Department of Animal Sciences

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Analysis of the benefits and production challenges of working donkeys in smallholder farming systems in Kenya
(Veterinary World, 2020-11-13) Gichure, Mary; Onono, Joshua; Wahome, Raphael; Gathura, Peter
Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the benefits of keeping donkeys and associated production challenges under a smallholder farming system in Kenya. Materials and Methods: A descriptive study was conducted with smallholder farmers keeping donkeys in 13 administrative locations in Kirinyaga County. Data were collected using a questionnaire guide in 13 focus group discussions (FGDs) using participatory epidemiological methods. The FGDs comprised 8-12 participants who were donkey owners. Data were collected through listing, pair-wise ranking, and probing on the benefits of keeping donkeys, challenges faced by working donkeys and the common diseases that affect donkeys in these farms. Data analysis was performed using Kruskal–Wallis non-parametric method to test whether median ranks were significantly different. Other farm level data were also collected using the structured questionnaire and these were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. Results: The identified benefits included income obtained from the use of donkeys in transportation (Z=5.80) and manure production (Z=3.47), which enabled the farmers to participate in trade activities and improve crop farming. The identified challenges included theft for slaughter (Z=5.99), disease incidence (Z=3.03), road accidents (Z=2.83), and malicious cutting (Z=2.32). Some of the diseases identified were tetanus (Z=5.35), hoof problems (Z=4.55), helminthiases (Z=3.10), and mange (Z=2.24). Participants ranked diseases based on their effects on work output for the donkeys, reducing productivity and often causing death. Addressing these production challenges would optimize donkey use among smallholder farmers. Conclusion: The results presented can be important for policymakers and extension agents regarding the health and welfare of donkeys kept under similar settings. Keywords: benefits and challenges, income, livelihoods, working donkeys
Antimicrobial Usage, Susceptibility Profiles, and Resistance Genes inCampylobacter Isolated from Cattle, Chicken, andWater Samples in Kajiado County, Kenya
(International Journal of Microbiology, 2023-03-22) Daniel W. Wanja ,Paul G. Mbuthia , Lilly C. Bebora , Gabriel O. Aboge , and Brian Ogoti
Campylobacter organisms are the major cause of bacterial gastroenteritis and diarrhoeal illness in man and livestock. Campylobacter is growingly becoming resistant to critically crucial antibiotics; thereby presenting public health challenge. Tis study aimed at establishing antimicrobial use, susceptibility profles, and resistance genes in Campylobacter isolates recovered from chicken, cattle, and cattle-trough water samples. Te study was conducted between October 2020 and May 2022 and involved the revival of cryopreserved Campylobacter isolates confrmed by PCR from a previous prevalence study in Kajiado County, Kenya. Data on antimicrobial use and animal health-seeking behaviour among livestock owners (from the same farms where sampling was done for the prevalence study) were collected through interview using a pretested semistructured questionnaire. One hundred and three isolates (29 C. coli (16 cattle isolates, 9 chicken isolates, and 4 water isolates) and 74 C. jejuni (38 cattle isolates, 30 chicken isolates, and 6 water isolates)) were assayed for phenotypic antibiotic susceptibility profle using the Kirby–Bauer disk difusion method for ampicillin (AX), tetracycline (TE), gentamicin (GEN), erythromycin (E), ciprofoxacin (CIP), and nalidixic acid (NA). Furthermore, detection of genes conferring resistance to tetracyclines (tet (O), β-lactams (blaOXA-61), aminoglycosides (aph-3-1), (fuoro)quinolones (gyrA), and multidrug efux pump (cmeB) encoding resistance to multiple antibiotics was detected by mPCR and confrmed by DNA sequencing. Te correlation between antibiotic use and resistance phenotypes was determined using the Pearson’s correlation coefcient (r) method. Tetracyclines, aminoglycosides, and β-lactam-based antibiotics were the most commonly used antimicrobials; with most farms generally reported using antimicrobials in chicken production systems than in cattle. Te highest resistance amongst isolates was recorded in ampicillin (100%), followed by tetracycline (97.1%), erythromycin (75.7%), and ciprofoxacin (63.1%). Multidrug resistance (MDR) profle was observed in 99 of 103 (96.1%) isolates; with all the Campylobacter coli isolates displaying MDR. All chicken isolates (39/39, 100%) exhibited multidrug resistance. Te AX-TEE-CIP was the most common MDR pattern at 29.1%. Te antibiotic resistance genes were detected as follows: tet (O), gyrA, cmeB, blaOXA-61, and aph-3-1 genes were detected at 93.2%, 61.2%, 54.4%, 36.9%, and 22.3% of all Campylobacter isolates, respectively. Te highest correlations were found between tet (O) and tetracycline-resistant phenotypes for C. coli (96.4%) and C. jejuni (95.8%). A moderate level of concordance was observed between the Kirby–Bauer disk difusion method (phenotypic assay) and
