7th International Research Conference of Chuka University,2020

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DISSEMINATING AGRICULTURAL INNOVATIONS AND TECHNOLOGY FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT: THE PLACE OF KISWAHILI AND OTHER INDIGENOUS LANGUAGES IN KENYA’S RURAL COMMUNITIES
(Chuka University, 2021) Kevogo, Stanley Adika; Kevogo, Alex Umbima
The significance of research to any endeavour aimed at the realisation of the aspirations of Kenya's Vision 2030 cannot be gainsaid. It goes without saying that in order to generate and disseminate significant knowledge that contributes to national as well as global development, the language employed in communication is very critical. At present, most scientific research is conducted and reported almost entirely in English laced with scientific terminology. This state of affairs speaks to the need to present such findings in a language and form that benefits the nation at large. Consequently, the present paper, seeks to interrogate the nexus between language choice and the uptake of agricultural innovations and technology by rural farming communities who rely almost entirely on either Kiswahili or vernacular languages. It argues that given the present status of Kiswahili as an official as well as national language, scientific research and innovations can easily reach the rural farmer in a language they understand and identify with. It is suggested that there is an urgent need to modernise Kiswahili as well as local community languages in order to disseminate such scientific and technical innovations through them. The paper will contribute insights in the fields of terminology and scientific discourse in Kiswahili and other African languages.
7 th International Research Conference Theme: “Sharing Current Innovations to Revitalize Economic Development: Proceedings
(Chuka University, 2021) Isutsa, Dorcas K. (Ed.)
EVALUATION OF AGRONOMIC CHARACTERS OF SOYBEAN VARIETIES AND BAMBARA GROUNDNUT LANDRACES CULTIVATED ON DIFFERENT SOILS OF LAKE VICTORIA BASIN
(Chuka University, 2021-12) Ogolla, F.O; Onyango, O. B
Neglect and under-utilization of legumes such as soybeans and bambara groundnuts are the reason for increased food insufficiency in the Lake Victoria basin. Diversification of legumes into the cropping systems of Lake Victoria basin ensures protein rich diets and improved soil fertility. This study was carried out to evaluate agronomic characters of two soybean varieties and two bambara groundnut landraces cultivated on different soils of Lake Victoria basin. Seeds of two bambara groundnut landraces; Kakamega Cream (KAKC) and Busia Brown (BUSB) were collected from farmers in Kakamega and Busia counties, respectively in Kenya. Soil sampling was done at selected farmers’ fields with no history of inoculation in Kisumu, Port Victoria, Kendu bay and Karungu within Lake Victoria basin. Screen house experiment was performed in plastic pots with two plants of each cultivar. Randomized Complete Block Design was used. Experiments data were organized into a matrix and subjected to two- and three-way analysis of variance using Genstat 16th Edition and significant means separated using Least Significant Difference at [LSD5%] and Dancun Multiple Range Test. Agronomic characters of BUSB and KAKC landraces differed significant (p<0.05). Bambara groundnuts performed better in Port Victoria and Kendu bay soils than Kisumu and Karungu. Agronomic performance of two soybean varieties SB19 and ‘Safari’ on soils from four sites in Lake Victoria basin was significant (p<0.05). Soybeans yield in Port Victoria and Kendu bay soils was better compared to Kisumu and Karungu soils. Agronomic performance of bambara groundnuts and soybeans were influenced by soil type. Port Victoria and Kendu bay soils resulted in better growth compared to Kisumu and Karungu soils. Landrace KAKC and SB19 had better agronomic performers and are recommended to farmer and seed companies for certified seed production.
