meet the nutritional, developmental and energy demands of the rural communities and ensures sustainable productivity of the land.
IMPACTS OF RESOURCE USE CONFLICTS ON FOOD SECURITY IN NYANDO WETLANDS, KISUMU COUNTY, KENYA
(University of Eldoret, 2016-05-19) RABURU
Nyando Wetlands are a multi-use resource that provides the riparian community with a range of interrelated environmental functions and socio-economic benefits, which support a variety of livelihood strategies. This study set out to assess the impacts of resource use conflicts on food security in Nyando Wetlands, Kenya. The study evaluated the changes in wetland resources between 1982 and 2012, the types and causes of conflicts associated with wetland resource use, and to establish the relationship between resource use conflicts and food security among communities living in Nyando Wetlands. The study was carried out between February and April, 2012, and used various participatory techniques to collect data, including in-depth household interviews with 384 randomly selected wetland resource users. Key Informant Interviews (KII), Focused Group Discussions (FGD) and direct observations were used in extracting information on underlying relationships between changing wetland resources, conflicts and food security. Secondary data from published and unpublished materials was reviewed to complement primary data. The data was entered and analyzed using SPSS Version 20 and results tested at 5% level of significance using Descriptive Statistics, Nominal Logistic Regression, Cluster Analysis and Spearman Correlation. The indicators for wetland degradation were wetland resources like fish, vegetables, birds, animals, insects, and water. The results show that most of the resources used as food by the community such as fish (90%), vegetables (81%) and some animals (63%) which were abundant in the wetland had reduced between 1982 and 2012 by 20%, 8%, and 18% respectively due to anthropogenic activities. The same applies to wetland plants used as building materials, fuel wood, fencing, animal feed, medicinal purposes, making fish traps, ropes, furniture, mats and brooms. Three major types of conflicts were recorded. Human-human conflicts arose mainly due to land disputes (61%), human-wildlife conflicts arose mainly from crop destruction (79%) while conservation-resource utilization conflicts were attributed to overdependence on the wetland resources by the riparian community. Generally, as the conflicts increased, food production decreased. Floods, drought and human pressure leading to overdependence on the Nyando Wetlands resources were significantly (p < 0.05) the major cause of conflicts that led to reduced food production. It is recommended that a comprehensive wetland management plan be developed to ensure sustainable exploitation of wetland resources. The Nyando Wetlands community should also be empowered to embrace wise use principles (importance of maintaining a balance between wetland utilization and maintenance of ecosystem diversity) through education and awareness creation to minimize conflicts and enhance food security for improved community livelihood. Policies should also be put in place at the Kisumu County level to conserve Nyando Wetlands biodiversity which plays a major role in food security.
Object-based land use/land cover change detection of a coastal city using Multi-Source Imagery: a case study of Lagos, Nigeria
(South African Journal of Geomatic, 2020-09-06) Idowu, Temitope Ezekiel; Waswa, Rose M.; Lasisi, Kayode; Nyadawa, Maurice; Okumu, Victoria
In the wake of the burgeoning population, socio-economic and environmental issues facing coastal areas, LULC change detection has become an essential tool for environmental monitoring towards achieving sustainable development. In this study, an object-based image analysis approach using post-classification comparison technique was applied for assessing the LULC of the coastal city of Lagos from 1986 to 2016. The study describes how satellite imagery from different sources (Landsat and SENTINEL 2A) can be successfully integrated for Land use Land cover change detection. The results show that between 1986 and 2016, there were net increases in bare areas, built-up areas, and shrublands and a general decline in forestlands, waterbodies and wetlands. Over 60,000ha cover (approx. 190% increase) was converted into built-up areas while 83,541ha (835.4km2) of forestland were lost, suggesting high rates of urbanization and corresponding deforestation. About 60% loss of wetlands was also observed in the same time period. The decrease in water bodies and a steady increase in bare and built-up areas are possibly due to the prevalent land reclamation activities in the study area. Higher rates of deforestation and increase in bare areas were observed from 2001 to 2016 in comparison to 1986 to 2001. The observed trends are likely to continue, and for future management actions, predictive studies are suggested to provide more empirical evidence.
Optimizing community participation in the management of Yala Wetland Ecosystem, Lake Victoria Basin, Kenya: The Yala Hub Framework
(African Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 2022-01-31) Odero, Douglas O.; Odenyo, Victor A. O.
Wetlands are particularly important environmental assets whose sustainability requires meaningful participation of the riparian communities in their management. Yala Wetland is an important resource whose key challenges involve land and water resource use for competing interests which prompted Siaya and Busia County regional Governments to initiate preparation, a Land Use Plan (LUP)/Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) to resolve these. A LUP/SEA Framework with Yala Project Advisory Committee (YPAC) for local communities guided the planning process and implementation. Concurrently, an action research was conducted to assess the level and effectiveness of Yala Wetland community participation in the SEA/LUP processes and improve the outcomes. Research data was derived from 410 respondents from 60 local community groups, 34 key informant interviews, 187 students and satellite images. The Spectrum of Public Participation Model revealed that wetland communities’ participation was at lower levels (Inform (17%) and Consult (83%) while the measure of effectiveness on 10 indicators were poor (20%) and unsatisfactory (80%) thus not meaningful nor effective. Consequently, Yala Hub Framework was developed, occasioning significant improvements in the final LUP. The study concluded that effective community participation determines and influences effective implementation of decisions made and that increased participation through deliberate intervention will eventually increase the effectiveness of community development and encourage long-term sustainability. Key words: Yala Hub Framework, community participation, strategic environmental assessment, land use planning, wetland.
Phytochemical analysis and antifungal activity of Tithonia diversifolia and Kigelia africana extracts against Fusarium oxysporum in tomato
(Acadamic Journals, 2021-05-31) Awere, C. A.; Githae, E. W.; Gichumbi, J. M.
Fusarium wilt can cause severe losses in many vegetables and flowers, field crops and plantation crops. The main method for controlling Fusarium wilt is through chemical methods which have the disadvantage of polluting the environment and are expensive. Thus, there is a need for more environmentally friendly and cheaper techniques for controlling Fusarium Wilt. This study screened the phytochemical compounds of two plant extracts; Tithonia diversifolia and Kigelia africana and assessed their potency in controlling plant fungal pathogen F. oxysporum, which causes fusarium wilt in tomatoes. The phytochemical analysis revealed that the two plant extracts contained saponins, tannins, terpenoids, flavonoids, glycosides and phenolics except alkaloids and steroids which were only found in T. diversifolia. The mean inhibitory zones ranged from 7.93 to 10.44 mm for T. diversifolia at 25 to 100 g/l. The mean inhibitory zones for K. Africana ranged from 12.07 to 15.56 mm at 25 to 100 g/l. K. Africana extracts had the highest inhibitory (antimicrobial) activity. Combining both extracts was more effective compared to the single extract. The effect of the combined plant extract and positive control was statistically significant (p < 0.05). This study provides scientific evidence that K. africana and T. diversifolia extract possess antifungal activity and can be used as a broad-spectrum in managing microbial diseases. Key words: Plant extracts, phytochemical screening, antimicrobial and antifungal properties, Fusarium oxysporum.

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