Assessing the influence of knowledge of type and numbers of livestock exchange in stock friends’ concept as a strategy in poverty alleviation; case of Ngomeni Community of Mwingi District in Kenya
(2015) M’mboroki, Kiambi G. 1; Aboud, Abdillahi A. 2; Rithaa, Jafford N. 3
One of the challenge-facing Kenya is high levels of poverty. Different ways of poverty alleviation are applied among them is stock friends strategy. The strategy is ineffective among the Ngomeni community of Mwingi District. It is postulated that there is poor understanding of the right types and numbers of livestock for the exchange; and the rate of adoption of the strategy. A socio-ecological survey of 233 households sampled and complemented by Key Informant interviews was conducted. Descriptive and regression analyses using SPSS were used to determine the associations and influences of the factors (independent variable) on poverty levels of the community (dependent variable). The degree of community knowledge of type and numbers of stock used in the stock exchange (β value of -0.449 that explained 25.5% variation) and adoption of the stock exchange strategy were found to be key and could be addressed using stock friend’s concept.
Assessment of Phenotypic Characteristics and Work Suitability for Working Donkeys in the Central Highlands in Kenya
(Veterinary Medicine International, 2020-10-16) Gichure, Mary; Onono, Joshua; Wahome, Raphael; Gathura, Peter
%e study aimed to assess the phenotypic characteristics of donkeys and their suitability for work. Data were collected on age, sex, coat color, height at withers, body length, and heart girth from 360 randomly sampled donkeys raised in a highland agroecological system in Kenya between the months of June and September 2018. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA with the sex of the donkey and age group treated as sources of variation. %e weight of donkeys was estimated using a formulae incorporating body length and heart girth. %e study reveals that the average weight of the working donkey in the central highlands of Kenya was 155.5 kgs ± SE 1.71. %eir height at withers was 99.7 cm ± SEM 0.50, with a heart girth of 113.7 cm ± SEM 0.43 and a body length of 113.2 cm ± SEM 0.58. All these body measurements varied significantly by sex and age group (P < 0.001). %erefore, donkeys raised in Kenya had the same height but heavier, with longer body lengths and heart girth measurements when compared to other domesticated working donkeys in different parts of the world indicating genetic diversity, differences in ecogeographical conditions and husbandry practices. %e majority (86%) of the donkeys were in good welfare conditions with moderate to ideal 86% body condition scores, minimal body lesions 5%, and lameness 18%. %e results are useful for extension agents and donkey users when estimating optimal pack or cart loads in line with their welfare. %e findings provide opportunities for future research on the reasons for phenotypic diversity between donkeys raised in Kenya and other parts of the world.
Assessment of the Effect of Solar Powered Milk Cooling Technology on Small Holder Dairy Farmer Earnings, Siaya County, Kenya
(IAR Journal of Agriculture Research and Life Sciences, 2020) Usagi, Maryanne Betsy; Onyango, Benson; Muok, Bernard; Odilla, Gilbert Abura
The dairy industry in Kenya is dominated by small-scale farmers and is the most developed of the livestock sub-sectors. Yet, 85% of the approximately 850,000 small-scale dairy farmers have no access to electricity. The farmers lack access to milk cooling facilities and their milk is often spoiled and wasted. Solar and other renewable energy technologies can significantly enhance energy access, and thus contribute to economic and social development. The Program of Accompanying Research for Agricultural Innovation and the Green Innovation Centre developed clean energy solutions to improve milk quality along the dairy value chain in Kenya. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of solar powered milk cooling technology (SPMCT) on earnings of small holder dairy farmers in Siaya County. The study used purposive sampling design to recruit farmers who were registered to use the SPMCT to preserve their milk in the study site. A survey involving all the 35 farmers incorporated in the SPMCT in Nyalgunga Village of Alego Usonga Sub County was employed. Data on performance of the SPMCT was obtained from the dairy farmers using a predesigned questionnaire. Analysis was done using summary descriptive statistics using statistical package for social science (SPSS). Among the respondents 51.4 % were female and 48.6 % were male. The results of the study (paired t-test) indicate a statistically significant difference in earnings before and after introduction of SPMCT (p ≤ 0.05) with a mean earning of KES. 5,462 before and KES. 12,253 after introduction of SPMCT. The county and national government need to invest in programmes to increase access to SPMCT to individual farmers in all the parts of the country.
