African Journal of Education,Science and Technology

Examining Students’ Flexibility in Online Learning: Exploring the Impact of E-Learning Adoption on Education During the Covid-19 Pandemic

2024-05-18T18:32:47+00:00

The importance of Learning Management Systems (LMS) for self-directed learning called for a rapid shift from learner -centered to fully online learning due to COVID-19. This paper examines the effects of Covid-19 Pandemic on education. The study explores the advantages and disadvantages of online education and pertaining challenges that need to be addressed for its successful implementation. During the study, an online survey was used to gather insights on students’ experiences and difficulties they encountered during the pandemic. During this survey, a total of 582 participants; the majority of whom were undergraduate students (68%) and were women (68%). While mobile phones were revealed to be the most popular e-learning tool (55%), 43% chose laptops or desktops. Importantly, it is worthy to note that 56% of respondents reported not having access to the internet, likewise 54% spend four to five hours daily on online learning. According to the study, for over a half of the participants, the shift to online classes equally led to a shift in their routines. Additionally, of the participants 10% found it challenging to balance between study time and personal time. Distractions at home and participation in other activities were the main causes of non-participation. The mean scores of 3.19 and 2.98, respectively, in the study underscores the challenges of obtaining online classes and the absence of in-person interactions. We therefore strongly recommend that future studies concentrate on these areas as they have the potential to produce even more precise and significant results.

The Place of ChatGPT in Institutions of Higher Learning: A Resident Evil

2024-05-18T18:32:47+00:00

The Chat GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) is a tool created by Open-AI which is trained using supervised and reinforcement learning methods like Natural Language Processing (NLP). This language model currently gaining popularity is believed to revolutionize the present research and academic practices. Since its inception in November 2022, the artificial intelligence application has attracted over 100 million users among them, students, educators, and researchers. However, there are reservations from researchers and scholars on its role in academics. This study investigated the moral, technological, and academic dilemmas that arise with the use of ChatGPT in education, with a focus on the situation in institutions of higher learning in Kenya. 256 respondents were sampled from five (5) universities in Kenya (Public and Private) via online survey questionnaire to determine their experiences with and motivations for using AI-powered conversational agents with a specific focus on ChatGPT. The findings revealed that there is a mixed reaction in adoption and use amongst lecturers and students. The study further showed that there is an acute difficulty in detection of assessment done by ChatGPT since most plagiarism detection software’s are still unable to detect AI generated work. While some believe ChatGPT and related AI technologies will revolutionize education, others believe they pose a threat to the development of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and emotional intelligence.

Indigenous Maasai Perspectives on Availability of natural resources and Access to community livelihood resources in Masai Mara Wildlife dispersal area, Narok County, Kenya

2024-05-18T18:32:47+00:00

Land tenure policy reform have reorganized Maasai living a natural resource scarce space in a wildlife dispersal area in Kenya. However, from the perspectives of Maasai Indigenous Peoples (IP) households who live in place, land productivity specifically; availability and access to environmental resources and community livelihood benefits dwindle in sedentary settlements within Mara ward, Narok south sub- County. A sample size of 183 households’ responses regarding benefits from goods and services during a land tenure change regime recorded dissatisfaction events by Maasai IP household heads. From the Mara ward case study findings; dissatisfaction of agro-pastoralist resource group to water resources (72.5%), forest (80.3%) and, dry season grazing land (80.7%) were high. Maasai respondents engaged in business activities were dissatisfied with access to mainly a dry season grazing land (52.9%). Mara households dissatisfied with all community benefits still: agro-pastoralists, expressed dissatisfaction with access to transport infrastructure (82.9%), schools (79.7%), shopping centre (78.9%) and livestock trade (76.3%). These findings depict a competition between livestock and business livelihood source models in Mara ward. Other underlying effects that were raised were, fences that make women and herders to walk longer distances to water and pasture respectively. The poorer Maasai IP households registered off-farm and casual labour engagement; an outcome that depict loss of pastoralism skills. By changing to sedentary lifestyle, 26 percent of younger Maasai household heads from Mara study sites chose to exit the agro-pastoral lifestyle to join hired labour force in nearby towns. In conclusion; land reform policy values and relational power enforce private property rights but, also incentivize to overexploit available natural resources needed by pastoral workforce in Mara, ward. As a recommendation; land reform institutions should prioritize a resilient wildlife dispersal area in order to improve poorer households’ access to livelihood sources for better land productivity and outcomes.

