Department of Agricultural Economics

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://repository.chuka.ac.ke/handle/chuka/15543

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Relationships of Selected Endogenous Factors Associated with Direct Somatic Embryogenesis of Coffee (Coffea arabica L.)
(Chuka University, 2018-05-30) R.N. Mayoli, D.K.Isutsa,A.B,Nyende,Mweu, C.M.Mweu
Coffee is one of themostimportantcashcropsproducedintheworldwithgreateconomicreturnstogrowers and national gross domestic product. Somatic embryogenesis is a morphogenetic processes leading to plantlet regeneration and these processes are coupled with changes in the levels of primary metabolites. The presentexperimentestablishedrelationshipsofendogenoussubstanceswithdirectsomaticembryogenesisof coffee ‘Ruiru 11’. Laboratory experiments were set up at Coffee Research Institute, Ruiru-Kenya between 2014 and2017. The setup wasin acompletelyrandomised design, replicated threetimesandrepeated once. Third leaf pair explants were excised from 8-month-old greenhouse-grown mother plants and cultured in half strength Murashige and Skoog basal salts augmented with Thidiazuron. Once embryos had developed, the cultures were analysed for endogenous substances using HPLC and GCMS. Sucrose, phenolics, alkaloids, amino acids, fatty acids and their derivatives correlated positively, whereas fructose and glucose correlated negatively with the other biochemical components. Endogenous sucrose, chlorogenic acid, caffeine amino acid, fatty acids and their derivatives are potential biomarkers for coffee somatic embryogenesis, whereas endogenous fructose and glucose are inhibitors of the same. Further studies regarding the status of the biochemical components, especially in particular stages of embryo development should be conducted to establish treatments that can improve coffee direct somatic embryo development.
Soil Management Strategies Enhanced Crop Yield, Soil Moisture, and Water Productivity in Nitisols of the Upper Eastern Kenya
(Elsevier B.V, 2021) Oduor, N.; Kiboi, M. N.; Muriuki, A.; Adamtey, N.; Musafiri, C. M.; Ngetich, F. K.
Low soil moisture and declining crop yield caused by erratic rainfall, and poor soil management practises con- tribute to the continuous decrease in water productivity. We sought to assess the effects of the selected soil man- agement strategies on crop yield, soil moisture, and water productivity in the Nitisols. We carried out the study in Chuka, Tharaka-Nithi County, and Kandara, Murang’a County. The experiment was laid in a split-plot design. Minimum and conventional tillage were the main treatments, while soil fertility inputs were the sub-treatments. The soil fertility inputs included sole mineral fertilizer, mineral fertilizer plus animal manure, mineral fertilizer plus crop residue, Tithonia diversifolia plus phosphate rock (Minjingu), sole animal manure intercropped with Dolichos Lablab L.. Maize grain, stover yield, soil moisture, and water productivity significantly increased by 6– 22, 10, and 31–33% under conventional tillage than minimum tillage. Mineral fertilizer with or without organic inputs and with or without crop residue mulch significantly (p>0.0002) enhanced maize grain yield by 96 – 729% and stover yield by 79 -276% compared to the control in the two sites during the experimental period. Soil fertility inputs significantly increased soil moisture at 0–20 cm depth at the Chuka site by 10 - 40%. Water productivity was significantly (p > 0.0001) improved under mineral fertilizer with or without organic inputs and with or without crop residue mulch by 46 - 279% in both sites. Generally, the combination of organic and inor- ganic resources plus crop residue mulch enhanced soil water productivity irrespective of the tillage method. Their use should be encouraged for improved water productivity. However, tillage effects on crop yield, soil moisture, and water productivity should be investigated under long-term conditions.
Utilization of Alate Termites (Macroterme Spp) to improve Nutritional Security among Households in Vihiga County-Kenya.
(Journal of Agriculture Science & Technology, 2021) Anyuor, S.; Ayieko, M.; Amulen, D.
Among key food nutritional concerns all over the globe is the rising demand for high-value protein, which is projected to double by 2050 due to the rapidly growing population in developing economies, such as Kenya. To meet the new demand, conventional livestock may prove expensive as the current production system remains unsustainable. Research on alternative sources of protein calls for affordable and environmentally acceptable protein sources. Hence entomophagy is gaining attention with approximately 1,900 insect species consumed worldwide including the Alate termites. However, information on utilization and abundance is largely anecdotal and disjointed due to the limited knowledge of sustained off-season production, appropriate processing technology and packaging for all end-user market segments. The objective of this study was to fill this knowledge gap by assessing the capacity of farmers on the current harvesting and utilization of the alate termite. The research involved a cross-sectional descriptive survey design that informed data collection from a target population of 64,752 households. A Semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 204 households obtained through a multistage sampling procedure within Vihiga County Western Kenya. Descriptive and exploratory statistics was applied in summarizing the results while chi-square statistic was used to test for association between attitude, knowledge and utilization of alate termites and the socio- demographic variables The key findings revealed a strong association between the respondents' socio-economic status and’ capacity, including attitude on consumption, methods and forms of utilization of alates. Where the categorical variables socioeconomic characteristics, influenced the choice of preferred forms as either fried or blanched termites (p<0.001). Additionally, there was a strong association of termite availability and their role in alleviating hunger through household diet diversification and food security. The utilization of alate termites assessed was recorded to have 65% of the respondents utilize the alate termites for health reasons while 81% consume alate termites as either side dish or staple. The main factors determining abundance and utilization of alate termites (figure 2) include seasonality and weather (63.2%), type of soil in the locality. The termites may be exploited to provide high-quality diets for households especially in developing countries while promoting awareness of the nutritional potential.
