Department of Animal Sciences

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://repository.chuka.ac.ke/handle/chuka/420

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 49

Impacts of Covid-19 Pandemic and Adaptive Strategies to Build Resilience in the Kenyan Aquaculture Sector
(AfricArXiv Preprints, 2022) Munguti, J.; Iteba, J. O.; Outa, N.; Kirimi, J.; Mungai, D.; Kyule, D.; Obiero, K.; Ogello, E. O.
This study examines the impacts of Covid-19 pandemic and adaptive strategies to build resilience among stakeholders and actors in the aquaculture value chain in Kenya. Prior to the pandemic, Kenya's aquaculture sector had progressed from a minor player to a key component of the country's fish food system. Fish and fishery products have become the most heavily traded food commodity in Kenyan markets. The results indicate that the pandemic had major impacts on the access to aquaculture inputs, fish trade, and socio-economic livelihoods of the aquaculture value chain stakeholders and actors during the two whole years. Thus, initial and longer-term adaptive measures, in particular by private sector players and government agencies can contribute to building resilience to multiple shocks and stressors among stakeholders and actors in the aquaculture sector. Some of the measures include government incentive package to overcome the damage to the fisheries and aquaculture sector, improve farming operations and win market trusts and adoption of new methods such as intelligent sensors, camera systems and automated or remotely controlled monitoring/feeding strategies to reduce labour intensity. Such measures and policies can cushion the sector against future shocks occasioned by such pandemics.
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.
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.
Seasonal Prevalence and Molecular Identification of Thermophilic Campylobacter from Chicken, Cattle, and Respective Drinking Water in Kajiado County, Kenya
(International Journal of Microbiology, 2022) Wanja, D. W.; Mbuthia, P. G.; Aboge, G. O.; Bebora, L. C.
Thermophilic Campylobacter species are a leading cause of human gastroenteritis throughout the world and have been implicated in reproductive disorders (abortion), mastitis, enteritis, and/or diarrhoea in livestock. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Kajiado County to determine prevalence, seasonality, and molecular detection of thermophilic Campylobacter species (with emphasis on C. jejuni, C. coli, and other thermophilic Campylobacter species) in chicken, cattle, and respective pooled drinking water. A total of 457 samples comprising 265 cattle rectal swabs, 142 chicken cloacal swabs, and 50 trough water samples were collected from 55 randomly selected smallholder farms. Individual samples were subjected to standard techniques for isolation and biochemical tests, followed by singleplex polymerase chain reaction (sPCR) assays for identification and confirmation of genus and species. Overall, thermophilic Campylobacter prevalence was 35.4% (95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 31.0–39.8), with C. jejuni dominating at 55.6% (95% CI = 47.9–63.3%) over C. coli in all sample types. The highest thermophilic Cam- pylobacter prevalence was observed in cloacal swabs of live chicken at 44.4% (95% CI = 36.2–52.6%), followed by rectal swabs from live cattle at 30.9% (95% CI = 25.3–36.5%). Water samples from cattle drinkers/trough were found to be contaminated at 34% (95% CI = 20.9–47.1%). The isolation rate was higher in cattle under the confinement system (44.3%) (95% CI = 36.1–52.5%) than in those under the free-roaming grazing system. Thermophilic Campylobacter species were isolated in both seasons, with higher prevalence (39.8% (95% CI = 33.6–45.9)) recorded during rainy and cold season in all sample types except for water. There was significant (P < 0.05) association between season and thermophilic Campylobacter occurrence, even though there were no statistical differences in the prevalence values across the two seasons. Results of this study demonstrate that cattle, chicken, and respective drinking water harbour potentially pathogenic thermophilic campylobacters, with C. jejuni being widely distributed among farms. It is possible that seasonal variations and cattle confinement result in differences in thermophilic Campylobacter carriage. Further epidemiological and phylogenetic studies comparing distribution of thermophilic Campylobacter spp. isolates in livestock, environmental, and human samples are recommended to establish source attribution to reduce the impact of resultant diseases for the wellbeing of public and livestock.
Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis Niloticus Linnaeus, 1758) Culture in Kenya: Emerging Production Technologies and Socio-Economic Impacts on Local Livelihoods
(John Wiley & Sons Ltd., 2022) Munguti, J. M.; Nairuti, R.; Iteba, J. O.; Obiero, K. O.; Kyule, D.; Opiyo, M. A.; Abwao, J.; Kirimi, J. G.; Outa, N.; Muthoka, M.; Ogello, E. O.
Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is one of the most farmed fish globally, with a signif- icant contribution improving local livelihoods, especially in developing countries. Nile tilapia was first cultured in Kenya in 1924 and is the most cultured fish species. Annu- ally, O. niloticus accounts for 62% (∼15,000 tonnes) of total aquaculture production. Although O. niloticus is the most preferred cultured fish, its culture faces challenges, for example, early maturation due to prolific breeding behaviour leading to stunted growth that limits its culture and profitability among smallholder farmers. With the surging demand for locally farmed fish, innovative technologies have emerged to boost aqua- culture production. Donor and public research-funded projects, for instance, the Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture Project, are validating various aquaculture technologies, innovations and management practices (TIMPs) to achieve ‘triple wins’ of increased fish production, improved resilience and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. In addi- tion, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)-funded Aquaculture Business Development Programme aims at commercialising aquaculture to improve local livelihoods. In this study, we adopt a scoping review methodology to review and synthesise published literature on tilapia culture in Kenya to explore current and emerging tilapia production technologies and document their socio-economic impacts on farmers’ livelihoods. These emerging innovative technologies range from culture systems, for example, biofloc, periphyton, fingerpond technology, integrated aquacul- ture, breeding and genetics (selective breeding), fish health and biosecurity measures, to post-harvest loss reduction, value addition and marketing. The study findings reveal that the technologies have great potential to increase tilapia production and prof- itability and positively impact the local livelihoods of smallholder fish farmers through employment creation, economic growth and better nutrition.
Maximizing Laboratory Production of Aflatoxins and Fumonisins for Use in Experimental Animal Feeds
(MDPI, 2022-11-30) Ochieng, Phillis E. , David C. Kemboi, Marie-Louise Scippo, James K. Gathumbi Erastus Kangethe, Barbara Doupovec, Siska Croubels, Johanna F. Lindahl, Gunther Antonissen, Sheila Okoth
Warm and humid climatic conditions coupled with poor agricultural practices in subSaharan Africa favor the contamination of food and feed by Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium verticillioides fungi, which subsequently may produce aflatoxins (AFs) and fumonisins (FBs), respectively. The growth of fungi and the production of mycotoxins are influenced by physical (temperature, pH, water activity, light and aeration), nutritional, and biological factors. This study aimed at optimizing the conditions for the laboratory production of large quantities of AFs and FBs for use in the animal experiments. A. flavus and F. verticillioides strains, previously isolated from maize in Kenya, were used. Levels of AFB1 and total FBs (FB1, FB2, and FB3) in different growth substrates were screened using ELISA methods. Maize kernels inoculated with three different strains of A. flavus simultaneously and incubated at 29 ◦C for 21 days had the highest AFB1 level of 12,550 ± 3397 µg/kg of substrate. The highest level of total FBs (386,533 ± 153,302 µg/kg of substrate) was detected in cracked maize inoculated with three different strains of F. verticillioides and incubated for 21 days at temperatures of 22–25 ◦C in a growth chamber fitted with yellow light. These two methods are recommended for the mass production of AFB1 and FBs for animal feeding trials.
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
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.
Seasonal Prevalence and Molecular Identification of ThermophilicCampylobacter from Chicken, Cattle, and Respective DrinkingWater in Kajiado County, Kenya
(Hindawi, 2022-09-27) Wanja, Daniel W.; Mbuthia, Paul G.; Aboge, Gabriel O.; Bebora, Lilly C.
