Food Safety(Aflatoxin-Studies)

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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.
Aspergillus population diversity and its role in aflatoxin contamination of cashew nuts from coastal Kenya
(PLOS one, 2025-01-24) Colletah Rhoda Musangi1,2, Bicko Steve Juma2 , Dennis Wamalabe Mukhebi1,2, Everlyne Moraa Isoe1 , Cromwell Mwiti Kibiti3 , Wilton Mwema MbindaID1,2*
Cashew nuts are among the main cash crops in coastal Kenya, due in large part to their high nutritional value. Unfortunately, they also make them highly susceptible to mold contamination, resulting in biodeterioration of the nutritional value and potential contamination with toxic secondary metabolites, such as aflatoxins, that cause them to be rejected for sale at the market. We determined the population diversity of the Aspergillus species and their role in aflatoxin contamination in cashew nuts in selected coastal regions of Kenya. Fifty raw cashew nut samples were collected from post-harvest storage facilities across three counties in Kenya’s coastal region and examined for moisture content and the presence of Aspergillus fungi. About 63 presumptive isolates were recovered from the cashew nuts. ITS and 28S rDNA regions were sequenced. The aflD, aflM and aflR genes were amplified to identify the potentially aflatoxigenic from the Aspergillus isolates. The Aflatoxins’ presence on the isolates was screened using UV and the ammonia vapour test on coconut milk agar and validated using ELISA assay. A comparison of cashew moisture content between the three counties sampled revealed a significant difference. Sixty-three isolates were recovered and identified to section based on morphological characters and their respective ITS regions were used to obtain species identifications. Three sections from the genus were represented, Flavi and Nigri, and Terrei with isolates from the section Nigri having slightly greater abundance (n = 35). The aflD, aflM and aflR genes were amplified for all isolates to assess the presence of the aflatoxin biosynthesis pathway, indicating the potential for aflatoxin production. Less than half of the Aspergillus isolates (39.68%) contained the aflatoxin pathway genes, while 22.22% isolates were aflatoxigenic, which included only the section Flavi isolates. Section Flavi isolates identification was confirmed by calmodulin gene. The presence of species from Aspergillus section Flavi and section Nigri indicate the potential for aflatoxin or ochratoxin in the cashew nuts. The study established a foundation for future investigations of the fungi and mycotoxins contaminating cashew nuts in Kenya, which necessitates developing strategies to prevent infection by mycotoxigenic fungi, especially during the storage and processing phases.
Chia Oil Adulteration Detection Based on Spectroscopic Measurements
(MDPI, 2021-08-04) Monica Mburu, Clement Komu, Olivier Paquet-Durand, Bernd Hitzmann and Viktoria Zettel
Chia oil is a valuable source of omega-3-fatty acids and other nutritional components. However, it is expensive to produce and can therefore be easily adulterated with cheaper oils to improve the profit margins. Spectroscopic methods are becoming more and more common in food fraud detection. The aim of this study was to answer following questions: Is it possible to detect chia oil adulteration by spectroscopic analysis of the oils? Is it possible to identify the adulteration oil? Is it possible to determine the amount of adulteration? Two chia oils from local markets were adulterated with three common food oils, including sunflower, rapeseed and corn oil. Subsequently, six chia oils obtained from different sites in Kenya were adulterated with sunflower oil to check the results. Raman, NIR and fluorescence spectroscopy were applied for the analysis. It was possible to detect the amount of adulterated oils by spectroscopic analysis, with a minimum R2 of 0.95 for the used partial least square regression with a maximum RMSEPrange of 10%. The adulterations of chia oils by rapeseed, sunflower and corn oil were identified by classification with a median true positive rate of 90%. The training accuracies, sensitivity and specificity of the classifications were over 90%. Chia oil B was easier to detect. The adulterated samples were identified with a precision of 97%. All of the classification methods show good results, however SVM were the best. The identification of the adulteration oil was possible; less than 5% of the adulteration oils were difficult to detect. In summary, spectroscopic analysis of chia oils might be a useful tool to identify adulterations
Determinants of Stunting and Overweight among Young Children and Adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa
(SAGE Publications, 2014-06-01) Keino, Susan; Plasqui, Guy; Ettyang, Grace; van den Borne, Bart