Effect of Tick Control on Milk Revenue of Smallholder Dairy Farmers in Kapseret Sub-County, Kenya
(Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Science, 2021) Bett, J. K.; Nkari, I. M.; Munyiri, S. W.; Kimetto, E. J.
Milk production is a viable economic enterprise in Kenya. It supportsthe livelihood of approximately four million Kenyans through food provision, income generation and employment. However, milk production per individual animal in Kenya, averaging seven to nine litres/cow/day, is low compared to the world’s best at 10,133 litres/cow/year (28 litres/cow/day). This means that Kenya produces an average of 20 litres of milk less per cow per day compared to the world’s best. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of tickcontrol on milk revenue of smallholder farmers in Kapseret Sub-county. The study was conducted between the months of January-March, 2020. Primary data was collected using closed and open-ended questionnaires.Spearman’s Rank correlation was used to show the strength of the relationship between the variables. Multiple regression model was used to assess the effect of tick control on milk revenue. Results were presented in tables, and descriptive statistics such as percentages and frequencies. The results indicated a positive and statistically significant relationship (r=0.161 & p=0.017)between tick control and milk revenue.Tick control practises essentiallyimpacted cows’ health, which further influenced the level of milk revenue. The study concluded that tick influenced milk revenue of smallholder dairy farmers in Kapseret Sub- county.The study recommended that smallholder dairy farmers need to be trained on the best and timely prevention measures of east coast fever. The government can encourage tickcontrol practicesby offering subsidizedacaricides.This is mainly because cows’ health havedirect influence on production.
Socio-economic Factors Affecting Uptake of Banana Value Addition among Smallholders in Chuka Sub-county, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya
(Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociology, 2021-01-11) Muigai, Josphat K.; Gathungu, Geofrey K.; Thogori, Miriam
Banana farmers in most parts of Kenya have not embraced value addition despite its accrued economic benefits and emphasis by stakeholders. A study was done in Chuka Sub-County, Tharaka Nithi County to identify the socio-economic factors affecting uptake of banana value addition by farmers. The study was based on the diffusion of innovations theory to establish the relationship between farming experience, group membership, access to credit and uptake of banana value addition. The study adopted a descriptive research design whereby frequency tables were generated whilst both qualitative and quantitative data was collected. The target population was 20,180 banana farming households in Chuka Sub-County and 3 key informants. Purposive sampling, Random sampling and snowballing techniques were used to select the 156 banana farmers. A pilot study of 24 (15% of sample size) households was done in Imenti South and the questionnaire was found to be reliable (Cronbach alpha value, α˂0.785). With a 90% questionnaire return rate, the data collected was analyzed using SPSS version 25 and presented using frequency tables. Binary logistic regression was used to test the levels of significance of variables and the model through the Hosmer & Lemeshow test of the goodness of fit suggested that the it was good for fit to the data as p=0.480 (>0.05) while ANOVA analyses were used to check the presence of multicollinearity. It was observed that only 31.9% of farmers uptake banana value addition and there were no banana value addition technologies identified with 35.6% and 64.4% of those who uptake doing banana ripening for sale and bulk packaging respectively. The results [P=0.05] showed that group membership [p=0.019] and access to credit [p=0.004] had a positive and significant effect on the uptake of banana value addition by farmers at varying levels. It was observed that farming experience had a positive effect on the uptake, but was statistically insignificant. The study recommended that; farmers should be encouraged to form cooperatives on value addition and the government and other stakeholders in conjunction with financial institutions need to streamline policies to enhance farmer’s access credit for effective farming among others.
Consumer Perceptions on the Introduction of Genetically Modified Food Products in Kenya: A Qualitative Study in Nyeri and Meru Counties
(Agriculture and Horticulture Research, 2023-06-07) Joram Ngugi Kamau1* and Patrick Mutwiri Karitu2
The introduction of genetically modified (GM) food products in Kenya has raised concerns among consumers, as well as regulatory authorities and industry players. This study aimed to explore the attitudes and perceptions of consumers towards GM food products in Kenya, using a qualitative research design and thematic content analysis. The objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive understanding of consumer perceptions towards GM food products in Kenya. Data was collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) with participants drawn from Meru and Nyeri Counties. The data was analyzed using Nvivo software and thematic content analysis. The major findings of the study suggest that consumers in Kenya have limited knowledge and understanding of GM food products. Participants expressed concerns about the safety, health implications, and environmental impact of GM foods. Cultural and religious beliefs also played a significant role in shaping consumer perceptions of GM foods. Despite the concerns raised, participants acknowledged the potential benefits of GM foods, including increased food production and improved nutritional content. Based on the findings, this study recommends that the government, industry players, and other stakeholders should collaborate to develop clear and transparent regulations for GM food products. This should be coupled with targeted education and awareness campaigns to promote public understanding and acceptance of GM foods. Further research is also needed to investigate the potential long-term effects of GM foods on human health and the environment with an underscore of impartial awareness endeavor.
