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Recent Submissions

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Depth effects of long-term organic residue application on soil organic carbon stocks in central Kenya
(UoEm, 2025-06-17) Müller, Claude Raoul; Six, Johan; i Njiru, Daniel Mugend; Vanlauwe, Bernard; Broek, Marijn Van de;
In arable soils, a substantial portion of soil organic carbon (SOC) is stored below the plough layer. To develop sustainable soil management strategies, it is important to assess how they affect the quantity of SOC stored in the subsoil. Therefore, we investigated the impact of organic and inorganic nutrient inputs on SOC stocks down to 70 cm depth in a long-term field trial in Embu, Kenya. There were three organic input treatments (manure, Tithonia diversifolia residues, and maize stover) and a control treatment, each with and without the application of mineral nitrogen. These different treatments were applied to a maize monoculture over 38 growing seasons (19 years). Our results show that manure application had the largest positive impact on SOC stocks compared to the control; this effect was observed down to 60 cm depth. In contrast, Tithonia diversifolia and maize stover application led to significantly larger SOC stocks compared to the control, although this was only within the top 20 cm and 40 cm, respectively. Among the three organic residue treatments, only the application of manure had a significant effect on the SOC stock of the subsoil (i.e. the 30–70 cm depth layer). However, when considering the whole measured profile (i.e. 0–70 cm), all treatments led to significantly higher SOC stocks compared to the 91 ± 12 t C ha−1 of the control: manure had the highest stocks (120 ± 24 t C ha−1), followed by maize stover (112 ± 17 t C ha−1) and Tithonia diversifolia (105 ± 11 t C ha−1). Mineral nitrogen application did not have a significant impact on SOC stocks down to 70 cm depth. Our findings demonstrate that SOC in the subsoil comprised 48.5 % ± 1.7 % of the total SOC stocks across the 0–70 cm soil profile; however, only manure application affected subsoil OC levels, whereas other organic amendments solely increased SOC in the surface layer. Our results imply that gathering knowledge on the soil below the typically studied 0–30 cm depth layer will improve the overall assessment of agroecosystem properties, which is necessary to optimize soil system resilience, limit organic matter losses, and improve crop productivity.
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Exploring The Mutuality Between Religious Leadership and Community Engagement in Enhancing Livelihoods Among Rural Communities Embu, Kenya
(UoEm, 2025-06) Mutugi, Jessee; Mwaniki, Silas Maina
In rural Embu County, Kenya, where poverty and limited access to resources pose significant challenges to sustainable livelihoods, religious institutions serve as vital pillars of social, spiritual, and economic support. This research project, titled "Exploring the Mutuality Between Religious Leadership and Community Engagement in Enhancing Livelihoods Among Rural Communities in Embu, Kenya," investigated the synergistic relationship between religious leadership and community engagement in fostering socio-economic development. By leveraging the influential role of religious leaders and the participatory power of community engagement, the study sought to uncover how their mutual interaction can drive transformative livelihood outcomes in rural settings. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrated qualitative methods—such as key informant interviews and focus group discussions with religious leaders, community members, and stakeholders—with quantitative household surveys to assess socio-economic impacts. The study focused on four rural sub-counties in Embu (Mbeere South, Mbeere North, Runyenjes, and Manyatta), targeting a diverse sample of 200 participants, including religious leaders from various denominations, community members involved in livelihood initiatives, and representatives from local government and NGOs. The research objectives were fourfold: to evaluate the role of religious leaders in promoting community engagement, to identify effective forms of community participation that align with religious leadership, to measure the socio-economic outcomes of their collaboration, and to explore challenges and opportunities in strengthening this mutuality. The findings highlight how religious leaders mobilize communities for initiatives such as agricultural cooperatives, savings groups, and skill-building programs, while community engagement enhances ownership and sustainability of these efforts. The study will contribute to academic discourse on religion and development, offering actionable insights for policymakers, development practitioners, and religious institutions to design inclusive, sustainable interventions that alleviate poverty and enhance livelihoods in rural Embu and similar contexts across Sub-Saharan Africa. By illuminating the dynamics of this partnership, the research underscores the potential of faith-based frameworks to catalyze community- driven development in resource-constrained environments.