BackgroundStunting and overweight are nutritional problems affecting most of sub-Saharan Africa. The region now has the world's highest rate of stunting among children (43%), while overweight and obesity are becoming a global epidemic, and Africa is not spared. The past two decades have seen a dramatic increase in obesity in sub-Saharan Africa.ObjectiveThe purpose of this systematic review is to explore the determinants of stunting and overweight in sub-Saharan Africa.MethodsA literature search was conducted in PubMed using the key words stunting, overweight, obesity, Africa, sub-Saharan Africa, determinants, and prevalence. Limits were set to include articles published between 1990 and 2012. The systematic review resulted in 38 studies, and after selection based on title, content, and country of the study, 18 studies were eligible for this review. Data were analyzed by the chi-square test.ResultsThe prevalence rates of stunting and over-weight were dependent on socioeconomic, demographic, and environmental factors. Many studies indicate that male children and those living in a rural setting are more likely to be stunted, whereas overweight among children depends more on age, household composition, occupation of the mother, and the mother's body mass index. Stunting occurred together with overweight among both boys and girls from 1 to 5 years of age. Stunting was more prevalent among boys than among girls. Indicators of socioeconomic status, such as mother's education, mother's occupation, and household income, were some of the determinants directly linked to stunting, whereas environmental factors, such as rural or urban setting and sanitation, influenced both stunting and overweight. Concurrent stunting and overweight is influenced by maternal and household factors, such as maternal height, age, and education, large household size, and lower socioeconomic status.ConclusionsAlthough socioeconomic, demographic, and environmental factors were significant in determining stunting and overweight, other factors, such as nutrition and lifestyle, were important risk factors. Stunting in childhood is a risk factor that may result in overweight and obesity later in adolescence and adulthood, indicating the need to screen children below 1 year of age to identify stunting early in life. Promoting exclusive breastfeeding is reported to be important in preventing both stunting and overweight among children. More research is needed to explore the relationship between stunting and overweight and to explore policy guidelines to address the phenomenon.
Determination of Optimum Conditions for Enzymatic Debranching of Cassava Starch and Synthesis of Resistant Starch Type III using Central Composite Rotatable Design
(WILEY ONLINE LIBRARY, 2009-07-13) Christopher Mutungi; Onyango Calvin; Jaros Doris; Henle Thomas; Rohm Harald
Cassava starch was debranched by treatment with isoamylase and pullulanase and the yield of resistant starch type III (RS III) optimized with respect to starch solids concentration (7.5-15%, w/v), incubation time (8-24 h) and enzyme concentration using central composite rotatable design. Higher concentrations of pullulanase (10-35 U/g starch) compared to isoamylase (30–90 mU/g starch) were required to give a similar degree of starch hydrolysis within the experimental domain. A clear debranching end-point was identifiable by following the reducing value, blue value and β-hydrolysis limit of cassava starches debranched using isoamylase. It was difficult to define a debranching endpoint of pullulanase treatment by these parameters due to contaminating α-D-(1→4) activity. The yield of RS III was significantly higher in isoamylolysates and increased steadily with increasing degree of hydrolysis to peak at 57.3%. Purification of the debranched material further increased the RS III yield to 64.1%. Prolonged (24 h) hydrolysis of cassava starch with high concentration of pullulanase (35 U/g) gave lower RS III contents in the purified (34.2%) and unpurified (36.2%) hydrolysates compared to 49.5 and 62.4%, respectively, at moderate pullulanase concentration (22.5 U/g) and incubation time (16 h).
Draft genome sequence of 16 Aspergillus flavus isolated from cashew nuts from coastal Kenya
(American society for microbiology, 2024-09-09) Pauline Wambui Gachanja1,2, Manase Aloo Onyango1,2, Colletah Rhoda Musangi1,2, Bicko Steve Juma2, Dennis Wamalabe Mukhebi1,2, Eugene Mwanza Muzami1,2, Kyalo Katua1,2, Wilton Mwema Mbinda
Aspergillus flavus is a soil-borne fungus known for its aflatoxin contamination of agricultural products. Here, we report the draft genome sequences of 16 predicted aflatoxin-producing A. flavus isolated from cashew nuts from coastal Kenya.
Draft genome sequence of two Aspergillus aculeatus isolated from cashew nuts from coastal Kenya
(American Society for microbiology, 2024-09-16) Manase Onyango Aloo,1,2 Pauline Wambui Gachanja,1,2 Eugene Mwanza Muzami,1,2 Kyalo Katua,1,2 Dennis Wamalabe Mukhebi,1,2 Colletah Rhoda Musangi,1,2 Bicko Steve Juma,2,3 Wilton Mwema Mbinda1,2
Aspergillus aculeatus is a common saprophyte and ubiquitous fungus belonging to section Nigri. They produce diverse secondary metabolites which are important in biological processes and industrial applications. We present the draft genome sequences of two A. aculeatus isolated from cashew nuts from coastal Kenya.