Thermophilic Campylobacter species are a leading cause of human gastroenteritis throughout the world and have been implicatedin reproductive disorders (abortion), mastitis, enteritis, and/or diarrhoea in livestock. A cross-sectional survey was conducted inKajiado County to determine prevalence, seasonality, and molecular detection of thermophilic Campylobacter species (withemphasis on C. jejuni, C. coli, and other thermophilic Campylobacter species) in chicken, cattle, and respective pooled drinkingwater. A total of 457 samples comprising 265 cattle rectal swabs, 142 chicken cloacal swabs, and 50 trough water samples werecollected from 55 randomly selected smallholder farms. Individual samples were subjected to standard techniques for isolationand biochemical tests, followed by singleplex polymerase chain reaction (sPCR) assays for identiﬁcation and conﬁrmation ofgenus and species. Overall, thermophilic Campylobacter prevalence was 35.4% (95% conﬁdence interval (95% CI) 31.0–39.8),with C. jejuni dominating at 55.6% (95% CI 47.9–63.3%) over C. coli in all sample types. The highest thermophilic Cam-pylobacter prevalence was observed in cloacal swabs of live chicken at 44.4% (95% CI 36.2–52.6%), followed by rectal swabs fromlive cattle at 30.9% (95% CI 25.3–36.5%). Water samples from cattle drinkers/trough were found to be contaminated at 34%(95% CI 20.9–47.1%). The isolation rate was higher in cattle under the conﬁnement system (44.3%) (95% CI 36.1–52.5%) thanin those under the free-roaming grazing system. Thermophilic Campylobacter species were isolated in both seasons, with higherprevalence (39.8% (95% CI 33.6–45.9)) recorded during rainy and cold season in all sample types except for water. There wassigniﬁcant (P < 0.05) association between season and thermophilic Campylobacter occurrence, even though there were nostatistical diﬀerences in the prevalence values across the two seasons. Results of this study demonstrate that cattle, chicken, andrespective drinking water harbour potentially pathogenic thermophilic campylobacters, with C. jejuni being widely distributedamong farms. It is possible that seasonal variations and cattle conﬁnement result in diﬀerences in thermophilic Campylobactercarriage. Further epidemiological and phylogenetic studies comparing distribution of thermophilic Campylobacter spp. isolates inlivestock, environmental, and human samples are recommended to establish source attribution to reduce the impact of resultantdiseases for the wellbeing of public and livestock.
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.
Longitudinal Changes of Human Milk Nutrient Content in the First 6 Months of Lactation
(Science and Education Publishing, 2020-02-04) Kiboi, Willy; Kimiywe, Judith; Chege, Peter
Human milk is considered to be the optimal source of nutrition during the first six months of a child’s life. Since the milk is the only source of nutrition for the first six months of an infant’s life, understanding its composition remains a matter of public health concern. Further, few studies have determined the breast milk composition of lactating mothers in African countries. The aim of this research was to assess longitudinal changes of human milk nutrient content in the first 6 months of lactation. A longitudinal descriptive study with repeated measures was adopted by the study. Breast milk nutrient composition was assessed among lactating mothers at the 1st and the 5th month of lactation. The milk energy, lactose, protein, lipids, vitamin A, calcium, magnesium, zinc and iron was assessed at the two time points of lactation (first and fifth month). A total of 104 mature breast human milk samples were collected and analysed for energy and the selected nutrients at the two stages of lactation. Significant differences in the mean nutrient content of proteins (p value = 0.029), vitamin A (p value = 0.004) and iron (p value = 0.015) was observed between the first and the fifth month of lactation. A downward trend in the mean nutrient content for protein was observed while an upward trend was observed for both vitamin A (retinol) and iron between the 1st and 5th month of lactation. Human milk nutrient content varies longitudinally in the first six months of lactation. Studies investigating the causes of the variations are critical in improving the quality of human breast milk and ultimately the growth and development of a child.