Performance Evaluation of a Variable Pitch Potato Grader

2024-05-18T18:32:47+00:00

Manual grading of potatoes in Kenya has resulted in inconsistencies, quality variations and financial losses to small-scale farmers due to low market prices for poorly classified produce. To mitigate these challenges, this study aimed at developing and evaluating the performance of a potato grading machine to enhance uniformity and overall quality of potato tubers. The research involved determining the engineering properties of Shangi potato variety and developing potato grader machine. The designed grader consisted of a feeding hopper, conveyor belt, grading unit, and collection trays. Grading capacity, grading efficiency, and mechanical damage index were assessed by varying grading unit speeds, angles of inclination and feed rates. The results showed that the grading capacity increased with higher grading unit speeds, inclination angles, and feed rates. The optimal operating conditions were observed at a grading unit speed of 4 rpm, an inclination angle of 0 degrees and a feed rate of 3400 kg/hr. The prototype potato grader achieved a grading capacity of 3968 kg/hr, with an efficiency of 89.34% and a mechanical damage index of 2.94%. The results demonstrate that the potato grading machine effectively enhances grading efficiency while minimizing mechanical damage. This grading machine offers a practical and sustainable solution for small-scale farmers to produce high-quality graded potatoes in line with market demands. It is recommended that future research may include further optimization by exploring various grading unit speeds, feed rates, and inclination angles. Implementing padding on the collection trays could further reduce mechanical damage to the graded tubers. Furthermore, investigating alternative power sources may enhance the grader's versatility and extending testing to fruits and other tubers would broaden its applicability in the agricultural industry.

Effects of Sponsorships on Performance of Para Athletes in Kenya

2024-05-18T18:32:47+00:00

Sponsorship is used throughout a Para Athlete career beginning from when talent is identified and trained, to when they participate and perform at athletics competitions. The study aimed at investigating how sponsorship approaches affect Para Athletes performance. These aspects include the athletics expertise, competitive style, sportsmanship and rivalry obtained from conceptual Model of Athlete Brand Image. An exploratory case study was done to twenty (20) Para Athletes after theoretical sampling from the total sixty six (66) Para Athletes. In-depth interviews and observation were used to collect data among the Para Athletes. Validity and reliability were tested using pilot study on five (5) Para Athletes. The data analysis was done guided by Grounded Theory research design using the Straussian Approach. The study found that sponsorships were not there for the Para Athletes and hence no effect was experienced on their performance. Two major themes were identified with respect to the sponsorships on performance of Para Athletes. First, the Para Athletes acknowledged extremely limited interaction to sponsorships, with some none at all. Secondly, the Para Sport structure and leadership proved to explain the nature of current sponsorships. Hence, appropriate Para Athletics leadership and structure to drive the availability and use of sponsorships in Para Athletics is vital. The implication of these findings is to reorganize the structure and method of selecting Kenya's Paralympic leadership, which should be included in the federation constitution. Based on the findings of the study, further research should be done to develop appropriate Para Sport structure and leadership to influence sponsorships and Para Athlete performance.