Drivers of Scale and Sustainability of Food Safety Interventions in Informal Markets: Lessons from the Tanzanian Dairy Sector
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 2023-08-30) Kinyua, Charity; Thebe, Vusilizwe
Food safety is critical but poorly addressed in African countries. A food safety training and certification intervention piloted in Kenya, India, Tanzania, and Nigeria was scaled and sustained in India but not the African countries. There is limited knowledge about how contextual factors facilitated or limited the scale and sustainability of the intervention in African countries. This research analysed the reach and contextual drivers of scale and sustainability of the intervention in Tanzania’s informal dairy sector four years post-implementation to draw lessons around the scale and sustainability of such interventions in African contexts. We utilized a convergence mixed method study design. We compiled data using document review, surveys with dairy traders, and key informant interviews with key dairy stakeholders. The intervention reach was limited. Critical incentives for traders and intervention implementers to engage with the intervention were lacking due to the absence of government commitment to support the intervention through policy. The traders and intervention implementers also lacked adequate capacities, compromising intervention delivery. For the intervention to achieve scale and sustainability in Tanzania and similar contexts, governments must be committed to food safety and provide enabling policy environments. The interventions must also consider the capacities of the beneficiaries and implementers.
Effect of Cropping Systems on Accumulation of Fusarium Head Blight of Wheat Inocula in Crop Residues and Soils
(Journal of Plant Sciences, 2016-04-15) Njeru N.K.; Muthomi J.W.; Mutegi C.K.; Wagacha J.M.
Fusarium head blight (FHB) is an economically important disease of wheat, which causes reduction in grain yield both quantitatively through reduced seed weight and qualitatively by contaminating grains with mycotoxins. The effect of cropping systems on accumulation of FHB inocula in crop residues and soil was assessed at hard dough stage of wheat during the 2013 cropping season in three agro-ecological zones in Narok County, Kenya. A semi structured questionnaire was used to obtain information on wheat production practices. Fusarium spp. were isolated from crop residues and top soil, while incidence and severity of FHB were assessed at mid-anthesis. Majority of the wheat farmers were small scale producers who rotated wheat with maize, grew the two crops in adjacent fields, grew wheat in consecutive years, left wheat residues as standing hay for livestock and practiced simple land preparation methods. Prevalence of FHB was 100%, while mean incidence and severity were 20.7 and 28.4%, respectively. The most frequently isolated Fusarium spp. were F. chlamydosporum and F. graminearum in crop residues and F. oxysporum and F. proliferatum in soil. The incidence of Fusarium spp. in soil and crop residues was highly correlated to FHB incidence but not to severity of the disease. Wheat production practices affect the survival of Fusarium spp. in soil and crop residues between cropping seasons. It is therefore, recommended that after harvesting, wheat straw and maize stover should be removed from the field or be incorporated into the soil through tillage to allow faster decomposition. Inclusion of maize as a rotation crop in wheat production should also be avoided.
Effect of Cropping Systems on Accumulation of Fusarium Head Blight of Wheat Inocula in Crop Residues and Soils
(Academic Journals Inc., 2016-12-21) Njeru, N.K.; Muthomi, J.W.; Mutegi, C.K.; Wagacha, J.M.
Fusarium head blight (FHB) is an economically important disease of wheat, which causes reduction in grain yield both quantitatively through reduced seed weight and qualitatively by contaminating grains with mycotoxins. The effect of cropping systems on accumulation of FHB inocula in crop residues and soil was assessed at hard dough stage of wheat during the 2013 cropping season in three agro-ecological zones in Narok County, Kenya. A semi structured questionnaire was used to obtain information on wheat production practices. Fusarium spp. were isolated from crop residues and top soil, while incidence and severity of FHB were assessed at mid-anthesis. Majority of the wheat farmers were small scale producers who rotated wheat with maize, grew the two crops in adjacent fields, grew wheat in consecutive years, left wheat residues as standing hay for livestock and practiced simple land preparation methods. Prevalence of FHB was 100%, while mean incidence and severity were 20.7 and 28.4%, respectively. The most frequently isolated Fusarium spp. were F. chlamydosporum and F. graminearum in crop residues and F. oxysporum and F. proliferatum in soil. The incidence of Fusarium spp. in soil and crop residues was highly correlated to FHB incidence but not to severity of the disease. Wheat production practices affect the survival of Fusarium spp. in soil and crop residues between cropping seasons. It is therefore, recommended that after harvesting, wheat straw and maize stover should be removed from the field or be incorporated into the soil through tillage to allow faster decomposition. Inclusion of maize as a rotation crop in wheat production should also be avoided.
