Department of Animal Sciences

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Fish diseases and health investment needs for the aquaculture sector in Kenya
(Sustainable Aquatic Research, 2024-08-31) Jonathan Munguti; Jimmy Mboya; James Kirimi4; Domitila Kyule1; Jacob Iteba5; Esther Magondu; Kevin Obiero2; Elick Otachi; Florence Thiakunu8; Kevin Ouko9; Mary Opiyo1
Aquaculture plays an important role in the provision of food, livelihood and source of income in Kenya. There is a rapid shift from extensive methods to semi- intensive and intensive culture methods with the potential to produce higher output. However, intensification in aquaculture comes with risks of diseases. In recent years, there has been an increase in emerging and re-emerging diseases in aquaculture. Increased occurrence of diseases in aquaculture production systems leads to reduced profits, affecting the social and economic sustainability of aquaculture. To mitigate the negative impact of fish diseases in aquaculture, rapid discovery, characterization, and diagnosis of causative agents and risk factors are crucial for the development of effective control measures. There is need for investment in skilled personnel/researchers, well-equipped and dedicated laboratories, routine surveillance, development of relevant prophylactics, biopesticides and chemo-therapeutants, quarantine facilities. Furthermore, developing the institutional capacity governing aquatic animal health issues and improving the linkages between various stakeholders in the aquatic animal health issues nationally and beyond will be critical in improving fish health and disease control in the aquaculture sector in Kenya.
Aflatoxins and fumonisins co‑contamination effects on laying hens and use of mycotoxin detoxifiers as a mitigation strategy
(Mycotoxin Research, 2024-10-15) Phillis E. Ochieng; David C. Kemboi; Sheila Okoth4; · Siegrid De Baere; Etienne Cavalier; Erastus Kang’ethe; Barbara Doupovec; James Gathumbi8; Marie‑Louise Scippo; Gunther Antonissen; Johanna F. Lindah; Siska Croubels
This study examined the effects of fumonisins (FBs) and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), alone or in combination, on the productivity and health of laying hens, as well as the transfer of aflatoxins (AFs) to chicken food products. The efficacy and safety of mycotoxin detoxifiers (bentonite and fumonisin esterase) to mitigate these effects were also assessed. Laying hens (400) were divided into 20 groups and fed a control, moderate (54.6 µg/kg feed) or high (546 µg/kg feed) AFB1 or FBs (7.9 mg/kg feed) added diets, either alone or in combination, with the mycotoxin detoxifiers added in selected diets. Productivity was evaluated by feed intake, egg weight, egg production, and feed conversion ratio whereas health was assessed by organ weights, blood biochemistry, and mortality. Aflatoxins residues in plasma, liver, muscle, and eggs were determined using UHPLC-MS/MS methods. A diet with AFB1 at a concentration of 546 µg/kg feed decreased egg production and various AFB1-contaminated diets increased serum uric acid levels and weights of liver, spleen, heart, and gizzard. Interactions between AFB1 and FBs significantly impacted spleen, heart, and gizzard weights as well as AFB1 residues in eggs. Maximum AFB1 residues of 0.64 µg/kg and aflatoxin M1 (below limits of quantification) were observed in liver, plasma, and eggs of layers fed diets with AFB1. The mycotoxin detoxi- fiers reduced effects of AFB1 and FBs on egg production, organ weights, blood biochemistry, and AFB1 residues in tissues. This study highlights the importance of mycotoxin detoxifiers as a mitigation strategy against mycotoxins in poultry production.
Effect of Concentrate Mixture on Rumen Microbial Activity in Male Goats across Different Breeds
(2024-04-14) Maragara E.N; Njoka E. N; Kinyua J.M
Twenty seven males of three goat breeds namely Toggenburg, German Alpine and Small East Africa were used in a factorial experimental design to determine the effect of supplementation on microbial performance. The concentrate mixture(CM) used for supplementing a basal diet of Napier grass(NG) was compounded from ground maize grain, sunflower seed cake, Mineral Salt and dairy premix. The corresponding basal die- tary treatments were designated at three levels of concentrate mixture (gms/day/goat) as follows; i) Control (C); (NG+0), ii) Low Plane (L); (NG+ 200) and (iii) High Plane (H); (NG+400). The experimental animals were randomly selected from a population of thirty six male goats of three breeds that were initially used during a digestibility trials. The pH and the ammonia nitrogen (N) of the ruminal liquor were inversely relat- ed to each other in control and pH being highest (P≤0.05) and N the lowest (P≤0.05). The pH and the Am- monia nitrogen of the rumen liqour was investigated at four set of hours namely 0, 3, 6 and 12 hours. The highest level of ruminal pH was observed at 0 hours before the concentrate mixture was offered. However the highest levels of Ammonia nitrogen in the rumen was observed after the concentrate diet was offered three hours. The pH level decreased three hours later after the concentrate mixture diet was offered. The Ammonia Nitrogen level decreased on a linear scale as time progressed except after three hours. The lowest Ammonia Nitrogen level was recorded after 12 hours of rumen liqour collection. There was significance difference in the pH among the three breeds and the three different levels of concentrate mixture. Low am- monia nitrogen production among the low plane dieters is attributed to low availability of soluble carbohy- drates resulting to low digestible energy production in the fermentation chambers (rumen) of ruminant. In- crease in level of concentrate mixture supplementation (P<0.05) affected the levels of microbial production of Ammonia and pH.
Nutrients Digestibility and Growth Performance of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis Niloticus) Fed on Oilseed Meals with Crude Papain Enzyme
(Wiley, 2022) Kirimi, J. G.; Musalia, L. M.; Magana, A.; Munguti, J. M.