Investigating Creative Prowess of Senior High School Students in Visual Communication: Case Study of Grade ‘A’ Girls’ School in Ghana

2024-05-18T18:32:47+00:00

This paper used school-based art competition to identify Senior High School Visual Art and non-Visual Art students who revived or repressed artistically in Junior High School). Artistic revival is when children who have talent and interest in drawing continue to draw and paint after age 13 and 14, whiles artistic repression is when children who lack special skills in drawing redraw from drawing and painting from age 13 upwards (Lowenfeld & Brittian, 1982). The paper also investigated factors that influenced the students in selecting their programmes in Senior High School. The study was rooted in the interpretivism paradigm and used qualitative research approach and case study research design. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 135 students of a grade ‘A’ Girls’ Senior High School in the Cape Coast metropolis, Ghana to participate in the art competition. Interview guide, scoring keys and still-picture photography were used to gather qualitative data from the drawings and paintings of the participants. Aesthetic appreciation was used to analyse ten best paintings that emerged from the competition and the post-art competition interview data was analysed thematically. The findings of the analysis revealed that, all the non-Visual Art students who participated in the art competition revived in drawing in Basic School but they were compelled by their parents or guardians to offer other programmes in Senior High School other than Visual Art. Also, some of the Visual Art students who participated in the art competition repressed in drawing in basic school. The findings also indicated that, Basic and Senior High School head teachers, teachers and friends encourage students with high drawing and academic aptitudes to offer Science, Business, General Arts and other programmes instead of Visual Arts. Based on the findings, the study recommends that, basic school head teachers and teachers, high school head teachers and teachers, students and parents must be oriented about the dangers of diverting highly creative persons natural orientations into non-Creative Arts programmes and professions. Also, Ghana Education Service must identify Basic School candidates who have exceptional talents in art and place them in Senior High School Visual Art programmes, and Visual Art departments in tertiary institutions must revise their entry requirements to include students from other programmes who have special skills and interest in drawing and painting.

Dairy Breed Preferences and Breeding Practices Among Smallholder Farmers in Githunguri Sub-county, Kenya

2024-05-18T18:32:47+00:00

Dairy production plays a critical socio-economic role for most developing countries' populations. The study aimed at assessing dairy breed preferences and breeding practices among smallholder farmers in Githunguri Sub- County, Kenya. The study was conducted through a cross-sectional survey using pretested questionnaires administered to randomly selected 457 smallholder dairy farmers from the eight milk collection routes in the sub-county. Most farmers keep the Friesian breed (93%) and use artificial insemination (A.I.) to serve animals (95.7%). High milk yield was the leading parameter of breed preference. Animal breeding practices significantly differed along the milk collection routes mainly due to variations in age and level of education. Poor animal health was ranked the most critical challenge, followed by inadequate and poor-quality feeds. A large number (69.6%) of farmers do not estimate the live weight of animals. The majority of farmers (44.8%) obtained their replacement breeding stock either from their herd or bought from other farms. Notably, the milk collection route where youths (≤ 35 years of age) actively participated in dairy farming reported the highest number of lactating cows and milk production levels. Tertiary education level (46.1%) and membership in farmer organizations (70.4) had the greatest impact on the proportion of milk produced. Equally, controlled breeding programs guarantee quality breeds and replacement stock for farmers, but poor feeding strategies and animal health challenges hinder genetic progress. These findings demonstrate the need to consider appropriate feeding strategies and animal health management as a prerequisite to improvement in breeding programs. Conversely, there is a need to engage more youth in dairy production and provide technical backstopping to farmers on good agricultural practices for enhanced dairy productivity.

Reshaping Perspectives: Addressing Bullying and Social Stigma at Dakpema Mainstream School in the Tamale Metropolis