Effect of Natural Capital on Food Security among Smallholder Tea Farmers in Bomet County, Kenya
(British Journal of Applied Science & Technology,, 2022-08-18) Korir, Augistine K.; Omboto, Peter; Musebe, Richard
Health and well-being of the general population, children's growth, development, and cognitive ability as well as the productivity of the workforce are all negatively impacted by food insecurity. In tea growing regions, there are records of high malnutrition, high morbidity rates, and low farm productivity and low incomes. The study aimed to describe the effect of natural capital on food security among smallholder tea farmers in Bomet County, Kenya. The study was guided by Entitlement Theory. The study adopted mixed approach design entailing exploratory design and explanatory research design. All the registered 16572 tea farmers in selected tea growing regions were the target population for this study. Multi-stage purposive and random sampling techniques were used to select a sample size of 391 smallholder tea farmers in Bomet County. Instruments of data collection included questionnaires, key informants, interviews, focus group discussions and direct observations. The Cronbach Alpha value was used to test the instrument's reliability. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 26 was used to analyze the data in both descriptive and inferential ways. Thematic analysis and tables were used to present the findings from the study's qualitative data. The study findings revealed that there was effect of natural capital on food security. The study recommends that the government should subsidize tea farm inputs such as fertilizers and seeds. Organize farmers into SACCOs to enable them access farm inputs, credit facilities and market for their produce. Both national and county governments should improve road networks so as to help access food markets and also sale of farm produce.
Efficacy of Plasma Technology in Eliminating Fungi and Aflatoxins in Maize in Makueni and Baringo Counties, Kenya
(University Of Nairobi, 2022) Hannah Mugure Kamano
Maize (Zea mays var. indentata L.) is the most important food security crop in Kenya and plays an important role in human nutrition. Over the years, there has been increased concern over the rising cases of aflatoxin poisoning in Kenya due to contaminated maize especially in Eastern and North Rift parts of the country. This has led to huge losses not only in the country’s breadbasket areas but also in the national grain reserves. Aflatoxins are fungal toxic metabolites that naturally contaminate food and feed. Exposure to aflatoxins is associated with various cancers, suppressed immunity, retarded growth, mutations, and aggravation of other existing conditions such as HIV among others. Plasma technology presents a possible solution. Plasma is electrically energized matter in gaseous form that is generated at different conditions of temperature, pressure and ionization power. Low temperature plasma is an emerging technology that is finding space in the food industry particularly in decontamination processes. Use of plasma at low temperature makes the decontamination process practical, inexpensive and suitable for products where high temperatures are not desired. The main objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of plasma technology in destroying fungi and aflatoxins in maize in Makueni and Baringo counties in Kenya. The specific objectives were: to determine the influence of knowledge, attitude and practices of farmers on aflatoxin contamination of maize in Makueni and Baringo counties in Kenya, to determine the influence of postharvest practices and storage conditions on aflatoxin contamination in maize in the two counties, to isolate and characterize the fungi responsible for contamination in both counties and finally to determine the efficacy of plasma technology in destroying fungi and aflatoxin in maize. A convergent mixed method study design that combined quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques was used for the knowledge, attitude and practices study. The data collection methods included interviewing, using a pretested questionnaire, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. To screen the aflatoxin levels in the maize samples from both counties, 144 samples were randomly collected and subjected to the ELISA technique for quantitative detection of aflatoxin B1, B2, G1 and G2. Confirmatory test for the ELISA positive samples was carried out using HPLC analysis. Isolation of fungal strains was done using rose bengal selective media which contained chloramphenicol thereby suppressing bacterial growth. Isolated strains were characterised based on their phenotypic characteristics on the plate and microscopic techniques. Finally, the efficacy of Low temperature nitrogen plasma (LTNP) in destroying fungi and aflatoxin was studied using an experimental design generated using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) of the Box Benken Design (BBD) of the Design Expert software (StatEase, 2020). Independent factors were exposure time, pressure and ionization power whilst percent reduction in both the fungal load and aflatoxin level were the response variables. The results of the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) study revealed a significant difference in the knowledge of factors contributing to aflatoxin contamination in maize. Socio-economic and demographic factors were linear predictors of knowledge (R2=0.76, p<0.001), whereas they had no effect (R2=0.043, p=0.076) on the attitude of the maize farmers. Farmers indicated poorly dried maize and poor storage conditions as the main causes of aflatoxin contamination. The aflatoxin analysis on the maize showed that Makueni County had the highest percentage of aflatoxin positive samples with up to 174 ppb. The type of storage condition had a significant effect on the extent of contamination and accounted for 11% of the variation (R2 =0.11). Gunny bags were the most common type of storage condition and had the highest level of contamination in both counties whilst metallic bins had the lowest contamination. Strains of Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus terreus and Aspergillus parasitucus were positively identified after characterization of the isolated strains. Finally the RSM linear model predicted the reduction in fungal load and aflatoxin content with F-values of 7.22 and 15.89 respectively (P ≤ 0.01). An increase in exposure time and pressure lead to a corresponding decrease in the fungal load and aflatoxin content. Ionization power did not have a significant effect on both response variables. For optimisation of the detoxification process, the RSM model supported process settings of time at 153.58 seconds, pressure of 0.98 Pascals and ionization power of 194.82 Watts. The findings lead to the conclusion that more awareness creation, training of farmers on good agricultural practices, enhanced market surveillance and laboratory services are needed to educate farmers and the general public on dangers related to exposure to aflatoxins. The type of storage condition significantly affects the aflatoxin level in stored maize, proper drying of maize and storage in hermetic structures offers the best method to prevent aflatoxin contamination. Finally, plasma is efficacious in destroying aflatoxins and fungi in the maize to a reduction of 68.78% and 33.89 log (cfu/g) for aflatoxin content and fungal load, respectively. Further the research recommends encompassing temperature as an independent variable in the RSM model to fine tune optimisation parameters.