Assessment Of Wild Rodents Endoparasites In Kirimiri Forest In Embu County, Kenya
(International Journal of Advanced Research and Publications, 2019-05) O. Ogolla, Fredrick; Omondi, Clifton; Odhiambo, Christopher
Rodents are reservoirs and hosts of zoonotic diseases. Rodents’ pathogenic parasites can be introduced onto soils, water supplies, vegetables and fruits thus playing significant role in human infection. Though studies on rodents and their parasites are necessary to understand and manage zoonotic disease cycle, knowledge gap of endoparasite composition of wild rodents that interact with domestic animals and human still exists in Kenya. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of rodents’ endoparasites in Kirimiri forest, Embu County in Kenya between January and May 2016. Wild rats were caught by laying traps in 100 m x 100 m grid of 50 Sherman and 50 victor traps. Rodents’ morphometric data was used for their identification. Necropsy was performed for gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and endoparasites extracted, counted and prevalence determined. Three species of rats totaling to 355 rats comprising of 199 males and 156 females were captured and identified. A total of 533 endoparasites extracted. Rate of endoparasite prevalence was significantly higher in Rattus spp a peri-domestic rodent than forest rodents’ species (χ= 57.791, P = < 0.05). Asyphalia obvelata (44.79 %) had higher prevalence while the H. dinimuta had lowest prevalence (6.20 %). Prevalence based on forest patches, GIT and was different. The current study highlights the importance of rodents as potential vectors for intestinal parasitic infections.
Benefits and associated challenges of working donkey in small holder farming systems in Kenya
(Research Publish Journals, 2019-12) Gichure, Mary; Onono, Joshua; Wahome, Raphael; Gathura, Peter
In Kenya donkeys are a source of income for farming households through subsistence and commercial transport. A study was conducted to determine the benefits of keeping donkeys and the associated production challenges in small holder farming system in Kirinyaga County, Kenya. Data were collected through thirteen focus group discussions (FGDs) using participatory epidemiological methods (PE). The FGDs comprised 8-12 participants who were donkey owners across thirteen donkey rearing locations in Kirinyaga County. Qualitative data was collected using listing, pairwise ranking and probing included reasons for keeping donkeys, challenges faced by working donkeys and the diseases encountered among these donkeys. Data analysis was performed using a non-parametric method, Kruskal-Wallis, to test whether median ranks were significantly different. Quantitative data was collected using the structured questions in the focus group discussion guide and the descriptive summaries were presented as tables and themes. Narrative summaries were provided for the responses. The benefits included the incomes obtained from the use of donkeys in transportation (Z= 5.80) and manure production (Z= 3.47). Identified challenges included; theft for slaughter (Z = 5.99), diseases (Z = 3.03), road accidents (Z =2.83) and malicious cutting (Z = 2.32). Some of the diseases identified were tetanus (Z = 5.35), hoof problems (Z = 4.55), worms (Z = 3.10) and mange (Z = 2.24). The results are important for policy makers and extension agents with regard to health and welfare of donkeys kept under similar settings.
Carcass fatty acid composition and sensory properties of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fed on oilseed meals with crude papain enzyme
(2022-09) Kirimi J. G.; Musalia L. M.; Munguti J. M.; Magana A.
In this study, proximate body composition, fillets fatty acid and sensory properties of Nile tilapia fed on oilseed meals with crude papain enzyme were determined. A control diet (D1) of 300g/kg crude protein (CP) and (2900Kcal/kg) was formulated using fishmeal (Rastrionaebola argentea) (FM) and test diets by replacing 10% CP of FM by soybean meal (SBM) (D2), canola meal (CM) (D3) and sunflower meal (SFM) (D4). One hundred and one days feeding trial was conducted in a 4x2 factorial design on 4 diets (D1, D2, D3 and D4) with (0.06%) and (0%) enzyme using 720 Nile tilapia fingerlings (7±3g). Fish were fed twice daily at 5% of their biomass at 10am and 4pm in two equal meals. At the end of feeding trial, fish were starved for 24 hrs and weighed. A sample of ten fish representing the average weight of each replicated group was used. The fillets fatty acid profiles were determined by MPA FT-NIR spectrometer. Organoleptic tests of both fresh and steamed fish were carried out by eight semi trained panellists using 5-point hedonic scale. There was increase (p<0.05) in carcass proximate composition in all the treatments. Fillets fatty acid levels were influenced by the crude papain enzyme (p<0.05). Palmitic acid (C16:0), linoleic acid (C18:2n-6) and oleic acid (C18:1n-9) were the most abundant fatty acids in the fillets. Fish fed on fishmeal based diet recorded higher percentage (22.56) of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). There was significant difference among the treatments (p<0.05) for general appearance. Fish fed on crude papain enzyme treated diets were less preferred. It is recommended that more research be done on the effect of papain enzyme on the carcass fatty acid and sensory properties of farmed fish.