2024-05-18T18:32:48+00:00

Bullying of learners with special needs within inclusive educational environments has gained significant attention in recent years due to its detrimental impact on the overall well-being and academic performance of this vulnerable population. This study sought to address the intricacies of bullying and Social Stigma of learners with special educational needs (SEN) at Dakpema Mainstream School in the Tamale Metropolis. The research employed a mixed-method approach, the research investigated the occurrence, underlying factors, consequences, and mitigation interventions associated with bullying. Eighty-five (85) participants, including Students (n=70), Regular Classroom Teachers (n=9), Special Unit Teachers (n=3), and Heads of Streams (n=3), were involved in the study through a combination of simple random and purposive sampling techniques. The quantitative facet of the study employed a questionnaire to gather data from the respondents. Quantitative data was analyzed using the SPSS (Version 23) descriptive analysis tool to elucidate statistical patterns, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship between reduced academic achievements and instances of bullying. The qualitative segment of the research employed interviews and focus group discussions to delve into the nuanced experiences and perceptions of students and educators. Through the data analysis, the study identified various contributing factors to bullying, including social exclusion, lack of understanding, profound emotional and academic consequences faced by students with special needs as a result of bullying, and the absence of effective communication channels. The findings also shed light on the multifaceted nature of this issue and offer insights into the challenges faced by students with special needs within inclusive educational frameworks. These insights provide valuable guidance for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders in fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational ecosystem.

Constructing Malawian Ordinary Actuarial Tables: Reflection of the COVID-19 Era

2024-05-18T18:32:48+00:00

An actuarial life table, often known as a mortality table, offers data on the probability or mortality rate within a given population at various ages during a certain period of time. These data are crucial for studying patterns of mortality, forecasting population growth, calculating life expectancy, and pinpointing the main causes of high mortality rates in a population. The lack of mortality tables in Malawi's insurance market is a significant problem for insurance providers. Therefore, the objective of this study is to construct ordinary life tables specifically for Malawi, covering the period from 2016 to 2022. In this study, the raw death rates are smoothed using the Whittaker-Henderson method before being predicted for a five-year period using the logistic regression model. The Malawian ordinary life table was created to show how likely it is that an individual will die increases with age. Additionally, it has been noted that males have a higher mortality rate than females, and further research has revealed that pandemics have an impact on raising mortality rate

Assessing the Effects of Covid – 19 Pandemic on Academic Advising: Challenges, Strategies, and Results at Kepler College, Kigali

2024-05-18T18:32:48+00:00

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on academic support services, particularly academic advising for students, has been significant. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the academic advising landscape at Kepler College before and during the pandemic, highlighting challenges faced, approaches utilized, and outcomes observed. Through a combination of focus group discussions and surveys involving both students and academic advisors, this research synthesizes insights from their experiences. The study reveals that despite the disruptive effects of the pandemic, the support provided by academic advisors played a crucial role in enabling students to navigate academic challenges and sustain their academic progress. Furthermore, the pandemic context prompted students to enhance their adaptability and sense of responsibility towards their learning journey. The study also underscored the importance of holistic support approaches by academic advisors to address students' diverse needs effectively. Findings of this study emphasize the necessity for collaboration among higher education institutions to share best practices and strategies for supporting students, especially during emergency situations like the COVID-19 pandemic. By fostering a collaborative environment and sharing experiences, institutions can better adapt to unforeseen challenges and ensure continued provision of quality academic support to students in times of crisis.

Contribution of Computer-Assisted Simulation on Students’ Learning of Chemical Bonding in selected secondary Schools of Rwanda

2024-05-18T20:38:32+00:00

This study delves into the impact of computer-assisted simulations on students' comprehension of chemical bonding. Employing an explanatory sequential design, the research initially gathered and analyzed quantitative data before delving into qualitative perspectives. The study involved 86 students, aged 16 to 17, from a twelve-year secondary school. Two classes were selected, with one designated as the experimental group and the other as the control group. The experimental group received instruction utilizing computer-assisted simulations, while the control group received traditional instruction methods. Both groups underwent pre- and post-tests to evaluate their understanding of chemical bonding. The chemical bonding achievement test yielded quantitative data with a reliability coefficient of 0.791, supplemented by qualitative insights from participant interviews. Statistical analysis of the quantitative data, conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, indicated a statistically significant difference in performance between students taught with computer-assisted simulations and those without it, favoring the experimental group (df=85, p<.05). Additionally, within the experimental group, no statistically significant difference in performance was observed between male and female students (df=85, p>.05). Interviewed students expressed that the integration of computer-assisted simulations significantly enhanced their understanding of chemical bonding compared to conventional teaching methods. These findings highlight the effectiveness of computer-assisted simulations in improving students' comprehension of chemical bonding, suggesting its integration into chemistry education.