Evaluation of the Mineral Composition of Chia (Salvia Hispanica L.) Seeds from Selected Areas in Kenya
(Canadian Center of Science and Education, 2023-03-16) Pauline W. Ikumi , Monica Mburu, Daniel Njoroge, Nicholas Gikonyo & Musingi Benjamin M
Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) seeds are gaining popularity among consumers and food processors, particularly in food fortification. Consequently, there has been an increased need to determine the mineral composition of chia seeds cultivated in different regions to ascertain their potential in various food applications. In this study, 20 chia seeds samples obtained from farmers practicing commercial farming of chia seeds in selected areas in Kenya during the two main chia seed planting seasons (April-August 2019) and (September-December 2019) were analyzed for their mineral content using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Values of sodium and potassium were determined using a Flame photometer using sodium chloride (NaCl) and potassium chloride (KCl) as the standards, while phosphorus was determined using the Vanodo-molybdate method. Chia seeds samples studied revealed the most predominant minerals as phosphorus (531 to 889 mg/100g), calcium (478 to 589 mg/100g), potassium (343 to 526 mg/100g) and, magnesium (322 to 440 mg/100g). The general linear model (GLM) used to determine the coefficient of variation on all chia seed growing sites showed that calcium, iron, and magnesium are the best-performing chia minerals in Kenya and hence should be the minerals of interest in food fortification using chia seeds.
Factors influencing farmers’ access to the market on food produced on urban and peri-urbanareas of Kericho County, Kenya
(Journal of agriculture and veterinary science, 2021-11-20) Rotich, Richard K.; Kibett, Joash; Kere, George M.
Many households are consistently turning to Urban and Peri-urban food production for consumption andcommercial purposes. However, there is limited research, if any, that has been conducted to explore theinfluence of farmers’ access to the market on the food produced in this areas. A descriptive research design wasused in this study that examined factors influencing farmers access to the market on the food produced on urbanand peri-urban areas of Kericho County of kenya. The targeted population was a total of 3487 Urban and periurban agriculturalists in Kericho County. A sample of 341 Urban and peri-urban agriculturalists was sampledusing stratified random sampling and simple random sampling methods. Data was collected using a structuredand unstructured feedback form. Data werethen analysed using frequencies and proportion while hypotheseswere confirmed using Chi-square at 0.05 alpha level. Descriptive and inferential statistics were calculatedusing SPSS Software Version 21.0. The study concluded that access to market directly correlate with householdfood security in Kericho County.The study also recommends that farmers should be educated on the need toaccess the markets directly within their locations. It further recommends that the county government ofKerichoshould establish a good market network for farmers by identifying markets for local production. Finally,comparative research studies should be conducted among different counties in Kenya to find out on how urbanand peri-urban farmers are accessing market for their produce. This is because the present study concentratedonly on towns within Kericho County.
