Food Security

Permanent URI for this community

https://repository.nrf.go.ke/handle/123456789/783

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 215

A Comparative study of the household food access by farmers in Farmer Field and Life Schools in Gatanga Constituency, Murang’a County, Kenya
(African scholarly science communications trust, 2019-06) Kimani, AM; Were, GM; Ndege, SK
Many programs have been initiated to assist farmers diversify food production. The Farmer Field and Life Schools (FFLS), an agricultural extension methodology, is an example. Dietary assessment methods are used for nutrition assessments. This study compared household food consumption patterns, by using the Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS) of households who participated in the FFLS at baseline and after intervention and Non-FFLS households in the Gatanga Constituency in Murang’a County. The study was based on a United Nations Joint Program implemented from 2009 to 2013. A comparative cross-sectional design was used in this study to compare FFLS at baseline, after intervention and Non-FFLS households. 112 households (56 for cases and 56 for comparative group) participated in this study. The baseline survey with 390 households was in 2009. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 21. Paired and independent T-Tests were used to determine the difference in the household dietary diversity score between FFLS at baseline and after intervention, and post intervention FFLS and Non-FFLS, respectively. Results show that 42.8% (n=56) of the FFLS households and 28.5% of non-FFLS household respondents were over 50 years of age. 49% of FLS and 11% non FFLS households have incomes ranging from 0-5,000 Ksh. per month, with 41% of FFLS and 32% non FFLS having incomes ranging from Ksh. 5,001- 10,0001 . Mean for Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS) at baseline was 8.16 and Non-FFLS was 8.45. Minimum food groups consumed across all groups were cereals, milk and milk products, oils and fats. Comparing FFLS at baseline and post intervention, the percentage of households consuming all food groups increased with exception of fruits and meat. There was a significant difference (p=0.007 against p<0.0005) in the HDDS when FFLS groups post intervention were compared with their baseline. There was no significant difference (p=0.176, against p<0.0005) in the HDDS between FFLS post intervention and non-FFLS households. Compared with the baseline information, FFLS participants who were of low economic status improved their HDDS. Targeting of vulnerable households to participate in such programs has the potential of improving their HDDS compared with the regular HDDS population. Integration of nutrition in agricultural programs with strong extension systems like the - has great potential to improve access and consumption of diversified foods for vulnerable households.
A demand analysis for Sahiwal breeding animals from the national sahiwal stud (NSS) between 1971 and 2007
(2012) Mailu, Stephen; Ndambiri, Hillary; Ritho, C.; Nganga, S. I.; Miyancha, S. O.; Omboto, P.; Gudeta, Sileshi; Kibowon, Philip
The main objective of this working paper is to trace the development of demand for Sahiwal breeding stock over the period 1971-2007. Such an analysis will enhance our understanding of what has happened on the demand side within the study period. There is only a handful of Sahiwal breeding farms existing in the country, which implies that a particular market structure exists. This paper thus traces the likely evolution of demand and provides some insights on what has happened over the period since 1971. The year 1971 was upon decided as a starting point for the simple pragmatic reason that data for earlier years may not be available. Demand indicators assembled from the records at KARI-Naivasha are used to establish the trends of demand in order to predict the likely trajectory of demand in the near future. Time series analysis of data shows the probability of demand for bulls to have been on a downward trend while for heifers, it has been increasing over time. Also critical in this result is that the probability for heifer crosses is soon catching up with demand for heifers and bulls and given these trends, this may be the animal in greatest demand. Results for average request sizes are mixed with an increase in the size of requests for bulls and heifer crosses until 1990s and a drop in the size of requests since. Some parts of the country also appear to have dropped off, notably Coast Province while others (North Eastern) are rare demand centres. A second part of the analysis, which involves the estimation of models that explain these trends, provides a framework within which the role of important demand shifting parameters such as prices, production systems and distances is determined in greater detail
A virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) system for functional genomics in the parasitic plant Striga hermonthica
(springer, 2014-06-03) Kirigia, Dinah; Runo, Steven; Alakonya, Amos
Striga hermonthica is a hemiparasitic weed that infects cereals in Sub Sahara Africa (SSA) resulting in up to 100% grain yield loss. This significant loss in grain yields is a major contributor to food insecurity and poverty in the region. Current strategies to control the parasite are costly, unavailable and remain unpracticed by small-scale farmers, underscoring the need for more economical and sustainable control strategies. Development of resistant germplasm is the most sustainable strategy in the control of S. hermonthica, but is constrained by paucity of resistance genes for introduction into crop germplasm. RNA interference (RNAi) has potential for developing host-derived resistance against S. hermonthica by transformation of host crops with RNAi sequences targeted at critical Striga genes. The application of RNAi in management of S. hermonthica is however constrained by lack of efficient high throughput screening protocols for the candidate genes for silencing, as well as sub optimal delivery of siRNAs into the parasite. In comparison to stable transformation, viral induced gene silencing (VIGS) is a rapid and powerful tool for plant functional genomics and provides an easy and effective strategy in screening for putative candidate genes to target through RNAi. In addition, VIGS allows for a secondary amplification of the RNAi signal increasing the siRNA threshold and facilitates siRNA transport through viral movement proteins. We tested the efficiency of the Tobacco rattle virus (TRV1 and TRV2) VIGS vectors in silencing S. hermonthica phytoene desaturase (PDS) gene through agrodrench and agro-infiltration.