EFFECT OF NITROGEN, MULCH AND GIBBERELLIC ACID ON QUALITY OF MULTI-PURPOSE PUMPKIN (Cucurbita moschata Duchesne) FRUITS
(Chuka University, 2021-12-04) Mwaura, M.M; Isutsa, D.K; Munyiri, S.W
Emergence of multi-purpose pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duchesne) as an African indigenous vegetable is attracting great attention. This is due to its adaptation to a wide range of climates and high-yielding potential. Sub- optimal pre- and post-harvest factors have greatly contributed to low returns to farmers and consumers through poor yields and high postharvest loss of pumpkins. There is therefore need to determine the optimal pre- and post- harvest inputs which will provide nutritious pumpkin fruits to producers and consumers. Determination of the effect of nitrogen fertilizer, mulch and gibberellic acid on the fruit size, flesh thickness and firmness of multipurpose pumpkin would contribute to solving these challenges. A field experiment was thus set up at the Chuka University farm in two seasons between January 2019 and July 2020. It was arranged in split-plots in randomized complete block design replicated three times. Nitrogen (0, 50, 100 and 150 kg/ha CAN, mulch (zero, black-painted and unpainted rice straws) and gibberellic acid (0, 40 and 80 mg/L GA3) were assigned to main, split and sub-plots, respectively. Data values were recorded fortnightly from the fourth week after emergence. Data values were subjected to analysis of variance using the SAS software and means separated using the least significant difference test at P=0.05. Effect of N was significant on fruit size (0.013) during the second season, flesh thickness during the first and second seasons (0.002and 0.040) and fruit firmness of 0.02 upper and 0.009 lower during the second season. The 150 kg/ha CAN and black-painted mulch resulted in higher fruit size of 2172 cm2 and 2199 cm2 and flesh thickness of 3.387 cm and 3.856 cm, respectively. The effect of GA3 on fruit size, flesh thickness and firmness was insignificant during both seasons. These results show that 150kg/ha CAN and black-painted mulch would give the best fruit quality, while GA3 may not necessarily result in beneficial returns
IDENTIFICATION OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS AFFECTING UPTAKE OF BANANA VALUE ADDITION BY FARMERS IN CHUKA SUB-COUNTY, THARAKA NITHI COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2021-12-04) Muigai, J.K.; Gathungu, G.K.; Thogori, M
Banana farmers in most parts of the country have not embraced uptake of banana 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 diffusion theory and value-added concept to establish the relationship between farming experience, group membership, access to credit and uptake of banana value addition. It was noted 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 farmers access credit for effective farming among others
TRADITIONAL AND MODERN MARKETING CHANNELS FOR HORTICULTURAL PRODUCE IN KENYA
(Chuka University, 2021-12-04) Rutto, D.L; Omami, E.N
Horticultural produce can be retained on the farm or marketed through local fresh markets; local processed markets, fresh export markets, or processed export markets. Kenya has ecological conditions which favor a wide range of horticultural products which has or is being developed and produced to meet various demand in order to satisfy quantity and quality levels of consumers. Their marketing structure depends on where horticultural produce is developed or produced and point of use. Given such a diversified demand structure, there is need to outlay marketing channels that produce need to follow since product supply has to move along distinct marketing channels for it to reach respective target groups. In this research primary data was obtained through field survey using questionnaires and interviews by stratified random sampling method in horticultural markets. Secondary data obtained from varied sources (FPEAK, HCDA and MOA reports) was looked at, compared and analyzed to come up with marketing channels for various horticultural produce putting into account that several systems are operating simultaneously. Analysis of data was done by descriptive and qualitative method in the study. Results showed farmers pass and dispose off their horticultural produce through various market outlets including; modern channels like supermarkets, online trading portal and exports as well as traditional channels including rural and urban wholesale or retail markets. It was concluded that there are varied marketing channels for horticulture producers and marketers use at their disposal to enhance horticultural product flow.