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Physicochemical and Heavy Metal Characterization of River Kapingazi in Embu County, Kenya
(UoEm, 2025-07-04) Yego, Naomy Chepkirui; Nyambane, Charles Onyari; Yegon, Rebbecca; Kiprotich, Shadrack
Surface water provides crucial support to the aquatic ecosystem and humans in numerous ways. However, its quality is paramount in determining its impact on the health of the aquatic ecosystem and humans. Currently, the malady of pollution arising from anthropogenic activities poses a significant threat to the quality of most rivers. The quality of water in the Kapingazi river in Embu County has received limited attention which is a concern that needs to be addressed. This study therefore, sought to investigate the status of water quality in river Kapingazi. The study analyzed 96 samples from four locations in a span of eight months which combined the dry and wet seasons of the year. Parameters measured in-situ included turbidity, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO) and electrical conductivity (EC) while ex-situ parameters were phosphates, nitrates and concentrations of heavy metals: iron and manganese. Results showed that Water Quality Index (WQI) during the drought period was74.05, suggesting that the water quality is only recommended for agricultural and industrial applications. During wet season, the water quality index was 89.67, reflecting a poor status, as more contaminants were likely introduced through surface runoff. Overall, the WQI averaged to 88.02. This study concludes that water in River Kapingazi is not suitable for human consumption; therefore, appropriate treatment is essential prior to its use. Similarly, the findings indicate that both rainy and drought periods significantly affect water quality, presenting challenges for its use for various purposes. It is recommended that the allocation of resources towards water treatment facilities and regulation of pollution sources should be enforced to ensure the safety of river water for diverse applications
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Assessment of fodder conservation in smallholder dairy farming systems in highland and midlands of eastern Kenya
(UoEm, 2025-06-03) Kogo, Thomas Kipchoge
GENERAL ABSTRACT The dairy industry is important for its contribution to the living standard of people, industries, foreign exchange and 4% of the total GDP in Kenya. Productivity of 7.8 liters/cow/day is low and attributed to poor feeding and contribution to high emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs). Fodder scarcity poses a challenge to the achievement of high productivity, while mitigation of fodder scarcity through fodder conservation remains low. Despite common challenges, farms perform differently, in different farm locations with some farms, also called positive deviants (PDs) conserving adequate fodder. In the highlands and midlands of eastern Kenya, information on fodder conservation among smallholder dairy farming systems is limited. The adoption levels and the intensity of fodder conservation technologies including silage and hay, factors affecting the adoption and use of such technologies in (peri-) urban locations and strategies used by PDs in fodder conservation are unknown. Therefore, the study sought to assess fodder conservation technologies among smallholder dairy farming systems in the highlands and midlands of Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya. Specifically: to determine factors affecting the adoption intensity of fodder conservation. To determine factors of fodder conservation technologies adoption in urban and peri-urban areas. To determine strategies that distinguish PDs from peers (non-PDs) in fodder conservation. A cross-sectional survey was conducted on smallholder dairy farms producing and conserving fodder in Tharaka Nithi County. Multistage sampling procedures were used: purposive sampling of the Sub- counties and locations, random selection of villages and proportional selection of 242 farms through snowball chain referral. The questionnaire was used to collect information, which included: household socio-demographics, husbandry practices, farm characteristics and fodder conservation characteristics. Two towns were chosen purposively to represent urban locations i.e. Chuka (UL, n=68) and peri-urban locations Chogoria (PUL, n=93) in Chuka and Maara Sub-Counties respectively (Total n=161), due to the relatively high number of urban dwellers. Additionally, the PDs (n=24) conserved fodder adequate to last the dry season and had a milk yield of ≥15 kg/cow/day. While non-PDs (n=97) do not qualify for both criterion as farms qualifying for one criteria were discarded. Multiple regression analysis was applied to explain the quantity of fodder conserved. The Multivariate Regression (MVR) model was used to identify and estimate simultaneously the determinants of fodder conservation technologies adoption. Logit regression was used to examine variables that influence the probability of PDs. The study found that most farms were headed by older males who had basic education. Fodder was scarce during the dry season in most farms. Fodder conserved included; silage was conserved in the least number of farms only 26%, but the highest in the quantity of fodder conserved (13 tons); hay was conserved in 40% of the farms, but the quantity conserved was the least (2 tons); crop residue storage was the major conserved fodder by 85% of the farms and the quantity conserved was 5 tons. Quantities of fodder conserved were affected by land size, herd size, duration planned to use conserved fodder, main fodder source during scarcity and the fodder conservation technologies used (silage and hay). Quantities of silage and hay conserved were higher in urban location (UL) than in peri- urban locations (PUL) farms. Crop residue storage was conserved more in non-PD farms, especially in PUL farms. Fodder conserved in UL and PUL was influenced by farm location, land size, herd size, total milk yield per farm, sex, source of fodder during feed scarcity, extension services, period the current stock is expected to last, use of concentrate feeds and breed kept. Access to extension services, milk yield, land size, land under xivfodder, period to use conserved fodder, total herd size, and different combinations of fodder conservation technologies differ between PDs and non-PDs. PDs in fodder conservation are favored by a high level of education, access to extension services, large land, herd size and high milk yield. The study shows knowledge production resources and technology used as important in fodder conservation. Recommended mitigation measures target more education on fodder conservation technologies as well as increasing the adoption of improved fodder production. Knowledge advancement of farmers and policymakers through education and extension increases milk production. Therefore, policymakers can focus on creating enabling policies that promote the adoption of improved technologies as used by PDs to support fodder production and conservation to improve productivity and inform the direction of future research.