Farmer centered large scale e-surveillance and control of crop pests in Kenya
(2017) Awuor, Fredrick Mzee; Otanga, Sarah Atenya
With advancement of mobile technology and the property of mobile phones of being ubiquitous and pervasive, innovative applications in agriculture that are context specific and individualized to farmers’ needs can now be developed. This is because mobile phone based agricultural innovations are readily leveraged to provide farmers with information ranging from farm preparation and pre-harvest to post harvest and farm produce marketing. In this regard, this paper proposes a farmer centric pest e-surveillance solution framework, a digital platform that uses mobile devices, image processing and crowdsourcing to assist smallholder farmers in low income countries to effectively identify and control crop pest invasion, and to connect them with local agro-vet stores and extension service providers for assistance. This way, we can assist small holder farmers in rural Africa to learn about crop pests, to detect and respond to pest invasion, and to control the effects of such pest invasion by providing timely, accurate, relevant and readily consumable information in the local languages of the farmers. This also makes it easy to perform large-scale pest surveillance in the rural farming community
Farmers’ perceptions and coping strategies with sweet potato weevil and characterization of sweet potato genotypes for diversity and resistance to cylas puncticollis boheman in kenya
(2018) Ochieng, Lilian Anyango
Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) contributes significantly to food security and income of subsistence farmers in Kenya. However, productivity of the crop is constrained by several biotic, abiotic and socio-economic factors. Amongst the biotic constraints, insect pests such as the sweet potato weevil (Cylas spp.) cause significant yield losses. However, in Kenya, there is limited information on farmers’ perception and management of Cylas spp. and on diversity among cultivated sweet potato genotypes. The objectives of this study were to: (i) Assess farmers’ perceptions and coping strategies to the sweet potato weevil; (ii) Analyze variation among selected sweet potato genotypes using agro-morphological, molecular and nutritional characters, and; (iii) Screen selected sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L.) genotypes for resistance to the sweet potato weevil. Firstly, participatory rural appraisal approach was conducted in the year 2012 in Homa Bay County where 269 farmers were interviewed on farmers’ perceptions and coping strategies against the sweet potato weevil (Cylas spp.). This study revealed that Cylas spp. was the most problematic (93.3%) pest. Many farmers (90.7%) were not aware of sweet potato genotypes that had field resistance to Cylas spp. The most commonly used methods by farmers to manage Cylas spp. were reridging during weeding (21.2%) followed by covering exposed roots with soil (12.6%). Secondly, field experiments were conducted on-station in 2014 at two sites (ATC - Miyare and -KALRO Embu) using 68 sweet potato genotypes arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design. Data were recorded on variation in agromorphological, molecular and nutritional characters. On the basis of quantitative agromorphological traits, Analysis of variance revealed significant (p≤0.05) differences among sweet potato genotypes. Genotypes Nyautenge (16.82 t/ha) and Kemb 10 (17.04 t/ha) had the highest average root yield at ATC Miyare and KALRO Embu respectively while, genotypes 56682-03 (0.84 t/ha) and K/KA/2004/215 (1.07 t/ha) had the least average root yield at ATC -Miyare and KALRO -Embu respectively. The genotypes were variable in respect to all qualitative traits studied. Both quantitative and qualitative based dendrograms did not group the genotypes according to geographical area of origin or shared names. On molecular approach, 13 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were used to determine genetic relationship among the sweet potato genotypes. The SSR markers were highly polymorphic (0.2723) and cluster analysis divided the genotypes into two major groups. However, the genotypes did not form specific groups according to geographic regions or shared names. Nutrionally, the genotypes significantly (p≤0.0001) differed in dry matter, root protein, root carotenoids, root sucrose and root starch contents but dendrograms did not group the genotypes in relation to their origin or shared names. Genotype Nyautenge had a stable high yield (16.82 t/ha at ATC -Miyare and 15.23 t/ha at KALRO -Embu) and high dry matter content (40.14% at ATC -Miyare and 32.26% at KALRO -Embu) at both sites. However, the same genotype rated very low in other equally important nutrients like total carotenoids and sucrose contents at ATC -Miyare and KALRO -Embu. Genotypes Kenspot 1, Saly boro, 91/2187, 9 Nduma, Kenspot 3 and Kenspot 2 had high dry matter contents at both sites and hence recommended for inclusion in future breeding xix programmes. Thirdly, fifty-one selected sweet potato genotypes were evaluated for their resistance to Cylas punticollis Boheman (Coleoptera: Brentidae) in a controlled experiment of no-choice arena from November, 2015 to February, 2016. The 51 evaluated genotypes were significantly (p≤0.0001) different in their resistance to C. puncticollis damage. The study revealed that no genotype was completely resistant to weevils but genotypes Obugi (5.00 adults) and 5 Nyandere (5.00 adults) were the highly resistant to C. puncticollis while genotypes Tainung (25 adults), Naspot 1 (24.33 adults), Kenspot 5 (22.67 adults) and Fundukhusia (22.67 adults) were the most susceptible to C. puncticollis damage. Resistance to weevils was negatively correlated (-0.71) to dry matter content and positively correlated to starch (0.46) and sucrose (0.48) contents. In conclusion, genotype Obugi is a stable high yield performer (9.21 t/ha and 9.55 t/ha in ATC -Miyare and KALRO -Embu respectively) and has a high resistance to C. puncticollis as compared to Naspot 1 (susceptible check) and Santo Amaro (resistant check). Other genotypes rated in this study as medium resistant to C. puncticollis and had earlier recorded high yields at KALRO -Embu are Santo Amaro (11.49 t/ha) and Wera (9.22 t/ha). However, these genotypes recorded low yields in ATC -Miyare and thus may not be suitable for ATC -Miyare site and its surrounding. Genotype Tainung was found to be the most inadequate since it was the most susceptible (25 adults) to weevils, low performing in yield (1.44 t/ha at ATC -Miyare and 5.70 t/ha at KALRO -Embu) and was low in dry matter content (21.40% at ATC - Miyare and 24.39% at KALRO -Embu) as compared to others. All the above-mentioned traits can make the genotype not to be preferred by many farmers. Nonetheless, the genotype has got a high carotenoid content (27.55 µg/g at ATC Miyare and 30.57 µg/g at KALRO Embu) as compared to other genotypes and thus suitable for addressing vitamin A defficiency in the society.