QUALITY OF CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURAL ADVICE OFFERED BY PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTORS EXTENSIONISTS IN MBEERE NORTH SUB-COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2021-12-04) Gikunda, M.R; Samoei, M.J; Kirwa, S.K
This research adds to knowledge of extension education by revealing the quality of climate-smart agricultural (CSA) advice offered by private and public extension sectors. The study was aimed at addressing the paucity of empirical data that exists relating the quality of CSA advice. Using a semi-structured questionnaire, the descriptive correlational study gathered data from a systematic sample of 109 farmers. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation and ANOVA tests. There was a moderate positive correlation between extension effectiveness and adoption of CSA, r = 0.37, p = < 0.01. There were significant differences between public, private, and both sectors in relation to the quality of information disseminated, F (2) = 12.98, p = < 0.01.The quality of private sector’s advice (36.24 ± 10.94) was significantly lower than that of public sector (45.27 ± 6.92, p = 0.01) and both sectors (47.98 ± 10.07, p = < 0.01). The quality of CSA advice was generally fair, even though collaborative effort between public and private would yield better quality advice. Heightened dissemination of CSA practices would improve the adoption of the practices among farmers. There is need to design and implement intricate CSA programs involving both sectors of extension to improve the adoption levels of the practices in Mbeere North.
EFFECTS OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON SOLID WASTE COMPOSITION AND MUNICIPAL CAPACITY IN OL-KALOU TOWN, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2021-12-04) Wairimu, V.N; Maina, K; Mutuma, E
The COVID-19 pandemic outbreak has presented a threat to the global health sector, with many governments, healthcare, and waste management sectors being caught unprepared and unaware. With the outbreak of the infectious COVID -19 disease, many resources have been allocated to hospitals to help prevent the disease spread, leaving other crucial sectors such a waste management department with fewer resources to finance their waste management activities. The changes in quantity and composition of the wastes reaching the municipal waste stream have far-reaching effects on the waste collectors' health and the waste scavengers due to contamination by the COVID-19 virus. The households' failure to separate contaminated wastes and store the waste in safe containers for more than 72 hours can also facilitate disease spread. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the waste management sector will have to experience some opportunities in the aftermath of the disease. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the COVID-19 pandemic's effects on waste composition and municipal capacity Ol-Kalou municipal council. Purposive sampling was used to select a sample of three officials in the waste management department in the Ol-Kalou municipal council. Primary data was collected through carrying out a waste composition analysis to determine the proportion of covid-19 related wastes in three OlKalou town market curbsides, while data on municipal capacity was collected through an interview to waste management officials. The study's findings indicated that the proportion of covid-19 related wastes comprises 1.05%, a high number, plastics 19.24%, metals 11.86%, glass 5.84%, papers 4.12%, food wastes 46.05%, 3.09% leather, 1.19% Rubber and others 7.56%. Similarly, the results of the interview indicated that the municipal council could not sustainably handle the waste amid the pandemic due to decreased budget allocations, a limited number of workers, lack of worker training to manage contaminated wastes, and limited vehicles to transport cover large areas per day. The study recommended that waste management sectors require additional budget allocations to finance their activities, develop disaster waste management plans, and create public awareness of the importance of waste separation.
EFFECTS OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON SOLID WASTE COMPOSITION AND MUNICIPAL CAPACITY IN OL-KALOU TOWN, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2021-12-04) Wairimu, V.N; Maina, K; Mutuma, E
The COVID-19 pandemic outbreak has presented a threat to the global health sector, with many governments, healthcare, and waste management sectors being caught unprepared and unaware. With the outbreak of the infectious COVID -19 disease, many resources have been allocated to hospitals to help prevent the disease spread, leaving other crucial sectors such a waste management department with fewer resources to finance their waste management activities. The changes in quantity and composition of the wastes reaching the municipal waste stream have far-reaching effects on the waste collectors' health and the waste scavengers due to contamination by the COVID-19 virus. The households' failure to separate contaminated wastes and store the waste in safe containers for more than 72 hours can also facilitate disease spread. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the waste management sector will have to experience some opportunities in the aftermath of the disease. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the COVID-19 pandemic's effects on waste composition and municipal capacity Ol-Kalou municipal council. Purposive sampling was used to select a sample of three officials in the waste management department in the Ol-Kalou municipal council. Primary data was collected through carrying out a waste composition analysis to determine the proportion of covid-19 related wastes in three OlKalou town market curbsides, while data on municipal capacity was collected through an interview to waste management officials. The study's findings indicated that the proportion of covid-19 related wastes comprises 1.05%, a high number, plastics 19.24%, metals 11.86%, glass 5.84%, papers 4.12%, food wastes 46.05%, 3.09% leather, 1.19% Rubber and others 7.56%. Similarly, the results of the interview indicated that the municipal council could not sustainably handle the waste amid the pandemic due to decreased budget allocations, a limited number of workers, lack of worker training to manage contaminated wastes, and limited vehicles to transport cover large areas per day. The study recommended that waste management sectors require additional budget allocations to finance their activities, develop disaster waste management plans, and create public awareness of the importance of waste separation
A REVIEW ON PRECISION AGRICULTURE WITH UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES FOR SOIL MOISTURE CONTENT ESTIMATION
(Chuka University, 2021-12-04) Mbaka, F.K; Ndukhu, H.O
Poor agricultural practices are major contributors to climate change and environmental destruction. Precision agriculture evolves and grows the potential and opportunities of the new field of unmanned aerial systems which demonstrates how to mitigate the impacts of climate change and variability. There are several sectors the unmanned aerial vehicles are being welcomed within the agricultural sector; they have shown to be of great value for crop yield and biomass estimation. It takes little energy to run and operate and it can be from a green power source. Since the clarion call is to move towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle, industries, businesses and corporations are no exceptions. Modern, exciting new technological innovations are also presented along with the sustainable aspect of conventional agriculture with more precise agricultural practices. By increasing the precision and applying inputs like artificial fertilizer and pesticides/herbicides at a correctly variable amount and time, a reduction of the inputs and the environmental disruption should follow, which result in an increase in the profitability for the farmers, and less environmental damages. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to review published research on remote sensing technology in the agricultural sector, for soil moisture estimations and other unmanned aerial systems (UAS) towards a more sustainable precision agriculture. The synergy between unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), soil moisture content estimation (SMC) and sustainability are main focus of this paper, as the possibilities and opportunities this can open for us can be of significant advancement in profitability and precision agriculture.
AN ANALYSIS OF INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS AFFECTING OPTIMIZATION OF COFFEE YIELDS IN CHUKA SUB-COUNTY, THARAKA NITHI COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2021-12-04) Gathungu, G.K; Kihoro, D.M; Thogori, M
The importance of coffee production in the world economy cannot be ruled out due to its contribution in the developing countries in areas such as creation of employment and rise in foreign exchange. Most of the coffee producing countries in the world have come up with strategies to increase their quantity and improve the quality of their produce. In Kenya, the government have also come with numerous policies to support coffee production at the farm level but production of coffee in Kenya has since 1989 crop year been declining. There has been emergence of other enterprises that are profitable than coffee production such as real estate and dairy sector in most of the coffee- growing zones, but there are many farmers who have been determined to maintain coffee production. Despite the efforts made by the government to maximise coffee production in terms of quality and quantity, production has shown a downward trend, with some farmers completely doing away with production This study was aimed at assessing the factors that affect optimization of coffee production in Chuka sub-County, Thaka-Nithi County. Stratified random sampling was used to select a sample of 140 respondents from a population of 7,428 small-scale coffee farmers from ten cooperatives in the sub-County. The findings of the study indicated that access to extension, access to research and management of coffee cooperative were essential in coffee production with a mean agreement of 58.33%. The research established that access to extension (5%) and management of cooperatives (5%) were statistically significant while access to research at (5%) was statistically insignificant. Similarly, access to extension services increased optimization by 91%, poor management of coffee cooperatives reduced production by 45.1%, while access to research increased coffee production by 51%. Therefore, it is important to ensure farmers access extension services, research and improve management of coffee cooperatives.