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Modelling transmission dynamics of typhoid fever with fear of infection and vaccination in Kenya
(UoEm, 2025-06-03) Wangui, Jackline Wanjiku
Despite the great advancements in healthcare systems and sanitary improvements globally, sub-Saharan Africa including Kenya bears a significant burden of infectious diseases, among which typhoid fever continues to exert a notable toll. In this study, we developed a deterministic mathematical model to examine the interplay between human responses driven by the psychological factor of fear of infection, vaccination efforts, and the dynamics of human-to-human and environmental transmission of typhoid fever. The mathematical model was analyzed using theories of first-order ordinary differential equations to establish the existence of equilibrium points and their conditions for local and global stability. The reproduction number, R0 , was established and distinct pathways for the transmission of infection were identified, shedding light on the crucial interactions among key population groups fueling the spread of typhoid fever disease. The model results suggest that, typhoid fever infection is heightened by both direct and indirect contact with infected individuals and contaminated environments. Additionally, lack or limited awareness contributes to decreased fear of infection and reluctance towards vaccination, further exacerbating the situation. Moreover, an increase in environmental transmission is observed due to elevated discharge rates from infected individuals. This study contributes valuable insights into the design of effective mitigation strategies aimed at combating typhoid fever in resource-limited settings
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Monetary policy, fiscal policy and economic growth stimulation in kenya
(UoEm, 2025-06-03) Muriuki, Dancan Kinyua
ABSTRACT Increased economic growth is a key objective that the Kenyan government strives to achieve in order to reap its welfare benefits. To achieve this, the government of Kenya incorporated the economic pillar in its Vision 2030 which aimed at realizing an annual economic growth rate of 10% by the year 2030. To date, this rate is yet to be achieved and the current economic growth of Kenya remains far below it. Prompted by this, this study set out to investigate whether fiscal and monetary strategies influence Kenyan economic growth and consequently determine which policy is more effective between the two in stimulating the growth of output in Kenya. To achieve the specified objectives, the study used a causal research design to train a Structural Vector Autoregressive model of order three (SVAR (3)) with time series data collected from the first quarter of 2006 through the fourth quarter of 2019.To ensure the model results were robust and reliable, a series of residual diagnostic tests including stationarity, normality, Granger causality, model stability and autocorrelation were performed. The diagnostic results showed that the estimated model was sound and robust for making inferences. The study findings revealed that both strategies had substantial stimulative influence on Kenya’s economic growth rate. Specifically, considering the effect of fiscal plan on Kenya’s economic growth rate, the analysis revealed that positive shocks on tax revenue decreased economic growth significantly for two quarters while a positive shock on debt increased economic growth significantly for two quarters after which the impact decayed to zero. A positive shock on government expenditure was observed to produce inconsequential influence on output growth. Turning to monetary policy, the study found that a positive innovation on the central bank rate and the nominal effective exchange rate, decreased growth significantly for three quarters after which the effect becomes positive and their impact dies overtime. On the other hand, an observation of insignificant effect on growth stimulation was noted when a positive innovation on money supply was introduced. Guided by the results of the comparative analysis on which policy was more potent than the other, fiscal strategy was noted to be more stimulative relative to the monetary policy. As such, this study advocates for the application of expansionary fiscal measures to spur growth in Kenya.