A systematic review of digital innovation in Higher Education Institutions in developing countries

2024-05-18T18:32:48+00:00

Among the United Nations' sustainable development goals is quality education, to ensure inclusive and equitable education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. Ensuring that all men and women have equal access to high-quality, reasonably priced technical and vocational education, as well as university education, is one of the goals. Universities are Higher education institutions (HEIs), and they have continued to experience immense digital innovations thanks to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infiltration and advancements. Along with this, the premise of this systematic literature review is that, although research on digital innovation is growing, few studies are available on its consequences in developing countries, specifically on higher education institutions. Further, there is a strong argument for comprehending the body of research on this topic, especially when considering learning and teaching, stakeholder involvement, and research as cornerstones of education that are still undergoing the digital revolution. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to synthesize existing knowledge about digital innovation in HEIs in developing nations and to suggest a research agenda based on updated theoretical thinking to fill in knowledge gaps. Peer-reviewed journal publications for the past ten (10) years (2013-2022) were analyzed to inform the current trends and identify research opportunities. To expand knowledge of how digital innovation is evolving in developing countries’ higher education institutions, this study specifically examines the existing body of information about digital innovation in higher education institutions in developing nations, as well as the research possibilities that exist to expand on this body of knowledge.

When Lawyers Shut Up: The Law Society of Kenya’s Silence during the Colonial Era

2024-05-18T18:32:48+00:00

This paper explores moments when the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) remained silent in the face of excesses of the colonial administration. The LSK is an important agent in restraining the Kenyan state from violations against the rule of law. Yet since its emergence in the 1920s as a premier lawyers’ organisation, this has not always been the case. The organisation has had episodes of silence in the face of state violation of the rule of law. The paper conceptualizes the rule of law as implying checks and balances, existence of rules which apply to everyone and respect for due process, and silence as constituting LSK actions which were inadequate in countering given state excesses. It uses entanglement, sourced from the poststructuralist intellectual tradition, along with related concepts of ambivalence and hybridity as well as conviviality, as the conceptual framework to explain LSK’s silence in the face of colonial government excesses. Further, the paper employs the ex post facto research design and uses available archival accounts as sources of primary data and books and journals for secondary data to establish what constituted the most egregious violations of the rule of law under colonial rule. It also identifies LSK’s reaction to the violations, whether this was through pronouncements, actions or non-action. The paper also examines the dynamics which informed the organisation’s reaction. It concludes by elaborating on the organisation’s character as a result of the silence, challenging assumptions that it was a consistent defender of the rule of law in Kenya across time.

Play-based Pedagogies for Early Learners in the African Context: A Scoping Review

2024-05-18T18:32:48+00:00

African governments have committed to implementing learning through play (LtP) in pre-primary education, through their policies, however, there are implementation challenges. We conducted a scoping review of publications on LtP in Africa since 2002 to evaluate LtP models that have been successfully used in Africa to inform the development of a suitable model for Kenya. We searched and retrieved literature from different databased. We focused on [1] What are the existing LtP approaches that have been or are being used in ECE in the African context? [2] To what extent were the models effective and what were the contextual factors and mechanisms that contributed to their success? [3] What challenges/barriers were experienced? [4] Which aspects of LtP models are adaptable to the Kenyan context? Altogether 3017 articles were retrieved, 160 progressed to full text screening of which 64 were eligible and were reviewed. Findings revealed various LtP models including those that utilized indigenous activities with significant benefits for learning and teaching. Teachers’ knowledge and skills in play-based learning were critical yet often lacking. Limited integration of play in learning curriculum, misconceptions towards play, lack of play materials and space were common barriers. Play-based learning is feasible in the African context; its implementation can be strengthened through leveraging existing LtP approaches, teacher capacity building, curriculum integration, provision of resources and involvement of all stakeholders.