EFFECT OF MINERAL MIX AND CONCENTRATE FEEDS ON MILK REVENUE OF SMALLHOLDER DAIRY FARMERS IN KAPSERET SUB-COUNTY
(Chuka University, 2021-12-04) Bett, J.K; Munyiri, S.W; Nkari, I.M
Dairy farming contributes about eight percent of National Gross Domestic Product with an annual milk production of 3.43 billion litres. 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 six to seven (6-7) litres/cow/day, is low compared to the world’s best at 10,133 litres/cow/year (28 litres/cow/day) mainly due to factors including poor feeding. 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 mineral mix and concentrate feeds on milk revenue of smallholder dairy 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. Karl Pearson’s product moment correlation was used to show the strength of the relationship between the variables. Multiple regression model was employed to assess the effect of supplementation 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 between the variables (concentrate feeds and mineral mix) and milk revenue at (r=0.414, p=0.000) and (r=0.302, p=0.000), respectively. The relationship between mineral mix and concentrate feeds was positive and statistically significant (r=0.922, p=0.000). Subsequent feeding of homemade or commercial concentrates such as dairy meal and mineral mix to dairy animals also influenced milk revenue. The study concluded that mineral mix and concentrate feeds increased milk revenue of smallholder dairy farmers in Kapseret Sub-county. The study recommended the use of mineral mix, commercial concentrates or quality homemade concentrates in order to increase farmers’ milk revenue.
GENOME-WIDE VARIATION AND OCCURRENCE OF BROAD-BASED RESISTANCE TO COFFEE BERRY DISEASE (Colletotrichum kahawae, Waller&Brige) WITHIN Coffea arabica CULTIVAR, BATIAN
(Chuka University, 2021-12-04) Gimase, J.M; Thagana, W.M; Omondi, C.O
Coffea arabica varieties are characterized by a narrow genetic base, leading to their susceptibility to disease including Coffee Berry Disease (CBD) and hindered development of molecular tools for improvement. CBD epidemics destroys up to 100% of the crop on a susceptible variety when no control measure is applied. Resistance to CBD is conferred by the dominant T and R genes in Hibrido De Timor (HDT) and Rume Sudan (RS) respectively. The cultivar Batian has three phenotypically uniform crosses that may carry T, R or both genes. 27 families from the three crosses were evaluated for genome-wide variation and occurrence of Tand R genes. Genomic DNA was extracted using standard protocols. Genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers were obtained through genotyping by sequencing (GBS), which were used in the analysis of variation and occurrence of the R gene. The variation was analyzed by Principal Component Analysis and hierarchical clustering. The occurrence of the T gene was confirmed through agarose gel electrophoresis using Microsatellite primer, Sat 235 while the R gene was by marker sequence search within the GBS result files. The first two PCs accounted for 37% of the total variation. Both the PCA and hierarchical clustering revealed that majority of the genotypes were closely related to SL 28, while two genotypes, CR30EX809 and CR8EX155 were closely related to RS and HDT. All the genotypes were confirmed to carry the T gene, where 17 were homozygous while 12 were heterozygous. Three genotypes were confirmed to carry both T and R genes, therefore with broad-based resistance to CBD and with relatively high diversity. The genotypes with broadbased resistance to CBD are recommended for multiplication, use in breeding of varieties with multiple gene resistance and improvement of diversity in Arabica varieties.
THE ROLE OF RESEARCH AND FARMER ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SECURITY AND DEVELOPMENT
(Chuka University, 2021-12-04) Gathungu, G.K
The global challenges (climate change, soil and biodiversity degradation) are affecting sustainability of food and agriculture systems, and livelihoods of millions of farmers by threating achievement of the right to adequate food worldwide. Today, hunger remains an everyday challenge for humankind and about 815 million people are still chronically undernourished. Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 aims to end hunger and ensure access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food by all people all year round. Achieving zero hunger by 2030 will require applications of new and existing STI across the food system through an enhanced research and farmer entrepreneurship culture. A number of technological innovations can play a role in addressing concerns related to the four dimensions of food security (availability, access, and nutrition, stability) to increase the amount of food produced. Research and farmer entrepreneurship will provide long lasting solutions for Kenya’s food security through provision of quality seed for farmers, improving yields, creation of new value chains, markets and products of crops and livestock produced. Responsible research and innovation (RR&I) helps to distinguish societal obstacles which may hinder innovation implementation, as well as the values that innovation allows to help to bring about in farming. Breakthroughs are needed in research and innovation (R&I) that foster changes in the entire food system, targeting not only the food production chain, but also attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). There is need to develop innovations that enhance nutrition for sustainable and healthy diets, climate-smart and environmentally sustainable food systems, circularity (recycling) and resource use efficiency of food systems, and empowerment of comThe global challenges (climate change, soil and biodiversity degradation) are affecting sustainability of food and agriculture systems, and livelihoods of millions of farmers by threating achievement of the right to adequate food worldwide. Today, hunger remains an everyday challenge for humankind and about 815 million people are still chronically undernourished. Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 aims to end hunger and ensure access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food by all people all year round. Achieving zero hunger by 2030 will require applications of new and existing STI across the food system through an enhanced research and farmer entrepreneurship culture. A number of technological innovations can play a role in addressing concerns related to the four dimensions of food security (availability, access, and nutrition, stability) to increase the amount of food produced. Research and farmer entrepreneurship will provide long lasting solutions for Kenya’s food security through provision of quality seed for farmers, improving yields, creation of new value chains, markets and products of crops and livestock produced. Responsible research and innovation (RR&I) helps to distinguish societal obstacles which may hinder innovation implementation, as well as the values that innovation allows to help to bring about in farming. Breakthroughs are needed in research and innovation (R&I) that foster changes in the entire food system, targeting not only the food production chain, but also attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). There is need to develop innovations that enhance nutrition for sustainable and healthy diets, climate-smart and environmentally sustainable food systems, circularity (recycling) and resource use efficiency of food systems, and empowerment of communities. Farmers are the main actors in the achievement of food self-sufficiency through entrepreneurship that is driven by their internal potential. Entrepreneurial farmers have creative and independent thinking, innovative behavior and are willing to take risks for agribusiness development by gathering resources and trying new ideas. Farmer entrepreneurship improves farm performance followed by increasing agricultural production towards national food self-sufficiency.munities. Farmers are the main actors in the achievement of food self-sufficiency through entrepreneurship that is driven by their internal potential. Entrepreneurial farmers have creative and independent thinking, innovative behavior and are willing to take risks for agribusiness development by gathering resources and trying new ideas. Farmer entrepreneurship improves farm performance followed by increasing agricultural production towards national food self-sufficiency.
CULTURAL FACTORS AFFECTING UTILIZATION OF GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING SERVICES AMONG STUDENTS IN NATIONAL SCHOOLS IN MERU AND THARAKA NITHI COUNTIES, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2021) Manyara, Ruth N.; Nyaga, Veronica K.
Guidance and Counseling is a process of helping the individual find solutions to own problems and accept them. The provision of Guidance and Counseling to all students in secondary schools in Kenya is fundamental to the success of the Government's overall education development strategy. However, various cultural factors may hinder students' willingness to engage counseling services in solving their inherent problems which is still a persistent problem facing education in Kenya. The purpose of this study is to investigate cultural factors affecting utilization of Guidance and Counseling service, among students in national schools in Meru and Tharaka-Nithi Counties, Kenya. The study was conducted using descriptive survey research design and the target population was 3702 subjects comprising four head teachers, four Guidance and Counseling teachers and 3694 students. The sample size for this study was 377 respondents comprising four head teachers, four Guidance and Counseling teachers and 369 students selected through purposive and stratified random sampling. The research questionnaires were piloted in two national schools in Embu County and involved two head teachers and two guidance and counseling teachers and four students. Reliability of the questionnaire was tested through test-retest method. Quantitative data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 for windows. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze quantitative data. The study makes the conclusion that Guidance and Counseling in Kenyan secondary schools need to be re-emphasized to address cultural factors that affect its utilization. Involvement of all stakeholders including parents, teachers, and opinion leaders in sensitizing the community to shun factors such as cultural beliefs, taboos and myths in education provision was among the recommendations made. The Ministry of Education should introduce mandatory in-service training in Guidance and Counseling for teacher counselors with no basic training in Guidance and Counseling.
EFFECTIVENESS OF THE METHODS USED BY ANGLICAN CHURCH OF KENYA IN ALLEVIATING POVERTY IN CHOGORIA ARCHDEACONRY, MERU DIOCESE
(Chuka University, 2021) Kaimuru, F.; Kagema, Dickson N.; Kithinji, Caroline M.