Carcass Fatty Acid Composition and Sensory Properties of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis Niloticus) Fed on Oilseed Meals With Crude Papain Enzyme
(East African Journal of Science, Technology and Innovation, 2022) Kirimi, J. G.; Musalia, L. M.; Munguti, J. M.; Magana, A.
In this study, proximate body composition, fillets fatty acid and sensory properties of Nile tilapia fed on oilseed meals with crude papain enzyme were determined. A control diet (D1) of 300g/kg crude protein (CP) and (2900Kcal/kg) was formulated using fishmeal (Rastrionaebola argentea) (FM) and test diets by replacing 10% CP of FM by soybean meal (SBM) (D2), canola meal (CM) (D3) and sunflower meal (SFM) (D4). One hundred and one days feeding trial was conducted in a 4x2 factorial design on 4 diets (D1, D2, D3 and D4) with (0.06%) and (0%) enzyme using 720 Nile tilapia fingerlings (7±3g). Fish were fed twice daily at 5% of their biomass at 10am and 4pm in two equal meals. At the end of feeding trial, fish were starved for 24 hrs and weighed. A sample of ten fish representing the average weight of each replicated group was used. The fillets fatty acid profiles were determined by MPA FT-NIR spectrometer. Organoleptic tests of both fresh and steamed fish were carried out by eight semi trained panellists using 5-point hedonic scale. There was increase (p<0.05) in carcass proximate composition in all the treatments. Fillets fatty acid levels were influenced by the crude papain enzyme (p<0.05). Palmitic acid (C16:0), linoleic acid (C18:2n-6) and oleic acid (C18:1n-9) were the most abundant fatty acids in the fillets. Fish fed on fishmeal based diet recorded higher percentage (22.56) of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). There was significant difference among the treatments (p<0.05) for general appearance. Fish fed on crude papain enzyme treated diets were less preferred. It is recommended that more research be done on the effect of papain enzyme on the carcass fatty acid and sensory properties of farmed fish.
Characterization of clays from Tharaka-Nithi County in Kenya for industrial and agricultural applications
(2015) Njoka, E. N.; Ombaka, O.; Gichumbi, J. M.; Kibaara, D. I.; Nderi, O. M.
Clay samples from Tharaka-Nithi County in Kenya were characterized by hydrometer, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), TGA, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and powder diffraction (XRD) methods. The F-test and t-test were used to interpret the results. The major oxides present were Al2O3, SiO2 and the minor ones were CaO, TiO2, MnO, Fe2O3, K2O, MgO and Na2O. The values of SiO2 were greater than those of Al2O3, indicating that the samples were of clay minerals. The clay minerals with low cation exchange capacity (CEC) were present in the samples. The Atterberg limits showed that the inorganic clays of either low or intermediate plasticity having low contents of organic matter were present in the samples. The analysis further showed the availability of essential elements necessary for plant growth. The TGA analysis indicated that the decomposition of clay samples occurred in four steps. The scanning electron microscope photographs revealed that the samples contained a mixture of minerals of morphologies with crystallinity, high porosity and unstable under the electron beam. The major impurity in the clay is quartz, ranging from 22.6-31.9%. Albite is the most dominant component in the clay minerals contributing to 30.3 to 44.1%. The clay from the study area can be used as agro mineral additive to enhance soil fertility for crop production, a fluxing agent in ceramics and glass applications and also as functional fillers in the paint, plastic, rubber and adhesive industries after beneficiation.
