Department of Environmental Studies
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Item Comparative analysis of the influence of watering regime and soil properties on greenhouse gas emission in Mwea irrigation scheme, Kirinyaga county, Kenya.(Chuka University, 2024) Ndaru Yvonne NjokiThe nexus of climate change and enhancing food sufficiency requires a better comprehension of how to balance food demand with climate change mitigation to promote sustainability. This study quantifies the influence of watering regimes, crop establishment methods, and soil properties on greenhouse gas emissions in rice fields, specifically within the Mwea irrigation scheme in Kenya. The study aimed to analyze the influence of two different watering regimes namely alternate wetting and drying (AWD), and continuous flooding (CF) on greenhouse gas emissions in transplanted rice (TPR) and direct-seeded (DSR) rice. Additionally, it investigated the influence of soil properties on greenhouse gas emissions. To accomplish this, an on-station experiment with four treatments: CF + TPR, CF + DSR, AWD + TPR, AWD + DSR, and four replications were performed for one season. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with a split-plot arrangement where the watering regimes were the main plot and the crop establishment methods were the subplots. 60ml propylene syringes were used to collect the gas samples from the closed static gas chamber method, after which the samples were then transferred into 40-ml glass vials. The gas samples were transported to the Mazingira Centre laboratory and analyzed for (CH4, N2O, and CO2) using a gas chromatograph (GC; model SRI 8610C). Soil samples were collected using a soil corer (8cm height) at a depth of 0-16cm and 17-32cm and analyzed for pH, CN, PSA, water content, ammonium, nitrate, and phosphorus using the globally recognized protocols at the Mazingira Centre, within the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) in Nairobi, Kenya. The results on the influence of watering regimes, crop establishment methods, and their interactions on greenhouse gas emissions were statistically subjected to a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test followed by a Turkeys multiple comparison test where the influence was found to be significant. Additionally, to determine the influence of soil properties on greenhouse gas emissions the results were statistically analyzed using a Pearson’s correlation test. Both watering regimes and crop establishment methods and their interactions significantly influenced the emission of CH4 (P < 0.01). Crop establishments significantly influence the emission of CO2 (P< 0.05) with higher emissions in DSR subplots irrespective of the watering regime. However, there was no significant influence of the watering regimes, crop establishments, or their interactions on the emission of N2O. Watering regimes greatly influenced the global warming potential. Regardless of the crop establishment method, AWD decreased the potential for global warming compared to continuous flooding. However, the interaction between AWD and DSR had a higher global warming reduction potential compared to other treatments. Sand content showed strong negative and positive correlations with CH4 (P < 0.05) and CO2 (P < 0.01) respectively. The nitrate content and N2O exhibited a strong positive correlation (P < 0.01). Regarding water use, AWD saved 64% of the water used compared to CF. In conclusion, this study found AWD to be a preferable way to continuous flooding to mitigate the potential for global warming while direct-seeding rice under alternate wetting and drying was proven to be a more effective practice to reduce global warming potential (GWP).Item Effect of magnetic field strength and exposure time on physicochemical properties, biochemical properties, Mould count and shelf life of arrowroots (colocasia esculenta) during storage(Chuka University, 2024) Ngugi William WatukuArrowroot, an important food crop, experiences significant post-harvest losses due to physicochemical deterioration, biochemical degradation, and microbiological spoilage resulting to a short shelf life. This study used a 4×3factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design (CRD) taking into account repeated measures on day 1, 7, 14, and 25, to include four levels of magnetic intensity (0, 6, 7, and 8 µT) and three exposure times (30, 60, and 90 minutes). Key physicochemical properties including weight, firmness, and colour were assessed using a weighing scale, penetrometer, and chroma meter, respectively. Biochemical tests included total phenolic content (TPC) measured by the Folin-Ciocalteu method and antioxidant activity assessed using the DPPH assay. Microbial stability was evaluated by mould counts using the Standard Plate Count (SPC) method. Shelf life was determined through the survival method by visually assessing attributes of discoloration, softening, mould growth and odour of the treated samples against the controls. Data was subjected to analysis of variance ANOVA and, Tukey’s post-hoc test with a significance level of α=0.05. The results showed that magnetic field treatment significantly reduced weight loss (P < 0.05), with the 8 µT intensity resulting in the lowest weight loss (45.68% after 25 days) compared to the control. The treatment also preserved firmness (P < 0.001) and, reduced browning (P < 0.01), with intensities of 7 µT and 8 µT maintaining significantly better firmness and better colour preservation throughout storage. TPC and antioxidant activity increased significantly (P < 0.05) in treated samples, with TPC maximum at 286.62 mg GAE/100g after 60 minutes of 7 µT treatment. Mold growth decreased substantially (P < 0.05) in treated samples, resulting in lower mould counts. Shelf life was increased from 7 days in the control to 15 days in treated samples (P < 0.01). These findings suggested that magnetic field treatment could be a viable non-thermal, chemical-free method for enhancing the post-harvest quality of arrowroots. This method could benefit farmers, food processors, and policymakers by improving post-harvest management practices, enhancing food security, and promoting economic sustainability in arrowroot production and consumption.Item Influence of advertisements and events on popularity of Golf tourism in Nairobi and Kiambu counties, Kenya(Chuka University, 2024) Omollo Quinter AtienoGolf tourism plays an important role in positioning a destination, helps upgrade host destination infrastructure, provides employment opportunities, and compensates for conventional tourism seasonality. Despite the above benefits and the availability of world-class golf courses and facilities, accessibility, and retail shops for golf equipment in Nairobi and Kiambu counties golf tourism has not reached the prime of its popularity levels. Additionally, there have been studies on promotion, economic contribution, and sustainability of golf tourism, these studies have focused on famous international golf destinations this study intended to bridge the knowledge gap, thus the purpose of this study was to explore the influence of advertisements and golf events on popularity of golf tourism in Nairobi and Kiambu Counties. Specifically, this study sought to establish the influence of online advertisements on popularity of golf tourism, influence of broadcast advertisements on the popularity of golf, influence of print media advertisements on popularity of golf, influence of golf tournaments and golf charity events on popularity of golf tourism. A case study research design was used to gain an in-depth understanding of the promotion of golf tourism and how it has affected awareness, interest, and consumer intentions. The target population comprised of 12 golf tourists (golfers and spectators) and 12 golf marketers (golf course marketing officers, Kenya Tourism Board business developers, golf union officials, local business employees, and tour operators) as the key respondents. A purposive sampling approach was used to select golfers and golf marketers while convenience sampling was used to select golf spectators. The sample size consisted of 24 respondents. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews. Multiple data source triangulation was used to ensure reliability and construct validity and content validity was ensured. Data processing and analysis of all the objectives were done using the MAXQDA software version 20.3.0 the study used inductive thematic analysis to obtain the research findings and the results were presented using charts, verbatims, graphs, and tables. The study established a positive influence of online advertisement on awareness, interest, and consumer intentions (action, choice, and preference), the study found that print media has an influence on awareness, and finally broadcast has an influence on awareness, desire, and interest. Also, according to the research findings, there is a positive influence of golf tournaments on awareness interest, and customers' intention (loyalty and revisit), and golf charity events on awareness, interest, and customer intentions (loyalty, retention, and referrals). The findings of this study have policy and practice implications as the study provides insights into advertisement strategies and the impacts that each form has, policymakers should consider integration between the traditional forms, events, and online advertisements should be done so that maximum realization of the influence of these promotion tools can be felt in Nairobi and Kiambu counties. Additionally, the study recommends that golf courses, golf unions, the Kenya Tourism Board, the Ministry of Tourism local businesses should collaborate to create integrated marketing to boost golf tourism popularity.Item Assessment of the effects of selective weed management strategies for the production of direct-seeded rice yield in Mwea, Kirinyanga county, Kenya.(Chuka University, 2024) Musyoka Sylvia KokiThe use of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) is on the rise due to its low input requirements, providing advantages such as reduced labor, water usage, reduced physical strain, early crop maturity, improved soil conditions, reduced methane emissions, and suitability for diverse cropping systems. However, DSR faces challenges from high weed infestation, limiting its adoption and productivity. The study assessed the effects of selective weed management strategies on DSR systems, aiming to enhance overall crop yield and sustainability in Mwea, Kirinyaga County, Kenya. The study was carried out in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Eight quadrants were established for data collection in each treatment in which four of the quadrants were 0.5m x 0.6m and the other four were one meter running rows. Data on weed counts, biomass, plant phyto-toxicity, weed phyto-toxicity, crop counts, crop height and crop biomass were collected on the 0.5m x 0.6m quadrants. Data on tiller density and yield attributes was collected in the 1m running row. Various methods were used in data analysis including Shannon diversity index to analyze weeds diversity across the various treatments, a two-way ANOVA and Kruskal Wallis was used to evaluate the variations among the treatments and the means separated using LSD and Dunn test. The most dominant weed species in DSR field were Richardia grandiflora and Dactyloctenium aegyptium with a Shannon Weiner diversity index of 0.98 and 0.60 respectively. The maximum herbicide efficiency was observed under the application of combination of preemergence and post-emergence herbicide; Pendimethalin + Bispyribac sodium (>80%) and Pendimethalin + Florpyrauxifenbenzyl (>80). In contrast, Cyhalofop-butyl + penoxsulam + one hand weeding (<15%) demonstrated the lowest weed control efficiency. Treatments that either solely used or combined Bispyribac sodium recorded the highest phyto-toxic effects at 35 DAS (range between 2.80% and 2%). Other than the weedy free check the lowest phytotoxic effects was seen in treatments that had Pendimethalin and Florpyrauxifen-benzyl (1.08%). Based on yield results other than the weed-free treatment the combination of Bispyribac sodium + pyrazosulfuron + one hand weeding showed a high adjusted grain weights (1474 g). Thus, treatments that were mostly in combination, for example Pendimethalin + Bispyribac sodium and Bispyribac sodium + pyrazosulfuron + one hand weeding, consistently showed superior control across all weed types. Thus combination of herbicides (PRE-emmergence + POSTemmergence) and with a little boost from hand weeding is recommended for effective weed management practices in DSR.Item Assessing the adoption of circular economy principles in Plastic waste management in Nairobi metropolitan Region, Kenya(Chuka University, 2024) Vyalu Annastacia MumbuaCircular Economy (CE) tackles environmental and resource challenges by promoting efficiency, reducing waste, and minimizing environmental impact. Globally, these approaches have been applied to address waste management and resource depletion by recovering waste for reuse in production, replacing virgin materials. In Kenya, they gained relevance after the 2017 plastic bag ban, but there is limited data on the adoption of circular economy practices for plastic waste management. This research examined the adoption of Circular Economy (CE) principles in plastic waste management in the Nairobi Metropolitan, Kenya. It specifically assessed CE processes such as segregation at source, collection, sorting, recycling, and reuse, while also evaluating the extent of implementation and effectiveness of strategies like recycling and upcycling. The Nairobi Metropolitan, due to its economic importance and diversity, provided an ideal study area for its concentration of plastic waste handlers. The study utilized an exploratory and descriptive research design to analyze circular economy (CE) adoption comprehensively. Purposive sampling selected relevant units of analysis, with data collected through structured and unstructured interviews, questionnaires, observations, and secondary sources, including government reports and scientific publications. Data validity and reliability were ensured through source triangulation, standardized instruments, and rigorous SPSS, version 20 analysis. Results indicated that facility type significantly influences CE standard adoption, with advanced facilities more effectively implementing CE practices. The findings show that 76% of participants prioritized reducing environmental pollution as their main reason for adopting circular economy principles, reflecting strong stakeholder support for mitigating industrial pollution. This suggests circular economy practices are seen as key to addressing urgent issues like air and water pollution. In contrast, 24% were driven by a personal commitment to reducing their ecological footprint, highlighting a focus on sustainability through resource conservation, waste reduction, and sustainable materials. Proper waste segregation systems were also found to be crucial for CE adoption. However, the type of plastic used in facilities often hindered CE adoption, emphasizing the need for material choices that support CE principles. While awareness of CE improves material separation, it does not guarantee full CE implementation. The study noted a decline in perceived efficacy during the early stages of larger-scale CE activities, highlighting potential challenges in adopting sustainable techniques. The research found out that waste management facilities practice Cascaded recycling which is off the loop hence products made from recycled plastics are of low value and circular economy is about retaining value. The conclusion of the research was that the plastic waste management has very minimal component of CE since value is not retained in the loop. This level of recycling cannot compete with virgin plastic material because of lost value. The research recommends capacity building across the entire plastic value chain, including obligating manufacturers to design products that facilitate recovery and diversion from landfills. This research recommends future studies on cost benefit analysis of CE practices in plastic waste management.Item Assessing Household Water Use, Supply Patterns And Management Challenges in Mathioya Sub-Catchment, Kenya(Chuka University, 2025-10) Kimutai, CorneliusWater scarcity and management inefficiencies remain pressing challenges in many developing countries, particularly in the face of climate variability, rapid population growth and infrastructure deficits. In Mathioya Sub-catchment, a critical gap remains in balancing water supply and demand at the household level. The growing urban development and rising demand for water have outpaced the capacity of current management strategies, leading to seasonal shortages, inconsistent supply and overextraction from natural sources. While policy instruments and interventions such as Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) and pricing mechanisms exist, their effectiveness in addressing sectoral disparities and ensuring equitable access to water for domestic users remains unclear. This study examined household water consumption behavior, supply-demand dynamics and management challenges in the Mathioya Sub-catchment of Kenya’s North-West Upper Tana Catchment. The objectives were: To determine the level of water consumption in domestic households with piped water in the Mathioya Sub-catchment; To evaluate the water demand and supply patterns in domestic households in the Mathioya Sub-catchment; and