Poverty continues to be the main challenge of human existence in many parts of the world. In Africa it is the main source of agony among individuals and communities. In Kenya it continues to influence people’s lives negatively as the majority lacks the basic essentials including food, clothing, shelter, education and healthcare. In Chogoria Archdeaconry, poverty has continued to affect people, who continue to struggle for survival. In response to this, the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK), has endeavored to fight the scourge as part of her mission to the society. This study examined the effectiveness of the methods used by ACK to alleviate poverty. The ACK has been involved in the fight against poverty in Chogoria Archdeaconry using various methods since it was incepted in 1974. The study investigated reasons for the persistence of poverty; determined the effectiveness of methods used; and established ways of making the methods more effective. The study will benefit researchers in future by adding to the existing knowledge in the field of religion and development. It will help the church leaders get the real picture of the community they serve; the church to realize the reasons why poverty persist in spite of efforts to alleviate it; and establish ways of making the methods more effective. The study was guided by the broad theory of psycho-social approach that emphasize that development should be seen as an improvement of quality of life of an individual, community and country. The study was conducted in Chogoria Archdeaconry, Maara Sub-County in Tharaka Nithi County that has a population of 107,125 people and 8 parishes with a population of 712 followers, 8 priests, 30 Archdeaconry leaders and 674 Christians. Data was collected from a sample size of 384 respondents. The study used descriptive research design and the sampling method used was simple random sampling for community members and purposive sampling technique for church members and archdeaconry leaders. The instruments for data collection were questionnaires, interviews and observation. Data was analyzed and findings presented using descriptive statistics. The study found that there are various reasons for persistent of poverty in Chogoria Archdeaconry which includes: wealth acquisition rather than quality of life, leadership prospecting and corruption, gap between the rich and the poor, unequal distribution of resources, agricultural condition, lack of education, unemployment, dependency, laziness and drunkenness. The methods used to alleviate poverty included: education, establishment of ADS, capacity building, CCMP and microfinance. It further revealed that some of the methods used by ACK to alleviate poverty are not effective and that all methods need to be improved so as to alleviate poverty in Chogoria Archdeaconry.
MANAGERIAL TIES AND PERFORMANCE OF COUNTY ASSEMBLIES IN KENYA
(Chuka University, 2021) Isaac, Joseph K.; Senaji, Thomas A.; Rintari, Nancy G.
The central principle of the Constitution of Kenya 2020 is the implementation of the system of devolved Government. In implementing this system, the Constitution in Articles 174 and 175 envisions the power of self- governance by the people and their enhanced participation in decision-making. Hence, County Assemblies are obligated by law to discharge important mandates within the county governments’ set-up in the framework of legislation, representation and oversight for satisfactory performance. However, there is scarce literature on the relationship between managerial ties and performance of legislative organizations such as Kenya’s County assemblies. The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between managerial ties and performance of County assemblies in Kenya. The specific objective for the study was to assess the relationship between managerial ties and performance of county assemblies in Kenya. A descriptive census survey was conducted on a target population of 138 respondents from the 46 County assemblies in Kenya comprising the County Assemblies Speakers, Clerks and Deputy Clerks. Data was collected from 98 respondents using structured questionnaire and later analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 24. Correlation analysis was used to assess the strength and direction of the relationship between managerial ties and performance and the t-test was used to test the significance of individual correlation coefficients. There was a negative significant relationship between institutional ties and performance (r = - 0.40, <0.001) while a positive significant relationship existed between social ties and performance (r = 0.205, p < 0.05). Political ties had no significant relationship with performance of county assemblies (r = 0.127, p = 0.211 > 0.05). However political ties were positively and significantly related with oversight by county assemblies (r = .276, p < 0.01). These findings are important to the county governments` policy makers and other stakeholders in making informed decisions on the role of managerial ties in the effective performance of the County Assemblies in particular and generally the County Governments in Kenya
SOCIAL CAPITAL AND POVERTY REDUCTION AMONG THE INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS IN KENYA
(Chuka University, 2021) Kiboro, Christopher N.; Wairire, G.; Gakuru, O.
