Department of Water and Agricultural Resource Management

Permanent URI for this collection

http://repository.embuni.ac.ke/handle/embuni/3513

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 73

Investigation of the Effect Of Ce3+ Doping on The Luminescent Properties of Baal2o4:Ce3+.
(University of Embu, 2019) Moturi, Maxwell
Discovery and invention of different luminescent material has greatly contributed to the growth of the global economy, especially the technology. Different elements especially the lanthanides have been research in terms of their properties which plays a great role in the Nano phosphor industry. In this study I considered properties of BaAL2O4. Ce2+ purposely its luminescent properties when codoped with some of the lanthanides elements which include cerium (Ce), .This elements acts as activator ions they tend to increase the afterglow duration when codoped with different phosphor materials. Their effects vary depending on the number and type of ligands directly attached on the metal center of the complex forming the phosphor. In this work I studied the effect of Ce2+ of different masses when doped on the luminescent properties of BaAL2O4. Ce2+ Nano phosphor. In this samples of BaAI2O4.Ce3+ phosphor used in this study will be synthesized using the solution - combustion method. The starting raw materials used in the preparation consisted of analytical pure grade Ba (NO3).4H2O, AI (NO3)3., Ce (NO3)3 and urea (CO (NH2)2) weighed in proportion to the chemical composition of BaAI2O4.Ce3+ and also deionized water, magnetic stirrer and furnace will be included as apparatus for easy of doing the experiment and finding of more accurate results. The mixture will be dissolved in 10 ml of de-ionized water and stirred for 15 minutes at ambient temperature using a magnetic stirrer to obtain a uniform saturated aqueous solution. The solution will be then poured into several crucibles and each placed in a muffle furnace pre-heated to 500⁰C. The final product will be stored in glass bottles while awaiting characterization.
Investigating Nitrate Variation In The University Of Embu Dams” Pascaline Serem
(University of Embu, 2017) Serem, Pascaline
Atmospheric deposition of inorganic nitrogen (mainly in the form of NO3) has dramatically increased because of the extensive use of nitrogenous fertilizers and the huge combustion of fossil fuels.as a result, concentrations of nitrate in ground and surface waters are increasing around the world, causing one of the most prevalent environmental problems responsible for water quality degradation on a worldwide scale. At the University of Embu, wastes discharged from the kitchen, application of fertilizer and pesticides and run-off from the animal farm is the major source of nitrate variation in the dam. The objective of this study was to establish the nitrates levels of dams one to five in the University of Embu. The method used during the study was experimental whereby the samples were randomly collected at inlet and outlets and taken to the laboratory for measurements. The data was collected in all dams for variation purposes. The results were subjected to single factor GENSTAT 14 to obtain their significance. From the results it was found out that the dams’ nitrates level varied and dam 1 had higher nitrate content than the rest of the dams.it was concluded that high levels of nitrates in dams’ water makes water unsafe for irrigation purposes.it was recommended that dams should be restored to their initial stages to avoid problem occurring.