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Procurement transportation, inventory control, and service delivery in public primary schools in Embu county
(UoEm, 2025-06-03) Omollo, Victor Okoth Apollo
ABSTRACT Delivery of quality services to pupils in primary schools is key to developing their academic foundation. Poor service delivery in core functions such as transport, procurement, and inventory management generally undermine the quality-of-service delivery. The impact of procurement, transportation, and inventory control on service delivery in public primary schools in Embu County in Kenya was examined in the study. A total of 196 schools were sampled from 384 public primary schools in the study. 94% response was achieved with 184 questionnaires returned. Multivariate regression analysis model was employed in the research to assess the impact of transport, procurement and inventory control on service delivery. The findings of the study indicated that service delivery was influenced by the variables and accounted for 74.81% variance in service delivery (R² = 0.7481). The regression coefficient in the case of procurement was 2.312 (p = 0.005) and had strong positive relationship with service delivery. The transportation model showed that transport cost and delivery time had positive and negative effects on service delivery respectively. Transport cost had regression coefficient 1.011 (p = 0.001) while delivery time had a negative effect on reliability and productivity (β = -0.110, p = 0.001). Inventory management had positive effect on service delivery with regression coefficient 0.219 (p = 0.000) and had significant positive effect on service outcome. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that combined, procurement, transport, and inventory management accounted for significant percentage of variance in service delivery with F-statistic 40.98 (p = 0.002). The findings suggested that there should be improvement in procurement processes, transportation and effective inventory control to enhance service delivery in public primary schools. The study recommended increased efficiency in procurement, transportation system streamlining and inventory control to enhance service delivery in accordance with the findings. It further recommended increased use of technology and domestic capacity building to enhance the capacity of schools to manage operations challenges.
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The relationship between constructive simulation, convectional method and learning outcomes of christian religious education. The case of Embu county, Kenya
(UoEm, 2025-06-03) Mugo, Annis Muthoni
ABSTRACT Learning outcomes in Christian Religious Education are attributed to the teaching and learning approaches utilized by teachers. In Kenya, conventional methods are prevalent in classrooms, as teachers often prefer methods that alleviate their workload. Nevertheless, the implementation of learner-centred methods such as constructive simulation enhances learning outcomes. Although numerous researchers have advocated for the constructive simulation method as a means to promote interactive education across various subjects, there remains scarcity of research in the context of Christian Religious Education. Therefore, this study established the relationship between constructive simulation, conventional method and learning outcomes of CRE. This was done by evaluating the dissimilarity in learning outcomes and conceptions of CRE learners instructed by constructive simulation, and those instructed using a conventional approach. This research adopted a mixed method approach where, a Quasi- experimental research design with groups under treatment and control to collect quantitative data, while the descriptive research design was utilized to collect qualitative data, guided by Vygotsky's social cognitive theory and John Dewey’s philosophy of reflective practice. In total, 108 form two CRE learners in sub-county secondary schools were purposively selected for the study. Data were collected using the Learner Attainment test in CRE as the assessment tool, student questionnaires, and lesson observation schedules. The research utilised correlation analysis, t-test and regression statistical models to establish the effectiveness of the two teaching methods, as well as the relationship between learners’ conceptions and their learning outcomes in CRE. Results from the t-test revealed that, constructive simulation (t (49) = − 9.76, n = 50, p < 0.05) significantly outperformed the conventional method of teaching (t (39) = 2.700, n = 40, p < 0.324), demonstrating that constructive simulation was more effective in enhancing learning outcomes in CRE. The correlation and regression analysis indicated a positive link between the two assessment tests of learners taught using constructive simulation (r = .510, p < 0.01) and conventional methods (r = .673, p < 0.01). Furthermore, learners’ conceptions of constructive simulation (β = 0.252, p < 0.00) and conventional method (β = 0.065, p < 0.01) had a positive relationship with learning outcomes of CRE. The study therefore ascertained the relationship between constructive simulation and learning outcome as operative. Moreover, learners’ conceptions of teaching methods had an impact on their learning outcome. From the study findings, constructive simulation was more effective in enhancing learning outcomes as opposed to the conventional method. These findings are pertinent for a diverse range of stakeholders, including educators, policymakers, and scholars advocating for evidence-based approaches like constructive simulation in education. The results, therefore, suggest when designing curricula and formulating educational policies, educators and policymakers should incorporate constructive simulation as a learner-centred method.