Acceptability of Amaranth Grain-based Nutritious Complementary Foods with Dagaa Fish (Rastrineobola argentea) and Edible Termites (Macrotermes subhylanus) Compared to Corn Soy Blend Plus among Young Children/Mothers Dyads in Western Kenya
(Canadian center of science and education, 2012-07) Konyole S. O; Kinyuru J N; Owuor B. O; Kenji G. M; Onyango C. A; Estambale B.B; Henrik Friis; Nanna Roos; Owino V.O
Abstract We assessed acceptability of two flours and porridges of complementary foods based on germinated grain amaranth and maize with or without edible termites and dagaa small fish named “Winfood Classic” (WFC) and “Winfood Lite” (WFL), respectively, compared to Corn Soy Blend Plus (CSB+) among mothers and young children. A total of 57 children consumed each of the three foods on separate days with one-day washout between foods. Each food was considered acceptable if the child consumed at least 75% of the serving. Most mothers preferred WFL flour and porridge (63.2% and 70.2%, respectively) compared to WFC (24.4% and 10.5%) and CSB+ (12.3% and 19.3%). Children consuming at least 75% of served porridge were 43%, 19.6% and 21% for WFL, WFC and CSB+, respectively. No adverse effects were observed for all the foods throughout the study period and follow up lasting 4 weeks. All foods were acceptable and can be further developed and be tested for efficacy.
Access to and Use of Agricultural Information by Small Scale Women Farmers In Support of Efforts to Attain Food Security in Vihiga County, Kenya
(Scholarlink research institute journals, 2014) Odini, Serah
Small scale women farmers in Vihiga County are subsistence farmers, who toil to grow maize, beans and traditional vegetables, for their family consumption. But due to the unpredictable weather patterns and inadequate information on modern farming practices, their farming efforts are not assisting towards achieving food security. This study investigated how women farmers in Vihiga County access and use information in their endeavours to attain food security. Specifically, the study sought to establish the farming activities of the small scale women farmers, ascertain their information needs and information seeking habits in enhancing food security, establish information sources, channels, and technologies used by women to access information; identify the challenges women farmers experience while seeking information, and suggest ways for improvement. The study utilized both qualitative and quantitative research approaches where data was collected using semi structured face – to - face interviews supplemented by document analysis. A sample of 150 women of age ranging from 15 - 70 years was interviewed. Data was analyzed qualitatively through descriptions and discussions, and presented through tables. Findings showed that food insecurity is a serious problem among the poor households especially among older women, larger households, members with low education levels, and the unemployed. It was established that women farmers constantly perceived information needs related to their daily activities of farming. The study findings show that these information needs are often not adequately satisfied by the existing information systems and services due to inadequate communication and information infrastructure, low literacy levels, lack of suitable information services, and lack of technical competencies. Based on the findings, the study recommends the improvement of the existing information services, systems, and channels of communication. This initiative is set to empower women farmers in ensuring food security and sustainability while promoting alternative income generating opportunities to make decisions that could have significant impact on poverty alleviation
Access to land and youth involvement in agricultural value chains in Kenya
(International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024-12-18) Rogito, Jeremiah Magoma; Makhanu, Everlyne; Rogito, Jeremiah Magoma; Makhanu, Everlyne
The study investigated the relationship between land accessibility and youth participation in the agricultural value chain in Kakamega County, Kenya. Utilizing a stratified questionnaire for data collection from 240 respondents, chosen through stratified and simple random sampling, the research analyzed data to generate frequencies, percentages, and correlations. Results showed that limited access to land is a significant barrier for youth involvement in agriculture, impacting all stages of the value chain except consumption. This study is novel in its comprehensive analysis of the entire agricultural value chain, from production to consumption, and its focuses on the youth, a crucial demographic in Kenya. The findings highlight the importance of land accessibility for the youth's active participation and the potential economic benefits thereof. The insights are valuable for policymakers and donor organizations in crafting strategies to improve land access for young people, thus enhancing their livelihoods and fostering entrepreneurial growth in the most promising segments of the agricultural value chain.