Forecasting the population development of within-season insect crop pests in sub-Saharan Africa: the Pest Risk Information Service
(Entomological Society of America (ESA, 2024-01-01) Day, Charlotte; Murphy, Sean T; Styles, Jon; Taylor, Bryony; Beale, Tim; Holland, William; Williams, Frances; Shaw, Andy; Finegold, Cambria; Oronje, MaryLucy; Oppong-Mensah, Birgitta; Phiri, Noah; Lowry, Alyssa; Finch, Elizabeth A; Mahony, Josephine; Wood, Suzy; Durocher-Granger, Léna; Chacha, Duncan; Maczey, Norbert; Gonzalez-Moreno, Pablo; Thomas, Sarah E; Beeken, Joe; Lewis, Jane; Saldana, Gerado Lopez; Duah, Solomon; Bundi, Mary; Wasilwa, Lusike; Amata, Ruth; Musila, Ruth; Mutisya, Daniel; Gitonga, Christine K; Kalama, Patrick; Nyasani, Johnson O; Matimelo, Matthews; Mgomba, Henry; Gaitu, Christopher; Ocloo, Christopher; Adjei-Mensah, Isaac; Ohene-Mensah, Godfried; Nboyine, Jerry Asalma; Susuwele, Blessings
Smallholder farmers are the mainstay of the agricultural economies of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where they produce several crops, predominantly centered on maize. Smallholder productivity remains limited resulting from a range of confounding factors, but a primary cause is loss from pests and diseases, particularly insects. To improve productivity, recommendations for the mitigation of crop loss globally include early-warning and management systems for in-season indigenous pests. There are many early-warning systems in temperate regions; however, such systems are poorly established in Africa. This is in part due to the need for a combination of pest modeling, data handling and dissemination infrastructure, capacity, and resource provision. While each of these components is progressing in Africa, the means to successfully deploy such systems remain limited. To bridge this, the development of the Pest Risk Information Service (PRISE) began in 2017 for farmers in SSA. Implemented in Kenya, Ghana, Malawi, and Zambia, PRISE developed temperature-driven phenology models for major maize, bean, and tomato pests. Using downscaled and processed Earth Observation data to drive the models, PRISE partnered with African national agencies to communicate pre- and in-season pest alerts that forecast the time to act against key insect pests. Alerts were designed to be integrated into country-specific Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) recommendations to provide a complementary package to agricultural stakeholders. End line studies with farmers showed that those who received information about the target crops including PRISE pest forecasts, generally reported better outcomes in terms of reduced losses and increased incomes compared with farmers who did not.
Fungi and Aflatoxin Levels in Traditionally Processed Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) Products in Homa Bay County, Kenya
(International Journal of Microbiology, 2020-08-26) Obong’o, Boniface Oure; Ayodo, George; Kawaka, Fanuel; Adalla, Morelly Kathy
Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a major source of carbohydrates, calcium, vitamins (B and C), and essential minerals and is the third most important source of calories in the tropics. However, it is not clear if the traditional processing methods expose the products to microbial contamination. This study assessed the levels of fungi and aflatoxin contamination in traditionally processed cassava products (Akuoga and Abeta). A total of 38 samples were collected from the local markets in 7 subcounties in Homa Bay County, Kenya. The levels of aflatoxin were determined using an indirect competitive ELISA protocol. Yeast and mould contamination was determined using ISO 21527-2 method. Mean aflatoxin levels in chopped, fermented, and sun-dried cassava (Akuoga) were 0.36 μg/kg compared to 0.25 μg/kg in chopped and sun-dried (Abeta) products. Aflatoxin contamination was detected in 55% of the samples and ranged from 0–5.33 μg/kg. These levels are within 10 μg/kg recommended by the CODEX STAN 193-1995. Yeast and mould counts in fermented and chopped sun-dried products were 3.16 log Cfu/g and 2.92 log Cfu/g, respectively. The yeast and mould counts were above standards set by East African Standard 739:2010 in 62% (Akuoga) and 58% (Abeta). The most prevalent fungal species were Saccharomyces cerevisiae (68.4%) and Candida rugosa (68%) followed by Candida parapsilosis (18.4%), Candida tropicalis (15.8%), Candida humilis (15.8%), and Aspergillus spp. (5.3%). Aspergillus spp. was the only mycotoxigenic mould isolated from the samples. The study shows that cassava consumers are exposed to the risk of aflatoxin poisoning. The study, therefore, recommends appropriate surveillance to ensure safety standards.