Factors Affecting Perfomance of Sand Dams in Nzambani Ward, Kyanika/Maluma Sublocation, Kitui County
(University of Embu, 2017) Mutindi, Zipporah
A Sand dam is a structure built on river to store excess water in rainy seasons for use in drought seasons. They are suited for semi-arid areas. Globally, they are found in Japan, India, Mexico, Australlia, Thailand, SW USA and Brazil with high use in Africa being Angola, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Kenya and Zimbabwe. In Kenya they are mostly found in Kitui with approximately 500 functioning sand dams. They are simple to construct, low cost, low maintenance technologies that retain water and help recharge ground water. They are used for provision of water for domestic and farming use. Water from sand dam is extracted by scooping a hole in the sand or using a slotted pipe buried in the sand that passes through the dam wall, or connected to a simple hand pump situated on the river bank. The aim of this study was to analyze factors affecting the performance of sand dams in Kitui County. The research design used was descriptive using survey and observation. Data was collected by use of questionnaires, which were randomly distributed to the local community. Data was then analyzed to determine the response from the local community on sand dams. This gave information that was used in evaluating their sustainability. This study found poor performance of sand dams in Nzambani Ward. The main factors that led to this poor performance included: minimal adoption of sand dam projects by the local communities, lack of operation and maintenance of sand dams because most of the sand dams had been left unattended to by the local communities, perception that sand dams belonged to donors and limited awareness on the importance of sand dams.to alleviate these challenges this study recommended ensuring operation and maintenance of sand dams and creating awareness to the local communities on the importance of sand dams. These results may be used to ensure adequate water supply for food security.it may also be used in the reduction of conflicts for competing water use demands, increased income, adequate fodder and pasture for livestock
Assessment of Factors Limiting Organic Vegetable Farming in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County
(University of Embu, 2017) Mwagati, K. Alice
Agriculture as the backbone of the Kenya’s economy relies heavily on environmental resources. Therefore, for Kenya to attain the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), environmental conservation must be enhanced through organic farming. This study focused on assessing the factors that limit organic vegetable farming. The study was carried out in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County. A survey research design was used where structured questionnaires were administered to collect data. Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to code and keying the collected data. Descriptive statistics was used to describe the results. The results showed that farmer’s perceptions on organic farming, social-economic factors and environmental factors limited organic vegetable farming in the area of study. The farmers who had negative perceptions on organic vegetable farming did not practice organic vegetable farming while the farmers who had the positive perceptions inorganic vegetable farming practiced it. Socio-economic factors such as inadequate organic market, insufficient organic farm inputs and poor pest and disease control measures limited organic vegetable farming. Some of the farmers had no access to organic farm inputs and this limited their practice on this technology. Environmental factors such as changes in rainfall patterns and soil composition limited organic vegetable farming. Farmers opted to do conventional agriculture which they perceived requires a lot of moisture to dissolve and decompose the organic matter so that the nutrients can be released for the plant absorption. Soil composition also limited organic vegetable farming as some of the soil had poor or high infiltration rates. Nevertheless, majority of the farmers advocated in this type of farming technique in the area
Assessment of Factors Limiting Organic Vegetable Farming in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County
(University of Embu, 2017) Mwagati, K. Alice
Agriculture as the backbone of the Kenya’s economy relies heavily on environmental resources. Therefore, for Kenya to attain the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), environmental conservation must be enhanced through organic farming. This study focused on assessing the factors that limit organic vegetable farming. The study was carried out in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County. A survey research design was used where structured questionnaires were administered to collect data. Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to code and keying the collected data. Descriptive statistics was used to describe the results. The results showed that farmer’s perceptions on organic farming, social-economic factors and environmental factors limited organic vegetable farming in the area of study. The farmers who had negative perceptions on organic vegetable farming did not practice organic vegetable farming while the farmers who had the positive perceptions inorganic vegetable farming practiced it. Socio-economic factors such as inadequate organic market, insufficient organic farm inputs and poor pest and disease control measures limited organic vegetable farming. Some of the farmers had no access to organic farm inputs and this limited their practice on this technology. Environmental factors such as changes in rainfall patterns and soil composition limited organic vegetable farming. Farmers opted to do conventional agriculture which they perceived requires a lot of moisture to dissolve and decompose the organic matter so that the nutrients can be released for the plant absorption. Soil composition also limited organic vegetable farming as some of the soil had poor or high infiltration rates. Nevertheless, majority of the farmers advocated in this type of farming technique in the area.
Population Growth Has Detrimental Impact on Water Quality of River Ruvingaci, Embu County, Kenya
(University of Embu, 2017) Okubala, Harriet Osinya
Embu town has undergone unprecedented growth in population through rural urban migration and the institutions in the area. The increasing population and rapid urbanization has aggravated huge demands for clean water, but at the same time lead to encroachment of freshwater resources around them in search of settling land and agriculture. The objective of the study was to determine the effects of population growth on water quality parameters that indicate or determine the water quality of river Ruvingaci. Baseline water quality data from the year 2011 to 2016 was used to show water quality changes in the river. Sampling was done from 28th Feb 2017 to 1st March 2017, it was done from three points of the river; Mwiria upstream where there is a lot of farming activities, Ndunda middle of the stream and at Nairobi Embu bridge the downstream. A total of nine samples were analyzed at EWASCO’s Mukangu treatment plant laboratory. The parameters that were selected include; turbidity, conductivity, phosphorous, temperature, nitrate, fecal coliform and total coliforms. The data was subjected to analysis of variance(ANOVA) using statistical analysis software(SAS) version 9.2. In the year 2011, turbidity of water in river Rupingazi was 4.12,in this was much lower than that of 2016 and 2017 which were found to be 7.61 and 9.5 respectively. Conductivity increased from 2011 to 2014 but dropped in 2015 and 2016 Nitrates and Phosphates containing detergents. Fecal and total coliforms were found to increase consistently due to increased settlements along river and hence leachate from latrines or animal wastes led to increase in number of coliforms.