Chemical and mineral composition, in-vitro gas production, in-sacco degradation of selected indigenous Kenyan browses
(CIPAV Foundation, 2010) Ondiek, J . O.; Abdulrazak, S. A. *; Njoka, E. N. **
Abstract Proximate and mineral composition, in-sacco degradation and in-vitro gas production was conducted using fifteen indigenous Kenyan multipurpose tree and shrub (MPTS) leaf browse to assess their potential as goat feed. The species selected from a field survey were Maerua angolensis, Acacia brevispica, Acacia mellifera, Acacia tortilis, Acacia hockii, Zizyphus mucronata, Grewia bicolor, Acacia elatior, Acacia nilotica, Balanites aegyptiaca, Acacia senegal, Acacia abyssinica, Bridelia micrantha, Albizia amara and Albizia coriaria. The CP levels ranged from 112gkg-1DM for Bridelia micrantha to 321 gkg-1DM for Maerua angolensis; the NDF ranged from 218 to 601 gkg-1DM for Acacia hockii and Albizia amara, respectively. The TEPH and TET were in the range of 1.52-26.4 and 0.301-24.4gkg-1DM, respectively. The major minerals Ca, P, Mg, Na and S were in the ranges of 6.51-28.1, 0.838-3.18, 0.442-8.51, 0.318-0.711 and 1.12-2.45gkg-1DM, respectively. The microelements varied widely (mgkg-1DM) as follows: Fe (51.3-267), Mn (13.8-38.5), Cu (4.81-74.9), Mo (13.9-43.4), Co (1.76-17.4), Zn (12.2-93.2) and Se (19.5-124). In-sacco DM degradation at 48hrs shows Zizyphus mucronata was highest followed by Maerua angolensis with degradability of 93.3% and 88.6%, respectively. Gas production (volume (ml)/200mgDM) levels (a+b) ranged from 19.2 to 52.2 in Bridelia micrantha and Maerua angolensis, respectively. The overall levels of nutrients and degradation showed variations but most of the forages were moderate to high in the nutrient composition and degradability parameters. The ranking of the forages in order of increasing nutritive value into three categories of five species was as follows: low (Bridelia micrantha< Albizia amara< Acacia hockii < Acacia nilotica< Acacia tortilis); medium (Acacia abyssinica< Grewia bicolor< Albizia coriaria< Acacia elatior) and high (Balanites aegyptiaca< Acacia mellifera< Acacia senegal< Zizyphus mucronata< Maerua angolensis). It is concluded that Maerua angolensis and Zizyphus mucronata are outstanding and they have potential for ruminant feed and more so as protein supplements to low quality tropical basal diets.
Economic evaluation of progeny-testing and genomic selection schemes for small-sized nucleus dairy cattle breeding programs in developing countries.
(2016) Kariuki, Charles; Brascamp, Pim; Komen, Hans
In developing countries minimal and erratic performance and pedigree recording impede implementation of large-sized breeding programs. Small-sized nucleus programs offer an alternative but rely on their economic performance for their viability. We investigated the economic performance of 2 alternative small-sized dairy nucleus programs [i.e., progeny testing (PT) and genomic selection (GS)] over a 20-yr investment period. The nucleus was made up of 453 male and 360 female animals distributed in 8 non-overlapping age classes. Each year 10 active sires and 100 elite dams were selected. Populations of commercial recorded cows (CRC) of sizes 12,592 and 25,184 were used to produce test daughters in PT or to create a reference population in GS, respectively. Economic performance was defined as gross margins, calculated as discounted revenues minus discounted costs following a single generation of selection. Revenues were calculated as cumulative discounted expressions (CDE, kg) × 0.32 (€/kg of milk) × 100,000 (size commercial population). Genetic superiorities, deterministically simulated using pseudo-BLUP index and CDE, were determined using gene flow. Costs were for one generation of selection. Results show that GS schemes had higher cumulated genetic gain in the commercial cow population and higher gross margins compared with PT schemes. Gross margins were between 3.2- and 5.2-fold higher for GS, depending on size of the CRC population. The increase in gross margin was mostly due to a decreased generation interval and lower running costs in GS schemes. In PT schemes many bulls are culled before selection. We therefore also compared 2 schemes in which semen was stored instead of keeping live bulls. As expected, semen storage resulted in an increase in gross margins in PT schemes, but gross margins remained lower than those of GS schemes. We conclude that implementation of small-sized GS breeding schemes can be economically viable for developing countries.
Effect of Intercropping Herbaceous Legumes with Napier Grass on Dry Matter Yield and Nutritive Value of the Feedstuffs in Semi-arid Region of Eastern Kenya
(2006) Njoka-Njiru, E. N.; Njarui, M. G.; Abdulrazak, S. A.; Mureithi, J. G.