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Forecasting Kenya's public debt using time series analysis
(UoEm, 2025-06-03) Obwoge, Frankline Keraro
ABSTRACT Public debt management and forecasting remain challenging for developing economies, including Kenya, where accurate predictions are essential for sustainable fiscal planning. This study aimed to analyze and forecast Kenya's public debt using two time series forecasting approaches: the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model and the Holt exponential smoothing model. The study sought to evaluate the performance of these models to determine the most efficient forecasting method for Kenya's debt forecasting. The research employed a cross-sectional study design, utilizing public debt data from the Central Bank of Kenya spanning January 2010 to December 2023. The methodology involved initial data preprocessing, stationarity testing, and pattern analysis, followed by dividing the data into training and testing sets. Both models were fitted to the training data, with parameters optimized through minimization of the Akaike Information Criterion and smoothing parameters. Results revealed that the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model demonstrated superior performance in forecasting domestic debt, with a Root Mean Square Error of 0.02649721 compared to 0.0311399 for the Holt exponential smoothing model. For external debt forecasting, the Holt exponential smoothing model showed marginally better results. In forecasting total public debt, the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model again proved more accurate, with a Root Mean Square Error of 0.05710133 compared to 0.06144849 for the Holt model. Based on these findings, the study recommends using the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model for forecasting domestic and total public debt in Kenya, while the Holt exponential smoothing method for external debt forecasting. Regular reassessment of model performance is encouraged to maintain accuracy as debt patterns evolve. Future research should consider incorporating multiple economic variables, exploring advanced time series models, and integrating debt sustainability frameworks to enhance forecasting accuracy.
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Combining ability and genetic mappig of pod quality and yield traits in locally adapted french beans (phaseolus vulgaris l.) in Kenya
(UoEm, 2025-06-03) Njau, Serah Nyawira
French beans are common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) that have palatable pods. The crop is mostly grown for export, supporting Kenyan smallholder farmers. In Eastern Africa, developing French bean varieties with high pod yield, good pod quality, and processing industry has received little research, and there is limited information on genetics of pod quality and yield traits. This study investigated the genetics underlying French bean pod quality and yield, with crucial characteristics for the development of improved varieties in Kenya. The first objective focus was on evaluation of commercial French bean varieties for pod quality and yield performance. Thirteen French bean and two dry bean varieties were tested for pod quality and yield in Embu and Mwea, to select material for further research. Later, a half-diallel population was developed from five French bean and two dry bean varieties. The aim was to examine the gene action of French bean pod attributes and to identify parents with good combining abilities. Additionally, a cross between French bean × dry bean, was used to develop a population of recombinant inbred lines (RILs) specifically using the Vanilla × MCM5001 varieties, to facilitate genetic mapping of traits associated with French bean pod quality and yield. Data on various pod traits of the RILs and parents were collected from plants that were planted in three trials in Kenya and the University of California, Davis greenhouse. In addition, genomic DNA from the RILs and parents were genotyped using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Results from diallel analysis revealed significant (P < 0.001) general and specific combining abilities effects for the evaluated traits. This highlighted the significance of additive and dominance gene effects, with the predominance of additive gene effects. The crosses between Serengeti × Amy, Serengeti × Moonstone, and Serengeti × G2333 were best combiners for pod quality, whereas G2333 × Amy and Moonstone × Amy produced best progenies for pod yield. Using SNPs and phenotypic data from 184 F2:6 RILs, 44 quantitative trait loci (QTL) were discovered for yield and pod quality traits through QTL mapping. The QTL for pod yield were identified on chromosomes Pv03 and Pv08, while the QTL for pod quality were located on chromosomes Pv01, Pv02, Pv03, Pv04, Pv06, and Pv07. In addition, six novel QTL were identified, whereas others overlapped with pod quality and yield QTL. Using the mapping results, candidate genes responsible for French bean pod string (St) were identified and eight gel-based molecular markers were developed and tested for their suitability for marker-assisted selection (MAS). The results indicated that six of the eight markers amplified DNA from Vanilla and MCM 5001, although only one marker revealed variation between the parents and RILs. Chi-square analysis identified a significant (P < 0001) association between the pod string score and the marker, linked at 7.8 cM from St. The identified QTL and markers can facilitate development of more robust molecular markers and for further studies on French bean pod quality and yield. In addition, varieties with the best combining abilities (Serengeti × Moonstone, MCM 5001 × Amy and Vanilla × Moonstone) can serve as parents in breeding initiatives that focus on improving French beans in Kenya.