Department of Water and Agricultural Resource Management

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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.
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.
Effects of Kale and Onion Intercrops and Manure Application on Number of Aphids, Leaf Damage and Kale Yield
(University of Embu, 2017) Watakila, Nasike Christine
Kale (Brassica oleracea var.acephala) is an important source of income to many small-scale farmers in Kenya and is a major dietary component for many Kenyans. The production of kale is however constrained by several pests among which kale aphid is one of the major insect pests. The use of pesticides has resulted to problem of pest resistance, loss of beneficial insects such as ladybird (biological agents) and pollution. The experiment attempts to investigate on alternative methods mainly cultural control. Bulb onion (Tropicana hybrid variety) was intercropped with kale, thousand headed variety. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with four treatments replicated thrice. The treatments were: treatment one (sole kale cropcontrol), treatment two (kale+ onion + manure), treatment three (kale + onion), treatment four (kale + manure). Data on aphid counts, percentage kale fresh leaf weight and kale leaf damage was collected from third week to sixth week after transplanting. The data was analyzed using the Genstat software and mean separation was done using the less significant difference. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of intercropping kale with onions and application of manure on aphid population densities, kale leaf damage and yield of kale. Intercropping kale and onion both with and without manure significantly reduced (P<0.05) aphid densities and damage on kale leaves compared to kale monocrops with and without manure. The lowest aphid densities and damage on leaves were recorded in kale- onion intercropping with manure application. Moreover, significantly higher marketable leaf weights were recorded in kale monocrop with the application of livestock manure as compared to kale monocrop without manure application. The present study concludes that intercropping kale and onion with application of manure in managing aphids and improving kale yield is most effective as evidenced by lowest aphid densities, lowest leaf damage and highest percent marketable leaf weight. It is recommended that the study be repeated for another season to confirm the results of this study.
Identification of the Best Legume for Maize (Zea mays L.) Intercrop for Improved Maize Productivity
(University of Embu, 2017) Nyalala, Ouma Tobias
Smallholder farmers are the most important food security stakeholders in Sub-Saharan Africa, who majorly practice subsistence agriculture associated with low crop productivity due to the soil nutrients depletion. Most of these farmers lack adequate capital to purchase sufficient amount of inorganic fertilizers to replace soil nutrients removed through harvested crop products, crop residue and through loss by runoff, leaching and gases. The objective of the study is to contribute towards increased maize production for improved livelihoods through identifying the best legumes that can increase maize yield in maize-legume intercrop. The experiment was conducted at the University of Embu farm located in Embu West Sub-County in a randomized complete block design [RCBD] with four treatments in three replications. First treatment [Maize sole crop], second treatment [Maize + common beans], third treatment [Maize + Groundnuts] and fourth treatment [Maize + Soya beans]. Planting was done on January 2017 during the season of short rains, irrigation was also applied to meet the crop water need. Data on maize plant height, ear length, number of above ear leaf, days to 50% flowering, days to 50% silking and number of ears was collected at physiological maturity. The grains produced by both maize and legumes per plot was collected at harvesting. The data collected was subjected to analysis of variance using GenStat statistical software with Least Significant Differences [LSD] at p<0.05. The statistical analysis of data revealed that non-significant variation was observed between the monocrop and intercrop on the number of ears and number of leaves. Maize + soy bean had significantly highest ear length and plant height followed by maize + groundnut then maize + common beans and the least, maize sole crop. It was also noted that intercrop can give higher yields, good soil moisture conservation and better weed control. The intercrop of maize with soy bean gave the highest ear length and growth rate in maize. It is recommended that the experiment be repeated for another season since the observations are based on one season.
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.
Evaluation of the Efficacy of Diatomaceous Earth on Bean Bruchids, Acanthoscelides obtectus in Stored Beans
(University of Embu, 2017) Wambua, Loise Mbeke
Production of beans in many parts of the world is affected by several challenges. Insect pests are injurious during production and postharvest. The bean bruchid, Acanthoscelides obtectus is a major storage pest of beans. Farmers have over the years relied on synthetic sprays to control bean bruchids. However, the chemicals have led to environmental pollution and insect resistance. Biological control methods can be used as an alternative to these chemicals in an attempt to promote environmental sustainability. The objective of this study was to explore and evaluate the effectiveness of diatomaceous earth on bean bruchids on stored beans. The effectiveness of diatomaceous earth on bean bruchids was measured in terms of adult mortality and weight loss. Bean variety ‘Mwitemania’ was subjected to diatomaceous earth treatment after introducing five bean bruchids to 50g of beans in each jar and replicated thrice. The treatment rates of diatomaceous earth were 0g which was the control experiment, 0.125g, 0.25g and 0.5g. The experimental layout was completely randomized design (CRD) in the research laboratory in University of Embu. The measured amounts of beans i.e. 50g was first introduced into all the plastic jars followed by the treatments and then the bean bruchids. Data on bruchid mortality rate was collected after 24hrs, 48hrs, 7days, 14 days and 28 days. After the 28 day, bean weight loss was collected. Results showed significant differences (P <0.05) among the different diatomaceous earth concentrations. The highest bruchid mortality rate was achieved with 0.5g of diatomaceous earth. This study concluded that diatomaceous earth has potential in managing bean bruchids during storage. It is recommended that the study be repeated for another season using a larger sample of beans since the current experiment evaluated 50gm of beans.
