Undergraduate Projects

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Abundance of root-knot nematodes in the University of Embu
(University of Embu, 2019) Oduor, Joseph Odingo
Root-knot nematodes are parasitic microorganisms that attack the roots of almost all species on plants. They cause devastating effects on important crops throughout the world. The aim of this study was to evaluate the abundance of root knot nematodes in different crop fields in University of Embu. Different crop fields were identified and 10 crops were uprooted randomly and rated for galling severity using a scale of 1 to 9. Differences in galling severity between different were compared using analysis of variance using R statistical software. Means were separated using Tukey’s test. There was a significant difference in galling severity between the plants with spinach and tomato having the highest rate of galling severity. The results indicate that nematode management strategies should be implemented in the University.
Agency Banking and Operational Performance of Commercial Banks in Kenya
(University of Embu, 2020) Mbugua, Veronicah Njambi
Agency banking roll-out in Kenya was meant to address the low financial inclusion in Kenya. As per the 2009 National financial access survey, 32% Kenyans bankable population is still totally out of the financial services orbit. Difficulties in accessing financial services main drivers are; long distance to banking channels and relative high costs of accessing financial services. In a bid to bridge the financial access divide and improve its access among the most vulnerable sections of the society, the Kenya government through the central bank amended the finance Act 2009 to facilitate use of third parties by banks to provide banking services. This study sought to establish the contribution of agency banking to operational performance of commercial banks in Kenya. The researcher was guided by objectives; to establish the impact of agency banking to operational performance of commercial banks in Kenya; to determine the operational challenges facing agency banking in Kenya and to establish the factors leading to the growth of agency banking. Data was collected by use of questionnaire. Data was analyzed and presented using descriptive statistical tools. The results were presented in a continuous prose form. The study showed that liquidity availability in the outlets affected banks performance in addition to leading to frustrated customers. The study also found out that agency infrastructure cost and security was a major influence to banks performance. The study therefore recommends that, banks should give more attention to security and find better ways of vetting their agents to ensure that large cash transaction are handled effectively
Alumni Tracer System
(University of Embu, 2019) Nyambura, George Ngigi
The Alumni Tracer System for communication with alumni embodies one of many ways how university can keep tracking its graduate. The system created collects actual information about working experience of graduates, which will improve faculty credits and teaching process. The presented focuses on usability and comfortable user interface. The project manages the fresh as well as old graduate students with their respective information in actively participating in making registration, searching, managing the alumni information for sharing their expertise, network, jobs opportunities and resources. This participation has evolved into multiple dimensions; and is now eager to formally enter into the domain of mentorship to students through a regular program. Alumni Tracer System is a step towards this, creating multidimensional interactions between current and past students of University of Embu. This system will also enable the university to communicate with their alumni as a follow up after studies, the data collection was achieved by use of questionnaires which the alumni was engage with.
Analysis of Cabbage Enterprise Profitability Among Small Scale Farmers in Kanyasa Ward Migori County
(University of Embu, 2020) Okal, Kenneth
The horticultural subsector is recorded to be on the rise in the recent past. The trend should reflect on the lives of the Kenyan and especially the Kanyasa residents, following the research by Omondi on the increase in cabbage production in this particular area and their rate of dependency on horticultural crops. The study, therefore, focused on the analysis of the selected input factors affecting cabbage profitability in Kanyasa ward, Migori County. This project contains the general objective and the specific objectives which were achieved at the end of the research. The reason for conducting the study, justification, hypothesis, scope, study area, limitation of the study, the theoretical and conceptual framework that gives the relationship between variables were also captured. The data for the study were sourced from the primary sources majorly, through structured questionnaires, with sampling design being random sampling and sample size of 30 cabbage farmers. Gross margin analysis was used to analyze the input cost and the output. Descriptive statistics were used to present the data. The study was done to provide information and alteration for increasing cabbage production and form a benchmark for further studies.