Treated Wastewater Disposal as a Determinant of Water Quality in River Ruvingaci in Manyatta Subcounty, Embu County”
(University of Embu, 2017) Robert, Geofrey Kasyoka
Dumping sewage into water bodies such as rivers not only creates a human health hazard but also negatively disrupts the river ecosystem. Pollution causes the quality of the water to deteriorate and affect aquatic ecosystems. The objective of this research work was to determine the effects of waste water on water quality parameters that dictate the water quality in river Ruvingaci. Sampling was done from January 23rd 2017 to February 5th 2017 and a total of 27 samples were analyzed. The parameters that were studied include Biological oxygen demand (B.O.D), Carbon oxygen demand (COD), Total dissolved solids (TDS), Total suspended solids (TSS), Conductivity, Turbidity, PH, Temperature and Test for bacteria. Water samples were collected from three different locations along river Ruvingaci. The collected samples were analyzed in the EWASCO laboratory facility and data were subjected to analysis of variance(ANOVA). Means separation were done using least significant difference(LSD) at p=0.05. Unpaired Student t-test(p=0.05) were used to compare means of water quality standards with the laboratory results. Turbidity, BOD, COD, Conductivity, Bacteriological test, TSS,TDS were significantly different along the three sampling points from Mwiria,100m before wastewater disposal and 100m after wastewater disposal at ≤0.05.while PH and temperature were not significantly different along the three sampling points from Mwiria,100m before wastewater disposal and 100m after wastewater at p≤0.05.the recommended strategies for dealing with wastewater disposal in river Rupingazi are industries connected to the main sewer should invest in treatment at source mechanisms and the authorities should come up with stringent rules which consequences for the treatment plants which are meant to enforce the adherence of water quality standards set prior to the discharge of wastewater.
Impact of Physical Infrastructure Development on Water Turbidity at University of Embu
(University of Embu, 2017) Ngugi, Harun Kingori
It has been globally recognized that human activities and land use developments have had significant impacts on water quality through pollution and sedimentation, with the attendant effects of reducing utility for human consumption. A 6 month study was conducted within the Precincts ‘of the University of Embu, aiming to investigate the impact of physical infrastructural developments at the University of Embu on water quality in dam 2 which was compared with water quality of dame 5.The study was also aiming to exam the current strategies that have been put in place to minimize the negative effect of infrastructure development on water quality and come to up with suggestions on practical approaches of ameliorating the impact of physical 6 infrastructural developments on water sources and water quality. The study was using primary data, which involved collection of water samples from sites near new physical infrastructural developments, comparing this with water quality of dam5 and analyzed them with regards to quality parameters. The study also utilized secondary sources, especially on related research been done by experts on the water resources management field. The method of primary data collection was direct observation, experiment and interviewing people. The data so obtained was analyzed using qualitative methods to obtain best quality results. The knowledge gained was used to come up with appropriate land use management options that will reduce impact on water resources, especially on water quality dynamics at the University of Embu. This will bring sustainable development which will not have negative affect on water quality of water resources we have in University of Embu for economic, social and environmental benefit of these water resources. The study recommended; planting of temporary vegetative cover, construction of sedimentation traps, planting of vegetative strips, constructing parking with permeable materials, paving roads to reduce soil erosion and fencing construction site with wind breakers.