Semi-arid region of Kenya is faced with inadequate quantity and low quality of livestock feeds. Research was conducted in the semi-arid region of eastern Kenya to investigate the contribution of two legumes, Seca (Stylosanthes scabra cv. Seca) and Siratro (Macroptilium atropurpureum cv. Siratro) to seasonal total fodder productivity and nutritive value when intercropped with Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum cv. Bana). The treatments consisted of Napier grass planted as pure stand and intercropped with legumes. During the production phase, the grass and legumes were harvested for dry matter yield after every 8 weeks for a period of four wet seasons and two dry seasons between April 2002 and September 2004. Overall total herbage yield of the mixtures was higher than those of sole fodder grass with the grass constituting the major component of the yield. Seca was more productive and had a relatively stable yield than Siratro. It accounted for higher proportion of total DM yield of 15 - 34%. in Napier compared to Siratro which had less than 5% except in the drier season when yield failed. Total DM yield was highest during the short rains of year 2002 and declined thereafter in subsequent seasons and was lowest during the dry seasons. It was observed that crude protein of Napier grass was significantly ( P< 0.05) enhanced by inclusion of the legume in the intercrop (CP 9.64 - 9.96% of DM) compared to sole Napier grass (CP 8.14% of DM). Napier grass intercropped with Seca was more degradable than sole Napier grass. It can be concluded that Seca formed a better association with fodder grass than Siratro and is recommended for intercropping in the semi-arid region of eastern Kenya.
Effect of Planting Pattern of Two Herbaceous Forage Legumes in Fodder Grasses on Productivity of Grass/Legume Mixture in Semi-arid Tropical, Kenya.
(Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, 2007-01) Njarui, D. M. G. 1; Njoka, E. N. 2; Abdulrazak, S. A. 2; Mureithi, J. G. 3
An experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of planting pattern of legumes on the growth, persistence and productivity of grass/legume mixture in the semi-arid tropical Kenya. The legumes, Seca and Siratro were planted either as single or double rows between rows of Napier grass and giant panicum. Plant population, growth and productivity of the mixture were monitored for a period of 4 wet seasons; short rains (SR) 02, long rains (LR) 03, SR 03 and LR 04 and two dry seasons (DS) 03 and DS 04. There was significantly (P<0.05) more plants that survived from double rows of legumes (15 plants m-2) than from single rows (10 plants m-2). Legumes planted in double rows between grass rows covered more plot than when planted in single rows with Siratro covering more plot than Seca. However, legumes planted in double rows had no significant (P<0.05) dry matter (DM) yield advantage over single rows and did not benefit or impede growth (tiller and canopy cover) of the fodder grasses. The productivity of the associated fodder grasses was not affected and hence combined total DM yield (grasses + legumes) were not significantly different. Napier grass was more vigorous, had more tillers, large canopy and consequently was more productive than Panicum. On the basis of combined DM production, Napier grass/Seca was most productive while Napier intercropped with Siratro and Panicum intercropped with either Seca and Siratro showed similarity in DM. Seca was more productive than Siratro and overall the proportion of the legume to total DM was highest during the dry season than wet season. Dry matter was highest during the SR 02 and declined progressively with seasons and was lowest during the dry seasons.
Effect of Substituting Fishmeal with Oilseed Meals on Diets Fatty Acid and Proximate Composition for Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
(Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Science, 2021) Kirimi, J. G.; Musalia, L. M.; Munguti, J. M.; Magana, A.
The study aimed to evaluate the fatty acid and proximate composition of diets for Nile tilapia containing soybean meal (SBM), canola meal (CM) and sunflower meal (SFM) as replacements of fishmeal (FM). A control diet (D1) of 30% crude protein (CP) was formulated using fishmeal as main protein source. The test diets (D2, D3 and D4) were formulated by replacing 10% CP of FM by SBM, CM and SFM, respectively. The fatty acid profile of ingredients and diets were determined by MPA FT-NIR spectrometer. FM displayed higher CP content (62.60%) followed by SBM (47.38%), CM (34.39%) and SFM (24.81%). SFM had highest crude fibre content (p<0.05) while CM displayed higher figure for ether extracts (p<0.05). Substituting FM with SBM, CM and SFM increased the levels of crude fibre (p<0.05). Diet 4 recorded highest crude fibre (16.03%) content (p<0.05), while CM based diet recorded highest ether extract content (10.75%), (p<0.05). Diet 1 had lowest concentration (21.85mg/100g) of total saturated fatty acid and D2 lowest concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acid (29.90mg/100g). The study revealed that 10% CP substitution of FM with SBM, CM and SFM in Nile tilapia diets is possible without much negative change in diets proximate and fatty acid composition.