Analysis of Factors Affecting Snow Peas Production in Kipipiri Constituency, Nyandarua County
(University of Embu, 2020) Kariuki, David Mwangi
Horticultural sector is an important sector in production of food and generation of income. According to Kenya’s vision 2030, crop cultivation is one of the main pillars of unlocking the potential of Kenya through increased productivity. The importance of snow peas is increasing greatly due to its high demand especially in Europe. In spite of the benefits associated with production of snow peas, farmers in Nyandarua County have been withdrawing their attention and effort in snow peas production and thus unable to maximize production this study was aimed at determining the challenges that these farmers are facing and which could be leading to a low production of snow peas. The study determined the specific constraints hindering production among small scale farmers who are the majority in snow peas production. The study utilized random sampling design to collect data in Kipipiri constituency in the three wards; Wanjohi, Githioro and Geta. A structured questionnaire was used to solicit information on technical knowledge of the farmers, extension services offered to them and the cost of inputs involved in snow peas production including labor. Tabulation of the average mean of the farmer output was done and the result compared. Linear regression analysis was done to determine the extent to which the independent variables affect the dependent variables. The result were then analyzed and compared to come up with conclusive and dependable outcomes in analysis of the problems that smallholder farmer’s encounter in their effort to generate income through snow peas production. The study concluded that there is a significant effect of cost of inputs in snow peas production while extension services and technical knowledge were not largely applied in snow peas production.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Youth Participation in Agricultural Production Case Study of Manyatta Sub County, Embu County
(University of Embu, 2020) Mwao, Karungwa Emmanuel
This study sort to analyze the factors that influence the youth participation in agriculture production in Manvatta sub county Embu County, Kenya. This research was necessitated by the fact that, despite the awareness by the Kenyan government and her development partners, that the reliance on agriculture for food production and food security at domestic, regional and global level depends on youth creativity and productive force and that, youth participation in agriculture is an important source of employment to the youth. Agriculture remains the backbone of Kenyan economy. In Manyatta Sub County, the rate of unemployment is high and many youths are migrating to towns in search for jobs with little or no success. This is attributed by the fact that farming to youth is expensive and meant for the older generation. Studies shows that countries that depend heavily on agriculture are unable to create enough job opportunity in the non-agricultural sectors hence unemployment is high in the third world countries Kenya included. The study was based on the following objectives; to determine the influence of access to land on youth participation on agricultural production; to determine influence of access to credit on youth participation on agriculture. The research design employed was cross sectional since data was taken once from the samples in a three span of time. The targeted population for the study was 117 registered farmers in Manyatta Sub County. Primary data was collected through administering semi structured questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used to analyze the quantitative data. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize the data. Inferential statistics (Pearson's correlation analysis) was used to explore the relationship between dependent and independent variables.
Analysis of Patient Records Based on Data Mining
(University of Embu, 2019-04) Kirui, Edmond Kiprono
Data mining refers to the extraction of hidden predictive information from large database which helps in Predicting future trend and behavior thereby helping management make knowledge driven decisions. Patient records analysis System uses data mining tool designed to aid in quick access and retrieval of patient’s information to avoid time wasted in retrieving of such data from hospitals data warehouse. In addition, the data mining tool was designed to discover hidden pattern that helps in decision making by management. Patients records analysis is an online automated system whose main aim is to aid in automating the process of capturing, storing and retrieval of patient medical records and have those records available at any other site (hospital) that has subscribed to the framework and can be access by authorized staff within an organization. Also, the system aimed at enabling doctors and records managers keep track of patient medical records and to enable them make good informed decisions regarding their patients based on their medical history. Through this system, physical files storage is significantly reduced hence patient's records are stored in professional way. There is security of records because they are stored remotely and anyone in need of the records can access them provided, they have the right credentials. To come up with this system, users and system requirements were elicited and analyzed to determine the functionality of the system. The system was designed using Structured System Analysis and Design Methodology (SSADM) which help in well-articulated analysis of the existing system, feasibility study, system design, implementation and proper documentation of design details. It majorly concentrates on the analysis and design phase of waterfall model of software development life-cycle (SDLC). The system enables quality of service in terms of medical attention given by enabling doctors and management to be able to view the rate of common diseases and their percentages. In addition, the management is able to know the number of patients a doctor has attended to within a particular period of time. This makes it easier for management to determine how much a doctor is supposed to be paid at the end of the month. Therefore, the system is able to analyze and generate reports on patient information and other related information that is useful for the management.