Knowledge and Practise of Selected Integrated Soil Infertility Management Techniques in Embu West Sub-County
(University of Embu, 2017) Kosgey, J. Emmah
Soil fertility reduction due to soil nutrient depletion in Sub-Saharan Africa is a major challenge sustainable development of agriculture. Despite the ability of ISFM to improve soil fertility, less has been done towards assessing the farmers’ characteristics that contribute to practice of ISFM techniques. This research aimed at assessing the relationship that exists between awareness of farmers on ISFM techniques and their practice as well as factors that affect farmers’ knowledge and practice of ISFM. The study was carried out in Kamiu Sub-Location Embu West Sub-County in Embu County, Eastern Kenya. The study design used was survey. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Fifty households were sampled using1 systematic random sampling procedure from a target population of 3260 households. The data obtained was coded numerically and descriptive statistics analyzed using SPSS computer software. The analyzed data was summarized using tables. The major sources of agricultural information were found to be: media (54%), government agency (48%), non-governmental organizations (20%), agricultural companies (16%)and other sources such as friends (8%).Group meetings and trainings was most preferred at 52%. Audio visual programs and aid was most preferred by 26%of the farmers while internet and other methods were preferred by 12% and 2%of farmers respectively. Internet was least preferred by (46%).Most farmers were aware of the selected ISFM techniques such as inorganic fertilizer and organic manure at 100%. However, the practice was at 72% for inorganic fertilizer and 98%for organic manure. Cover Cropping, Crop rotation and intercropping had percentages of practice above 70%.Crop rotation, conservation measures such as terracing and use of improved seeds and propagules had the least percentages of practice falling below 66%.The study recommends that dissemination of agricultural information should be done using the most preferred strategy by farmers and training.
Factors Undermining Water Pollution in Embu Town
(University of Embu, 2017) Miguya, Auma Sharon
Water pollution is an environmental problem that is of major concern to the entire world at large. Degradation of surface and groundwater sources has been an inherent consequence of economic development and remedial action to compensate for or to reduce, pollution impacts have always been a lesser priority. Pollution threatens the health and wellbeing of humans, plants, and animal that depends on water. Water is a basic necessity to human survival. With the current industrialization and rapid urbanization water quality degradation has been a challenge to the entire world especially in developing countries. The overall objective of this study was on the challenges facing the implementation of water pollution control measures. The study was undertaken to investigate water pollution causes, intervention measures to control pollution and barriers to intervention measure in Embu town. Chapter one helps to discuss the problem of water pollution as it is in the local, region and the world. It gives the problem statement, justification and significance of the study. Research questions, objectives and hypothesis are also raised. The objectives are clearly identified to help and guide this study. In chapter two, literature from different scholars is used to further define the problem of the study. This helps to know the contribution made by scholars and researchers in the issue of water pollution in the world and other regions. The third chapter helps use to get familiar with the study area and research design that was used in the study. The nature and sources of data and the data collection instruments are discussed in this chapter. This chapter further explains how data analysis based on the information obtained from questionnaires, interviews schedules and observation was analyzed and finally the limitation of the study. The data collected were analyzed and the results and discussion are displayed in chapter four. The last chapter sums up the study by giving the summary of the research findings conclusion and recommendations
Determining Phosphates Levels on Water in University of Embu Dam One and Five
(University of Embu, 2017) Manyara, Paul Oroko
Water quality deterioration has become a worldwide problem in the recent years. Understanding the causes of this deterioration will help in prevention and remediation of the water quality deterioration. This project aimed at investigating the difference in phosphate levels in water in University of Embu dam one and five. The research design that was used is experimental type of research in which water samples from the two dams were collected, four times, for four weeks systematically, the amount of phosphates in the water from both dam one and five were measured. The findings indicated that dam one had more phosphates levels than dam five by 0.0098Mg/L. The difference in phosphate levels from the two dams provided a better understanding on effects of phosphates in water. This research findings, suggest various soil conservation measures to reduce phosphates concentrations in water in both dams.