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.
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.
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
Restoration of Degraded Rangelands in Embu County: A case study of Mbeere South
(University of Embu, 2017)
Rangelands are under constant threat of continuously being degraded due to factors such as; increased population, overgrazing, overexploitation of natural resources and climate change. This research aimed at investigating ways of restoring degraded land in small-holder pastoral rangelands. The research was conducted in Mbeere South (Kiritiri) in Embu County, from January to March 2017. Systematic random sampling design was used in data collection. Research findings show the main causes of degradation to be overgrazing and bush encroachment with a percentage of 43.33% and 16.67%, respectively. Other causes of degradation affecting the rangeland are settlement, climatic change, and sedentralization, with a percentage of 6.67%, 6.67%, 3.33%, respectively. Moreover, a good percentage of people are not aware of the causes of rangeland degradation. Restoration methods practised by the local people showed that there is potential for restoring degraded rangeland and thus increase in the productivity and performance of the livestock. However, some members of the community were not aware of the restoration methods which in some way hinder the restoration of degraded rangelands.
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.
Assessment of the Effects of Invasive Plant Species on Rangelands in Kiritiri
(University of Embu, 2017) Achieng', Raboc Nelvin
Species introductions of anthropogenic origins are a major aspect of rapid ecological change globally. The increase in human population has led to increased rangeland disturbances and hence the rapid spread of alien species to this vital ecosystem. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the impact of invasive plant species in Kiritiri. Development in Kiritiri town and other urban centres have contributed to rangeland deterioration through land-use practices such as grazing, crop cultivation and infrastructure. These activities, when not regulated, accelerate the invasion and spread of introduced plant species. The study also employed a socio-economic survey that involves the use of questionnaires and interviews to ascertain the perceptions of the local community regarding origin, impact and uses of the species. Seventy-eight per cent of the respondents indicated that invasive plant species presence has had a negative effect on biodiversity in Kiritiri through the loss of native vegetation. The study site was divided into five blocks whereby transects of 5m were used to quantify the relative abundance of the targeted plant species, which was Lantana camara and the derived sample size was estimated. The random and purposeful sampling was used for data collection and after processing, data was then analyzed using analytical methods in Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer software version 23 and Chi square tests were done to test on significant variables among variables (p≤0.05). Invasive plant invasion was particularly likely in habitats disturbed by human activities. The study shows that Lantana camara is a major environmental problem in the study area through its swift colonization of strategic grazing reserves and is rapidly colonizing new areas. The findings of this study call for concerted efforts to manage the rangeland ecosystem through wildlife conservation initiatives, sustainable farming, dry land agroforestry, energy, water and soil conservation methods and proper waste management.
Factors Affecting Livestock Marketing In Pastoral Areas of Kenya: A Case Study of Isiolo County
(University of Embu, 2017) Makandi, Linnet M.
The government of Kenya has made a deliberate effort to market livestock raised by pastoralists through trade liberalization. However, this has not born much fruits since livestock off-taking is still low leading to meat shortage. Livestock marketing is important since it leads to improved pastoralists income through the sale of livestock and livestock products. Most pastoralists earn their livelihood from livestock keeping. Pastoralists keep livestock for different purposes such as sources of food, income, mobile banks, social security and for cultural practices. There are different livestock markets where pastoralists sell their livestock depending on the location. Livestock marketing is the main household asset and a key productive resource for pastoral communities living in Isiolo. However, recurrent drought is eroding pastoralists livestock base and weakening their livelihood and their resilient to climatic shocks. This research investigates the factors affecting livestock marketing in pastoral areas Isiolo County with a view of selecting identifying and describing the marketing systems used by pastoralists.
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.
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.
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
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
Promoting Use of Urban Kitchen Gardens to Alleviate Food Insecurity in Embu Town
(University of Embu, 2017) Njiraini, Risper Nyakio
Use of urban kitchen gardens have been on the rise among some urban households. Their use has been promoted to curb the food insecurity in the urban areas. The use of kitchen gardens is rising especially in the urban areas due to the rise in urbanization and the continued need to meet the daily nutrient requirement among urban households. There is also the need for households to have supply healthy nutritious vegetables that are high in nutrient content that are free from chemical residues. The current research was carried out in Majengo ward in Embu town to determine the popularity of kitchen gardening among urban households. The study involved forty urban household members who gave their feedback in the questionnaire (Appendix 1). Random sampling of the households was used to determine the respondents and to avoid bias. The information collected was keyed in and analyzed using IBM SPSS software 16.0. The results revealed that kitchen gardening is popular among urban households in Majengo ward. Crops grown on the kitchen gardens include kales, onions, and indigenous vegetables such as Amaranth and fruit trees such as tree tomato. The urban households cited challenges such as insufficient water, inadequate space and insect pests and diseases attacking crops on the kitchen garden. This study concludes that urban families can use hanging gardens and containers to grow vegetables in their balconies due to the limited space available for growing vegetables. It is recommended that extension agents could provide information to urban farmers on good agricultural practices in management of insect pests and diseases.
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.
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.

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