Factors impeding Financial Stability of the Church: A Study of Seventh Day Adventist, South East Kenya Field, Kenya

2024-05-18T18:32:48+00:00

The relationship between church and finance is critical since without finance the church is inept to society as it cannot realize its socio-economic and religious functions that define her. The unfortunate reality is that the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) church in South East Kenya Field (SEKF) is being incapacitated by a multiple of financial misgivings that almost render it irrelevant to society. The paper argues that the SDA church cannot fold its hands and not to address financial factors that are consistently pulling her backwards. The study employed Stewardship theory by Donaldson and Davis (1991), which argues for individuals to work for others and have a collective spirit to achieve organizational goals. It used a descriptive research design that captured opinions and experiences of participants for a deeper understanding of the study problem. Data was collected using a questionnaire and interview schedules from a sample size of 355 respondents. Two sampling techniques were used: purposive for pastors and simple random for church development officers, treasurers, elders and secretaries. Censors was used with the leadership of South Kenya Field. The study found that financial challenges the SDA church is facing adversely affect her ability to be relevant to society that looks to her for solutions. It recommended for a financial strategic plan for the church that will ensure a comprehensive address of the critical financial challenges encountered by the church in SEKEF.

Transitioning from Academia to Workforce: Addressing the Challenges Faced by University Graduates in Securing Employments in the Labor Market

2024-05-18T18:32:48+00:00

This study investigated the challenges faced by university graduates in Rwanda as they transition from academia to the workforce, with a focus on securing employment in diverse industries and sectors. The objectives were to explore these challenges and identify strategies that higher education institutions can adopt to better prepare their graduates for professional environments. Using purposive sampling, 30 unemployed graduates, 20 human resource managers, and 15 educators were selected for in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze qualitative data gathered from these interviews, revealing recurring patterns, underlying meanings, and significant themes. The findings highlight various obstacles encountered by graduates, including skill mismatch, limited networking, inadequate guidance, and a competitive job market. A notable issue is the misalignment between academic qualifications and industry needs, exacerbating skill mismatch. To address these challenges, collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers is crucial, alongside strategies such as integrating practical training, fostering industry collaboration, and emphasizing digital literacy and soft skills development. Recommendations also include curriculum review and adaptation, entrepreneurship education, and the establishment of continuous feedback mechanisms. Internship and apprenticeship opportunities are emphasized as essential for providing hands-on experiences. Implementing these strategies can enhance graduates' practical readiness and contribute to their employability, fostering a seamless transition into professional environments while promoting individual success and economic development in Rwanda.

Effects of Government Policy on the Nexus between Project Management Practices and Sustainability of Agribusiness Projects in Kenya

2024-05-18T18:32:48+00:00

The study sought to establish the effects of government policy on the relationship between known project management practices and sustainability of Kenya Agricultural Productivity and Agribusiness Projects(KAPAP) in selected Counties in Kenya. The predictor variables were capacity building practices, stakeholder management practices, project design practices, and monitoring and evaluation practices, while project sustainability was the response variable. Descriptive and explanatory designs were utilized both in the study. The population comprised of 6,401 KAPAP projects implemented between years 2012 to 2015. A sample of 376 respondents was selected through multistage random sampling methods. A semi-structured questionnaire whose reliability was tested through Cronbach alpha coefficient at 0.7 threshold was used for data collection. Multiple linear regression models were applied in data analysis after testing for normality, linearity and multicollinearity. From the findings, each of the four project management practices had a statistically significant influence on the sustainability of KAPAP projects. There was 71.8% joint influence of independent variables on the dependent variable. The proportion of joint explanation improved by 6.9% on inclusion of government policy as a moderating variable. This confirmed that government policy statistically and significantly moderated the relationship between project management practices and project sustainability. The study recommends that project management practices should be closely integrated with government policies to significantly enhance the sustainability of projects, particularly in the agribusiness sector. In addition, project managers and other stakeholders should proactively align their project strategies with current and emerging government policies to enhance sustainability. It is also recommended that policymakers should work collaboratively with project management teams to develop and nature a supportive policy environment for projects. The collaborative approach would lead to development of policies that are both practical and beneficial, ultimately contributing to the achievement of sustainable project objectives.