Android Based Medicine Reminder System
(University of Embu, 2019) Machuka, Amerdave Emmanuel
In Modern healthcare, most of the errors have been identified in Out-patient medication administration. These medication errors are caused due to under or overdoses and forgot to take medicines at the proper time. Because of these types of errors recovery from the diseases are getting delayed and the patient is suffering for more time. In this paper, we introduce an Android-based application for the patients. This application will remind the user to take proper medicines in proper quantity at the proper time. Because of the android application portability could result in theft, so data security requirements need to be incorporated in the design process. My smart medicine reminder system is designed for, but not restricted to, helping old people in taking care of themselves in taking their medications at the correct time and in the correct amount. It has been observed that people in general neglect their health and give preference to other things than taking their medicines. This is also the reason they forget to take their prescriptions on time. Many health maintenance organizations, health practitioners and medical researchers have realized that increased use of patient reminders can significantly increase the treatment of chronic illness and delivery of medical services to the patients who need it. Several organizations have themselves started implementing the patient medicine reminder system in the health care field and it is currently being implemented in several hospitals in the western countries to see if the method reaps any benefits. It is known throughout that Over the Counter (OTC) medication taking patients should take prescriptions in a limited or prescribed quantity at the respective times they are supposed to take their medications. However, many patients and especially old people, do not take their medicines in the correct quantity. They either take overdose of medicines thinking it will help them heal faster, or they fear the doctor has prescribed a larger quantity than required and take under dosage of medicines. In Med Reminder application, information on the device is encrypted and stored in the database, it is difficult to obtain illegitimately while still making confidential data easy to access. In this application, the data in databases residing on an external secure digital card (SD card) of Android devices are encrypted. In this paper, we discuss the technologies and methods used in Android notifications and reminder system to design medicine in-take schedule to set a reminder.
Antibacterial Activity of Tea Senna Leaf Extracts on Standard Laboratory Bacteria Strains
(University of Embu, 2021-09) Brian, Baraka
Senna tea is a popular herbal remedy that’s often marketed as a laxative, weight loss aid, and detox method. However, there’s little scientific evidence to support the efficacy of Senna tea for most of these uses aside from treating constipation. The aim of the study is to evaluate the antibacterial activity of Senna tea leaves, stems, bark and roots for their ethno medicinal use and their activity on selected bacterial and fungal strains. The antibacterial activity of tea Senna extracts against standardized inoculums of Escherichia coli, staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans were evaluated using the disk diffusion method. The results were obtained by measuring the clear zones that had formed around the bacterial and fungal growth of the isolates at different concentrations of the tea Senna extract. The results showed that the extract had antifungal activity against Candida albicans with the inhibition zones measuring 18mm and antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli with inhibition zones measuring 16mm. The study provides useful information and insights into antimicrobial activities on plant extract that can be used in drug development.
Antimicrobial Activity of Citrus limon on Escherichia coli Indicator Strain
(University of Embu, 2019) Mwangi, Naomi Muringo
The purpose of this research was to evaluate antimicrobial activity of Citrus limon on pathogenic bacterial species Escherichia coli. Lemon is a citrus fruit and is an important medicinal plant of family Rutacea. It is used mainly for its alkaloids that have a large spectrum of biological activity against clinically significant bacterial strains of pharmaceutical interest. Citrus juices are greatly consumed because of their nutritional value and special flavor that are beneficial for the maintenance of good health and prevention of diseases. There is an increase in antibiotic resistance by microorganisms leading to extensive research on new effective and less expensive antimicrobials from natural sources. E. coli have the genetic ability to transmit and acquire resistance to drugs which are utilized as therapeutic agents and his has been intensified by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics. There is a need to find new methods that combat the resistance of microorganisms. Lemon can be used as an alternative antiseptic against E.coli because natural products contain complex compounds that make it difficult for the microorganism to gain resistance. This study showed the antimicrobial properties of lemon extracts. Sensitivity testing of lemon antimicrobial activity was carried out using disc diffusion method to determine zones of inhibition. Minimum inhibitory concentration of the lemon extracts was determined against E.coli. The study showed that lemon juice contained strong antimicrobial properties followed by ethanol extracts then water extracts. The differences between the zones of inhibition of juice and the two extracts was significant.