Advancement and practical applications of rhizobacterial biofertilizers for sustainable crop production in sub-Saharan Africa
(BioMed Central (BMC), 2021-12-13) Aloo, B. N.; Mbega, E. R.; Tumuhairwe, J. B.; Makumba, B. A.
Agricultural intensification continues in Africa in attempts to meet the rising food demands of the equally rising population. However, most arable lands in the region are characterized by nutrient deficiency and over-reliance on synthetic fertilizers which consequently contributes to increased production costs, environmental pollution, and global warming. Decades of research on plant–rhizobacterial interactions have led to the formulation and commercialization of rhizobacterial biofertilizers globally for sustainable soil and crop health. Nevertheless, this promising technology has not received much attention in Africa and remains largely unexplored due to several constraints. This article discusses the practical applications of rhizobacterial biofertilizers for sustainable crop production in sub-Saharan Africa. The challenges of soil infertility and the use of conventional synthetic fertilizers in crop production in Africa are critically evaluated. An overview of the potential of rhizobacteria as biofertilizers and alternatives to synthetic fertilizers for soil fertility and crop productivity in the continent is also provided. The advantages that these biofertilizers present over their synthetic counterparts and the status of their commercialization in the African region are also assessed. Finally, the constraints facing their formulation, commercialization, and utilization and the prospects of this promising technology in the region are deliberated upon. Such knowledge is valuable towards the full exploitation and adoption of this technology for sustainable agriculture for Africa’s food security.
Advances in insects for food and feed
(springer, 2021-09-01) Egonyu, James Peter; Kinyuru, John; Fombong, Forkwa; Ng’ang’a, Jeremiah; Ahmed, Yusuf Abdullahi; Niassy, Saliou
This Special Issue presents the outcomes from the 23rd African Association of Insect Scientists' Conference held in Cote D’Ivoire, in connection with similar initiatives within and outside Africa. Over 65 scientific papers from several countries, worldwide, were submitted, of which about 40 were accepted and published. The issue focused on new advances in the value chain of edible insects in Africa and beyond. An innovative light-emitting diode technology for mass harvesting of edible grasshopper has been developed. The nutrient composition of insects such as the desert locust has been evaluated. Organic waste streams have been found to affect insect productivity and nutritional value. Insect-based feed increases the nutritional quality of poultry meat. Conventional processing methods reduce microbiological hazards in edible insects. Bioaccumulation of heavy metals, excessive microbial loads and pesticides residues threaten safety of some edible insects, if quality control measures are not developed. Climate change will impede availability of edible insects; hence, necessitating upscaling of mass production technologies and sound conservation practices. Safety and hygiene, on the other hand, hamper the acceptability of insects as food and/or feed, particularly in developed countries. Food fortification with insects and isolation of bioactive compounds from them are new highlights in the Special Issue, which were previously under-explored in Africa. The application of modern food processing technology in the development of new products and the medicinal or commercial value derivable from edible insects and their therapeutic functions are excellent opportunities for expanding the sector. Since disgust factors exist, mass sensitisation on the benefits of consuming insects and insect-based products is a must. We believe that the new frontiers on insects for food, feed and other uses that have been presented in this special issue will undoubtedly stimulate more debates and collaborations in the sector within Africa and beyond.