to establish the existing gaps in water management strategies related to household water demand and supply Mathioya Sub-catchment. Using a descriptive survey design and a sample of 400 households from a target population of 28,400, data were analyzed through One-Sample T-tests. The findings revealed statistically significant responsible water use among households (mean = 3.94, p < 0.001), although daily monitoring practices were less consistent (mean = 3.51, p < 0.001). Households largely agreed that their water needs were met (mean = 4.12, p < 0.001) and that tariffs were affordable (mean = 4.15, p < 0.001). However, seasonal shortages remained a major concern (mean = 4.14, p < 0.001), contributing to increased reliance on storage and alternative water sources. These results reflect broader trends in supply variability observed across rural Kenya and sub-Saharan Africa. Despite strong community efforts to promote water conservation (mean = 3.95, p < 0.001), institutional challenges were evident. Respondents perceived local authority education efforts as inadequate (mean = 2.91, p < 0.001) and water policy awareness as moderate (mean = 3.25, p < 0.001). The study concludes that households in the Mathioya Sub-catchment generally practice responsible water use and are aware of water-saving measures. However, the availability of piped water is irregular due to seasonal shortages and unreliable supply patterns. Additionally, there are major gaps in water management, particularly in public education and community engagement. The study recommends strengthening institutional support, clarifying water use policies and enhancing public education on water conservation practices. It also advises improving household-level water monitoring and addressing infrastructure challenges to ensure a consistent and equitable water supply.Item PERCEPTION AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS FOR ADOPTION OF ADAPTATION STRATEGIES TO CLIMATE CHANGE AND VARIABILITY AMONG SMALLHOLDER FARMERS IN IGAMBANG’OMBE, SUB- COUNTY, KENYA(Chuka University, 2020-12) Mwendandu, Irene WanguiClimate change and variability have been identified globally as a major challenge to food security especially in Arid and Semi-Arid lands (ASALs). Agriculture and smallholder farmers have also been identified as the most vulnerable, mainly due to the former being rain-fed and the latter having inadequate adaptive capacity to the dynamics of climate change and variability. This study, therefore, sought to assess the perception towards adaptation strategies to climate change and variability, determine the social-economic factors that influences their adoption, as well as assess those adaptations strategies practiced, among smallholder farmers in Igambang’ombe Sub- County, Tharaka Nithi County. Descriptive research design was applied. Systematic random sampling was used to select the respondents and a semi-structured questionnaire with open and closed-ended questions was used for data collection. Observations and interviews were carried out, while systematic random sampling was used to select the respondents. Likert scale was used for analysis, frequencies and percentages were done, while correlation analysis was used to assess which socio- economic factors influenced the adoption of adaptation strategies to climate change and variability. The results showed that majority (81%) of the respondents perceived that climate change and variability was taking place, Weather information from forecasting as an adaptation strategy to climate change and variability was accessed by 81% of farmers, with 67% getting it from the Kenya Meteorological Department, mainly through radio at 74%. Furthermore, in land preparation and use, ox-ploughing was adopted by 71% of the farmers and 100% of the smallholder farmers allocating land to crop farming. Terracing and intercropping were adopted by 88% and 84%, with terracing being perceived as the most effective by 73% of the smallholder farmers. The study further showed that 62% of the farmers diversified crop production by introducing new crop varieties, mainly green grams and maize. The study showed that age (42%), farmer’s farming experience (40%), and level of education of the household head (24%), were the key socio-economic factors in influencing the adoption of adaptation strategies to climate change and variability. Importantly adaptation of climate change and variability adaptation strategies was also associated to access and frequency of extension services. Access to farm subsidy, and credit was also important. Farmers and agriculture stakeholders needed to upscale the adoption of strategies as minimum tillage, mulching, contour ploughing, and use of weather and climate forecasting in the selection of crop varieties and production planning. However, the training should be guided by specific socio-economic farmer characteristics.Item EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION AND SOIL FERTILITY ENHANCEMENT MEASURES ON CROP PRODUCTION IN MAVURIA WARD, EMBU COUNTY IN KENYA(Chuka University, 2020-12) Nyaga, Samuel KivutiAfrica continent is under pressure from climate stresses and is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. In Kenya, agriculture is the backbone of the economy making it an important contributor to food security of rural households. Currently crop productivity is being affected by continued climate variations and decline in soil fertility. Adaptation to climate change and soil fertility management requires to be given high and urgent priority for sustainable crop production. A study was conducted in Mavuria ward, Mbeere South Sub-County, Embu County to evaluate the effects of climate change adaptation and soil fertility enhancement measures on crop production. The study used both descriptive and experimental research designs. The primary data on