Antimicrobial Activity of Emilia Discifolia Leaf Extracts Against Standard Laboratory Test Microorganisms
(University of Embu, 2021-09) . Juma, Chrispine O; Kemuma, Dorcas Ndemo
Emilia discifolia is a species of plants in the family Asteraceae and is classified as a medicinal plant due to its antimicrobial activities. The aim of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of Emilia discifolia against standard laboratory test micro-organisms and to assess the availability of phytochemical compounds. The extract of Emilia discifolia was first prepared by washing, drying and crushing it to powder. The extract was then serial diluted to four-folds. Different laboratory test micro-organisms (Candida albicans, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) were spread plated in different media and paper disks prepared from Whatman filter paper dipped in the extract concentration and placed on plates containing different isolates. After incubation, zones of inhibition were measured and recorded. The results showed that zones of inhibition were bigger in E. coli as compared to S. aureus and C. albicans, they also displayed key phytochemical compounds found on the plant extract. Further studies can therefore be done for further knowledge on the antimicrobial activity of Emilia discifolia.
Antimicrobial Activity of Plant J Leaf and Bark Extracts Against Standard Laboratory Test Microorganisms
(University of Embu, 2021-09) Mutai, Kimunai Kipngetich
Plant extracts with medicinal value have been used to treat many diseases that can either be bacterial, fungal or parasitic among many others. The aim of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of plant J extract extracted from plant J collected in Mbeere, Embu County against Bacillus cereus, Candida albicans, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus isolates. Serial dilution was carried out to obtain different concentrations of the plant extract, for standardization of the isolates McFarland procedure was carried out within a range of 0.5- 4 and used as a reference to regulate the turbidity of bacteria suspensions. The plant extract was extracted using water as the solvent and allowing it to boil for 5-10 minutes then filtered using a filter paper. After incubation of the preferred plant extract concentration with bacteria isolates, zones of inhibition that had formed around the bacteria growth were measured and recorded. The results showed that plant J extract had antimicrobial activity on all the bacteria isolates. The study identified microbial activities of plant J as useful and can be used as a medicinal plant
The Antimicrobial Properties of Garlic Against the Common Food Spoiling Bacteria Escherichia Coli
(University of Embu, 2019) Chebet, Daisy
Garlic is known to have numerous beneficial effects for human health. However, little information is known on its mechanism of controlling microorganisms that cause human epidemics. This study aims at evaluating the use of garlic as a natural preservative and its inhibitory effect against common food spoiling pathogen Escherichia coli. The freshly collected garlic were chopped into small pieces, dried for a week and blended. 1.5g, 2g, 2.5g and 3g were soaked in equal volume of 15ml of distilled water and ethanol as a solvent in a 250 ml sterile conical flask and shaken vigorously. The crude extract was filtered and kept at o 4 C. E. coli was obtained from fecal sample from pigs in the University farm through serial dilution and spread plate methods in sterile MacConkey agar. An antibacterial activity of the individual extract was tested on the MacConkey agar by disc diffusion method. The inoculums were spread evenly over the entire surface by swabbing in the plates. Inoculated plates were allowed to dry for 10 minutes before placing the discs. Sterile paper discs (diameter 10mm) will be impregnated with different concentration of the extracts :( 1.5g; 2g, 2.5g and 3g) were soaked in equal volume of 15ml of distilled water and ethanol as a solvent in a 250 ml sterile conical flask. This procedure was done three times. The plates were incubated at 37 0 C 24hours. The zone of inhibition was then measured. Minimal inhibitory concentration was carried out by agar dilution method where concentrations of garlic extract were prepared by using dimethyl sulfoxide in the ratio of 1:1 and was diluted with equal amount of phosphate buffer saline pH of 7.0. Data was analyzed using one-way Analysis of Variance in SPSS software. This study provided an alternative natural way of food preservation against E. coli amongst the communities within and out of Embu County. It is therefore suggest that the garlic extracts can be used as potential source of natural antimicrobial compound which if applied to bakery products before it is used for commercialization in the form of nutraceutical food it will prevent proliferation of spoiling microorganisms.