Enhancing Soil Physical and Hydraulic Properties on Humic Nitisols Using Residue Mulch and Tillage in Kirege, Tharaka-Nithi
(University of Embu, 2017) Omenda, Jane Akoth
Tillage and residue mulch alter the structure and composition of soil consequently influencing important soil physical and hydraulic processes such as soil water content and nutrient availability. This study therefore aimed to investigate long term effect of residue mulch and tillage practices on soil physical and hydraulic properties in a long-term on-station field experiment in Kirege Primary School in Chuka. Meru South Sub-county Tharaka-Nithi County. The experiment was laid out in a randomized Complete Block design arranged in split plots and reheated thrice. The parameters of interest were: bulk density and hydraulic conductivity. Tillage was the main factor treatment while mulching the sub factor treatment. Using soil sampling Pf rings undisturbed samples were collected at the depth of Seem for bulk density and hydraulic conductivity determinations. Hydraulic conductivity determined using constant head method and bulk density determined using equation 11 in the laboratory. Data ware subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) in SAS version 9.2 and mean separation done using LSD at(p<0.05). The results obtained indicated that tillage and residue mulch had no significant effects on the bulk density and the hydraulic conductivity. The means for bulk density ranged from 0.93023 to 0.83016. Mean separation indicated that bulk density increased in the order CtWf
Challenges in Alleviating Water Scarcity in Mutonguni Ward, Kitui County
(University of Embu, 2017) Kithendu, Brigite Maria
Water scarcity have become rampant worldwide especially in ASAL, s due to climate change and increased population where about two billion people live in water scarce areas. Efforts to alleviate water scarcity have born no fruits due to many challenges faced by the stakeholders involved in water provision and supply projects. This study focused in contributing to the mitigation measures to challenges in alleviating water scarcity. The study was carried out in Mutonguni ward located in Kitui West Sub County in Kitui County. A descriptive research design was used where survey method and observational studies were used to obtain data. SPSS and MS Excel Soft wares were used to code and key in data and then display it in tables, graphs and charts. The study revealed water scarcity to be at far extent in Mutonguni ward whereby acute, moderate and temporal extents were reported to be 56.3%,28.1% and 15.6% by the responses respectively. The major causes of water scarcity identified in this area were prolonged drought, population growth, biased distribution of water and broken down water supply system with the minor causes being water wastage by consumers and suppliers, pollution and use in irrigation. The government and other involved stakeholders have tried to alleviate water scarcity by erection of water storage facilities and companies, conservation of water sheds, creation of awareness, establishment of laws and policies on sustainable water use, establishment of water service boards and companies and promotion of conservation agriculture. However, they have not succeeded since they have been experiencing challenges like increase in climate change, rampant poverty levels, high illiterate nature of the residents of this area, political interference, conflicting sectorial laws and policies, change in government structure, increased urbanization and pollution of water resources. To improve sustainable water availability in this area, the community in cooperation with other stakeholders has to use the funds collected after selling water to improve and create more sources of water, issue incentives and subsidies to the people so as to protect water catchment areas, ensure all the runoff is harvested and stored for use in dry spells and control the population by use of family planning methods. The deliverables from this research work (the outputs) are directed to the primary and secondary beneficiaries who are supposed to take action and alleviate the problem of water scarcity and extend the benefits to the community and the environment and ensure that the research outputs lead to advances in relevant research fields. The research took a maximum of four months
Assessment of Strategies for Coping with Water Scarcity under Smallholder Cropping Systems in Kilome Area, Makueni County
(University of Embu, 2017) Mutisya, Mary Mwende
The issue of water scarcity and its impact on small-holder farmers is a reality in many developing countries including Kenya. With high population geared in rural areas most people depend on agriculture for livelihood. Rain fed agriculture remain to be the dominant source of stable food production and livelihood foundation of the majority of rural poor in sub-Saharan Africa. Knowledge of adoption strategies to water scarcity to increase production is critical for communities depending on agriculture. This study was based on the assessment of the coping strategies adopted by smallholder farmers to counter the problem of water scarcity and the challenges they faced. The study was conducted in Kilome area, Makueni County. For this purpose, hundred farmers were selected in the three locations within the area. Primary data was obtained through field visits to the farmers. Secondary data was obtained through oral conversation and other documentaries. Farmers in the area had adopted some measures that included, water and soil conservation, water harvesting, planting drought tolerant crops and conservation agriculture. However, farmers are faced with some challenges while adopting this measures that include, lack of funds, lack of technical knowledge, occurrences of disasters and lack of labor.