Advances in Phytochemistry, Textile and Renewable Energy Research for Industrial Growth: Proceedings of the International Conference of Phytochemistry, Textile and Renewable Energy for Sustainable development (ICPTRE 2020), August 12-14, Eldoret, Kenya
(Taylor & Francis, 2022-04-07) Charles Nzila, Nyamwala Oluoch, Ambrose Kiprop, Rose Ramkat, Isaac Kosgey
The International Conference on Phytochemistry, Textile, & Renewable Energy Technologies for Sustainable Development (ICPTRE 2020) was hosted by the World bank funded Africa Centre of Excellence in Phytochemicals, Textile and Renewable Energy (ACEII-PTRE) based at Moi University in conjunction with Donghua University, China and the Sino–Africa International Symposium on Textiles and Apparel (SAISTA). The theme of the conference was Advancing Science, Technology and Innovation for Industrial Growth. The research relationships between universities and industry have enabled the two entities to flourish and, in the past, have been credited for accelerated sustainable development and uplifting of millions out poverty. ICPTRE 2020 therefore provided a platform for academic researchers drawn from across the world to meet key industry professionals and actively share knowledge while advancing the role of research in industrial development, particularly, in the developing nations. The conference also provided exhibitors with an opportunity to interact with professionals and showcase their business, products, technologies and equipment. During the course of the conference, industrial exhibitions, research papers and presentations in the fields of phytochemistry, textiles, renewable energy, industry, science, technology, innovations and much more were presented.
Advances in Phytochemistry, Textile and Renewable Energy Research for Industrial Growth: Proceedings of the International Conference of Phytochemistry, Textile and Renewable Energy for Sustainable development (ICPTRE 2020), August 12-14, Eldoret, Kenya
(Taylor & Francis, 2022-04-07)
The International Conference on Phytochemistry, Textile, & Renewable Energy Technologies for Sustainable Development (ICPTRE 2020) was hosted by the World bank funded Africa Centre of Excellence in Phytochemicals, Textile and Renewable Energy (ACEII-PTRE) based at Moi University in conjunction with Donghua University, China and the Sino–Africa International Symposium on Textiles and Apparel (SAISTA). The theme of the conference was Advancing Science, Technology and Innovation for Industrial Growth. The research relationships between universities and industry have enabled the two entities to flourish and, in the past, have been credited for accelerated sustainable development and uplifting of millions out poverty. ICPTRE 2020 therefore provided a platform for academic researchers drawn from across the world to meet key industry professionals and actively share knowledge while advancing the role of research in industrial development, particularly, in the developing nations. The conference also provided exhibitors with an opportunity to interact with professionals and showcase their business, products, technologies and equipment. During the course of the conference, industrial exhibitions, research papers and presentations in the fields of phytochemistry, textiles, renewable energy, industry, science, technology, innovations and much more were presented.
An Economic Analysis of Grain Legumes Profitability in Nandi County, Kenya
(Research in Agricultural & Applied Economics, 2016) Onyango Mercy; OtienoDavid Jakinda; Nyikal Rose Adhiambo; Ojiem John
Grain legumes have great potential for improving smallholder farmers’ productivity in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) though their potential has not been fully exploited due to critical problems including high insect pests and disease infestation. As part of the process of addressing these challenges, the Collaborative Crop Research Program (CCRP) of the McKnight Foundation in collaboration with Cornell University and Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) recently introduced crop and soil enhancing strategies in Western Kenya. One of the strategies introduced included use of multipurpose grain legumes species in Nandi County (Koibem, Kapkerer and Kiptaruswo sites). Through this initiative, various legume species including common bean, cowpea, groundnuts, lablab and soybean of different varieties are being promoted at the farm level. However, no empirical study has assessed the economic benefits that farmers are likely to obtain if they adopt the legume species. In order to address the aforementioned knowledge gap, the present study sought to evaluate economic proftitability from the production of grain legumes. Gross margins and profits were computed from farm-level data gathered from a random sample of 163 legume farmers in the above CCRP sites. Results showed that grain legumes species differed in terms of their gross margins; beans, groundnuts, cowpeas and soybean had positive gross margins while lablab had a .negative gross margin. Further, the farm-area under grain legumes, age of the farmer, access to extension services and access to credit had significant influence on the amount of gross margin obtained by a farmer. The results point to the need for recruitment of more extension staff at local levels to enhance extension service delivery. Also, there is need for the county government to promote credit awareness and establish credit associations, which can boost farmers’ access to credit
Are there systematic gender differences in the adoption of sustainable agricultural intensification practices? Evidence from Kenya
(Elsevier, 2014-12-01) Ndiritu, S. Wagura; Kassie, Menale; Shiferaw, Bekele
This paper uses sex-disaggregated survey data at the plot level to test whether there are systematic gender differences in the adoption of multiple sustainable intensification practices (SIPs) in Kenya. We analyze plot level adoption decisions of SIPs by male, female or joint plot managers within the household, controlling for household characteristics, asset wealth and land quality factors that condition investments in intensification options. Using a multivariate probit model, we find gender differences in the adoption pattern for some SIPs. Compared to male plot mangers, female managers are less likely to adopt minimum tillage and animal manure in crop production, indicating the existence of certain socioeconomic inequalities and barriers for female farmers. However, we find no gender differences in the adoption of soil and water conservation measures, improved seed varieties, chemical fertilizers, maize-legume intercropping, and maize-legume rotations.