adaptation measures was collected from farmers, institutions using questionnaires and soil samples collected and analysis done in Soil Cares laboratories to determine the nutrient levels. In the data analysis, descriptive statistics was used to organize the climate data and that of the respondents into frequencies. Further, the Person’s correlation test was done to determine the relationship between climate parameters and the yield of the four major crops at α=0.05. From the study findings, the relationships between rainfall and the crops were all positive with strong correlation coefficient for beans (r=0.719) and cowpeas (r=0.556) and weak coefficients for maize (r=0.443) and green grams (r=0.394). However, all the correlation coefficients with rainfall were not significant (p>0.05). The relationship of the crop yields with temperature could not be determined since the mean annual temperature did not vary across the years. Most of the soils were deficient in nitrogen (66.7%), and phosphorus was within recommended range (66.7%) and 32.3% were above the recommended level. Regarding potassium levels, all the soils had levels above the maximum recommended. The main adaptation mechanisms identified were soil fertility improvement, soil and water conservation, early planting, pest and disease control, provision of certified seeds, and awareness creation. In view of these findings, the study recommends the continuous implementation of the measures that can help strengthen farmers and institutional adaptation mechanisms towards climate change for improved crop production.Item EVALUATION OF WATER QUALITY AND PURIFICATION POTENTIAL OF COMMELINA BANGHALENSIS, MACROPHYTES IN NKENYE STREAM IN MERU SOUTH, THARAKA NITHI COUNTY, KENYA(Chuka University, 2020-12) Chabari, Samson KithakaAccess to portable water remains a major global concern due to increased rate of water pollution, accelerated urbanization, high population, industrialization and intense agricultural activities that destroy riparian zones thus exposing rivers and streams to toxic and pathogenic pollutants from untreated organic and inorganic waste. Exposure of streams used for drinking water to pollution is detrimental to consumers. Nkenye stream in Meru South is depended upon for the use in fish ponds, irrigation and provision of water for domestic use. Nonetheless, little attention has been accorded to acertain the chemical and biological quality of the flowing water and that of the water bed despite of the stream being located in an urban area with high exposure to pollutants. Pressure on Nkenye wetlands ecosystem that habours Nkenye stream has seen major destruction of vegetation leaving just few plant communities such as Commelina banghalensis whose water purification potential is not well known. This study was conducted to determine water quality of Nkenye stream and water purification capacity of Commelina banghalensis along this stream. Samples were collected at designated locations using ecological survey method and taken to Chuka University for analysis. However, water temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen were determined in situ using Hanna conductivity meter. In the laboratory. Macrophyte roots were cleaned and dried then powdered and digested using nitric acid. The sediment samples were dried, ground to pas a 2 mm non-metal sieve, digested samples were diluted and analyzed using atomic absorption spectrometry model PG990 at Chuka University. The concentration of anions was determined by ion chromatography at Chuka University Chemistry laboratory. Coliform analysis of water samples was done by most probable number method using Macconkey purple broth at botany laboratory, Chuka University. The results obtained from the field and laboratory were analyzed by General linear model (GLM) on Statistical analysis system (SAS) version 9.4 and significance means separated by Least significance difference (LSD) [alpha = 0.05]. The results showed that Nkenye stream is polluted with iron, copper and lead. However, the concentration of iron and copper were within the set standards by the World Health Organization while lead was slightly higher by 0.02 ppm. Feacal coliform were found not to conform to WHO standards of o cfu/100 ml as the mean of 10 cfu/100 ml was observed for the entire stream. In conclusion, metal pollutants were significantly different from location to location of sampling. However, the concentrations were within the WHO standards for drinking water. The metals contaminants observed in the Nkenye stream water, sediments and root samples may be associated with discharge of wastes from Chuka town particularly wastes from car wash, garages and from farms that surround the stream and the wetland. Considerable amount of lead, copper and iron was observed in the root samples of Commelina banghalensis. This shows that the plant can be utilized in the removal of the above cations in the Nkenye stream. The study recommends that local authorities particularly Tharaka Nithi County government should provide waste management disposal systems and policies that prohibit direct discharge of effluents or any other industrial based wastes into the stream. The County government should enact policies that prohibit cultivation along the stream or any activity that endanger the riparian zones of Nkenye stream. Lastly, first growing macrophyte plants such as Commelina banghalensis should be adopted and planted as a buffer zone between the stream and the land bordering upstream of the stream to trap and retain harmful wastes that otherwise would find their way into the water body.Item DIVERSITY, HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATION AND PHYTOREMEDIATION POTENTIAL OF WILD PLANTS SPECIES NATURALLY GROWING ON KANG’OKI DUMPSITE, THIKA, KENYA(Chuka University, 2020-12) Orao, Lynet AkothIncreased industrialisation, urbanization, human