Antimicrobial Properties of Kigelia Africana (Sousage Tree) Leaf Extracts
(University of Embu, 2021-09) Odhiambo, Felix Onyango
The use of Kigelia Africana also known as “Sausage tree” as a source of medicine among the Traditional African Society has tremendously been exploited in the past for their medicinal value playing a critical role in traditional human health care systems, especially in developing countries where there is limited access to allopathic drugs. The aim of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of Kigelia Africana against two bacterial isolates (E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus) and one fungal isolate (Candida albicans). Disc diffusion method was used to determine the antimicrobial activity of Kigelia Africana extract which was extracted using the water extraction method. The results were obtained by measuring the clear zones that had formed around the bacterial and fungal growth of the isolates at different concentrations of Kigelia Africana extract. The extract concentration showed no antimicrobial activity on E. coli both at low and high concentrations. the average zone of inhibition formed on Staphylococcus aureus showed a decrease in antimicrobial activity with descending plant extract concentration as compared to Candida albicans. The study provides useful information and insights into antimicrobial activities on plant extract that can be used in drug development
Antimicrobial Properties of Plant Extract K Leaf Extracts On Standard Laboratory Test Microorganism
(University of Embu, 2021-09) Akolo, Michael
Medicinal plants have played an important role in drug discovery, with many pharmaceutical products originating from plants. Isolation and characterization of antibacterial compounds are still relevant today because of the continuing development of resistance of bacteria and fungi to antibiotics. The aim of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of plant K against Candida albicans, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus isolates. Serial dilution was carried out to obtain different concentrations of the plant extract, for standardization of the isolates McFarland procedure was carried out within a range of 0.5-4 and used as a reference to regulate the turbidity of bacteria suspensions. The plant extract was extracted using water as the solvent and allowing it to boil for 5-10 minutes then filtered using a filter paper. After incubation of the preferred plant extract concentration with bacteria isolates, zones of inhibition that had formed around the bacteria growth were measured and recorded. The results showed that plant K extract had antimicrobial activity on all the bacteria isolates. The study identified microbial activities of plant K as useful and can be used as a medicinal plant
Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Of Neem [Azadirchta Indica] Plant Leaf Extracts against Standard Bacterial Strains
(University of Embu, 2021-09) Guyo, Abdihakim Abdullahi
Neem is fast growing tree of the mahogany family Meliaceae used in traditional medicine as a source of many therapeutic agents by many communities and grows well in tropical countries. The aim of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of Azadirachta indica against standard bacterial strains, Escherichia coli, staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. Azadirachta indica leaves and stem back were used in the preparation of extracts. Disc diffusion method was used to determine the antimicrobial activity of Azadirachta indica extract which was extracted using the water extraction method. The results were obtained by measuring the clear zones that had formed around the bacterial and fungal growth of the isolates at different concentrations of Azadirachta indica extract. The extract concentration showed no antimicrobial activity on E. coli both at low and high concentrations. the average zone of inhibition formed on Staphylococcus aureus showed a decrease in antimicrobial activity with descending plant extract concentration as compared to Candida albicans. The study provides useful information and insights into antimicrobial activities on plant extract that can be used in drug development.
Ascertaining the Impact of Automated Revenue Collection System: Case Study –Kisumu County
(University of Embu, 2019) Kipkoech, Valerie Jeropon
Revenue collection is an effective way in which governments can develop their economies. However, many developing countries like Kenya face challenges in their revenue collection. County governments in Kenya loses millions of Shillings through fraud and errors related to manual county revenue collection. The adoption of automated revenue collection systems by some county governments in Kenya has tremendously transformed revenue collection and improved service delivery. This study focused on ascertaining the impact of adopting automated revenue collection system and its effects on governance and service delivery in Kisumu County. The project Automated revenue collection system is a License remission software for collecting License fee and assist in generating reports within a county. The project is developed in java, PHP, apache and SQL and mainly focuses on remittance of license fee through a county’s website through filling a form in the “REMITT LICENSE FEE” icon in the homepage of the county. New traders are expected to register with the authority upon which their details are kept in the database and relevant information about their business will be reflected once they log in to their accounts. It is a windows application written for 32-bit /64-bit Windows operating systems, designed to help county officials collect license fee much easier and effectively towards realization of vision 2030. The system is easy to use for both beginners and advanced users. It features a familiar and well thought out, an attractive user interface, combined with strong searching, Insertion and reporting capabilities. The report generation facility helps to get a good idea of the number of traders within a county, their different business inclination and more importantly the amount being collected per each fiscal year.