Effect of Substituting Fishmeal with Oilseed Meals on Diets Fatty AcidandProximate Composition for Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
(IOSR Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Science (IOSR-JAVS), 2021-09) Karimi, J.G.; Musalia, L.M.; Munguti, J.M.; Magana, A.
The study aimed to evaluate the fatty acid and proximate composition of diets for Nile tilapia containing soybean meal (SBM), canola meal (CM) and sunflower meal (SFM) as replacements of fishmeal (FM). A control diet (D1) of 30% crude protein (CP) was formulated using fishmeal as main protein source. The test diets (D2, D3 and D4) were formulated by replacing 10% CP of FM by SBM, CM and SFM, respectively. The fatty acid profile of ingredients and diets were determined by MPA FT-NIR spectrometer. FM displayed higher CP content (62.60%) followed by SBM (47.38%), CM (34.39%) and SFM (24.81%). SFM had highest crude fibre content (p<0.05) while CM displayed higher figure for ether extracts (p<0.05). Substituting FM with SBM, CM and SFM increased the levels of crude fibre (p<0.05). Diet 4 recorded highest crude fibre (16.03%) content (p<0.05), while CM based diet recorded highest ether extract content (10.75%), (p<0.05). Diet 1 had lowest concentration (21.85mg/100g) of total saturated fatty acid and D2 lowest concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acid (29.90mg/100g). The study revealed that 10% CP substitution of FM with SBM, CM and SFM in Nile tilapia diets is possible without much negative change in diets proximate and fatty acid composition. Key words: Crude protein, Essential fatty acids, Nile tilapia, Nutrients composition
Effect of Tick Control on Milk Revenue of Smallholder Dairy Farmers in Kapseret Sub-County, Kenya
(IOSR Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Science (IOSR-JAVS), 2021) Bett, J. K.; Nkari, I. M.; Munyiri, S. W.
Milk production is a viable economic enterprise in Kenya. It supports the 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 practices essentially impacted cows’ health, which further influenced the level of milk revenue. The study concluded that tick influenced milk revenue of smallholder dairy farmers in Kapseret Subcounty. 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 tick control practices offering subsidized acaricides. This is mainly because cows’ health have direct influence on production.
Effects of Mineral Supplementation On Milk Yield of Free-ranging Camels (Camelus dromedaries) in Northern Kenya.
(2006-11) Onjoro, P. A.; Njoka Njiru, E. N. *; Ottaro, J. M.; Simon, A. 1; Schwartz, H. J. 1
ABSTRACT : The effects of different mineral supplementations on the milk yield of free-ranging Somali camels were investigated in two phases in a semi-arid region of northern Kenya during the dry and wet seasons in 2002 and 2003. In phase 1, twelve (12) lactating camels were selected at random to form four (4) groups each consisting of three camels. The first group served as the control and as a result received no mineral supplementation. In addition to the control diet the other groups received oral doses of minerals as follows over a 60-day period: T1 (P), T2 (High Cu low Co) and T3 (Low Cu high Co). The daily milk yield and blood mineral profiles were measured during the wet and dry seasons. The mean daily milk yield increased from 3.4 L/d to 4.3±0.3 L/d and 5.2 L/d in the dry and wet seasons, respectively. Fifteen (15) lactating camels were selected at random to form five groups each consisting of three replicates. The control group did not receive any mineral supplement. The other four groups in addition to the control diet, received the following treatments: T4 (Common Salt), T5 (High Co), T6 (High Co+P) and T7 (Low Co+P). Mineral supplement T6 produced significantly higher milk yield (5.4±0.5 and 6.5±0.7 L/d) during the dry and wet seasons. Both T6 and T7 had significantly higher milk yield than T4 and T5. During both phases, the blood Ca and P level significantly increased in camels receiving T1, 6 and 7. Animals that received only the trace mineral supplements had lower blood P compared to the ones receiving supplementary P and also the control. Supplementation of lactating camels with Co and P significantly (p<0.05) increased milk yield). Effect of common salt, commonly given by farmers, on milk yield was insignificant. It was concluded that mineral supplementation to lactating camels was beneficial, and that mineral supplements should include P and Co. Further research is required to establish P and Co requirements of lactating camels. (1) (PDF) Effects of Mineral Supplementation on Milk Yield of Free-ranging Camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Northern Kenya. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/260087255_Effects_of_Mineral_Supplementation_on_Milk_Yield_of_Free-ranging_Camels_Camelus_dromedarius_in_Northern_Kenya [accessed Nov 20 2019].