Social capital is now gaining prominence among researchers, policy makers and development practitioners as a valuable resource for promoting economic growth, creation of secure neighborhoods and sustainable communities. Studies have shown that communities that are characterized by huge amount of social capital particularly in form of community groups at the grassroots level, have a higher likelihood of realizing improved social development than communities with less amounts of social capital. Using primary data collected in Nakuru County and Uasin Gishu County from a random sample of 400 respondents through interviews and Focus Group Discussions, this paper investigates the contribution of social capital towards poverty reduction among the internally displaced persons in Kenya. The findings show that social capital had a major contribution to poverty reduction in the households that were impoverished by internal displacement. Overall, the results show that social networks and social groups (social capital) act as the primary forms of insurance that vulnerable populations depend on to smooth out the adverse effects of unforeseen exigencies. Hence social connections serve as conduits for assets that are important for improving the household’s well-being. The paper makes a policy suggestion that social capital should be integrated in development policies as an essential component for poverty reduction at both national and county/federal levels.
ALTERNATIVE RITE OF PASSAGE FOR THE GIRL CHILD AMONG AMERU COMMUNITY OF KENYA AND THE OBSTACLES IN ACHIEVING ITS SUCCESS: EMBRACING CHANGE FOR A BETTER LIFE
(Chuka University, 2021) Kinyua, Susan M.
Every year thousands of girls and women in the Ameru community undergo female genital mutilation according to the Meru tradition. This is a traditional cultural practice which has two components; the actual surgical operation, education guidance and counseling during seclusion and healing process. Largely, the education that is given tithe girls during this period contains some positive aspects which are beneficial to them and the community and therefore should be encouraged. However, the physical cut which is harmful and potentially life threatening and causes distressing pain and suffering should be abandoned. This paper will focus on both the primary targets who are the girls as well as the secondary targets who are the girls’ parents and other close relatives, the peers (boys and girls), community opinion leaders, religious leaders, politicians, government officials and the circumcisers to help bring change. It is hoped that through awareness creation and sensitization forums the targeted groups will experience and acquire the necessary knowledge, skills and develop attitude that will lead to socio-cultural change and transformation of Ameru community as far as FGM is concerned.
INTEGRATING SOCIAL PROTECTION WITH HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE FOR COMMUNITY DISASTER RESILIENCE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
(Chuka University, 2021) Mukhwana, Eugine S.
Over the past decade, there has been an increase in the need for humanitarian assistance. This increase has been occasioned by the increased frequency of disasters, the severity of the disasters and the protracted nature of conflicts in some regions around the world. Despite the delivery of high amounts of humanitarian assistance, substantial needs have not been met. Some countries have remained in need and have continued to appeal for Humanitarian Assistance every year. In some cases, resources meant for development have been diverted to meet needs of victims of disasters and crises. As such, the need for better crisis prevention and disaster response mechanisms, as well as the need to focus on long-term resilience building form an integral part of Humanity and the Agenda 2030. There is need to focus on resilience through integration of short-term humanitarian assistance activities with interventions that will support sustainable development. One of the strategies proposed to play the dual role of delivering humanitarian assistance in crisis response as well as address the longer-term needs is social protection. Social protection could make it easy for humanitarian assistance to be delivered through existing systems to reach vulnerable groups faster and also prevent or alleviate future humanitarian crises. This paper looks at the possibility of integrating humanitarian assistance with social protection programs as a strategy of supporting resilience and sustainable development in disaster prone regions. This was a desk review study of scholarly articles and reports on disaster risk reduction and responses using search engines of Google Scholar and Harvard Library HOLLIS+. The study established that most of the emergencies that require humanitarian assistance have more often occurred in contexts of chronic poverty and vulnerability, and that resilience of the communities affected by disasters can enhance sustainable development. To harness the benefits of social protection with humanitarian assistance, systems may have to be set up such that linkages should coordinate the provision of short and long-term interventions to address a wider range of needs for sustainable development.

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