Analysis of socioeconomic characteristics on coffee yield gap among smallholder farmers in Nyeri Central sub-county, Kenya
(world journal of advanced research and review, 2024-09-05) Florence Wairimu Ndungu 1, * , Martin Kagiki Njogu 2 and Geoffrey Kingori Gathungu
Kenya’s coffee production has been declining over the years leading to decreased yields and making it hard for farmers to benefit from the sector. This has resulted in a considerable yield difference, with actual farmer yields far below the potential yields of station trials. This large yield gap reveals an enormous potential for yield improvement in coffee production. However, the large yield gap may be attributed to several factors, yet there is limited quantitative information on site-specific factors and the yield gap attributed to the factors. This study informs the knowledge gap by analysing the effect of socioeconomic characteristics on the coffee yield gap of smallholder farmers in Nyeri Central sub county, Nyeri County. A cross-sectional research design was used, and a sample of 175 smallholder coffee farmers was drawn using the systematic random sampling technique. Data on socioeconomic characteristics was analysed using SPSS version 29, and their effect on the coffee yield gap was determined using a fractional logit regression model in STATA version 17. The findings noted that the yield gap index per variety was 88.54% for Ruiru 11, 93.78% for Batian, and 95.68% for SL 28. The model parameters indicated that the gender of the household head, schooling years, household size, and labour were negative but significant at p<0.05. This study concluded that smallholder coffee farmers were producing below their potential, as depicted by the large yield gap estimate. Therefore, feasible actions are required to close the existing yield gap, increase coffee yields, and enhance household food security
Dissemination Approaches that Enhance Adoption of Climate Resilient TIMPS for Pigeon Pea, Sorghum and Green Grams Value Chains in Machakos County, Kenya
(Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociolog, 2024-10-19) Rithaa J.N. a* , Magana, A. a , Emongor, R.A. b , Matiri, F.M. b , Wamaitha, J. b , Agatha, A. b , Daniel, A. M. b , Wanjohi, F. b and Mulindo J
Dissemination approaches play a key role in facilitating the adoption of climate smart technologies, innovations and management practices among farmers. Various approaches used in Kenya include the top down approaches and bottom up approaches. This study was conducted to determine and validate dissemination approaches that enhance sustainable adoption of climate resilient TIMPs for Sorghum, Green grams and pigeon peas value chains among farmers in Machakos county. The objectives included: to Identify dissemination approaches for TIMPS in sorghum, green grams and pigeon peas in Machakos county, to assess the frequency of use of dissemination approaches for TIMPS by stakeholders and to determine the stakeholders’ perception on the effectiveness of the dissemination approaches for TIMPS. The study used a survey research design where 27 key informants comprising champion farmers and extension service providers were purposively selected for data collection. The descriptive analysis was conducted using the SPSS version 16. A weighted index was computed to aid comparison for various values chains and categories. The results showed that farmer-to-farmer (96%) and T&V (88.9%) dissemination approaches were the frequently used dissemination approaches whereas education institution (14.81%) was the least used dissemination approach in the three value chains in the county. Farmer to farmer effectiveness was ranked highest in Sorghum and Green grams while the T&V was highest for Pigeon peas Enhanced utilization of farmer-to-farmer, T&V and demand driven dissemination approaches for enhance adoption of green grams, pigeon peas and sorghum for improved productivity and household income.
Effects of Socio-Economic Characteristics on Choice of Tuta Absoluta Management Methods in Tomato Production in Mwea, Kirinyaga County
(Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, 2024-10-31) Mwaniki Poline Wawira1, * , Gathungu Geofrey Kingori2 , Njogu Martin Kagiki2 , Ireri Dave Mwangi1
The study assessed the effect of socio-economic characteristics on the management methods of T. absoluta in Mwea, Kirinyaga County. The target population was 2300 open fields and 20 green-house tomato farmers in Mwea. A descriptive research design was used in the study, and a multistage sampling procedure was used to get a sample of 303 respondents. Through a survey, 283 open-field tomato small-scale farmers were randomly interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires. Socio economic and crop protection data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and econometric modeling. The multivariate probit model estimates showed that gender, education, age, land size, household income, and extension significantly affected farmers' choice of pest control methods to manage T. absoluta. The negative coefficients showed that an increase in either one of the socio-economic factors would help increase tomato yields reduced by T. absoluta. The study results encourage small scale tomato farmers to use other pest management methods, such as crop rotation and weeding, so as not to rely on chemical pesticides alone to control T. absoluta. To learn more about tomato pest management practices, Tomato small-scale farmers should join farmers' groups and organizations. National and County policymakers should adopt policies to encourage integrated pest management methods to avoid excess chemical pesticides in tomato production

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