population, and unregulated anthropogenic activities have led to an increased waste generation which in turn pollutes soil, water and air. Increased pollution is harmful to both plants and animals, which consequently affect humans. Most methods which have been applied by farmers in removal of pollutants from the soils are very expensive and unreliable. They include soil washing, use of mechanical and chemical methods. Therefore, a greener technology such as phytoremediation, which decontaminates polluted environment without interfering with soil structure or soil micro-organism is necessary. The objectives of this study was to determine the diversity of the plants growing naturally in Kang’oki dumpsite and concentration of selected heavy metals in soil, water and plant tissues to assess the potential of the plants for their phytoremediation potential. The dumpsite is situated within Thika municipality in Kiambu County, Kenya. An inventory of all plants growing on the dumpsite was carried out employing a quadrat sampling technique. A quasi Randomized Complete Block Design was used in this study, with dumpsite subdivided into 14 sites, forming the sampling sites. Soil, water and plant tissues samples were collected from all sampling sites. Shannon-Weaver diversity index (H’) was used to compute species diversity. The samples collected were acid digested and Cd, Ni, Pb, and Cu concentrations in samples determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry analytical method at Chuka University Chemistry laboratory. The data obtained from water, soil and plants samples were further analysed using Statistical Analysis System version 9.4. The significant means were separated using Least Significance Difference at α = 0.05. The bioaccumulation and translocation factors of the investigated plants were done to determine the phytoremediation potential of the plants. The dumpsite had high species diversity (H` = 0.94), with species evenness of 0.45, indicating that different levels of environmental disturbance have different effects on species diversity. Seventy one plant species belonging to 28 families were identified. Asteraceae was most dominant family. Parthenium hysterophorus belonging to the family asteraceae is the most widely occurring species while Carica papaya, Opuntia violacea, and Pisum sativum were rare species. Concentration of the metals in soil samples at different sites were significant (p <0.0001). Concentration of Cd, Ni, Cu and Pb in water samples were significant (p <0.0001) except for cadmium (p> 0.053). Water samples had low levels of Cu, Pb, Ni, and Pb in all the sites compared to plants and soil samples. In plant tissues, Cu had the highest in plants while cadmium was the lowest. All investigated plants showed translocation factor >1 while bioaccumulation factor for most plants were <1, indicating that the plants are hyperaccumulators. Datura stramonium showed BCF and TF for Cd and Cu >1, hence, it can be used for phytoextraction of Cd and Cu in a polluted environment. Ricinus communis showed bioconcentration factor and translocation factor for Ni >1, hence can be used for phytoextraction of Ni. Conclusively, the dumpsite has high levels of the studied heavy metals, therefore, the investigated plants can be utilized for eco-restoration of the dumpsite.Item Assessment of The Distribution, Abundance and Carbon Stocks in Seagrass Meadows Within Eastern and Western Creeks of Gazi Bay, Kenya(Chuka University, 2019-09) Juma, Gabriel AkokoSeagrass meadows are one of the most important blue carbon ecosystems within the seascape environment providing both ecological and economic benefits. They act as breeding and feeding grounds for fish and other organisms; perform carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling and other ecosystem services. Through their carbon capture and storage ability, seagrass can be incorporated in carbon offset schemes. However, they are highly degraded from both anthropogenic and natural factors. Carbon stocks assessment is required in understanding dynamics of seagrass meadows. In Gazi Bay, Kenya, carbon storage in the seagrass meadows has been determined in the open waters of the Bay. The present study aimed at contributing to carbon dynamics of Gazi bay by assessing the distribution, abundance and carbon storage in seagrass within the mangrove fringed creeks. The objectives included assessing distribution and abundance of seagrass in the creeks, determining above and below ground seagrass biomass and comparing sediment carbon stocks between vegetated and un-vegetated sites. Stratified random sampling strategy was used in collecting data within 80 square plots of 0.25m by 0.25m. Five species formation viz; Thalassia hemprichii, Cymodocea rotundata, Cymodocea serrulata, Enhalus acoroides, and Thalassidendron ciliatum were encountered as either single or mixed stand. A total of 480 samples were collected for sediment and biomass determination in the laboratory. The results showed a higher seagrass diversity in the Eastern creek, (H = 1.71), than Western creek, (H = 1.67). There was also a significant difference in the total biomass between the creeks (t= -8.44, df. = 53, p < 0.0001) and among species (F = 14.6, df = 79, p < 0.0001) with a mean of 7.25 ± 4.2 Mg C ha-1, (range: 4.1 - 12.9 Mg C ha-1). Sediment carbon varied between species within the 1.2 km2 creeks area; with a range from 97.6 to 302.4 Mg C ha-1, (mean: 183.4 ± 100.5 Mg C ha-1). This is lower than 236 ± 24 Mg C ha-1, reported in the open bay but within the global range. In all the species, vegetated areas showed significantly higher carbon values than the un-vegetated sites (t = 12.02 p < 0.0001). Based on this study, the total seagrass carbon stocks can be estimated at 21,118.8 Mg C. Using the IPCCC emission value of 7.9 tonnes of C ha-1, values for organic soils for wetlands, conservation of seagrass in these two mangrove fringed creeks will prevent emission of 2,682.13 Mg of CO2 equivalent yr-1 to the atmosphere. The avoided emission could be bundled with the existing offset scheme in the bay involving mangroves. Inclusion of seagrass in carbon offset scheme has a long term benefits of climate, community livelihood and biodiversity conservation.Item Spatial Variation in Adoption of Rainwater Harvesting Techniques in Meru County, Kenya.