Assesing farmer perceptions, attitudes and preferences for tissue culture banana technology in Kenya
(Springer, 2013-01-01) Masinde, J; Obare, Gideon; Owuor, George; Wasilwa, Lusike
Producers' and consumers' preference for production and sell of different TCB fruits is a critical aspect in marketing and is determined mainly by its technological attributes and farmers, farm and institutional factors. The introduction of a Tissue Culture (TC) banana (Musa spp.) in Kenya is subject to farmer and consumer tastes and preferences and the evaluation is critical in enhanced adoption. The purpose of this study was to show farmers' preferences to TCB and the potential challenges for production and consumption of the product. The paper examines the factors that lead farmers' preferences of TCB technology in the four counties of west Kenya. The primary data was collected through a survey using a semi-structured questionnaire. A total of 330 randomly selected farmers using a stratified multistage sampling method were interviewed. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. A three tire multinomial nested logit analysis was carried out to identify the factors that lead farmers' preferences to TCB cultivar preferences. Based on the analysis, six factors were identified as the reasons for preference of TCB technology. The findings indicated that the farm size, sex of household head, educational level, and family size played a significant role in TCB cultivar preferences. These factors need to be utilized in targeting TCB technology dissemination. However, consumers' preference for banana fruits is a critical aspect of marketing and is determined mainly by its sensorial aspects, among other aspects this need to be done. In addition there is need to have more cooking cultivars in tissue culture technology.
Assessing food security among young farmers in Africa: evidence from Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda
(springer, 2023-02-23) Adeyanju, Dolapo; Mburu, John; Gituro, Wainaina; Chumo, Chepchumba; Mignouna, Djana; Ogunniyi, Adebayo; Akomolafe, John Kehinde; Ejima, Joseph
Food insecurity remains a serious challenge for many households in Africa and the situation is even more prevalent among young people. However, there is a dearth of empirical evidence on youth food security status in Africa. We assessed the level and determinants of food security among young farmers in Africa. We adopted a multi-stage sampling technique to select 400, 429, and 606 young farmers in Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda, respectively. Individual food consumption was assessed following a 7 days recall method. The Food Consumption Score, which combines dietary diversity and consumption frequency was used to assess food security status while the determinants of food security were identified using a logistic regression model. Results suggest low dietary diversity across the three countries. Also, the majority of the respondents had an unacceptable food consumption score, suggesting that despite being food producers, young farmers are still food insecure. The odds of being food secure was positively determined by access to extension services, participation in the ENABLE TAAT business incubation programme, and access to market information but, negatively by access to credit, number of employees, Covid-19 pandemic, and location. Additionally, the food security status of young female farmers was positively influenced by age, suggesting that younger youths are less food secure compared to older ones. These results suggest that more efforts should be directed towards improving the food security of young African farmers and that policy- and programme-level interventions should support access to extension services, market information, and land. Additionally, more investments should be directed towards developing need-based agribusiness incubation programmes with an effort to scale existing programmes beyond the regular one-time period.