In this study, nutrients digestibility and growth performance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fed on oilseed meals with crude papain enzyme were determined. A con- trol diet (D1) of 30% crude protein (CP) was formulated using fishmeal (FM), soybean meal (SBM), canola meal (CM) and sunflower meal (SFM). The test diets were formu- lated with replacing 10% CP of FM by SBM (D2), CM (D3) and SFM (D4), respectively. Crude papain enzyme in powder form was incorporated at 0.06%. Digestibility trial was performed using chromium oxide as an inert marker. A feeding trial of 101 days was conducted using a 4 × 2 factorial design with 4 diets (D1, D2, D3 and D4) and 2 papain enzyme inclusion levels at 0.06% and 0% using 720 Nile tilapia fingerlings (7 ± 3 g). The fingerlings were randomly distributed into 8 groups of 3 replicates of 30 fingerlings per net hapa (2 × 1 × 1 m3). Fish were fed twice daily at 5% of their biomass at 10 AM and 4 PM in two equal meals. Apparent digestibility coefficients increased (p < 0.05) on crude papain enzyme supplementation. There was increase in final body weight (47.32 ± 2.10 g) on 0.06% enzyme than without enzyme (0%) (46.17 ± 2.14 g) (p > 0.05). Irrespective of enzyme supplementation, fish fed FM-based diet were larger (56.89 ± 1.37 g) (p < 0.05) than those fed on oilseed meals; SBM (45.59 ± 0.91 g), CM (43.89 ± 2.12 g) and SFM (40.59 ± 1.60 g). Based on the study, 0.06% crude papain enzyme inclusion increased nutrients digestibility and growth per- formance of Nile tilapia. Therefore, crude papain enzyme is recommended as a feed additive in Nile tilapia diets to promote growth. However, more research is recom- mended to determine optimum inclusion levels of crude papain enzyme in Nile tilapia diets.
A Survey on Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice about Antibiotic Prescribing and Resistance among Medical Practitioners in Kenya [Version 1; Peer Review: Awaiting Peer Review].
(AAS Open Research, 2022) Kamita, M.; Gitaka, J.; Kimani, R.; Kijogi, C.; Mureithi, D.; Mungai, S.; Mutungi, J. K.
Background Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health threat worldwide and especially in developing countries. Irrational antibiotic prescription as well as lack of the requisite knowledge and awareness of proper antibiotic use are major drivers of antibiotic resistance. In Kenya, although the Ministry of Health has developed antibiotic use guidelines, these guidelines are not widely followed. Antibiotic prescription is, therefore, hugely at the discretion of the clinician. It is thus necessary to understand the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of antibiotic prescription among medical practitioners in the country. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) among antibiotic prescribers in three counties (Kiambu, Nakuru, and Bungoma) in Kenya. Methods This was a cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire. Simple descriptive statistics were used to generate frequencies, percentages, and proportions. Where necessary, univariate analyses such as Pearson’s chi-square were performed to compare proportions for statistical significance. Results From the three counties, 240 respondents recorded their responses: 30% from Kiambu, 34.6% from Nakuru, and 35.4% from Bungoma. The respondents included 19 (7.9%) consultants, 66 (27.4%) medical officers, 135 (56.3%) clinical officers and 20 (8.3%) pharmacists. Of all respondents, more than 90% agreed or strongly agreed that antibiotic resistance (ABR) is a catastrophe worldwide and in Kenya. However, the proportion of the respondents who either agreed or strongly agreed (71.6%) that antibiotic resistance is a problem in their respective health facilities was significantly lower (ρ=0.013). Conclusion This study revealed that most medical practitioners were aware and knowledgeable about antibiotic resistance. However, there was a disconnect with mitigation measures such as active antibiotic stewardship and laboratory analyses to support judicious prescription. There is, therefore, a need for continuous education and stewardship interventions.
Key Limitations of Fish Feeds, Feed Management Practices, and Opportunities in Kenya’s Aquaculture Enterprise
(2021) Munguti, J.; Liti, D.; Ani, J.; Kyule, D.; Kirimi, J.; Odame, H.; Obiero, K.
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.
Mycotoxins in Poultry Feed and Feed Ingredients from Sub-Saharan Africa and Their Impact on the Production of Broiler and Layer Chickens: A Review
(MDPI, 2021) Ochieng, P. E.; Antonissen, G.; Kang’ethe, E. K.; Okoth, S.; Croubels, S.; Kemboi, D. C.; Scippo, M. L.
The poultry industry in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is faced with feed insecurity, associated with high cost of feeds, and feed safety, associated with locally produced feeds often contaminated with mycotoxins. Mycotoxins, including aflatoxins (AFs), fumonisins (FBs), trichothecenes, and zearalenone (ZEN), are common contaminants of poultry feeds and feed ingredients from SSA. These mycotoxins cause deleterious effects on the health and productivity of chickens and can also be present in poultry food products, thereby posing a health hazard to human consumers of these products. This review summarizes studies of major mycotoxins in poultry feeds, feed ingredients, and poultry food products from SSA as well as aflatoxicosis outbreaks. Additionally reviewed are the worldwide regulation of mycotoxins in poultry feeds, the impact of major mycotoxins in the production of chickens, and the postharvest use of mycotoxin detoxifiers. In most studies, AFs are most commonly quantified, and levels above the European Union regulatory limits of 20 µg/kg are reported. Trichothecenes, FBs, ZEN, and OTA are also reported but are less frequently analyzed. Co-occurrences of mycotoxins, especially AFs and FBs, are reported in some studies. The effects of AFs on chickens’ health and productivity, carryover to their products, as well as use of mycotoxin binders are reported in few studies conducted in SSA. More research should therefore be conducted in SSA to evaluate occurrences, toxicological effects, and mitigation strategies to prevent the toxic effects of mycotoxins.
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.

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