Protein Quality of Rations for Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Containing Oilseed Meals
(Canadian Center of Science and Education, 2020-01-15) G. Kirimi, James; M. Musalia, Levi; Magana, Adiel; M. Munguti, Jonathan
Considering price as the main limiting factor in the use of animal proteins, this study evaluated the protein quality of diets for Nile tilapia containing oilseed meals as replacements of fishmeal. A control diet (FMBD) (30% crude protein and 2900Kcal DE/kg) was formulated using fishmeal (FM), soybean meal (SBM), canola meal (CM) and sunflower meal (SFM). The test diets SBBD, CMBD and SFBD were formulated by replacing 10% CP of FM by SBM, CM and SFM, respectively. The amino acid profile was determined by MPA FT-NIR spectrometer (Bruker, Germany). Fishmeal recorded higher levels (p < 0.05) of lysine (7.81 mg/100 g), methionine (2.89 mg/100 g), arginine (5.87 mg/100 g), threonine (4.28 mg/100 g) and isoleucine (4.55 mg/100 g). The chemical score for all essential amino acid in fishmeal were higher than 100. Sunflower meal was a superior (p < 0.05) protein source with an essential amino acid index (EAAI) of 1.14 compared to CM (0.80) and SBM (0.70). Substituting FM with SBM, CM or SFM, reduced (p < 0.05) the levels of all amino acids apart from methionine which was increased (p < 0.05) in the diet with SBM substitute. In all diets, methionine and isoleucine were the first and second limiting amino acids, respectively. Though the diet containing FM exhibited higher (p < 0.05) EAAI (0.97), it was not satisfactory because it was limiting in methionine. The EAAI reduced (p < 0.05) with replacement of fishmeal by SBM (0.78), CM (0.77) and SFM (0.76). The study showed that the control diet had good quality protein and substitution with SBM, CM and SFM gave useful protein diets.
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.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practices towards Paratuberculosis in Cattle and Sheep in Kericho County and Konoin Sub-County, Kenya
(African Journal of Education, Science and Technology, 2019-09) Joseph, Omega A.; Levi, Musalia M.; Joseph, Kuria K.
A study was carried out to determine the knowledge, attitude and practices towards bovine and ovine paratuberculosis by farmers in Kericho County, Kenya. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered to 423 randomly selected households. Veterinary, medical and veterinary laboratory personnel in the County, and the national Director of Veterinary Services (DVS) were interviewed. Data was also obtained fromseven Focus Group Discussion (FGD) conducted in the study area. The data was managed in such a way as to segregate the information on the knowledge, attitudes and practices towards paratuberculosis. The results were presented descriptively. The residents were predominantly of the Kipsigis community (96.1%) who practised mixed subsistence farming. Most (98.6%) of the cattle were reared for milk whereas the sheep (77.7%) were bred for sale. Resulst from the FGD and farmers revealed lack of knowledge of paratuberculosis as a disease of cattle or sheep and there was no local name for it. The veterinary personnel based diagnosis of the disease on laboratory examination, clinical and post mortem signs. The medicalpersonnel did not associate the Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis with any human disease and paratuberculosis was not among the top ten most reported diseases in Kenya by the DVS, due to unreliable diagnosis. Most farmers (55.7%) did nothing to their animals which had diarrhoea and only 3.7% sought assistance from veterinary personnel. Most farmers (98.6%) fed their animals on grass pastures and 72.8% left faecal materials from the livestock in the pastures. All lambs suckled their dams and during milking, 91.6% of the farmers allowed the calves to suckle. The key result of this study show that paratuberculosis is a poorly known disease in Kericho County and the farmers inadvertently exacerbate infection and spread of the disease by their attitude and practices. Definitive diagnosis should be carried out and extension services, together with best practices, implemented in order to manage paratuberculosis
PREVALENCE OF BOVINE AND OVINE Paratuberculosis IN KERICHO COUNTY AND KONOIN SUB-COUNTY, KENYA.