Assessing Nutrient Intake and Nutrient Status of HIV Seropositive Patients Attending Clinic at Chulaimbo Sub-District Hospital, Kenya
(wiley publishers, 2012) Onyango, Agatha Christine; Walingo, Mary Khakoni; Mbagaya, Grace; Kakai, Rose
Background. Nutritional status is an important determinant of HIV outcomes. Objective. To assess the nutrient intake and nutrient status of HIV seropositive patients attending an AIDS outpatient clinic, to improve the nutritional management of HIV-infected patients. Design. Prospective cohort study. Setting. Comprehensive care clinic in Chulaimbo Sub-District Hospital, Kenya. Subjects. 497 HIV sero-positive adults attending the clinic. Main Outcome Measures. Evaluation of nutrient intake using 24-hour recall, food frequency checklist, and nutrient status using biochemical assessment indicators (haemoglobin, creatinine, serum glutamate pyruvate (SGPT) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV)). Results. Among the 497 patients recruited (M : F sex ratio: 1.4, mean age: 39 years ± 10.5 y), Generally there was inadequate nutrient intake reported among the HIV patients, except iron (10.49 ± 3.49 mg). All the biochemical assessment indicators were within normal range except for haemoglobin 11.2 g/dL (11.4 ± 2.60 male and 11.2 ± 4.25 female). Conclusions. Given its high frequency, malnutrition should be prevented, detected, monitored, and treated from the early stages of HIV infection among patients attending AIDS clinics in order to improve survival and quality of life.
Assessing the determinants of tissue culture banana adoption in western Kenya
(The African Journals Online, 2016-03-17) Wanyama, J. M.; Obare, G. A.; Owuor, G.; Wasilwa, L.
In this study cross-section data was used to analyze the effect of farmers’ demographic, socioeconomic and institutional setting, market access and physical attributes on the probability and intensity of tissue culture banana (TCB) adoption. The study was carried out between July 2011 and November 2011. Both descriptive (mean, variance, promotions) and regression analysis were used in the analysis. A double hurdle regression model was fitted on the data. Using multistage sampling technique, four counties and eight sub-locations were randomly selected. Using random sampling technique, three hundred and thirty farmers were selected from a list of banana households in the selected sub-locations. The adoption level of tissue culture banana (TCB) was about 32%. The results also revealed that the likelihood of TCB adoption was significantly influenced by: availability of TCB planting material, proportion of banana income to the total farm income, per capita household expenditure and the location of the farmer in Kisii County; while those that significantly influenced the intensity of TCB adoption were: occupation of farmers, family size, labour source, farm size, soil fertility, availability/access of TCB plantlets to farmers, distance to banana market, use of manure in planting banana, access to agricultural extension services and index of TCB/non-TCB banana cultivar attributes which were scored by farmers. Compared to West Pokot County, farmers located in Bungoma County are more significantly and likely to adopt TCB technology. Therefore, the results of the study suggest that the probability of adoption and intensity of the use of TCB should be enhanced. This can be done by taking cognizance of these variables in order to meet the priority needs of the smallholder farmers who were the target group. This would lead to alleviating banana shortage in the region for enhanced food security. Subsequently, actors along the banana value chain are encouraged to target the intervention strategies based on the identified farmer, farm and institutional characteristics for enhanced impact on food provision. Opening up more TCB multiplication centres in different regions will make farmers access the TCB technology for enhanced impact on the target population.Keywords: Farmer, Adoption, Tissue culture banana, double-hurdle, model, West Kenya
Assessment and Optimization of Dietary Selenium Intake in Kenya: Exploration of Biofortification as a Solution to the Hidden Hunger
(Ghent University, 2019-01) Ngigi Peter Biu
Selenium (Se) is an element for which trace amounts are essential for life. An adequate Se intake is crucial for antioxidant properties, redox regulation, and thyroid hormone regulation. Dietary Se intake impacts the immune system functioning, the response to viral infection, early growth and development, and the incidence of some cancers. Selenium deficiency therefore results in clinical disorders, many of them recognized today as public health problems globally. Low dietary Se intake is mainly caused by environmental conditions that inhibit soil Se mobility and availability for plants uptake resulting in low Se concentration in foodstuffs, coupled with monotonous diets based on a few staple foods. Yet, the complexity of how these factors interact and the mechanisms causing Se deficiency vary between regions and countries. Understanding these mechanisms is necessary to design suitable solutions and