(Chuka University, 2019-09) Mbogori, Agnes KarwithaRainwater harvesting has been used to address water shortage in various regions. The harvested rainwater is used for domestic purposes, irrigation and agricultural processing. Various technologies have been used over time with improvements on the old technologies as well as introduction of new technologies. Rainwater harvesting systems can be constructed with inexpensive locally available materials. People use tanks attached to roofs, caves, earth dams, underground trenches among others. However, despite the economic viability and potential of RWH techniques for improving agriculture and livelihoods, the adoption of RWH techniques by farmers is not adequate. This calls for an examination and evaluation of socio-economic factors that influence the spatial variation in the adoption of rainwater harvesting techniques in the region. A large part of Buuri Sub-County of Meru County is dry and falls in the rain shadow of Mt. Kenya with no permanent rivers and with few community-based water projects, thereby posing a great shortage of water. Like in other hot and dry parts of Kenya, rainwater harvesting has been intensively promoted in Buuri Sub-County to meet domestic needs, irrigation and other purposes. The study was guided by three objectives: (1) To investigate whether the residents of Buuri Sub-County engage in rainwater harvesting, (2) to investigate which rainwater harvesting techniques are used in Buuri Sub-County, and (3) to determine the socio-economic factors that influence the spatial variation in the adoption of rainwater harvesting techniques in the area. The study was an adoption study of descriptive survey design. The target population was 2503 homesteads in Buuri Sub-County, and a sample size of 101 respondents was selected through purposive sampling. Questionnaires were used as the instruments of data collection. Qualitative data obtained was analysed thematically. The quantitative data obtained from the study was analysed using Chi-Square tests, Pearson correlation, t-tests, one way ANOVA, and binary logistical regression. The study revealed that there was inadequate harvested rainwater despite wide adoption of rainwater harvesting (95% of the farmers), with tanks not exceeding 4000 litres highly utilised. This could be attributed to a general lack of awareness on other appropriate rainwater harvesting technologies. Additionally, the findings showed that age, academic qualification, and occupation influenced the respondents’ choices of rainwater harvesting technologies. The study revealed that the two regions chosen i.e: Kamutune and Kiirua had a slight difference in adoption of RWHTS, which was 93.5% and 97.8% respectively. Based on these findings, the study recommends the intervention of Rainwater Harvesting Techniques through infrastructural development, financial incentives, and awareness creation to popularise the adoption of alternative techniques of rainwater harvesting for commercial, domestic, and agricultural purposes by the residents of Buuri Sub-County.Item Effect of Teenage Pregnancy on Psychosocial Wellbeing of Expectant Teenage Girls And Their Coping Mechanisms Among Girls in Trans Nzoia West Sub-County, Kenya(Chuka University, 2019-09) Njuki, Naomi GatwiriTeenage pregnancy refers to the situation where young girls ranging from thirteen to nineteen years of age become pregnant. During their pregnancy the teenage girls are affected in their psychosocial lives. The expectant teenage girls also tend to employ coping mechanisms which can be positive or negative. Psychosocial wellbeing is the positive affective state such as personal growth, positive relations and self-acceptance and interpersonal relations of the expectant teenage girls. The cases of teenage pregnancy have been on the rise. In Trans Nzoia County the teenage pregnancy rate is 18 percent. Expectant teenage girls have been reported to procure abortions which have led to death and other health problems among expectant teenage girls. Societal coping mechanisms are essential for the expectant teenage girls to cope with pregnancy. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to establish the effect of teenage pregnancy on psychosocial wellbeing of expectant teenage girls and their coping mechanisms among girls in Trans Nzoia West Sub County. The study applied two theories which are Crisis theory by Caplan and Problem Behaviour Theory by Jessor. The study used the descriptive survey research design. This design was considered appropriate for the study because it is useful in securing evidence concerning an existing situation or current condition. The target population for this study was 136 expectant teenage girls in Trans Nzoia West Sub County. The sample size was 103 expectant teenage girls who were sampled using purposive sampling technique. A pilot study was carried out to test for the reliability of the instruments. The validity of the instruments was ascertained through expert judgment from Chuka University Department of Education and other experts. A pilot study was carried out to test for the reliability of the instruments. The reliability co-efficient of the tools was tested using split half technique and Spearman rho correlation coefficient. The obtained reliability co- efficient of the instruments was 0.83. Data was collected by use of Focus Group Discussion and