Assessing Pastoralists’ Water Scarcity Coping Mechanisms during Drought in Mbeere South, Embu County
(University of Embu, 2017) Nasumuni, Elinsia Pauline
This study investigated the impacts of water scarcity on the livestock production systems and the coping mechanisms adopted by pastoralists in Mbeere South, Embu County. Multiple data sources, including socioeconomic interviews with 50 households, focus group discussion, and informal interviews with pastoralists were used to capture various aspects of water scarcity and water scarcity coping mechanism. Results revealed that water scarcity events were increasingly frequent, and have negatively impacted pastoral livelihoods. In order to adapt to or cope with climatic anomalies, households are using a variety of strategies. In addition to the traditional short term coping mechanism, the long term adaptation strategy used included diversification of herd composition, livestock mobility to track forage and water resources and sending children to school for formal education as a long term investment expected to pay back through income from employment. Both qualitative and quantities approaches were used, the study employed a review of relevant documents, structured questionnaires and interviews of key informants and focus groups. Sampling methods were used at the household level to determine water scarcity impacts, and also it involved laboratory work where milk samples were taken for observation. Qualitative data were coded and subjected to thematic analysis, whereas quantitative data were subjected to descriptive statistics. The impacts of water scarcity on livestock were livestock mortality, food insecurity, low livestock products, low-quality products, reduction in livestock prices.
Assessing Water Supply Challenges in Kiutune
(University of Embu, 2017-04) Kimanthi, Stacey Kendi
Kenya is a water scarce country. Over time the struggle for water and its resources has increased leading to water shortages and increased tariffs. This is majorly attributed to climate change which has depleted some of the Nations water resources hence decreasing the quantity of water. This causes a problem when it comes to supply to households. In Kenya several families face many problems related to water supply in Kiutune.A descriptive study was used where 30 questionnaires were issued to 30 households to represent the entire population in the study area. Collected data was handled and managed in Ms. Excel then subjected to analysis using statistical package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The results were presented on charts. The study results showed that there was no pipeline network in the area due to financial constraints, lack of technical personnel, negligence, lack of communication channels between the residents and water providers. The residents need to be enlightened on ways of storing water and taught on rainwater harvesting techniques.in conclusion the residents of Kiutune face challenges when it comes to water supply that should be addressed as soon as possible.
Assessment of Bacterial Contaminants in Roasted African Sausages and Raw Salad in Embu Town and Kangaru Market
(University of Embu, 2021-09) Opala, Omondi Collins
African sausages are local popular delicacies in Kenya. Demand for these sausages has resulted in this delicacy’s vendors being on the increase. However, the health risk posed to unsuspecting consumers of African sausages sold in informal, unhygienic makeshift road-side kiosks in major cities of Kenya is largely unknown. A purposive study was designed to isolate and quantitate bacteria from raw vegetable salad and roasted African sausages sold at Embu town and nearby Kangaru market. A total of 4 samples (2 vegetable salads and two roasted African sausages) were conveniently collected from two vendors (one in Kangaru and the other in Embu town) and studied in the Research Laboratory of the University of Embu. Four genera of bacteria, namely, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella species, and Shigella species, were isolated from these samples in large numbers. The results affirmed the presence of bacterial pathogens in roasted African sausages and raw salad, which are potentially zoonotic to humans, sold at these two sites. Therefore, there is a need to establish these pathogens sources due to the high microbial load defined in the current study and the need for regulatory bodies to ensure that microbiological standards are prioritized by farmers and vendors in the distribution and processing of salads.

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