Acacia Species as Browse forGoats in Arid and Semi-Arid Regions in Kenya

2024-05-18T19:20:50+00:00

The study evaluated the preference of specific Acacia spp, by goats in Chemeron, Baringo County, Kenya using natural browsing method. Pastoralism in arid and semi-arid lands(ASALs), face significant constraints due to insufficient and inadequate nutritious feeds. However, the region holds several fodder trees and shrubs which are important feed sources. The study area is part of the ASAL where the major browse plants including Acacia species are situated. The study used natural browsing method as a form of randomized experimental design in a natural setting where goats are left unconstrained to browse on any type of shrub or tree and in particular their preferred Acacia spp. This design was preferred because of the randomness of the choice of the Acacia trees species, the flexibility of choice of replicates and treatments and lastly, the method allows for natural preference within the contextual setting. Browsing data was obtained ophthalmologically after every 5 minutes for a period of 160 minutes. Once the data, had been transcribed and processes, preference statistic was estimated through Kruskal-Wallis test, (χ² ₍₄₎ = 182.6, p< 0.05) which indicated statistically significant differences in browsing preferences among the Acacia spps. The findings showed that certain Acacia spp. were highly preferred over other species by goats with A. brevispica, A. tortilis and A. nilotica being ranked highly while A. senegal having the lowest rank. In conclusion the most preffered browse species in ASAL include A. brevispica, A. nilotica and A. Tortilis, while acacia Senegal is the least preferred by the indeginous goats. The preferred species may be considered as supplements or as alternative livestock feeds depending on the agro-climatology and topography of the region. Therefore, there is need to propagate certain Acacia spps which include A. brevispica, A. nilotica and A. tortilis as alternative fodder crops of ASAL. These browses can be grown as fodder banks, live fences, alleys or silvopastoral systems and managed to provide fodder on a continuous basis or for harvest and processing for use in droughts as good source of nutrients for use in livestock production in ASAL regions. Lastly, the study focused on the identification of preferred Acacia spp. in a particular region in Kenya, whereas other studies may focus on development of a database containing favourable fodder tree crops.

Bio-Control Potential of Trichoderma harzianum and Beauveria bassiana against Alternaria solani in Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum)

2024-05-18T19:22:01+00:00

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly methods to control pests and diseases in agriculture. This study focused on exploring the potential of Trichoderma harzianum and Beauveria bassiana, both isolated from Moiben-Kenya, as biological agents for controlling Alternaria solani, a tomato pathogen. In-vitro antagonism tests were conducted using dual culture technique and the impact of culture filtrates were also examined. Potency of volatile organic compounds was evaluated using the inverted plate technique. In dual culture, T. harzianum reduced the growth of A. solani by 48.7% while the culture filtrate did not show any effect. The inhibitory effect of B. bassiana culture filtrates was dose-dependent, with a 5% concentration achieving 8% inhibition, a 10% concentration registering 33% inhibition, and a 15% concentration achieving 39% inhibition. Volatile organic compounds released by T. harzianum inhibited A. solani colonies by up to 50%, while B. bassiana reached a maximum inhibition of 30%. The biocontrol agents were able to exert varying levels of biocontrol towards the test pathogen. It is recommended that in vivo studies be done to assess the application of the biocontrol agents under study in field conditions.