(African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources, 2019-06) Omega, Joseph A.; Kuria, Joseph K. N.; Musalia, Levi M.
A study was carried out in Kericho County and Konoin Sub-County, Kenya to determine the presence and prevalence of paratuberculosis (Johne’s Disease) in cattle and sheep between February and April 2015. Faecal and serum samples were collected from 423 cattle and 403 sheep in randomly selected households. Serum samples were subjected to antibody analysis by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Faecal samples were examined for acid-fast bacilli by Ziehl Neelsen (ZN) staining and cultured in Herold’s Egg Yolk Medium containing Mycobactin J. Thirty-five (35) selected faecal samples were tested for Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) by Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR). qPCR was used as a confirmatory test to the other three tests. The prevalence of paratuberculosis by ELISA was 2.1-2.4% and 0-0.3% in cattle and sheep respectively. By ZN staining, the prevalence ranged from 4.0- 16.8% and 0.2-2.2% in cattle and sheep respectively. Isolates of MAP were obtained from 2 cattle and 1 sheep faecal samples. All the positive culture (2) and ZN staining (2), 4 out of 6 positive ELISA, 7 out of 13 negative ZN staining and 10 out of 12 ZN staining inconclusive results were confirmed positive by qPCR for MAP. There was a Pearson correlation of 0.97 between the three tests and qPCR. This study confirms the presence of MAP in cattle and sheep in Kenya and provides baseline information of the disease in the area of study. Paratuberculosis is a notifiable disease and there is need for a wider study to determine the prevalence in the country as a basis for instituting surveillance and control measures of the disease.
Factors Affecting Profitability of Agribusiness Activities: A Case Study of Smallholder Pig Farming in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya
(Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociology, 2020-10-23) Micheni, P. K.; Nyariki, I. S.; Kosgei, G. K.
Aims: There have been concerted efforts to commercialize the pig sub-sector so as to make it more profitable to farmers, especially smallholder farmers. Despite the development, the profitability in the sector has not been consistent among the smallholder farmers. Smallholder farmers have been earning varying and dismal profits. The causes of the varying profits have not been empirically established with the influence of institutional arrangements from a transaction cost perspective and management factors contributing to this inconsistency not fully established. The study examined the influence of institutional arrangements and management factors on profit efficiency of smallholder pig farming in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya. Research Methods: A two-stage sampling technique was employed in selection of 80 smallholder pig farmers. Semi-structured interview guides were administered and data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and stochastic frontier production function. Findings: The study revealed that male (75%) respondents dominated were within the active age, had 6 years pig farming experience with basic education. The results of Stochastic frontierproduction revealed that feed costs (p<0.01) and breed type (p<0.05) negatively reduced profit efficiency of the respondents while herd size (p<0.05) and veterinary and drug costs (p<0.01) positively influenced profit efficiency. Inefficiency was increased by Gender (p<0.1) and Debt Asset Ratio (p<0.01) while information trust (p<0.05) and experience reduced. Conclusion: The mean profit efficiency was 0.40 exhibiting low profit efficiency in the study area, efficiency level could be increased by 60% through better use of available resources, adoption of modern technology and transaction costs reduction. This would be acquired if good management practices and marketing channels are adopted. The gamma parameter (γ) was 0.63 meaning 63% net revenue variation is due to profit inefficiencies. The study contributes to Agribusiness field and would improve policies associated with agribusiness development in Kenya.
Factors Affecting Profitability of Agribusiness Activities: A Case Study of Smallholder Pig Farming in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya
(Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociology, 2020-10-23) Micheni, P. K.; Nyarik, I. S.; Kosgei, G. K.