Using Fog Water Harvesting As a Source of Water For Domestic Use
(University of Embu, 2017) Kiprop, Ruth Jepkoech
Fog collection is collection of water from fog using large pieces of vertical canvas to make the fog condense into droplets of water and flow down towards a trough below the fog fence. Collection of fog water is a simple and sustainable technology to obtain fresh water for afforestation, gardening and as drinking water source for humans and livestock consumption. In regions where fresh water is sparse and fog frequently occurs, it is feasible to set up a passive mesh system for fog water collection. Many areas are water challenged today including kapyego which is among one of the places in Kenya that are not lucky enough to get piped water to their houses. Women and children in this area are forced to fetch water from rivers and boreholes that are situated kilometers from their homes. This should not be the case since there is enough water in the atmosphere to reduce water issues. The fog collectors have the the capability of harvesting from 4001 to 10001 of water in a day. This will help in providing water for a few households during the foggy periods.it is a technique that is commercially available and applicable and can be used as a source of pure fresh water for domestic use. According to World Health Organization, a community requires about 20 gallons of water per person and per day in order for its residents and their livestock and crops to thrive. Hence the need to use this technique.
Benefits Of Indigenous Trees Species for Restoration of Moist Forests, Mt. Kenya
(University of Embu, 2018) Livana, Asila Neville
Natural forests in Kenyan are important national assets that play critical roles in the economy while offering a range of ecological services. The early assault on natural forests involved clearing thousands of hectares to create farms and room for establishment of exotic plantation species known for their superior growth performance and economic returns since 1920s. Thus the development of multiple uses of natural forests for production of timber and environmental services is one strategy that is being discussed by policy makers and forest users. However, the strategy is hindered by limited information on potential yields and economic gains from use of indigenous species in forest restoration activities. Thus the main objective of this study is to find out various high potential tree species used in restoration of moist forest, their timber volume, financial returns and economic importance to the Kenyan economy. The study design will involve Stratified sampling of Irangi forest. Random sampling of selected trees and collection of data from secondary sources, it will also employ descriptive research design where observation will be used. Data analysis will be done using descriptive statistics. The generated costs of establishing and maintaining plantations and prevailing stumpage prices will be used in the financial analysis for study species. The expected outcome of this study is that there is a strong correlation between growth in yield per tree and age. Also the mean annual increment in volume of the indigenous species is relatively low as compared to competing exotic species.
Wastewater Recycling And Re-Use As Solution To Water Stress In
(University of Embu, 2017) Mwanyumba, Habert
Water stress as defined by the (European environment agency 2014) occurs when the demand for water during a certain period of time exceeds the available amount or poor quality exceeds its use. Water recycling is reusing treated wastewater for beneficial purposes such as agricultural and landscape irrigation and industrial processes (United States environmental protection agency 19951). The analysis of the various events leading to water stress or water scarcity to be broad has been done over the years in very many areas globally and regionally and different solutions have been arrived at by different experts. However, it is good to note here that the solutions are not globally applicable but specific to the problem and to the area. This project provides an overview of water stress in the region along with some brief review of the literature and an empirical background. It reviews the difficulties faced by water users in obtaining fresh water sources through direct interviews, direct observations and questionnaires, analyses the data collected and analyses the option of waste water recycling as the solution to water stress. This study will provide necessary information to water providers on how to reduce the deficits in supply and also help jog the minds of all stakeholders towards recycling and other technologies.