policies to address Se deficiency among affected communities. Selenium deficiency in Africa has previously been reported to be greatest in the East African region at 52%, with Kenya having a low dietary Se availability of 27 to 45 µg capita-1 day-1 and a risk of dietary Se inadequacy of 26 to 75 %. This thesis addressed Se deficiency in Kenya from a human nutrition, food science, environmental chemistry, and agricultural perspective. The main study region is Central Kenya Highlands, characterized by a variety of agricultural soils and a high population density relying on subsistence farming. Chapter 1 contributes to a better understanding of the inherent background of Se deficiency in Kenya. It describes the factors that potentially contribute to the existing risk of micronutrients deficiency. It highlights that food insecurity remains a major problem with 47% of Kenyans not being able to access sufficient food to meet daily nutrients requirements especially in rural areas. This leads to the emergence of micronutrient deficiencies, as reflected in the estimated high risk of dietary Se deficiency. Notably, Se research in the developing world was constrained by analytical limitations related to costs of equipment acquisition and maintenance, and the need for specific instrumental settings and sample preparation procedures not allowing Se to be determined in a same run as other minerals. This explains unavailability of foods’ Se concentration data in local food composition tables (FCTs) and consequently, its exclusion in past national nutrition surveys and interventions. Selenium is therefore not under consideration as part of health-targeted interventions and policies in Kenya.
Assessment of profit efficiency of smallholder potato farmers in Nakuru County, Kenya
(Crop Science Society of America, 2024-11-19) Chemjor, Henry; Mose, Jared; Ngeno, Vincent
The importance of potato (Solanum tuberosum L) production to the country's economic growth is quite clear, but little is known about its profitability and determinants. The current potato yields of smallholder farmers are <10 t/ha, against 40 t/ha achievable under optimum utilization of resources and recommended agronomic practices. The objective of the study was to assess the gross margin (GM) of smallholder potato farmers and estimate their profit efficiency level and influencing factors. A cross-sectional research design and multistage sampling technique were used to obtain a sample of 277 respondents for the study. Results indicated an average GM of Ksh 57,438 per ha per season, implying that potato farming is a lucrative enterprise. Despite this, the study further showed that there are profit inefficiencies in its production process. The average profit efficiency recorded was 43.5%, implying that potato farmers can potentially increase their profits up to 56.5%. Profit efficiency was found to increase significantly with access to extension and credit services, education level, non-farm income, and membership in farmer groups, while decreasing significantly with farmer age. Apart from optimizing the use of farm inputs, the profit efficiency of smallholder potato farmers can thus be improved by enhancing farmer education and extension service delivery, formulating favorable credit strategies that will make loan acquisition easier for potato farmers, and encouraging farmers to join farmer groups in order to benefit from economies of scale.
Assessment, views and challenges of zinc and iron fortification of locally milled maize flour sold in Nairobi, Kenya
(Moi University, 2020) Mutuma, Ireen Kathure
Introduction: Low nutrient intake of Zinc and Iron is a global problem affecting the health and social economic wellbeing of world population. There is an advocacy for food fortification as one method of dealing with these two serious micronutrient deficiencies. Kenya has not been left behind. A legal notice of June 2012 made fortification of maize flour with zinc and iron mandatory for all maize millers. Limited studies have been done to evaluate compliance to the Kenyan gazette notice on micronutrient fortification standards for maize flour. Objectives: Assessment of Iron and Zinc concentration in maize flour, consumers views and miller challenges on fortification of locally milled maize flour, sold in Nairobi, Kenya. Methods: A cross sectional survey approach was used. The study was carried out in Nairobi County, Kenya. 35 Samples of fortified maize flour were randomly purchased to give a representative sample. Atomic Absorption Spectrometry was used to analyze amounts of Zinc and Iron in the maize flour samples. 