Effects of minerals in the forage, blood and milk on production of lactating free-ranging camels (Camelus dromedaries) in northern Kenya.
(2006-11) Onjoro, P. A.,; Njoka-Njiru, E. N.,; Ottaro, J. M.; Nanua, J. N.
The effects of different mineral supplementations on the milk yield of free-ranging Somali camels were investigated in two phases in a semi-arid region of northern Kenya during the dry and wet seasons in 2002 and 2003. In phase 1, twelve (12) lactating camels were selected at random to form four (4) groups each consisting of three camels. The first group served as the control and as a result received no mineral supplementation. In addition to the control diet the other groups received oral doses of minerals as follows over a 60-day period: T1 (P), T2 (High Cu low Co) and T3 (Low Cu high Co). The daily milk yield and blood mineral profiles were measured during the wet and dry seasons. The mean daily milk yield increased from 3.4 L/d to 4.3±0.3 L/d and 5.2 L/d in the dry and wet seasons, respectively. Fifteen (15) lactating camels were selected at random to form five groups each consisting of three replicates. The control group did not receive any mineral supplement. The other four groups in addition to the control diet, received the following treatments: T4 (Common Salt), T5 (High Co), T6 (High Co+P) and T7 (Low Co+P). Mineral supplement T6 produced significantly higher milk yield (5.4±0.5 and 6.5±0.7 L/d) during the dry and wet seasons. Both T6 and T7 had significantly higher milk yield than T4 and T5. During both phases, the blood Ca and P level significantly increased in camels receiving T1, 6 and 7. Animals that received only the trace mineral supplements had lower blood P compared to the ones receiving supplementary P and also the control. Supplementation of lactating camels with Co and P significantly (p<0.05) increased milk yield). Effect of common salt, commonly given by farmers, on milk yield was insignificant. It was concluded that mineral supplementation to lactating camels was beneficial, and that mineral supplements should include P and Co. Further research is required to establish P and Co requirements of lactating camels.
Effects of Supplementing Chloris gayana Hay and Maerua angolensis with Graded Levels of Maize Germ Meal on Voluntary Feed Intake, Diet Digestion, Nitrogen Balance and Average Daily Gains of Growing Small East African Goats
(2010-07) Ondiek, James; Abdulrazak, Shaukat; Njoka, E. N.
Maerua angolensis and graded levels of maize germ meal were offered to Small East African goats to assess the effects on voluntary feed intake, diet digestion, nitrogen balance and growth. The M. angolensis was offered at a rate of 20 g kg-1 W0.75 to all animals and maize germ meal treatment diets was given at five graded levels (0, 15, 20, 25, and 30 gDM kg-1 W0.75) designated as MG0, MG15, MG20, MG25 and MG30, in a completely randomized block design with 4 animals per treatment with the basal diet of Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana) hay fed ad libitum. The CP levels were 320, 200 and 61.4 g kg-1 DM for M. angolensis, maize germ and C gayana hay, and NDF contents were 449, 393 and 528 g kg-1 DM, respectively. The DMI was 461-599 g DM d-1 which increased with energy supplementation (P<0.05) although the supplemented groups did not differ and the goats consumed the feed at 3.72-4.53% of their live weight. The ADG was 4.92, 23.7, 26.4, 34.4 and 35.7 g d-1, respectively, with MG25 and MG30 being similar (P>0.05). The rumen NH3-N was in the normal range of 1.85-2.63 mg100 ml-1 while the nitrogen balance was in the range of 2.90-7.68 mg N/100 ml for MG0 and MG30, respectively. The DM, OM, CP, ADF and NDF digestibility was improved with supplementation, but supplemented animals had similar values (P>0.05). It is concluded that the maize germ meal supplemented at 25 g DM kg-1 W0.75 had high rumen NH3-N, N-retention and ADG 8.16 mg-1 100 ml, 6.25 g Nd-1 of 34.4 g d-1, respectively, and this can be used together with M. angolensis at 20 g DM-1 W0.75 to make use of the tree forage and low quality basal diet for growing Small East African Goats.

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