Coping Strategies Addressing Water Shortages in Kiritiri Area in Mbeere Sub-County, Embu County
(University of Embu, 2017) Ndu’ngu, Nyakio Eliud
The study aimed at identifying the appropriate mitigation measures to curb water shortage at Kiritiri area in Mbeere Sub County. The study purposed to identify the causes deteriorating the water resources hence leading to the water shortages. The objectives of the study were to identify the sources of water, identify the main causes of water shortages arid identifying the strategies implemented to curb water shortages. Data was collected through administering questionnaires and direct observation. Research design used was stratified random sampling techniques to collect the information from the selected households or people. Data collected through questionnaires and direct observation was analyzed using the Statistical Package of Social Science and the results were presented in tables, graphs and charts form. The key findings included; lack of awareness creation on efficient of water, lack of full implementation of water harvesting techniques, pollution of water sources and misuse of water through irrigation of the farms, prolonged drought condition and leakages through broken or unmaintained distribution systems. The recommended measures include, fully practicing water harvesting techniques like construction of water pans and roof catchment of rain water, awareness creation on efficient use of water, pollution control and avoidance on misuse of water and repairing of broken pipes and distribution systems. The study intended to identify the best strategies which can suit the Mbeere Sub County area and would help supplement the little water they got from the area for their use
Utilization of Rice Husks in Mwea Irragation Scheme
(University of Embu, 2017) Ekom, Ekalale Patrick
Rice production in many regions of the world has resulted in a high influx of organic wastes (husks) to the environments due to dumping and burning. This is because most of the farmers cannot properly make use of these wastes. Rice farmers in Mwea irrigation scheme, in particular need to be informed of the best alternatives of utilizing rice husks. An innovation by a 28-year-old man in Mwea area of converting rice husks into cheap organic fertilizers as led to fanners wanting to know more ways of convening rice husks into other useful products. The major problem facing rice fanners is the access to cheap fertilizers that will support rice farming for the longest time possible. It' s, therefore, important for the rice farmers to divert their energies and goodwill to utilize rice husks in a more economical way than just burning and dumping this useful resource. This can be achieved by farmers assessing the various ways of utilizing rice husks e.g. as organic fertilizer, pet food fiber, making building bricks and livestock feeds. This project aimed at assessing the percentage of rice farmers in Mwea irrigation scheme who were informed on rice husks utilization. This project worked on the hypothesis that most rice farmers in Mwea were not informed on the utilization of rice husks. In addition, most of them were not utilizing rice husks in the most economical way possible. The general objective of this paper was to evaluate the present uses of rice husks and the information farmers in Mwea irrigation scheme had on the utilization of rice husks. This information may be used to advise farmers and policymakers on the current status to facilitate future interventions. Data was collected using observation sheets and questionnaires. The methods of data collection included interviews, use of questionnaires, and observation. Data analysis was based on both qualitative and quantitative data analysis and SPSS software was used in analyzing data. It was found that most of the farmers and millers in Mwea irrigation scheme had various means and ways of utilizing rice husks. These include use of manure 10%, animal feeds 10%, animal beddings 10%, making bricks 13%, RHA used on farms to absorb salts 13%, charcoal briquettes 7% and use as mulch 10%. However, on average 22% of the farmers and 20% of millers burnt and dumped rice husks. None of the farmers’ converted rice husks into organic fertilizer while 7% of the millers were aware of the conversion of rice husks into organic fertilizer.
Extent of Non-Revenue Water To Water Service Providers in Embu County
(University of Embu, 2017) Shiyayo, Linda
The importance of freshwater resource to man' s survival on earth cannot be over emphasized. It permeates through all aspects of man' s life on earth. From its use as drinking water, for food production, for washing (as means of maintaining healthy life and dignity), for the generation of energy, as a means of transport, for the production of industrial products to the maintenance of the integrity and sustainability of the earth's ecological systems, are all factors that cannot be denied of the fact that water indeed is life (World Water Assessment Programme of UN, 2003:5).The human body constitutes about fifty to sixty-five per cent of water and water is the most important need of the human body only next to air (Thornton 2002: 2). In spite of the importance of the freshwater resource to man' s survival on earth, the resource throughout the world is fast depleting. Various factors account for the fast depletion of the freshwater resource. These factors include; population growth, increase agricultural irrigation, pollution, overexploitation, denuding of water catchment areas, urbanization and industrialization (Butler and Memon 2006:180, Aswathanarayana 2001: 48). As the population increases, the demand for water in all aspects of life also increases. It is estimated that water use has been increasing twice as fast as population growth in the 21st century and that the global water use rose from 1000 km 3 per year in 1940 to 4130 km 3, per year in 1990 (Aswathananiyana 2001:47), and as stated earlier, it was further expected that this would rise to 5000 km3 per year in 2000 (Aswathanarayana 2001:47). In the past, man’s attitude towards water as a free natural.

Browse

Recent Submissions