Genetic Diversity of Kenyan Native Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus)
(The Mycological Society of America, Lawrence, KS, 2015) Otieno Ojwang D.; Wamalwa Mark; Onguso Justus Mungare; Matasyoh Lexa G.; Wanjala Bramwel W.
Members of the genus Pleurotus, also commonly known as oyster mushroom, are well known for their socioeconomic and biotechnological potentials. Despite being one of the most important edible fungi, the scarce information about the genetic diversity of the species in natural populations has limited their sustainable utilization. A total of 71 isolates of Pleurotus species were collected from three natural populations: 25 isolates were obtained from Kakamega forest, 34 isolates from Arabuko Sokoke forest and 12 isolates from Mount Kenya forest. Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) was applied to thirteen isolates of locally grown Pleurotus species obtained from laboratory samples using five primer pair combinations. AFLP markers and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences of the ribosomal DNA were used to estimate the genetic diversity and evaluate phylogenetic relationships, respectively, among and within populations. The five primer pair combinations generated 293 polymorphic loci across the 84 isolates. The mean genetic diversity among the populations was 0.25 with the population from Arabuko Sokoke having higher (0.27) diversity esti mates compared to Mount Kenya population (0.24). Diversity between the isolates from the natural population (0.25) and commercial cultivars (0.24) did not differ significantly. However, diversity was greater within (89%; P . 0.001) populations than among populations. Homology search analysis against the GenBank database using 16 rDNA ITS sequences randomly selected from the two clades of AFLP dendrogram revealed three mushroom species: P. djamor, P. floridanus and P. sapidus; the three mushrooms form part of the diversity of Pleurotus species in Kenya. The broad diversity within the Kenyan Pleurotus species suggests the possibility of obtaining native strains suitable for commercial cultivation.
Heavy Metals in Pig Livers; A Case of Munyaka Estate-Uasin-Gishu County, Kenya
(African Journal of Education, Science and Technology, 2018-06-02) Cherop, Cleophas K.; Otieno, Christina A.; Koskei, Peter
have lead to alteration of their natural geochemical and biochemical cycle and balance. The risk of heavy metal contamination in meat/pork is of public health concern for both food safety and human health. The study aimed at determining the levels of lead, cadmium and mercury in pigs reared in two husbandry systems in Uasin-Gishu County, Kenya. A comparative cross-sectional study was employed. Thirty two pigs representing close to a thousand pigs in Munyaka estate were studied under two husbandry systems. Four branded manufactured feeds and 6 forage plants were analyzed by AAS machine for lead, cadmium and mercury. Results were summarized using means. The mean levels of lead, cadmium and mercury among intensively produced pigs were 0.10±0.04, 0.13±0.04 and 0.12±0.04mg/kg.wet weight respectively. The mean levels of lead, cadmiu and mercury in extensively produced pigs were 0.09±0.03, 0.18±0.05 and 0.14±0.09mg/kg.wet weight respectively. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) in cadmium levels in pigs under intensive and extensive husbandry system with extensively produced pigs having higher levels. Manufactured feed B had mean Pb levels of 0.26±0.01mg/kg.dry weight while feed D had Pb levels of 0.38±0.02mg/kg.dry weight. Cabbage leaves had mean Pb levels of 0.60±0.26 mg/kg.dry weight whereas grass on the roadside had mean Hg levels of 0.03±0.02mg/kg.dry weight with banana peelings also having mean Hg levels of 0.03±0.04mg/kg.dry weight. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) in cadmium levels in pigs under intensive and extensive husbandry systems with extensively produced pigs having higher levels. The study showed that pig livers under the study were not safe for human consumption due to the presence of mercury levels above the WHO maximum recommended levels. These metals are known to cause adverse health effects including neurological and renal disturbances neurological and renal disturbances. The Government shoul strictly enforce The Animal Diseases Act; Cap364 on prohibition of extensive husbandry system. Kenya bureau of standards (KEBS) and Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) should regularly monitor and evaluate pork to safeguard human health. Farmers should be educated on the need to discriminately use of Phosphatic fertilizers and pesticides as they contribute to HMs in the soil and the consequent uptake by plants.

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