Aims: There have been concerted efforts to commercialize the pig sub-sector so as to make it more profitable to farmers, especially smallholder farmers. Despite the development, the profitability in the sector has not been consistent among the smallholder farmers. Smallholder farmers have been earning varying and dismal profits. The causes of the varying profits have not been empirically established with the influence of institutional arrangements from a transaction cost perspective and management factors contributing to this inconsistency not fully established. The study examined the influence of institutional arrangements and management factors on profit efficiency of smallholder pig farming in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya. Research Methods: A two-stage sampling technique was employed in selection of 80 smallholder pig farmers. Semi-structured interview guides were administered and data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and stochastic frontier production function. Findings: The study revealed that male (75%) respondents dominated were within the active age, had 6 years pig farming experience with basic education. The results of Stochastic frontierproduction revealed that feed costs (p<0.01) and breed type (p<0.05) negatively reduced profit efficiency of the respondents while herd size (p<0.05) and veterinary and drug costs (p<0.01) positively influenced profit efficiency. Inefficiency was increased by Gender (p<0.1) and Debt Asset Ratio (p<0.01) while information trust (p<0.05) and experience reduced. Conclusion: The mean profit efficiency was 0.40 exhibiting low profit efficiency in the study area, efficiency level could be increased by 60% through better use of available resources, adoption of modern technology and transaction costs reduction. This would be acquired if good management practices and marketing channels are adopted. The gamma parameter (γ) was 0.63 meaning 63% net revenue variation is due to profit inefficiencies. The study contributes to Agribusiness field and would improve policies associated with agribusiness development in Kenya.
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
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.
KEY LIMITATIONS OF FISH FEEDS, FEED MANAGEMENT PRACTICES, AND OPPORTUNITIES IN KENYA’S AQUACULTURE ENTERPRISE
(African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 2021-04-30) Munguti, J.; Obiero, K.; Odame, H.; Kirimi, J.; Kyule, D.; Ani, J.; Liti, D.
Profitability is key in fish farming, just as it is to any other enterprise. For the farmers to actualize high-profit margins, it is imperative to have access to well-balanced nutritive and cost-effective feeds, backed by sound on-farm feed management practices. This paper audits Kenya’s fish feed industry and the on-going on-farm feed management practices, and emerging opportunities for fish farmers. The development of fish feed quality standards has boosted the aquaculture sector in Kenya, providing them hope that farmers will access high quality fish feeds. Much of the fish feed currently being used in Kenya is produced on-farm or by small-scale fish feed manufacturers within the East African region, while a few are imported directly from overseas countries, notably Israel, Netherlands, Mauritius and Denmark. Fish feeds produced by small-scale manufacturers are not closely monitored by quality standard agencies and not surprising that a majority are of poor quality. The improvement in the quality of these feeds is likely to lead to increased productivity and profitability because they are cheaper and readily available to fish farmers, compared to imported fish feeds. Besides feed quality, feed management practices markedly impact both the growth and economic performance of fish production. Adopting appropriate feed management strategies, therefore, is instrumental in the maximization of fish production and economic returns. Research has demonstrated several strategies for best feed management practices, which have not hitherto, been adopted by fish farmers in Kenya. Farmers have mainly focused on the mode of delivery of feeds to the fish. Furthermore, promoting natural pond productivity and supplementary feeding is still a common practice in the East African region. Provision of species-specific feeds and targeting the nutritional requirements of the different life stages of fish is still a major issue, although some local companies like Unga Farm Care (EA) have come up with a size and species-specific feed for catfish such as Fugo catfish®. To improve access to such information, public-private partnerships should be developed and, programmes that utilize the local media platforms such as extension service outlets must also be encouraged. Feed quality checks can also be carried out amongst fish feed suppliers. Lastly, farmers should be trained in various fish feed aspects like formulation, transportation and storage to sustain a steady fish feed supply and save on associated feed costs.

Browse

Recent Submissions