Questionnaires which were administered to the expectant teenage girls and interviews were conducted among the nineteen nurses. The data collected was organized, coded, tabulated and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The findings showed that expectant teenage girls were experiencing low self-esteem, poor interpersonal relationship and depressive symptoms. The expectant teenage girls reported that they felt unfortunate because of the pregnancy. They were also very critical of themselves and do not like interacting with others. Participants gave reports that teenage pregnancy was seen as a shameful event for the teenagers involved. This led to poor interpersonal relationship with their partners and relatives. The study showed aspect of depressive symptoms whereby expectant teenagers reacted to the realization of pregnancy with anxiety, hopelessness and thoughts of taking away their lives. The study also found out that the expectant teenagers were using coping mechanisms such as religion, social support and counseling. These coping mechanisms have made the expectant teenagers cope with their pregnancy better. The findings and recommendations of this study may provide information to expectant teenage girls concerning coping mechanisms that can be used to cope with teenage pregnancy better. The information may help the Ministry of education to be aware of the necessary factors to take into consideration when formulating and implementing policies and programmes designed to sensitize teenagers about the effect of teenage pregnancy and coping mechanisms of teenagers who are pregnant.Item Access and Utilization of Seasonal Climate Forecast Among Small Holder Farmers in Masinga Sub-County, Machakos County, Kenya(Chuka University, 2019-09) Masesi, Gideon KyaloClimate change in Kenya and other East African countries is expected to manifest itself in shifts in seasons and increased frequencies of extreme weather events, such as droughts, heavy rainfall and associated flooding. As climate continues to change, seasonal forecasts will become even more crucial as one way of informing farmers of short-term weather dynamics, impending seasons of below- or above-normal rainfall and extreme rainfall events. Kenyan government has invested considerable resources into the development of understanding and technologies to meet the expected demands of its citizens for improved climate forecasts. Regrettably, many of the benefits of these investments have not yet been realized as farmers do not use this forecasts information to make agricultural sound decisions, hence benefits to the nation are considerably less than they might be otherwise. This therefore called for a study to evaluate the access and utilization of seasonal climate forecast among households in Masinga Sub County, Machakos County in Kenya. A cross-sectional survey research design was used. A systematic random sampling procedure was employed to select 274 respondents in the four sub locations of Masinga Sub County. Structured questionnaires were used to elicit required information from the respondents. Data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Pearson‟s correlation coefficient was utilized to establish relationship between some socioeconomic characteristics and utilization of climate forecasts. Results indicated that 82% of the respondents were able to access climate forecasts through radio, and television. Majority of the respondents indicated that their major interest was to know the start and the end of rain (63%). Radio was the major source of climate forecast (38%) with 90% of the respondents getting information from radio and 60% from television. Above 60% of the respondents indicated that the climate forecast information received from dissemination channels was inaccurate. Over 60% indicated that bulletins used very difficult and complicated language while chief “Barraza‟s” was considered to use simple language (56%). Inadequate extension officers (84%) was a limitation to access to climate forecast information. Majority of the respondents (54%) use both indigenous knowledge on climate forecast and seasonal climate forecasts, however 61% stated that they were very unsatisfied with scientific forecasts. Inaccuracy of forecasts (98%) was a key factor affecting adoption of climate forecast. Over 80% of the respondents felt that climate forecasts cover a wide area making it difficult for them to relate the climate reports to their specific local areas. It was noted that seasonal climate forecast information given by the relevant institutions are coarse thus providing little or no detail on the local characteristics of a season, and do not reflect the localized pattern of rainfall. Moreover, difficult terminologies used in climate forecasting limit their usability and usefulness to farmers and other users. Majority of farmers lack confidence in forecasts issued by KMD and perceive them to be incorrect. Most of the climate forecasts broadcasts are done at the wrong time of day, when the households were out in the fields or in their daily activities. This hinders usability of climate forecasts by the targeted groups. The study further established a significant relationship between land, income, age, education level and gender with utilization of climate forecast. Therefore, based on the major findings of this research it is recommended that, (i) climate forecasts should be downscaled into regional level and should be location specific to increase utility (ii) disseminate climate forecast through local media in local languages so that information can reach local farmers (iii) probabilistic nature of seasonal forecasts should be given with technical guidance to help farmers interpret vii easily and respond to the forecast and (iv) climate forecasts should be issued in the evening between 6.00 p.m-9.00 p.m. to reach a large audience.