384 consumers were interviewed from Nairobi County. Four maize flour millers and a Kenya Bureau of standards personnel responded to the questionnaire. Zinc and iron levels were compared against recommended fortification standards. Data on consumers was extracted, entered on excel spreadsheet and imported into R statistical software package for analysis. Data is presented in prose, charts, and tables. Results: From the study, of the 35 samples analyzed, overall, 14.29% of the samples met the minimum legal requirement of zinc and iron. The amount of iron ranged between1.08 ppm to 19.02 ppm against a minimum of 15ppm, the amount of zinc ranged from 10.64ppm to 56.25ppm against a minimum of 20ppm. Pearson’s correlation between zinc and iron fortification, was negative at a coefficient of 0.487787. Of the respondents who had knowledge on fortification, 61 % were female. There existed a positive relationship (p-value = 0.0248) between knowledge of fortification and age bracket. Consumers believed fortification improved their health at 66%. Major reasons given for fortification non-compliance were corruption and cost at 40% and 30% respectively. Although the media played a major role in creating fortification awareness at 41 %, 62.9% of respondents were not aware of the mandatory maize flour fortification with Iron and Zinc. Of the four millers interviewed, it was clear, there are no government incentives to support the mandatory fortification. Conclusion: The study showed that Maize flour available for public consumption in Nairobi County is not adequately fortified. Consumer knowledge on mandatory fortification to be increased. Millers are not adequately prepared to fortify maize flour adequately. Recommendations: The fortification process to be integrated into the overall food safety mechanisms to ensure conscious and constant monitoring during production. Consumer awareness to be created on the benefits of consuming fortified foods. The government to routinely publish the list of products that are complying and taking disciplinary actions on milers who do not comply. Government incentives such as subsidized costs of laboratory analysis would ensure increased monitoring.
Assessment, views and challenges of zinc and iron Fortification of locally milled maize flour sold in Nairobi, Kenya
(Moi University, 2020-10) Mutuma, Ireen Kathure
Introduction: Low nutrient intake of Zinc and Iron is a global problem affecting the health and social economic wellbeing of world population. There is an advocacy for food fortification as one method of dealing with these two serious micronutrient deficiencies. Kenya has not been left behind. A legal notice of June 2012 made fortification of maize flour with zinc and iron mandatory for all maize millers. Limited studies have been done to evaluate compliance to the Kenyan gazette notice on micronutrient fortification standards for maize flour. Objectives: Assessment of Iron and Zinc concentration in maize flour, consumers views and miller challenges on fortification of locally milled maize flour, sold in Nairobi, Kenya. Methods: A cross sectional survey approach was used. The study was carried out in Nairobi County, Kenya. 35 Samples of fortified maize flour were randomly purchased to give a representative sample. Atomic Absorption Spectrometry was used to analyze amounts of Zinc and Iron in the maize flour samples. 384 consumers were interviewed from Nairobi County. Four maize flour millers and a Kenya Bureau of standards personnel responded to the questionnaire. Zinc and iron levels were compared against recommended fortification standards. Data on consumers was extracted, entered on excel spreadsheet and imported into R statistical software package for analysis. Data is presented in prose, charts, and tables. Results: From the study, of the 35 samples analyzed, overall, 14.29% of the samples met the minimum legal requirement of zinc and iron. The amount of iron ranged between1.08 ppm to 19.02 ppm against a minimum of 15ppm, the amount of zinc ranged from 10.64ppm to 56.25ppm against a minimum of 20ppm. Pearson’s correlation between zinc and iron fortification, was negative at a coefficient of 0.487787. Of the respondents who had knowledge on fortification, 61 % were female. There existed a positive relationship (p-value = 0.0248) between knowledge of fortification and age bracket. Consumers believed fortification improved their health at 66%. Major reasons given for fortification non-compliance were corruption and cost at 40% and 30% respectively. Although the media played a major role in creating fortification awareness at 41 %, 62.9% of respondents were not aware of the mandatory maize flour fortification with Iron and Zinc. Of the four millers interviewed, it was clear, there are no government incentives to support the mandatory fortification. Conclusion: The study showed that Maize flour available for public consumption in Nairobi County is not adequately fortified. Consumer knowledge on mandatory fortification to be increased. Millers are not adequately prepared to fortify maize flour adequately. Recommendations: The fortification process to be integrated into the overall food safety mechanisms to ensure conscious and constant monitoring during production. Consumer awareness to be created on the benefits of consuming fortified foods. The government to routinely publish the list of products that are complying and taking disciplinary actions on milers who do not comply. Government incentives such as subsidized costs of laboratory analysis would ensure increased monitoring

Browse

Browsing Food Security by Title

Results Per Page

Sort Options